Mr. President,

I thank USG Griffiths and Secretary-General Grynspan for their briefings.

The Black Sea Grain Initiative marked a turning point in how we put the needs of those furthest behind first, even at times of war.

It is a message to the world that the United Nations, Türkiye and parties to the conflict pledged to do the utmost to limit the suffering of those dependent on fertilizer and grain exports for their food security.

The Black Sea Grain Initiative has already moved more than 9,5 million metric tons of grain and food stuff.

It brought the global food prices down.

As a result of this Initiative, the World Food Program was able to intervene before famine took hold.

Children around the world, from Afghanistan to Ethiopia, Somalia to Yemen, have been benefitting from the Black Sea Grain Initiative.

These products are still desperately needed today as we head into winter.

Furthermore, an increase in food prices globally will threaten those in an already precarious situation as inflation leads to a cost of living crisis worldwide.

Mr. President,

As of this morning, local time, there were 97 loaded vessels and 15 inbound vessels registered for inspection around Istanbul.

The ships anchored outside of Bosphorus pose navigations risks.

We have been, therefore, implementing a movement plan with the UN for these vessels.

Mr. President,

The Black Sea Grain Initiative must continue.

The trust between nations with different development levels has been hard earned, and can be easily lost unless we take proactive steps today.

Two deals have been brokered, as you know, to bring irreplaceable Ukranian and Russian products to world food markets.

We must find ways to overcome any difficulties that prevent the full implementation of these deals.

Today we call for common sense.

Common sense in recognizing the need for restraint.

Common sense in upholding our responsibility to protect the most vulnerable populations of the world, who have turned to the United Nations as their last hope.

These two deals should be tackled on their own merits and be decoupled from the developments on the ground.

Both deals were made in good faith, and should continue, in good faith.

As we speak here today, we have been in touch with the parties to ensure the continuation of this Initiative.

Türkiye hopes that reason will prevail and the Black Sea Grain Initiative will remain intact and in place.

We will also continue to support all the diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

I thank you.