U.S. labels Abkhazian presidential election as illegitimateAugust 30, 2011 - 10:21 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The United States dismissed elections in Abkhazia as illegitimate, and renewed support for what it called Georgia's internationally-recognized borders. "The United States does not recognize the legitimacy or the results of the August 26 so-called elections in the Abkhazia region of Georgia," State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said. "We reiterate our support for Georgia's sovereignty, territorial integrity within its internationally-recognized borders. We urge Russia to fulfill all of its obligations under the 2008 ceasefire agreement including withdrawal of forces to pre-conflict positions and free access for humanitarian assistance to the territories," she said, the Associated Press reported. Similar statements were made earlier by NATO and EU. 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 |