27 Jul 2022 15:26

Ukraine's Black Sea ports resume operations

MOSCOW. July 27 (Interfax) - The operations of the Odesa, Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi (Yuzhnyi) ports in Ukraine have restarted following the signing of an agreement on unblocking Ukrainian seaports to resume grain exports, Ukrainian media outlets quoted the Ukrainian Armed Forces' Navy as saying on social media on Wednesday.

"Vessels' exit and entry into the seaports will take place by forming a convoy, which will be accompanied by a lead ship. But this will be preceded by marine surveyors' work," the Ukrainian Navy said.

Military and civilian specialists are searching for underwater items and are installing special navigation equipment, which will help ensure vessels' safety. Marine surveying efforts are also continuing, such as determining the depth, approach channels and recommended waterways.

"We are conducting joint work today as part of navigation and marine surveying efforts to ensure the safety of navigation in one of the Odesa region's ports. First and foremost, these measures are intended to determine safe routes for the movement of vessels which will transport Ukrainian grain," Ihor Timchuk, head of the local branch of the Odesa district's marine surveying service, said.

Meantime, the press service for the Ukrainian Infrastructure Ministry confirmed to Ukrainian reporters that the seaports of Chornomorsk, Odesa and Pivdennyi had begun preparations for the loading and dispatch of grain and accompanying cargoes.

"Preparatory works are underway at the ports of Chornomorsk, Odesa and Pivdennyi in order to facilitate the loading and shipment of grain," the Ukrainian ministry said.