Market News & Headlines >> Deal to Reopen Ukraine Grain Exports to be Signed

A deal to reopen grain exports from Ukraine through the country’s Black Sea ports will be signed on Friday by Ukraine, Russa, Turkey and the United Nations, the office of Turkey’s President Tayyip Erdogen said on Thursday.

Ankara said a general agreement had been reached on a UN-led plan during talks in Istanbul last week and would now be put into writing by the parties. Details of the plan were not immediately made public.

Before last week's talks, diplomats told Reuters News Service that details of the plan included Ukrainian vessels guiding grain ships in and out through mined port waters; Russia agreeing to a truce while shipments move; and Turkey - supported by the UN - inspecting ships to allay Russian fears of weapons smuggling.

It remains to be seen how the agreement will be implemented. The U.S. National Security Council said in a statement that it was “hopeful though realistic” about prospects for re-opening Ukraine’s exports. “Success in ending Russia’s blockade will of course depend not only on Russia agreeing to a deal, but on Russia actually implementing it,” the Council noted.