Monday, 10 October 2011
PM and “Rosagromash” Delegation Discuss Farm Machinery Procurement Agenda
Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan received today a delegation from Russian “Rosagromash” association, led by association president Konstantin Babkin.
Welcoming the guests, the head of government said: “I am happy that such a representative delegation has arrived in Armenia evidencing the strategic impact of our joint efforts. I am sure that your visit will help us specify what kind of agricultural machinery we will purchase from Russia. The bulk of machinery is obsolete in Armenia, in bad need of upgrading, and I am happy that we can discuss today cooperation in this area.”
Thankful for reception, Konstantin Babkin presented the activities of “Rosagromash”, noting in particular that there are some 90 factories engaged in the production of farm machinery, with end-products exported to 40 foreign countries. Noting that his association has a strong bias for export, he stressed that they are interested in the furtherance of cooperation with our country.
The parties went on to discuss the possibility of Rosagromash-made farm machinery procurements by the Armenian side, including on lease. Stressing that agriculture is a priority to his government Tigran Sargsyan said a farming sector development concept is out in Armenia. In this context, the head of government briefed the guests on international donor organization-implemented Armenia programs.
As to the lease, the Prime Minister suggested concluding a framework arrangement. During the exchange of views that followed the speakers touched on the design of a concept note on farm machinery stock replenishment in Armenia. In this connection, Tigran Sargsyan said he would order discussions to be held on the matter.
Thursday parties also looked at the possibility of establishing farm machinery assembly plants, granting agricultural machinery to cooperative societies and organizing service centers in our country.
Summing up the meeting, the Prime Minister stressed the need for making continued efforts within task forces to discuss proposals and work out mutually beneficial schemes of cooperation.
