New Zealand to help train Iraq's armed forces fight Islamic StateFebruary 24, 2015 - 10:27 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - New Zealand will send soldiers to help train Iraq's armed forces fight Islamic State militants, but would not be involved in combat, the government said on Tuesday, Feb 24, according to Reuters. Prime Minister John Key said up to 143 personnel from the NZ Defence Force would join Australia "behind the wire" in training Iraqi forces. "Sending our forces to Iraq is not an easy decision but it is the right decision," Key said in a statement to New Zealand's parliament. "We stand up for what's right." Key said New Zealand had a duty to join other countries to assist Iraq to fight IS, and to support stability and the rule of law. The mission would be reviewed after nine months and would not last more than two years. The deployment was opposed by most political parties in a debate that followed Key's statement, including two minor parties that support the center government. Last year Key said the risks posed to New Zealand from IS had increased, with 35 to 40 New Zealanders under surveillance because of their support for the militants. New Zealand sent combat troops to Afghanistan, but declined to join the second Gulf war. Photo: AFP 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 | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |