Russia not planning to join EUOctober 17, 2008 - 18:56 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia is a self-sufficient country and has no intention to join the European Union, Vladimir Chizhov, RF permanent representative to the EU, said when commenting on Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi's statement."We have every reason to develop independently, but not as a part of a union," Chizhov said, adding that Russia has some obligations to its neighbors, the former USSR republics, Russian media reports. Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi said Wednesday that he is in favor of Russia becoming a member of the European Union, a "vision" he has held for several years. "I consider Russia to be a Western country and my plan is for the Russian Federation to be able to become a member of the European Union in the coming years," Berlusconi told reporters in Brussels. 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 | 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 |