U.S. to keep its course in Afghanistan until 2014January 23, 2012 - 21:14 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The U.S. ambassador to NATO says America is committed to staying its course in Afghanistan until 2014. But whether cash-strapped European nations feel the same at an upcoming Chicago summit in May is another question, The Associated Press reports. Ambassador Ivo Daadler said Monday, Jan 23, the summit will focus on NATO's strategy in Afghanistan, costs and the alliance's capabilities. He said its planned missile defense system will go forward with or without the cooperation of Russia. Daadler also spoke about Iran, saying international isolation may force Tehran back to the bargaining table. The EU on Monday banned the purchase of Iranian oil. Iran responded, threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's crude is transported. 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 | Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. Aliyev says no need for mediators in Armenia-Azerbaijan process Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev believes that Baku and Yerevan do not mediators in the process of normalizing relations. Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |