Merkel says won't drop EU market-immigration link for BritainOctober 15, 2016 - 16:55 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Chancellor Angela Merkel says Germany wants friendly ties with Britain but won't drop its insistence that London can only enjoy full access to the European Union's internal market if it allows free immigration of EU citizens, the Associated Press reports. British Prime Minister Theresa May, who hasn't yet formally triggered EU exit talks, appears prepared to prioritize immigration controls. Merkel argues that making concessions on free labor movement would create a dangerous free-for-all in the EU. She said Saturday, october 15 that, although Britain is dear to Europe and she regrets its decision to leave the bloc, "we cannot work toward ultimately putting into question the whole European Union." Merkel said: "I will always weigh things in Britain's favor, but always with the thought that we 27 member states want to preserve our Europe." 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 |