Oman proposes creating Ukrainian grain hub on its territory

The Sultanate of Oman proposes creating a grain or grain and food hub on its territory for uninterrupted supplies of Ukrainian grain to countries in the Horn of Africa.

Maksym Subkh, Ukraine's Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa, said this in an interview with Ukrinform.

"During my visit [in early March], Oman offered Ukraine to seriously consider the issue of creating a Ukrainian grain or grain and food hub on the territory of the Sultanate. The Omani side also said that if it is created, Ukraine could be absolutely calm about the regular supplies of our grain to countries in the Horn of Africa," Subkh said.

He added that Ukraine could gain access to one of the most modern logistics hubs in the Indian Ocean region. In addition, Oman maintains excellent political relations with countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, Somalia, Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia.

"All this was discussed in detail," Subkh said.

According to him, the idea of creating Ukrainian grain hubs is already being considered and has now reached the level of agreement on the technical details of its implementation, including the financial component.

"Now the offer from Oman has been added to the list of countries that we could consider. Our goal is to ensure Africa's food security. The advantages of Oman include an excellent infrastructure, a developed fleet, a clear and transparent banking system and tax rules. So Oman looks attractive, so it could also be considered by Ukrainian agencies as a possible location for a grain hub," the diplomat said.

At the same time, Egypt, for example, after learning about Ukraine's plans, also showed interest in discussing the possibility of creating a similar logistics center on its territory, Subkh informed.

Earlier reports said that Ukraine planned to open its embassy in Oman this year.