 NATO accepts Afghan leader’s air strike ban February 17, 2013 - 16:46 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - NATO has said it accepts President Hamid Karzai's order banning Afghan security forces from calling in foreign air strikes in residential areas, BBC News reported. The commander of the US-led NATO forces, Gen Joseph Dunford, said NATO respected Afghan sovereignty and had other ways to support Afghan forces. Karzai announced his decree followed last week's killing of 10 civilians in a night raid in eastern Kunar province. Civilian casualties are a source of tension between Afghan and NATO forces.   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 |  Latest news Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event  The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event.Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party.Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims.Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |
