Turkish and Russian counterparts discuss the food corridor and other issues by telephone
CCTV news reported that Turkish Foreign Minister Cavusoglu had a phone call with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov on 31 October local time. According to a statement from the Turkish Foreign Ministry, the two sides discussed the food corridor, the latest situation in the Caucasus and other topics.
Lavrov said it is necessary to ensure that Ukraine ensures that Ukrainian humanitarian corridors and ports designated for the export of agricultural products are not used for military operations against the Russian Federation. Only under these conditions will it be possible to discuss actions to restore the safe corridors defined by the agreement on the outflow of agricultural products along the Black Sea ports.
Although Russia announced on the 29th that it had suspended its participation in the Ukrainian food export initiative, Turkish officials nevertheless said they will continue to promote this initiative.
Furthermore, on the same day, Turkish Defense Minister Akar had a phone call with Russian Defense Minister Shoigu and expressed hope that Russia will reconsider its decision to suspend its participation in the Ukrainian food export initiative.
