Russia Doesn't Want It, But the EU Does: Armenia Ignores Russian Threats
Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan announced today that agricultural products previously rejected by Russia have now been officially exported to the European Union:
"Our EU partners have recognized our products; the first shipments of roses and vegetables have already been dispatched."
Pashinyan pledged that the government would compensate farmers for crops unable to be exported smoothly due to Moscow's restrictions.
"We are at a strategic crossroads now. We are addressing the challenges facing our nation. Agricultural products rejected by Russia will be sent to the EU. If peppers spoil, I will cover the cost—so will the government. You'll see that both the production and exports of Armenian vegetables will increase."
The Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision of the Russian Federation will restrict imports of eggplants, potatoes, and dried fruits from Armenia starting June 3.
The agency had previously banned imports of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, leafy vegetables, strawberries, cherries, sweet cherries, apricots, plums, peaches, nectarines, and grapes from Armenia.
It is reported that this decision will remain in effect "until an appropriate algorithm ensuring safe cargo transportation is established."
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that Russia's ban on importing Armenian goods is politically motivated, and such measures only intensify Armenian public resentment toward the Eurasian Economic Union.
Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the State Duma of the Russian Federation, believes Pashinyan aims to join the EU. He is attempting to resolve all issues at the expense of the Eurasian Economic Union, especially Russia's interests.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866896362281028/
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