Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently held a phone conversation with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, during which significant developments regarding grain exports were discussed. Zelensky reported that Egypt will no longer accept grain exported from Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine while expressing interest in increasing grain imports from Ukraine.
In addition to grain trade, the two leaders addressed the broader context of achieving a sustainable peace, with plans for foreign ministers from both nations to communicate further. Discussions also covered the geopolitical situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region, particularly its implications for the global oil market.
While Zelensky’s office highlighted these points, the official statement from al-Sisi’s press service did not mention the grain issue. However, both presidents acknowledged the importance of enhancing bilateral relations, agreeing to continue collaboration across various sectors, including trade, investment, and food security.
President Vladimir Putin of Russia had previously indicated plans to discuss the establishment of a “grain and energy center” with Egypt. During a meeting with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, Putin mentioned the potential for various interesting ideas to be explored. Shoukry, through a translator, expressed Egypt’s openness to Russian initiatives, although specific details regarding the proposed center remain unclear.
Egypt is the world’s largest wheat importer and a key buyer of Russian wheat. In June 2022, Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office announced an investigation into the illegal export of grain from the Zaporizhia and Kherson regions, where evidence was gathered regarding the routes taken by trucks transporting grain to ports in Crimea for shipment.
Ukrainian President Zelensky and Egyptian President al-Sisi discussed grain exports and broader geopolitical issues in a recent phone call. Egypt's decision to halt imports from Russian-occupied territories marks a significant shift in its grain policy.