Following tense discussions between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, Russia has implemented stricter regulations on the import of Armenian goods. This action occurred a day after the meeting, which involved critical remarks regarding Armenia’s relationships with the EU and the US. Sergei Dankvert, head of the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision, explained that Armenia’s access procedures, allowing simplified entry for EU products, don’t align with Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) requirements.
Dankvert highlighted a concerning trend: a significant increase in Armenian product shipments, particularly flowers, rising from 36 million to over 100 million within three years. During inspections, officials noted that these floral products were accompanied solely by consignment notes approved by the European Commission, prompting Russian action. Regarding livestock, concerns arose over untraceable products like butter, cheese, and trout, specifically noting the need to differentiate Armenian trout from Norwegian varieties.
The Russian side had previously observed this “illogical increase” over several years and addressed the issue. The Armenian government has yet to formally respond to these accusations. Previously, Armenian authorities had implemented joint online video surveillance at flower farms to manage export licenses to Russia following similar allegations.
Russia has a history of utilizing food-health standards as a tool for economic pressure, as evidenced by sanctions against Jermuk, violations of red caviar, fruits, and vegetables, and temporary supply limitations. These actions followed criticism of Armenia’s ratification of the International Criminal Court’s Rome Statute. Armenian brandy exports via Georgia remain unresolved, creating further complications for the armenian economy.
The situation underscores the ongoing tensions between russia and armenia.
Topics: #armenian #russia #pashinyan
