Following the Russian government’s announcement that it is suspending participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the ICS issued a statement, saying that the safety of ships and seafarers already in the grain corridor must be protected.
More specifically, Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, commented that:
The Black Sea Grain Initiative has been a global success since it was first brokered, ensuring the timely movement of food to where it is sorely needed. We hope that a solution can be found that ensures grain continues to move out of Ukraine, and that all those involved in its movement can be reassured about their safety
Under this aspect, ICS highlighted the need for “ships already in the grain corridor do not become collateral damage and are allowed safe passage. Furthermore, the safety of seafarers must remain a top priority, and all parties must give consideration to the crews who may now be stuck on board or in port due to factors beyond their control.”
Russia suspended its participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative, with the United Nations, Turkey and Ukraine pressing ahead to implement the deal with a transit plan in place for 16 ships.
Russia backed out of the deal because it could not “guarantee safety of civilian ships” travelling under the pact after an attack on its Black Sea fleet.
