Talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan began on Monday with the Turkish leader seeking to persuade Russia to revive an agreement that allowed Ukraine to export grain and other commodities from three Black Sea ports.

Putin said he was open to discussing the grain deal, among other issues.

Russia in July refused to extend the agreement, which was brokered by Turkey and the United Nations a year earlier, complaining that its demands to improve its own grain and fertilizer exports have not been met. It also said restrictions on shipping and insurance hampered its agricultural trade even though it has shipped record amounts of wheat since last year.

The initiative, which was initially valid for 120 days, was extended in mid-November 2022 for another 120 days till March 18, 2023.

Then, Russia agreed to extend the deal for only 60 days. On May 17, Russia agreed to extend the deal for yet another 60 days.

(With input from agencies)