Japan calls Russia's decision to halt Ukrainian grain deal 'regrettable'

TOKYO, July 18 (MENA) - Japanese government officials are expressing deep concerns over Russia's decision to halt a deal that allows Ukraine's grain exports to continue from Black Sea ports, NHK reported.

Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa told reporters on Tuesday that Russia will bear ultimate responsibility for the negative impact of its decision to halt the Ukrainian grain deal.

He said that he commends efforts by the United Nations and Turkey to maintain the international framework, and that he will closely watch and support those efforts.

Hayashi added he will demand that Russia return to the international framework and that Ukrainian grain exports be resumed.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Hirokazu said that Russia's decision is extremely regrettable and that he is worried about the possible impact it may have on global food supplies.

He added that in order to ensure global food security, the government will work to persuade Russia to return to the deal in coordination with the Group of Seven countries and other members of the international community.

Agriculture minister Nomura Tetsuro noted that Russia's move will have no immediate impact on the grain supply to Japan, as Japan imports most of its wheat from Canada and the United States.

Even so, Nomura said, the deal had greatly contributed to bringing down and stabilizing global food prices amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He expressed anxiety that halting the deal could negatively affect the global prices of grain, including wheat and corn, and the supply to the global market.