look news india
News India Live, Digital Desk: A relief news has come from Russia for Pakistan, which is struggling with economic crisis and inflation. The administration of Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially lifted the long-standing ban on import of potatoes from Pakistan. This decision is not only being seen from a business point of view, but is also being taken as a sign of increasing closeness and diplomatic coordination between Russia and Pakistan.
Russian market will become ‘sanjeevani’ for Pakistani farmers
Pakistan’s agriculture sector, especially potato farmers, has been struggling to gain access to international markets for quite some time. Potato exports had come to a halt due to the ban imposed by Russia on quality standards and other technical reasons. Now after the ban is lifted, farmers of Punjab and other provinces of Pakistan will be able to get the right price for their produce. Experts believe that with the opening of a big market like Russia, a slight improvement in Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves is also expected.
Growing chemistry between Putin and Shahbaz
Political analysts believe that this decision has not been taken suddenly. In recent months, several rounds of talks have taken place between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Russian leadership. Amidst the Russia-Ukraine war, Russia is looking for new trade partners for itself, while Pakistan needs Russia for cheap fuel and grains. Lifting the ban on potatoes is being considered as the first step towards future big trade agreements between the two countries.
Quality standards will be closely monitored
Although Russia has allowed imports, it has also imposed strict conditions. Pakistani exporters must ensure that their potatoes meet Russian food safety standards and phytosanitary regulations. If any disease or insects are found in future consignments, this ban may be reimposed. At present, Pakistan’s Commerce Ministry has called it a big victory and has started issuing guidelines to exporters.
