Interview with Prof. Edward Sandoyan, director of Economy and Business School of the Russian-Armenian (Slavonic) University, former finance minister
We have used the simplest index in 1991. Of course there is a quantitative growth, especially in the first years of independence but when we are speaking about the indexes of the recent years it seems the economy is plummeting.
PM Tigran Sargsyan has found an answer to the question why he used to object to Armenia’s integration with Customs Union because of lack of common border with Russia, and now he is actively involved in promotion of integration policy with the Customs Union.
In its previous issues 168-Zham has adverted to the Development Plan of Cattle-breeding 2007-2015, in the framework of which the cattle shipped from Europe has become a nightmare for farmers. We have presented the opinions of major farmers on the matter, who had participated in the project and lost many of the expensive animals.
Yesterday it was revealed that the European Commission had decided to annul all the restrictions for the import of Moldovan wine. This was the response of the EU to Russia, which ceased the import of Moldovan wine on September 11. This is also a response to Armenia’s claims that in the event if Armenia refused to join the Eurasian Union Russia would block the import of Armenia’s goods.
We started our way in 1990, when we fell in crisis, were deprived of electricity and forced to war. If we take that situation as the starting point, we have done a lot so far. It is difficult to say whether we were able to use that time rationally or no because it could be better, or it could be worse. I wish it could be better. We still have many challenges; the war is not over for us yet.
Armenia’s possible integration with the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan is one of the most discussed political topics in Armenia. Even though this issue is discussed from the political point of view, its economic side is even more important.
Many state officials and primarily the Prime-Minister, are paying much attention to reports of renown international organizations and to their best to make sure Armenia is advanced in their rating lists.
Our interviewee is the chair of the Businessmen and Producer Union of Armenia Arsen Ghazaryan
Similar to the soviet times when the officials would swear in front of the soviet flag, now as well the Armenian officials seemingly swear to speak only about the progress and development of the sectors they lead.
