Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Sérgio França Danese, on the Black Grain Initiative - July 21st, 2023

Madam President,

I thank Ecuador and France for the initiative to convene this meeting. I also thank USG Griffiths and USG DiCarlo for their updates on the situation on the ground and Mr. Khazin for his briefing.

Brazil has received with great concern the attacks of recent days against facilities on the Black Sea coast. Destruction of civilian infrastructure is against international humanitarian law and should not be used as a tool by any conflicting part.

While deeply regretting the discontinuation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, we encourage the parties involved in this particular negotiation process to keep seeking mutually beneficial solutions that can prevent further aggravation of food insecurity in the world.

The conflict in Ukraine has caused considerable human suffering not only in the fighting zone, but also in distant regions. Since its beginning, we have warned of its impact on developing countries, which are more vulnerable to rising food, fertilizer, and energy prices.

Madam President,

Throughout the dozens of meetings already held by this Council since the opening of hostilities, we have heard repeated demands for developing countries to take a position on one side of the war. However, those who make these demands do not seem to listen carefully to the positions that have been presented here and elsewhere on the complex causes and worldwide consequences of the conflict.

Earlier this week, at the General Assembly debate on the situation of Ukraine, the representative of a member state rightly observed that the voices of the global south must be heard. Amidst the diversity of views among member states of our organization, there is a message consistently being repeated: it is high time to put an end to war and limit, as much as possible, its collateral effects.

We encourage all parties to resume negotiations on the Black Sea Initiative and urge the parties to refrain from actions that could disrupt the unimpeded flow of food and fertilizers. Brazil expresses its sincere appreciation and support for the mediation efforts of the Secretary-General and the government of Türkiye and hopes that the parties will show the necessary flexibility to revive the spirit of the Istanbul Agreements.

We reiterate our call for the de-escalation of hostilities and the opening of peace negotiations, based on respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and recognition of the legitimate security concerns of all. Achieving this goal is our common responsibility under the UN Charter.

Thank you.