"We want to effectively begin talks on a free trade deal with Israel and it is possible that we will be able to complete it the next year already," Nikishina said on the sidelines of the Russia – ASEAN Business Forum in the Russian resort city of Sochi.
China, Iran and Israel would top the priority-based schedule, Nikishina noted, stressing that the EEU research groups are completing the study of benefits in a deal with India and Egypt. There is also a long-term perspective of a deal with South Korea, the minister added.
Cambodia and Singapore have filed formal requests for the consideration of a free trade deal with the EEU, Nikishina stated.
The EEU, comprising Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, is an international organization that encourages regional economic integration through the free movement of goods, services, and people within the union. It came into being on January 1, 2015.