MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE INVESTIGATES WHETHER BORDER OPENING CARRIES ANY RISKS

Aysor
Nov 23 2009
Armenia

As part of investigations in agricultural sector before opening the
Armenian-Turkish border, Armenia’s Ministry of Agriculture studied
whether there is a risk or which of them will appear if the border
opens.

"We’ve studied 46 major food goods in Turkey, and compared the
process. There is nothing to be afraid of as prices in Turkey are
higher than in Armenia. Just 6 or 7 pieces have lower prices in
Turkey than in Armenia," told journalists Deputy Minister of Armenia’s
Minister of Agriculture, Samvel Avetisyan.

Turkish government greatly supports local farmers and besides does
not comply with the rules of the World Trade Organization, according
to Samvel Avetisyan.

"Turkey government approved entering into WTO only if Turkey will
comply beyond the organisation’s rules. Turkey may implement
a discriminatory policy, if we don’t demand on banning of this
condition," he added.

"If we don’t implement a certain policy and programs of support
of farmers, customs and not only customs tools, then our farmers
may really face treats and danger when the border opens. It is very
important to adjust this sector, and carry out the get-touch policy
at the border. If Turkey says will not reduce taxes, then we’ll do
the same," said Samvel Avetisyan.