Iraq to discuss arms supply with Russia October 8, 2012 - 21:50 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iraq needs Russian assistance in its military and defense sectors, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki stressed on Monday, October 8, according to RIA Novosti. Arab media reports have said that al-Maliki, currently visiting Moscow, will discuss a host of potential economic, political and military projects with Russia worth an estimated $5 billion. “Some people describe this visit as solely about arms purchases. But that is not the case,” he said, responding to media reports previewing his trip. “Of course, we need Russia's support in the military and defense areas. Iraq needs weapons to defend itself and fight terrorism,” the prime minister added, particularly highlighting the country's need for those used in combat in mountainous and desert terrains. Asked how the Iraqi authorities will explain Russian arms purchases to the United States, al-Maliki replied by saying that his country did not consult anyone regarding arms purchases. He added that the country is willing to work with everyone. “We have good relations both with the US and with Iran,” he added. On Tuesday, al-Maliki is expected to discuss cooperation in military technology with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and on Wednesday he is due to meet with President Vladimir Putin. Partner news  Top stories Dorians came 18th at 2013 Eurovision Song Contest, with their song Lonely Planet written by Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi. World famous chansonnier Charles Aznavour will attend the unveiling of his star in Yerevan’s Aznavour Square. The film stars Avedikian as a brilliant director Sergey Paradjanov, whose nonconformist behavior conflicts with Soviet System. The scientists conducted a survey of ancient rock art, with a database of Armenian petroglyphs to be later developed.   Partner news |  Latest news Israeli security expert says Syrian hacker attack foiled  Israel refuses to comment on the strike but officials at the time said Iranian missiles set for Hezbollah were hit.Gyumri to host Europe Day celebrations The celebrations will feature a small information fair, with EU project representatives to brief the visitors on the initiatives launched.Expert says Russian FM’s remarks in context of Madrid Principles No decisive developments will follow the meeting between Russian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers, David Jamalyan said.Artsakh defense army conducts command staff drills Four-stage command-staff exercises were conducted in Artsakh, led by defense army commander Movses Hakobyan. |
