Bishkek: Kyrgyzstan is ready to challenge the European Union in court if the bloc proceeds with sanctions related to alleged re-exports of European goods to Russia, as stated by First Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Daniyar Amangeldiev to the Financial Times.

According to Anadolu Agency, Amangeldiev highlighted that Brussels has not provided mechanisms for Kyrgyzstan to prove compliance and avoid potential penalties. He emphasized the potential impact on the country's image and expressed readiness to contest any sanctions in court. Amangeldiev remarked on the necessity of established rules for compliance, questioning how Kyrgyzstan could adhere to guidelines that have not been clearly defined.

While acknowledging that some goods have transited through Kyrgyzstan to Russia, Amangeldiev affirmed the country's commitment to preventing sanctions circumvention. He asserted that punitive measures should be aimed at specific violations rather than penalizing the entire country. Kyrgyzstan has submitted documents to the EU outlining its compliance efforts, yet Brussels has not clarified how Kyrgyz banks could be removed from sanctions lists.

These statements come in response to EU Sanctions Envoy David Sullivan's remarks about suspicions of Kyrgyzstan re-exporting European goods to Russia, contravening EU sanctions. Sullivan expressed concerns over increased imports of radio equipment and machinery into Kyrgyzstan, attributing them to high-value contracts with European partners, including those related to hydropower plant construction. He urged Kyrgyz authorities to enhance efforts to prevent the circumvention of sanctions without affecting the economy or legitimate business activities.