Ukrainian Foreign Ministry: Categorically unacceptable to extend ban on grain import

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has stated that the intention of Slovakia, Bulgaria, Poland, Romania and Hungary to extend the ban on Ukrainian grain imports until the end of this year is categorically unacceptable, Report informs referring to Interfax-Ukraine.

“We took note of the statement by the Minister of Agriculture of Poland that his country, as well as Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary, support the extension of the ban on the import of Ukrainian grain until the end of 2023. We consider it categorically unacceptable to continue trade restrictions on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products after the European Commission’s ban expires on September 15,” reads the statement.

“Such unilateral restrictions do not comply with the spirit of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU and the principles and norms of the EU Single Market,” the statement stresses.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on the leadership of the European Union and countries, some of which have received additional funding for their respective sectors from the European budget, to find a balanced solution based on EU legislation and the Association Agreement.

“Only in the spirit of solidarity can we counteract the challenges caused by Russian aggression against Ukraine and strengthen the EU Single Market,” the ministry stressed.