The European Union intends to introduce autonomous trade measures for Armenia that will allow for the liberalization of around 80% of Armenian exports, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.
"I know Armenia is still facing significant economic pressure from Russia. But rest assured: when pressure mounts on our partners, the EU steps up. And I have some announcements here too," von der Leyen said when announcing two measures at a joint briefing with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Yerevan on Thursday.
Armenia will receive the remaining 18 million euros from a 52 million euro aid package aimed at strengthening and diversifying trade in the near future, she said.
"The funding can help establish an export promotion agency. Second, we are presenting a proposal for Autonomous Trade Measures. They will liberalise almost 80% of Armenian exports to the EU. That means 80% of your trade with us will now be tariff-free," von der Leyen said.
On account of this, those goods that are now largely oriented towards the Russian market will be sent to the single market of the European Union, she said.
"This measure will open the European doors to almost 99% of Armenia's fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants that used to be exported to Russia. And it will open the door of the European Union Single Market to more than 90% of your exports of beverages and spirits," she said.
"And this is only the beginning. With these new measures in place, you will have the means to diversify - and to diversify fast. In mid-July, we will deploy experts to Armenia to work directly with your producers, your businesses, and your exporters and help them seize all the opportunities that a privileged partnership with the EU can offer," von der Leyen said.
