France to refund $1 billion to Russia for canceling sale of 2 warshipsSeptember 11, 2015 - 16:49 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - France will refund 950 million euros ($1 billion) to Russia for the cancellation of the sale of two Mistral-class warships, but won't have to pay penalties, the Associated Press reports. In a bill going to France's lower house of Parliament next week, the government details the agreement reached with Russia last month. According to the text, the "only condition" laid down by Russia is to receive the money "as soon as possible." Then, France will be able to sell the warships to another country. Egypt and Saudi Arabia are reported to be on top of the list of potential purchasers, AP says. The 1.2 billion-euro ($1.3 billion) deal was canceled last year because of the Ukrainian crisis. It was supposed to be the biggest arms sale ever by a NATO country to Russia. 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 | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush. 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. |