EC chief calls on Europe to improve relations with RussiaOctober 9, 2015 - 15:38 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The EU must restore a "practical relationship" with Russia and not let the U.S. "dictate" that policy, the European Commission chief has said, according to BBC News. Jean-Claude Juncker criticized U.S. President Barack Obama's description of Russia as merely "a regional power". EU-U.S. sanctions were imposed on Russia because of its intervention in Ukraine. Obama had a frosty meeting recently with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Russia must be treated decently," Juncker said in Germany. "We must make efforts towards a practical relationship with Russia. It is not sexy but that must be the case, we can't go on like this," he said, during a visit to Passau in southern Germany. Last year the West imposed visa bans and asset freezes on dozens of senior Russian officials. The sanctions also restricted Russian access to Western bank credits and industrial technology in the defense and energy sectors. In retaliation, Russia banned most imports of Western food and drink. 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. |