Black Sea grain deal extended for 120 days

This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine Oleksandr Kubrakov.

He noted that the document has been extended for 4 months, or 120 days. 

"This means that Ukraine continues to export its agricultural products through 3 deep sea ports. In particular, from August 1 to the present day, we have shipped 25 million tons to meet the world’s needs," Kubrakov emphasized.

He added that at the same time, the main challenge is to speed up inspections in Turkey, which will allow the world to receive more Ukrainian agricultural products. He also emphasized that work is currently underway to involve Mykolaiv region ports in the grain initiative and expand the range of cargoes.

"Ukraine has been and remains firmly integrated into the global economy and markets. The ability to export more will help to reduce inflationary risks and, as a result, social tensions in many countries," Kubrakov wrote.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also announced the extension of the grain deal.

"As a result of our negotiations with both sides, we have secured an extension of the agreement, which expires on March 19," he said.

• On March 14, the Russian Foreign Ministry proposed extending the grain deal for 60 days. However, Turkey was negotiating to extend the agreement for 120 days.

• For his part, Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said that Russia's proposal to extend the grain deal for 60 days does not comply with the signed agreements, which provide for an extension of at least 120 days.