Istanbul to host Tehran nuke talks - Iranian state TVApril 8, 2012 - 16:15 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iran's state media says Istanbul has been confirmed as the venue for a new round of talks scheduled for this week between Tehran and the six major powers over the Islamic Republic's disputed nuclear program, according to AP. Iran's official English-language Press TV cited anonymous sources in its report Sunday, April 8 that the negotiations would take place in Istanbul. While Iran has considered Istanbul an acceptable location for talks, Tehran had proposed other venues - such as Iraq or China - for the negotiations scheduled to start Friday as Iran's ties with Turkey have soured over the crisis in Syria. The suggestions of alternative sites raised the possibility of complications to get talks under way as expected on April 13 between Iran and envoys from the five permanent UN Security Council members and Germany. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |