Zelensky visits Turkey for food safety, defence co-operation

The Ukrainian presidency said the two leaders will also talk about Kiev's 10-point peace formula aimed at ending the conflict, but also about the release of all Ukrainian and outcasts, as well as of ensuring global food stability through the safe trans of Ukrainian cereals across the Black Sea.

Ukraine's Partnership for Peace calls for the withdrawal of all Russian troops from Ukraine, the restoration of the 1991 state borders after the collapse of the Soviet Union, and Russia's hold responsible for its actions. Earlier, the Kremlin has refused such requests.

A special attention during the visit will be given to joint projects in the field of defence and industry”, the Ukrainian Presidency said through a report to Telegram, adding that Zelensky will visit a shipyard where parts are being built for Ukrainian Navy. He will also meet with representatives of Turkish defence companies.

The Turkish presidency said the talks would include even “detailed concerns about the course of the Ukraine-Russia war, the current situation in terms of the ongoing grain corridor [of the Black Sea] and efforts for a lasting peace in the region”.

 

 

Turkey, a NATO member state, has kept good reports with Moscow and Kiev, and along with the United Nations has brokered an agreement that has allowed Kiev safe export of cereals from its ports. But last July Russia left the deal, known as the Black Sea Initiative, after arguing that its food and artificial waste exports did not enjoy the same conditions.

Turkey has been aiming to convince Moscow to return to the agreement, but so far Russia has refused.

After Friday afternoon's meeting, Erdogan and Zelensky will hold a news conference.

Zelensky had visited Turkey last July. / REL