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On March 25, 2025, a meeting was held between expert groups from Russia and the United States as a follow-up to the agreements reached by the presidents of the two countries. The meeting resulted in agreements on several key issues in the maritime, trade, and energy fields.
First, both sides agreed to implement a “Black Sea Initiative” which includes measures to ensure the safety of navigation in the region. This pact envisages the non-use of force, the exclusion of commercial vessels from military purposes, and the implementation of appropriate inspection mechanisms.
Second, the United States committed to facilitating the restoration of access to the world market for Russian agricultural products and fertilizers. This includes reducing marine insurance costs, improving access to ports and international payment systems, and removing restrictions currently affecting Russian agri-food exports.
However, the entry into force of these provisions is conditional on the removal of a number of sanctions imposed against Russian financial entities and companies, as well as the reconnection of Rosselkhozbank to the SWIFT system and the resumption of trade in agricultural inputs.
In addition, it was agreed to implement a temporary cessation of attacks on energy infrastructure in both Russia and Ukraine for 30 days starting March 18, with the possibility of an extension. Finally, both countries expressed their readiness to continue cooperating towards a lasting peace agreement and appreciated the role of third countries as mediators.
March 25, 2025/ Kremlin /Rusia.
http://kremlin.ru
