EU to open case against Poland over constitutional court legislationJanuary 13, 2016 - 16:45 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The European Commission says it will open a case against Poland over constitutional court legislation which has been criticized as running counter to fundamental principles of the rule of law, the Associated Press reports. EU Commissioner Frans Timmermans said his executive "will carry out a preliminary assessment of this matter under the rule of law framework," the first step in a drawn-out procedure that could ultimately lead to suspending Polish voting rights in the EU. Timmermans stressed though that the EU would be seeking dialogue with Poland first. In December, the ruling Law and Justice party, which has a full parliamentary majority, took steps to gain influence in the constitutional tribunal, which is supposed to be an independent arbiter with the power to block the government's legislation. 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 | 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 |