Ukraine grain deal extension vital for the world: President Zelenskyy

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres held a meeting in Kyiv today, March 8, to discuss the extension of the grain deal which expires on March 18. The parties stated that the extension of the export initiative is crucial for the world.

The Head of State also expressed gratitude to António Guterres for the unwavering support of Ukraine's efforts to ensure the stability of food markets and exports.

"We have agreed today that the continuation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative after March 18 is critically important for the whole world," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President also emphasized the importance of continuing to support the Ukrainian humanitarian initiative Grain From Ukraine, which has raised almost USD 200 million and sent over 140 thousand tons of Ukrainian grain to countries suffering from hunger.

"I am confident that together with the UN, we can significantly strengthen this initiative, just like the Black Sea Grain Initiative. This will provide even more guarantees of global food security," the Head of State emphasized.

The negotiations on the deal extension continue.