We see unrealized potential in Swedish-Armenian relations – ambassador - Embassy of the Republic of Armenia to Sweden

We see unrealized potential in Swedish-Armenian relations – ambassador

04 December, 2014

In an exclusive interview with Tert.am, Armenian Ambassador to Sweden Artak Apitonian stressed the northern European country’s pivotal role for Armenia, highlighting particularly the need of multi-sectoral close cooperation as an integral part of Armenia’s European agenda.

The ambassador said he thinks that the two countries have a considerable amount of work to do, particularly in the economic domain.

The trade overturn is far from matching the existing potentials, although we have a 30% growth in comparison with last year. Our export level is very low, not even worthy to mention. Although the Swedish representation in Armenia is more inspiring, with about two dozen companies working through direct representations or regional headquarters. What’s even more, there are several major companies such as Ericson, Elekta, Scania, Oriflame and so on. The company LL Bolaget is going to arrange waste disposal activities in Yerevan.

“We would like to see Swedish companies’ better involvement in the Armenian economy, having in mind also the investment agreement between the two countries,” he said.

Mr. Apitonian further elaborated on the Embassy’s program aimed to boost trade-economic relations saying that they intend to implement the projects in collaboration with the responsible government agencies.

“We are going to undertake steps to accomplish the business environment and the regulation of legal contractual domain, particularly negotiations and sign an agreement to avoid double taxation. We’ll carry out work to introduce the leading branches of our economy to Swedish business circles. This year we are planning to conduct several conferences in Stockholm and other cities and towns of Sweden to address the topic,” he said, adding that the events will focus on the IT sector, food industries, jewelry making etc.

The ambassador further unveiled plans for organizing different exhibitions in Sweden in an effort to make the Swedish market more accessible to Armenian products. He said they will continue promoting the Swedish companies’ representation in the country to encourage their use of a platform for business transactions with other states in the region.

It’s very commendable that our Swedish partners too, share our approach to boost economic cooperation. “The first ever high-ranking visit since the launch of the embassy in Yerevan was that of Trade Minister Ewa Björling who was accompanied also by Swedish businesspeople.

“There is still much to do to upgrade our bilateral relations to the current potential level. I think bilateral efforts are necessary to raise the quality and effectiveness of our relations. And I repeat it is encouraging to see such efforts also by Swedish companies,” he added.

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