Clinton urges Bulgaria to break its energy dependence on RussiaFebruary 5, 2012 - 15:42 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is in Bulgaria, urging the country to break its energy dependence on Russia by diversifying its oil and gas supplies. According to The Associated Press, U.S. officials say Clinton will use her visit to promote alternatives to existing pipeline routes as well as developing new energy sources. They say eastern Europe's reliance on Russia for energy leaves it vulnerable to "unhealthy" political pressure from Moscow. Russia drew Washington's fury on Saturday when it vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Syria. Clinton will also encourage the former Soviet satellite “to share its experiences in moving to democracy with Arab nations emerging from authoritarian rule.” She will also urge Bulgaria to improve conditions for minority populations. Clinton flew to Bulgaria after attending an international security conference in Munich. 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 | 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. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |