  OSCE hopes for progress in Karabakh process in 2009December 24, 2008 - 18:28 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) hopes for progress in settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict next year. "We hope we will see progress in 2009," new OSCE chairman, Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis said. The OSCE chairman-in-office and Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb officially handed over office of the chairman to his Greek counterpart Dora Bakoyannis at the meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council in Helsinki on Dec. 4. Greece's chairmanship in the Organization will start on January 1, 2009. Bakoyannis said Greece believes that frequent meetings between representatives of Azerbaijan and Armenia will lead to the establishment of mutual confidence which is essential to resolve the conflict. "Greece fully supports these efforts and encourages constructive engagement from both parties, in line with the Statement delivered at the Helsinki Summit earlier this month by the French Foreign Minister on behalf of the European Union," Bakoyannis said, Trend Azeri news agency reports.   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 |  Related sections Topic Latest news Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation  Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims.First Canadian expert join EU mission in Armenia The first Canadian expert to join the European Union’s civilian mission in Armenia has arrived in Armenia.Armenian cemetery in Fresno hit by arsons six times since January Six total incidents have burned 19 old-growth trees. Friday night 8 trees were torched along the beautiful main entrance.Iran vows to “decisively” defend sovereignty, national interests The Iranian embassy in Armenia has defended its “defensive and proportional action in in occupied Palestine.” |
