Export of Armenian cognac and champagne to European markets still undecided
Armenia and the European Union (EU) are expected to complete negotiations on a framework agreement in a few days, Ambassador of France to Armenia Jean François Charpentier told reporters on February 14. He stressed that although the sides have to agree on a number of points, they are satisfied with the document. The agreement is expected to further expand cooperation between Armenia and the EU as well as between France and Armenia, especially in political, economic and legal spheres. With regard to France’s objections to some points of the agreement, particularly those referring the export of Armenian cognac and champagne to European markets, the French diplomat said that France is consistent in dealing with the sale of brands bearing French place names on European markets. “The issue has not been solved yet because it is of economic importance. The brands under question are of great importance both for France and Armenia,” Jean François Charpentier said. “It also has emotional significance for us as it determines the position of our country. However, France is open to negotiations.”
