EEU Prime Ministers meet in Moscow

8 февраля 2015

By Maxim Korotkin: Since the creation of the Eurasian Economic Union, Belarus has taken over the management of its agencies and this year will preside over all the Union’s activities. Belarus began its presidency with Alexander Lukashenko’s message outlining the priorities that guide the country.

Currently, the EEU consists of four countries, but a Kyrgyz delegation was present at the summits as a de facto party, while the process of Bishkek’s membership registration is underway.

In his speech, Prime Minister Andrei Kobyakov called for the observation of previous agreements, especially with regard to exceptions and limitations in mutual trade. The main principle of the Customs and Eurasian Union is the movement of goods without borders and taxes. Belarus considers it necessary to coordinate the work of all the five countries in export promotion of goods to foreign markets and develop a common concept of electricity, gas and oil markets.

Among this year’s priorities are the launch of integration processes and the development of trade relations between the Eurasian Economic Union and third countries. Analysts believe that in a few years most of the world trade will be duty free. The Eurasian market has already attracted thirty potential partners. Moreover, the format of interaction with the EEU on behalf of the European Union has already been supported by Angela Merkel.

One of the most pressing issues for the Intergovernmental Council was the discussion of mutual trade problems. Difficulties in the transit and supply of goods between Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan have become a real headache in 2014 and should be eliminated in 2015. The reasons for the problems should be presented to the Prime Ministers by the Eurasian Economic Commission at the next meeting, which will take place in Kazakhstan in May.