Venezuela asks UN to help alleviate severe medicine shortagesMarch 25, 2017 - 13:14 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Friday, March 24 he has asked the United Nations to help the South American nation alleviate medicine shortages, which have become increasingly severe as the oil-producing nation's economic crisis accelerates, Reuters reports. Triple digit inflation and a decaying socialist economic model have left medications ranging from simple anti-inflammatory drugs to chemotherapy medication out of reach for most Venezuelans. Maduro did not specify the type of aid he requested, although he stressed that the UN has knowledge of the pharmaceutical industry. "I have asked them for support to continue making permanent progress in the regularization of medicines for hospitals," he said. Maduro earlier on Friday met with Jessica Faieta, Assistant Administrator and Director of the UN Development Program, according to state television. The Venezuelan Pharmaceuticals Federation estimates some 85 percent of drugs are unavailable to the country's citizens. Maduro often blames the deteriorating economy and widespread shortages of goods on an "economic war" led by opposition politicians with the help of the United States. Critics say the problems are the result of dysfunctional price and currency controls that have decimated private industry. 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 |