The G7 agriculture ministers called on all countries to keep their food and agricultural markets open as concerns about food security intensify following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“We call on all countries to keep their food and agricultural markets open and to beware of any unreasonable restrictive measures against their exports. Any further increase in food prices and instability in international markets could jeopardize food security and nutrition globally, especially among the most vulnerable and food insecure populations,” the joint statement said.
“However, we recognize the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the export restrictions announced by the government of Ukraine and the vital importance of maintaining the availability of food in Ukraine,” they added.
The G7 includes Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the US.
In a statement, the agriculture ministers also condemned Russian aggression against Ukraine and expressed solidarity with that country.
The Ministers expressed their concern about the implications for food security and “an increase in the number of people suffering from hunger and all forms of malnutrition caused by Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression, which is exacerbating the already dire situation caused by COVID-19.” climate change and biodiversity loss”.
“We call on international organizations to support food production in Ukraine during this crisis and ensure food security in the affected areas. We remain determined to do whatever is necessary to prevent and respond to a food crisis, including through humanitarian assistance, and stand ready to act as necessary to address potential disruptions,” the ministers said.
The Ukrainian government is banning the export of key agricultural commodities, including wheat, corn, grains, salt and meat, according to a cabinet decree issued on Tuesday.
Russia is the world’s largest exporter of wheat, while Ukraine is also a major exporter of both wheat and corn.