US, France, AU, EU condemn Mali coup March 22, 2012 - 19:22 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The United States on Thursday strongly condemned a violent coup by renegade Malian soldiers and demanded the return of civilian rule to the west African gold and cotton-producing nation, according to Reuters. "We call for the immediate restoration of constitutional rule in Mali, including full civilian authority over the armed forces and respect for the country's democratic institutions and traditions," the White House said in a statement. France, the African Union and European Union have also condemned the apparent overthrow of Mali's President Amadou Toumani Toure, and are demanding the return of constitutional rule in the African nation, VOA said. A group of soldiers declared a coup d'etat on Malian television Thursday, March 22 after taking over state broadcasting services and the presidential palace. The soldiers say they acted because of the president's incompetence in fighting a rebellion by ethnic Tuaregs in Mali's north.   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 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 |
