By Merve Berker
ANKARA (AA) – The Turkish president and UN secretary-general on Monday spoke over phone and discussed initiatives aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis caused by the Russia-Ukraine war, Türkiye's Communications Directorate said in a statement.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Antonio Guterres that Türkiye maintains joint efforts to ensure the export of Ukrainian grains via Black Sea, which would be "effective in terms of averting a global food crisis."
Tons of Ukrainian grains remain shut in due to the military conflict, causing global shortages and price hikes. Russia, which is accused of using food as a weapon, says Western sanctions are to blame for the food shortages.
Erdogan said he continues to urge his counterparts to revive peace negotiations and end the war, which began in February, through diplomacy.