The stalled bilateral agreement on supplies of Indian dairy products to the Russian market received a fresh impetus with Russia agreeing to sign the same in regard to initialising veterinary certificates for Indian dairy products. Recently, representatives of the commerce ministry of India had a dialogue with Rosselkhoznadzor, a federal service agency of Russia for veterinary and phytosanitary surveillance.
On the first day of telephonic negotiations held on March 2, between India and Russia, Artem Daushev, deputy head, directorate for international cooperation and veterinary control of export/import and transportation, Russia Rosselkhoznadzor, informed, “The Rosselkhoznadzor was ready to sign the bilateral protocol on supplies of Indian dairy products to the Russian market.”
A senior official from the Export Inspection Council (EIC) said, “We are happy that Russia has responded positively. They have demanded certifications and assurance which we will definitely extend. The concern over the condition of 1,000 cattle heads is now removed.”
Government departments of both the countries discussed the amendments to the protocol suggested by Russia. Russia also agreed that it was necessary to initialise veterinary certificates for Indian dairy products for Russia as soon as possible. After the certificates are initialised, the Rosselkhoznadzor will be ready to harmonise the certificate with competent services of other EEU (Eurasian Economic Union) countries.
A statement issued by Rosselkhoznadzor said, “Russia expressed concern as India did not inform Rosselkhoznadzor about foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks reported in India. In its turn India assured Rosselkhoznadzor that all information is submitted to the OIE (World Organisation for Animal Health) and published on the official website of the organisation. In response, Russia stressed that it is expedient to submit such information directly to the Rosselkhoznadzor.”
According to the said statement, “In the nearest time, India will send all the required information on measures taken in response to the last FMD outbreak in India to Russia. Both nations also discussed conditions of animal product export from the Russian federation to India.”
India has assured Rosselkhoznadzor that it will fulfil all the requirements for the veterinary certificates which will accompany dairy products and animal non-food products (animal hides) exported to India.
