EU extends Syria sanctions for one more yearMay 28, 2016 - 17:30 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Council of Europe on Friday, May 27 extended EU restrictive measures against the Syrian regime until 1 June 2017, the Council said. “This decision is in line with the Council conclusions of December 2014 which affirmed that the EU would continue imposing and enforcing sanctions targeting the regime and its supporters as long as repression continues,” the Council said. “The EU remains committed to finding a lasting solution to the conflict in Syria. As stated in the Council conclusions on Syria, Iraq as well as the Daesh threat of May 23, 2016, the EU will further support the International Syria Support Group (ISSG) efforts to strengthen the implementation of the cessation of hostilities in Syria. The EU will step up its political role in support for a credible resumption of the intra-Syrian talks coordinated by UN Special Envoy de Mistura aiming at reaching an agreement on a genuine political transition in Syria in accordance with the ISSG Vienna statement of 17 May 2016. The EU will also further support the delivery of humanitarian aid to all Syrians in need in besieged and hard to reach areas.” The sanctions currently in place include notably an oil embargo, restrictions on certain investments, a freeze of the assets of the Syrian central bank within the EU, export restrictions on equipment and technology that might be used for internal repression as well as on equipment and technology for monitoring or interception of internet or telephone communications. In addition, over 200 persons and 70 entities are targeted by a travel ban and an asset freeze over the violent repression against the civilian population in Syria. 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. |