The primary focus of the meeting is expected to be on a soon-to-expire agreement regarding the transportation of Ukrainian grain across the Black Sea, as well as the upcoming NATO summit.

Two leaders desire an extension of the existing deal with Russia, which permits Ukraine to export its corn and other grains to global markets during the ongoing conflict.

Leveraging his positive working relationships with Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Erdoğan has attempted to mediate and bring an end to the war. Türkiye has previously hosted two rounds of peace negotiations and continues to advocate for further talks.

Approximately a year ago, Türkiye, along with the UN, Russia, and Ukraine, signed an agreement in Istanbul to resume grain exports from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports that had been halted due to the Russia-Ukraine war that began in February of the same year.

A Joint Coordination Center, consisting of officials from the three countries and the UN, was established in Istanbul to oversee these shipments. Turkish officials noted that over 32 million tons of grain have been transported to individuals in need under this agreement.

Russian officials have expressed their willingness to block the extension of the grain deal this month, citing unfulfilled obligations related to allowing Russian exports.

Türkiye, recognized internationally for its distinctive mediation role between Ukraine and Russia, has consistently urged Kiev and Moscow to bring an end to the war through negotiations. (ILKHA)