MOSCOW, March 14. /TASS/. The grain deal does not stipulate any special extension mechanisms, which is why it will remain in force after March 18 unless any of the parties come out against it, a source familiar with the details of the negotiations around the agreement told TASS.
"If the sides have no objections the deal will remain in force after March 18," he said when asked whether the parties should somehow formalize the extension.
In this case, the deal will remain in force fully as it is, without any changes or amendments, the source explained, adding that from this point of view, it makes no difference whether it is extended for 60 or 120 days. "If the deal is extended for 60 days, it will remain in force after March 18, while within 60 days either party may raise the issue of terminating it," he said.
As of now, none of the parties to the agreement have announced their withdrawal from it, the source noted.
On July 22, 2022, a set of documents on supplies of food and fertilizers to the international market was signed in Istanbul. One of them approved a mechanism for the export of grain from Ukrainian-controlled Black Sea ports. Another part of these agreements concerns access to world markets for Russian foodstuffs. The Russian authorities have repeatedly pointed out the fact that the second part of the deal is not actually being implemented. In November, the grain deal was extended for another 120 days. It expires on March 18.