Denys Marchuk, Deputy Chairman of the Ukrainian Agri Council (UAC), expressed his opinion on the international situation surrounding Ukrainian agricultural exports and global food security in his interview with Freedom TV channel.

“Turkey will always play an important role, as the Bosporus is the main corridor through which ships with Ukrainian exports pass. Turkey's position in trade relations has great importance for our country. Although it is difficult to influence on Putin's actions, but cooperation with Turkey helps Ukraine maintain export opportunities. And the joint efforts of Ukraine, Turkey, Romania and Bulgaria in mine clearance help ensure the safety of ships entering and leaving Ukrainian ports,” said Denys Marchuk.

Russian attacks on port infrastructure continue to pose serious threats to Ukrainian exports.

“Russia understands that Ukraine's economy is largely dependent on agricultural exports, and therefore continues to attack our infrastructure. During the year of the grain corridor operation, the losses of Ukrainian ports amounted to more than USD1.5 billion,” said the UAC Deputy Chairman.

The expert also reminded the problem of competition from Russia at the international markets: “While Russia continues to block our ships and strike at our infrastructure, it is simultaneously trying to take over our markets in Africa, Asia and the Middle East by dumping and offering agricultural products, often stolen from the occupied territories of Ukraine.”

The issue of global food security remains in the focus of international attention today, and interest in Ukrainian agricultural products will continue to grow.

“Food security is a key issue for many countries, and this was confirmed at the recent summit in Switzerland. The visit of a representative of India to Ukraine, the first since independence, demonstrates the importance of cooperation in this area and the growing interest in Ukrainian products,” said Denys Marchuk.

He also noted the growing role of Japan in supporting Ukraine.

“Japan, which imports about 80% of its food, understands the strategic importance of cooperation with Ukraine. Their active involvement in demining and other projects demonstrates the importance of our partnership,” said the UAC Deputy Chairman.

Denys Marchuk emphasized the importance of further international support to protect Ukrainian exports: “We must continue to improve the air defense system in order to sow and harvest crops on time, and ensure the security of port infrastructure, which is key to Ukrainian exports. Ukraine must remain at the center of the political and economic life of the international community, which gives us the opportunity to convey the truth about Russia's aggression and strengthen the security of our exports.”