Meeting between Russia and Ukraine begins over wheat crisis

The planned four-day meeting comes in the context of Ukraine's Russian occupation and the capture of Black Sea ports that were formerly used for export of Ukrainian wheat.

While prices have caused difficulties in most developed countries, many poorer countries, such as those in most Africa, have been hit by increased food shortages.

Ukraine has been the main exporter of wheat and cereals such as barley and corn. It has also supplied nearly half of all sunflower oil on global markets.

In Ukraine and the West, they have accused Moscow of trying to export grain it has stolen from Ukrainian farmers to areas under its control.

Diplomats have said that a planned plan under discussion involves keeping Ukrainian wheat in and out of the port waters that its forces have been undermining to prevent a formidable attack by Russian forces.

Also involved in the plan, Russia would accept a ceasefire, while remittances move and Turkey, with UN help, would inspect ships to ease Russian fears of smuggling weapons.

UN chief Antonio Guterres on 12 July sought to reduce expectations from Istanbul's talks, telling reporters that “are really working hard, but there is still a way to make”.

Turkish Defence Minister Hulus Akar said the talks will focus “on safe delivery to international wheat markets waiting at the ports of Ukraine”.

Despite being a NATO member, Ankara has maintained good relations with the Kremlin.

Turkey said that there are 20 commercial ships waiting in the Black Sea region, could quickly be loaded with wheat and switch to world markets.

Ukraine has estimated that up to 25 million tonnes of grain are currently blocked at its ports. / REL