US Congressmen: EU Should Urge Turkey to Recognize Armenian GenocideJune 20, 2006 - 16:00 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - US Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) has urged the European Union (EU) to press Turkey to meet its accession criteria, properly recognize the Armenian Genocide and end its ongoing blockade against Armenia, reports the Armenian Assembly of Armenia. The congressional correspondence, addressed to European Commission President José Manuel Barroso and signed by nearly two dozen lawmakers, states that Turkey's progress towards establishing guarantees for democracy, rule of law, human rights and respect and protection of minorities remains wholly inadequate.The bipartisan letter states in part: "Of particular concern is Turkey's lack of interest in considering improvements in areas that are of paramount importance for the integrity and credibility of Turkey's bid for membership. Principal among such areas is the question of Turkey's diplomatic recognition of Armenia, and the removal of its blockade, as a major impediment to regional security and development in the South Caucasus. Equally critical is Turkey's ability to end its official policy of denial of the Armenian Genocide, and come to terms with its genocidal legacy." The United States has called upon Turkey to restore economic, political and social ties with Armenia, while the European Parliament has adopted a resolution urging Ankara to open its border with Armenia, and recognize the genocide, as a precondition to membership to the EU. 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 | 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. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |