A deal to allow Ukraine to resume exports of grain was signed in Istanbul on Friday, raising hope to ease an international food crisis caused by the Russia-Ukraine war.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and delegations from Russia and Ukraine were present at the signing ceremony, reports BBC.
The deal signed by Russia, Ukraine, the UN and Turkey is a ‘beacon of hope’ in the war, the UN's secretary general said.
The BBC says the deal will allow some 20 million tonnes of grain, which has been subject to a Russian blockade, to be exported from Ukraine.
The deal, which representatives from all parties have just signed in Istanbul, means Russia agrees to a truce to allow grain exports.
Turkey will inspect ships to ensure they are not carrying weapons. It's considered a diplomatic victory in the war, which is now entering its sixth month.
Before signing the deal, Antonio Guterres said the deal will help ease the global food crisis caused by the war in Ukraine.
Guterres went on to outline the pivotal role Turkey will have in implementing the deal.
He said, “Turkey is being counted on to maintain a critical role going forward, and pledges the full commitment of the UN to ensure the agreement's success.”
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed, in his speech, attendees to Istanbul.
"We are proud to be instrumental in an initiative that will play a major role in solving the global food crisis that has been on the agenda for a long time," he said.
“Today's deal will help with food security and controlling inflation around the world,” he added.