Russia says North Korea's leader accepted invitation to MoscowJanuary 28, 2015 - 13:02 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia says North Korea's leader has accepted an invitation to Moscow in May, BBC News reports citing South Korea's Yonhap. The news agency cites a written response from the Kremlin, but says it does not mention Kim Jong-un by name. Yonhap quotes a Unification Ministry official as saying the reference to the leader could be ambiguous, as Kim Yong-nam is the nominal head of state. Kim Jong-un has not made any overseas visits since taking power in North Korea in late 2011. His first destination will been keenly watched for what it might indicate about his policies and strategy. Earlier this month, reports emerged suggesting Russia could be the recipient of Mr Kim's first official visit. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told journalists on 21 January that Russia had invited Mr Kim to the 9 May celebrations to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of World War Two. He said that the "first signal was positive" from the North Korean government. Related links: 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 | Biden honors resilience of Armenian people on April 24 U.S. President Joe Biden has issued a statement on the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Ex-Karabakh leader moved to solitary confinement cell in Baku, his son says David Vardanyan is the son of former Karabakh leader Ruben Vardanyan who who is currently imprisoned in Azerbaijan. Macron says France commemorates 109th anniv. of Armenian genocide Today France commemorates the 109th anniversary of the Armenian genocide of 1915, Macron says. Freedom House concerned by mounting reports of police violence in Armenia Freedom House urged Armenian authorities to investigate this pattern of excessive force and inhumane treatment. |