State Duma Delays Discussion on Recognition of Armenian Driver's Licenses in Russia

The State Duma has postponed the discussion of a bill recognizing the driver's licenses of Armenian citizens in Russia until March 21 during the second reading of the legislation. This was reported by RIA Novosti.

The bill aims to recognize the national driver's licenses of Armenian citizens within the territory of the Russian Federation for conducting business and work related to operating vehicles, as stated in the explanatory note provided by the Russian government.

Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin suggested inviting representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Internal Affairs for the discussion of the bill, as well as preparing for the meeting with representatives from the CIS Affairs Committee who collaborate with Armenian partners on this issue.

“This matter should be discussed within the framework of our communications with the Armenian Parliament... nothing will happen if we postpone the discussion until next week, until the 21st, what do you think? Furthermore, it would be more appropriate if we discuss the issue with our partners, the members of the Armenian Parliament,” Volodin said.

He added that this is a significant step highlighting the level of relations between the countries. “What is the position of the head of the Armenian government? These are serious decisions; we are opening the market and enhancing self-realization opportunities for Armenian citizens who, after the adoption of this law, will be able to work in Russia using their national driver's licenses,” the Duma Speaker stated.

Currently, the permission to drive vehicles is in effect for citizens of Kyrgyzstan and those states where the Russian language is recognized as an official language.