Germany to host next E4-R4 meeting

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said that the meeting of the foreign ministers of the "E4" countries, consisting of Germany, France, England and Italy, and the "R4" countries, consisting of Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, held in Istanbul, was productive beyond expectations, the next meeting will be held in Germany and all 8 countries accepted the invitation.

Stating that the preparations for the meetings will begin in a short time, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul pointed out the importance of coordination and developing a common attitude among 8 countries.

Wadephul said, "We realized here that the situation requires coordination, consensus and the voice of these 8 countries. Because when we say 'enough is enough', we speak with a single voice here." he said.

Stating that the attacks of Iran and the Houthis on international shipping put pressure on the global economy, Wadephul stated that they support Saudi Arabia to defend itself against the attacks of the Houthis.

Wadephul pointed out that the European Union's (EU) commitments within the scope of the Aspides naval mission should be implemented with concrete steps, and called for supporting the legitimate government in Yemen and creating suitable conditions for the resumption of negotiations with the Houthis.

Emphasizing that the impact of the conflicts on energy prices was also felt in Germany, Wadephul noted that all parties should return to the negotiation table to prevent a new escalation.

"A military solution to this conflict is not possible," Wadephul said. He underlined the need to increase diplomatic initiatives.

Call to Iran to "return to nuclear negotiations"

Stating that Iran should show serious will for a sustainable and diplomatic solution, Wadephul called on the Tehran administration to give up excessive demands and be open to negotiations.

Stating that England, France and Germany (E3) have significant experience in nuclear negotiations, Wadephul stated that they are ready to negotiate a concrete agreement that will prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Grain shipments from Russia and Ukraine are aimed to restart

Referring to the effects of the Russia-Ukraine War on global food security, Wadephul pointed out that new ways should be found to restart grain shipments through the Black Sea.

Criticizing Russia's continued attacks on Ukraine, Wadephul stated that Moscow should respond to Ukraine's calls for negotiations to end the war.

Arguing that Russia's attacks on grain shipments in the Black Sea have deepened the food crisis in the global South, Wadephul stated that they will work to deliver both Russian and Ukrainian grain to international markets.

“What is important is that aid ships from both Ukraine and Russia can leave the ports and grain shipments can reach where they are urgently needed: starving people in the global South,” Wadephul said. he said.

Pointing out that it is necessary to act quickly due to the risk of spoilage of the grain, Wadephul stated that the resumption of shipment via the Black Sea is in the interest of all parties.

Pointing to Turkey's diplomatic contacts on this issue, Wadephul added that Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is conducting intensive negotiations with both parties.