Import Bans on Turkish Products Could Be Lifted by Year-End - Economic Minister

Import bans on Turkey’s fruits and vegetables into Russia may be lifted as early as the end of this year, Russian Economic Development Minister Alexei Ulyukayev said Tuesday, pointing out that products should meet Russia’s standards.

ST. PETERSBURG (Sputnik) – Ulyukayev spoke to reporters shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who arrived in St. Petersburg for first talks to reset bilateral relations after the November 2015 downing of a Russian aircraft by Turkey.

"Maybe, perhaps," Ulyukayev said answering a corresponding question.

He added that Russian agriculture watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor must ensure that food imports from Turkey meet Russian food safety standards before the bans are lifted.