  EU foreign policy chief deplores Israeli settlement plans September 28, 2011 - 09:27 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - European Union's foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton deplored Tuesday, September 27, Israel's decision to advance settlement construction in East Jerusalem with approximately 1000 new housing units in the Gilo neighborhood, European Jewish Press reported. She called on the Israeli authorities “to reverse this plan.” "Last Friday, the Quartet called on the Israelis and Palestinians to refrain from provocative actions if negotiations are to resume and be effective, and reiterated the obligations of both parties under the Roadmap," she said in a statement. She continued, "the EU has repeatedly called on Israel to end all settlement activity, including natural growth, and to dismantle outposts erected since March 2001." "Settlement activity threatens the viability of an agreed two-state solution and raises questions about Israel's stated commitment to resume negotiations," Ashton added. Addressing the European Parliament in, Strasbourg later on Tuesday during a debate on the demand for UN recognition of a Palestinian state, Catherine Ashton said that she heard "with deep regret" that Israeli settlement plans were continuing and planned to take up the issue again with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when she next meets him.   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 |  Latest news Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals  Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation.Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush.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. |
