Head of the United Nations to rich countries: ‘Opening wallets’ and ‘hearts’ for developing countries to buy grain Ukraine |

The grain ships left there under a recent UN-brokered agreement, and Mr. Guterres speak Odesa is a symbol of what nations can achieve when they work together for the common good.

Speaking to journalists, the UN chief revealed that it was a moving experience to be at the port, where he witnessed the wheat being loaded onto the ship.

“It’s obviously a reason for fun,” he said. “But it was also very emotional because I felt sad looking at this wonderful harbor and look at these terminals are practically empty with the possibility that this harbor must develop; that Ukraine and the whole region divided because of the war“.

Ships of Hope

The port of Odesa has been crippled for months due to the war, which means “A critical shipping line from a global bread platform has been cut,” he say.

Everything is changing Black Sea Grains Initiativeagreement to lift the export ban on grain and fertilizer, signed by Ukraine, Russia, Türkiye and the United Nations less than a month ago.

Since then, 25 ships have departed from Odesa and other Ukrainian ports, and many more are on their way, Guterres said while speaking alongside Ukraine’s Infrastructure Minister, Oleksandr Kubrakov.

The ships have been transported through 600,000 tons of grain and foodnamely wheat, corn, sunflower oil and soybeans.

“But every ship is also a ship of hope, “I said. “Hope for Ukrainian farmers who have finally been rewarded for their harvest – with the release of storage for more use. Hoping for seafarers and the larger shipping community, to know that it is once again possible to sail safely and efficiently across the Black Sea. And above all, hope for the most vulnerable people and countries in the world.”

Support for developing countries

The head of the United Nations has made a special appeal to wealthy nations on behalf of vulnerable people everywhere bearing the brunt of the global food crisis.

“When these gates open, I urge rich nations to open their wallets and hearts as well. After all, grain movement doesn’t make much sense for countries that can’t afford it,” he said.

“It’s time for big and generous supportso developing countries can buy food from port and port – and people can buy it. Developing countries need access to finance now. They need to be forgiven now. They need resources to invest in their people right now.”

The Secretary-General also called for more action to ensure global access to Ukrainian food products, and Russian food and fertilizersr, through the Black Sea Grains Initiative.

While no one had ever expected the deal to “go smoothly,” it was unprecedented in both scope and scale, he said, adding that there was still a long way to go.

Mr. Guterres explained that getting more food and fertilizer out of Ukraine and Russia is important to further calm commodity markets and lower prices.

“But let’s not forget that what we see in Odesa is only the more conspicuous part of the solution. Another important part that we have been protecting, related to unhindered access to the global market of Russian food and fertilizerswhich goes unpunished”.

It is important that all governments and the private sector work together to bring them to market, because “Without fertilizer in 2022, there may not be enough food in 2023”he warned.

The Secretary-General emphasized his deep commitment to these goals, which he said would only happen if All parties cooperate.

Peace for Ukraine

He stressed the need to continue working towards improving global food supplies and stabilizing markets, and working for peace in accordance with uncharted and international law.

“Today, Odesa is more than just a transportation hub. This port is a symbol of what the world can do when we are committed to acting together for the common good,” he said.

“The people of Ukraine have suffered a lotH. They have seen so much death, so much devastation, that the desire for peace is justifiable. But again, I restore peace in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, peace in accordance with international law. It’s the best way to mark World Humanitarian Day and help set the path for a more just and peaceful world for all”.