Main points
- Ukraine has offered Syria an exchange of wheat for phosphates, which could strengthen Kyiv's position in the agricultural market and limit Russia's influence.
- In addition to agricultural cooperation, Ukraine is discussing the development of technical partnership with Syria, including modernization of equipment and countering drone threats.
Wheat for phosphates / Photo by Pixabay
Ukraine has offered Syria a new format of cooperation – exchanging wheat for phosphates on favorable terms. The initiative could strengthen Kyiv's position in the agricultural market and limit Russia's influence in the region.
Wheat in exchange for phosphates: what does Ukraine offer?
During President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Damascus, the Ukrainian side proposed a new model of economic cooperation, Asharq Al-Awsat reports. It involves the supply of wheat in exchange for Syrian phosphates at reduced prices.
According to the publication, such an agreement could be mutually beneficial: Ukraine receives raw materials for the agricultural sector, and Syria – access to grain. At the same time, about 70% of phosphate production in the country is currently controlled by Russian structures, which export them to Europe.
A separate task of the Ukrainian delegation is to combat the illegal sale of Ukrainian grain. This refers to products that Russia is trying to sell on foreign markets at low prices, in particular to Egypt, one of the largest grain importers.
New partnership and geopolitical signal
In addition to agricultural cooperation, the parties are discussing the development of technical partnership. During Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit, Ukraine offered Syria solutions for modernizing equipment and countering drone threats, in particular those of Iranian origin.
Experts note that Kyiv is not considered a full-fledged alternative to Moscow, but it could become an important technological partner. In particular, it is about assistance in repairing equipment and increasing the efficiency of defense systems.
Analysts believe that Ukraine's activation in Syria is taking place against the backdrop of Russia's weakening position in the region. For Damascus, this is an opportunity to diversify cooperation and attract Ukrainian experience to restore the agricultural sector and industry.
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