On January 1, 2018, the Russian Federation assumed the chairmanship of the EAEU bodies
Vladimir Putin sent a message to the heads of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member states on the occasion of Russia assuming the rotating chairmanship of the EAEU bodies, namely, the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council, the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council and the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission.
In his message Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia regards the EAEU as a major regional integration organisation that is promoting the economic alignment of the five member states and their sustainable development towards the increased prosperity of the citizens.
Over the three years since its establishment, the EAEU has proved its value and effectiveness. The member states’ domestic sales and foreign trade are increasing. Our export companies are strengthening their positions on the markets of third countries. The structure of exports is improving, and the share of high value added goods among exports is increasing. New joint ventures have been established, promising investment projects launched and industrial cooperation developed. The range of goods produced in the EAEU member states is increasing, which means that people have broader access to inexpensive high-quality goods.
As Vladimir Putin said, therefore, in addition to consistent implementation of earlier agreements and decisions within the EAEU, during its Presidency, Russia plans to focus on the initiatives and projects pursued by business, expert and research communities, cultural workers and young people.
The President emphasized that it is necessary to accelerate the Union’s common digital agenda, coordinate actions for advancing the internet economy, developing common online trade rules of conduct, information exchange and security standards. It is also necessary to introduce high technologies into public administration, industrial production, customs regulation and other areas. Also required are common competitive, innovative and knowledge-intensive projects.
One more objective of the Russian Presidency will be to more actively involve businesses – large companies and small and medium-sized enterprises – in the integration initiatives.
Efforts to maintain close and mutually beneficial cooperation with other states and integration associations have key significance for ensuring the development of the Eurasian Economic Union. A free trade zone with Vietnam has been functioning successfully since 2016. According to the Russian President, positive results from the current talks to establish free trade zones with Egypt, Israel, India, Iran, Serbia and Singapore are expected.
One more objective will be to expand relations between the EAEU and the UN and its specialised bodies.
Press-release at the Russian President`s official web-site