The grain has been donated by Ukraine and will help to combat hunger in both Sudan and Yemen.

‘The support provided by Norway for the grain shipment from Ukraine will help to ensure access to food for people affected by acute hunger in poor countries such as Sudan and Yemen. This is part of the effort to alleviate the ongoing global food crisis. It is also important for Ukraine to empty its grain stores so that they can be made ready for next season and grain production can continue,’ said Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim.

Funding for the Grain from Ukraine initiative is being channelled through the World Food Programme (WFP), which is assisting in the work of transporting, processing and distributing the grain.

‘I am pleased that Norway is helping to expedite this sorely-needed and challenging grain transport operation. The extension of the grain agreement will make it possible to export vital food supplies from Ukraine. It is now essential to ensure that this agreement is respected and implemented,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.