Recognition by int'l community - very important for Customs Union - Z. Aitzhanova

Acting Minister of Economic Development and Trade of Kazakhstan Zhanar Aitzhanova has said it today in Almaty during the second round of talks between the countries of the Customs Union and European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

According to her, the Customs Union now is of great economic, trade and investment interest for our partners. 'The markets of the EFTA are also very important for our companies and economies,' she said.

According to her, these talks are held not only regarding abolition of import customs duties for goods but also regarding non-tariff policy - sanitary and veterinary norms, quality standards and product safety, protection of intellectual property rights, etc.

Z. Aitzhanova noted that the Customs Union was established in 2010 but its formation is continued. As is known, on July 1 the customs borders between Kazakhstan and Russia will be transferred to the external borders of Russia. 'The success of the negotiations between the CU member states and New Zealand, Vietnam and many other countries depends on the success of these talks,' she emphasized.

Norwegian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Dag Malmer Halvorsen said that Kazakhstan was the most important economic partner in Central Asia. 'I hope that the negotiations will allow to create conditions for developing investment and trades between our countries. Kazakhstan and Norway need to find new fields for developing mutually beneficial trade,' the Ambassador said.