EU intends to extend grain import ban: Ukrainian MFA sharply reacts
The EU wants to extend the grain import ban, MFA reacts strongly (Photo: UNIAN)
Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia want to extend the ban on the import of Ukrainian grain, despite it not being in line with the spirit of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU, as well as the principles of the Single Market, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
"We consider the continuation of trade restrictions on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products categorically unacceptable after the expiration of the European Commission's ban on September 15. We find it completely incomprehensible and concerning that other categories of Ukrainian products are being considered for addition to the list of import-prohibited goods," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.
The Ministry urged the leadership of the EU and the involved countries, some of which received funding for relevant sectors from the Union's budget, to find a balanced solution.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, strengthening the EU Single Market and countering Russian challenges can only be achieved through solidarity.
Ban on the import of Ukrainian grain
In May of this year, the EU allowed five neighboring countries to Ukraine to prohibit the sale of Ukrainian wheat, corn, rapeseed, and sunflower seed on the domestic market. Transit of goods for export to other countries was still permitted.
The restriction was set to expire on September 15. However, Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia are advocating for the ban to be extended until the end of this year.
