Greek PM expects economy growth for first time in 8 yearsSeptember 6, 2014 - 13:46 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras says the country's economy is expected to expand in the third quarter for the first time in eight years, according to the Associated Press. In a speech Saturday, Sept 6, in the northern Greek city of Thessaloniki, Samaras also promised a 30 percent reduction in the taxation of heating oil, reversing a measure imposed in 2012 which failed to bring added revenue and adversely affected the environment. Samaras was speaking at the opening of the Thessaloniki International Fair, a traditional venue for Greek leaders to announce the coming year's economic policy. The Greek premier also hailed what he said was a success in reforming health, social security and education by cutting excessive spending and combating fraud. Related links: Top stories Yerevan has dismissed Turkey’s demand to shut down the Armenian nuclear power plant as “inappropriate”. Armenia will loan 2.9 billion drams to Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh), according to a draft government decision. The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan has “strongly condemned” Armenia’s decision. Kerobyan has said that for the first time in the history of Armenia, the volume of foreign direct investments amounted to about $1 billion. Partner news | European Parliament to discuss repression in Azerbaijan The European Parliament will discuss repression of civil society in Azerbaijan on April 24 PACE wants concessions from Azerbaijan to accept Baku back A PACE co-rapporteur said that Azerbaijani authorities must make certain concessions so that the country can return to PACE. 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. |