UNSC briefing Ukraine

(Monday, 31 October 2022: 1130 hrs)

Statement by Mr. R. Madhu Sudan, Counsellor 

Thank you Mr. President. 

Let me also join other in thanking USG for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths and Secretary General UNCTAD Ms. R.Grynspan for their briefings on the "Black Sea Grain Initiative".

2.​    The Black Sea Grain Initiative and cooperation by the parties so far  had provided a glimmer of hope for peace in Ukraine. The agreements, a result of Secretary General’s efforts, was aimed to avert a global food crisis and ensure food security. The initiative had resulted in export of more than nine million tonnes of grains and other food products out of Ukraine. We believe the exports had contributed to lowering prices of wheat and other commodities, evident from the drop in the FAO Food Price Index. 

3.​    The suspension of the Black Sea Grain initiative is expected to further exacerbate the food security, fuel and fertilizer supply challenges faced by the world, particularly the Global South.​ India, therefore, supports the engagement of the Secretary General with the parties on renewal and full implementation of the initiative, including facilitating of exports of food and fertilizer from Ukraine and Russia.

4.    The Black Sea Grain initiative and its successful implementation over the last four months is consistent with  India’s long standing position that diplomacy and dialogue is the only solution to end this ongoing conflict that has resulted in serious consequences for the region and beyond. We continue to support all efforts, including that of the Secretary General, to end the conflict. We reiterate that the global order is anchored on principles of the UN Charter, international law and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States. I thank you