Philippines Supreme Court OKs pact allowing U.S. forces' deployment January 12, 2016 - 11:47 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Philippines' Supreme Court has declared as constitutional a 2014 defense pact that allows American forces, ships and planes to temporarily station in local military camps, the Associated Press reports. Supreme Court spokesman Theodore Te says a majority of the justices also ruled Tuesday, January 12 that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement is an executive agreement that does not need Senate approval. The ruling will bolster U.S. efforts to reassert its presence in Asia and dovetails with Philippine efforts to harness America's help in addressing what it perceives as China's aggressive acts in the disputed South China Sea. Washington welcomed the court decision. Left-wing activists said they would consider an appeal, adding that U.S. military presence won't solve the country's worries over China in disputed waters.  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 |  Latest news 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.Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham).Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |
