Germany, Turkey make progress in Incirlik air base visit disputeAugust 29, 2016 - 12:40 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Germany and Turkey have made progress in resolving a dispute over Turkey's refusal to allow German lawmakers to visit 250 troops stationed at Incirlik Air Base, European Affairs Minister Michael Roth told broadcaster Suedwestrundfunk on Monday, August 29, according to Reuters. Roth, who just returned to Germany from a visit to Ankara, said he saw "great movement" on the issue, and hoped it could be resolved soon. Turkey, angered by a resolution passed by the German parliament in June that recognized the Armenian Genocide of 1915, has denied German lawmakers access to the base. Six German surveillance jets and a refueling tanker are using the base to support the U.S.-led coalition's strikes on Islamic State. 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 |