Saudi King offers money, reformsMarch 18, 2011 - 16:03 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Saudi Arabia's monarch is promising money to residents of the kingdom in his first national address since unrest began sweeping the Arab world. King Abdullah spoke after midday Muslim prayers on Friday, March 18. He thanked residents and security forces for being "the hands" of the country's stability. News readers then read series of royal decrees promising a minimum wage increase, cash gifts and an anti-corruption drive, AP reported. The rare speech by the country's ailing 86-year-old monarch came after a several small demonstrations in the oil-rich kingdom. Though only dozens of people participated, it appears the monarchy is worried the protests could escalate into more intense gatherings, inspired by the protests around the Arab world. 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 | Narek Manasyan wins European Boxing Championships silver for Armenia Armenia’s Narek Manasyan (92kg) won Armenia’s second silver medal at the European Boxing Championships 2024 on April 28. Blinken urges Azerbaijan to continue negotiations with Armenia Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has urged Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to continue negotiations with Armenia. Pashinyan, Blinken talk Armenia-U.S. ties over the phone Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on April 28, Pashinyan’s office reports. Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. |