Ukrainian Ambassador Requests More Food Aid From Japan
The Ukrainian ambassador to Japan has asked for additional food aid, as well as farming assistance.
Ambassador Sergiy Korsunsky made the request during his meeting with Japan's agriculture minister, Kaneko Genjiro, on Thursday.
Korsunsky expressed his gratitude for emergency assistance that Japan has provided to Ukraine so far.
He explained that Ukraine has kept developing as a farming nation, but the ongoing war has created a risk to its food supply, turning Ukraine from a world food supplier to a receiver.
Ministry officials said Korsunsky asked for emergency food aid, as well as seeds, fertilizers and other materials needed for planting.
Ministry officials said Kaneko told Korsunsky that he will consider his request. The officials said that Kaneko expressed a strong concern that disruptions in planting in Ukraine, one of the world's largest wheat producers, will seriously affect the global food supply.
After the meeting, Korsunsky told reporters that Ukraine is now entering planting season but the war is seriously disrupting farming work. He also said a large number of people have lost their homes and are in need of food aid. The ambassador said he would be grateful if Japan could provide whatever assistance it can.
The agriculture ministry says that Japan has provided Ukraine with emergency food aid through the UN World Food Program and non-governmental organizations. The ministry says it will consider providing additional assistance.