NATO Sec Gen congratulates Putin on election Russian PresidentMarch 8, 2012 - 14:14 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen telephoned Russian President-elect Vladimir Putin. According to a press release, he congratulated Mr Putin on his return to office and said that he looks forward to continued engagement and constructive dialogue. The Secretary General emphasized NATO’s commitment, and his own personal commitment, to working with the President-elect to establish a true strategic partnership between NATO and Russia, as agreed at the Lisbon summit in 2010. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the foundation of the NATO-Russia Council, created as the permanent forum for discussions at all times and on all issues. The Secretary General noted the tangible successes which NATO-Russia cooperation has produced over the last decade, especially related to Afghanistan, counter-narcotics and counter-piracy. He expressed his hope that it would be possible to move forward on cooperation on missile defence, as such cooperation would benefit both NATO and Russia. President-elect Putin underlined his commitment to good, stable relations with NATO. The Secretary General thanked him for his frankness and constructive approach. The Secretary General and President-elect agreed to meet bilaterally in the not too distant future. 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 | 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. |