NATO to continue integration policy toward Black Sea countriesOctober 28, 2008 - 13:06 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - NATO focuses on individual capabilities of the Black Sea countries and wants to see these countries stronger, more democratic and in position to resolve their defense problems, a NATO official said."NATO not only cooperates with the countries of the region but also integrates them into the Alliance. Our doors are open for the countries wishing to join us. An intense dialogue was launched with Ukraine and Georgia to prepare them for NATO membership," Jaroslaw Skonieczka, director for Euro-Atlantic Integration and Partnership in NATO's International Staff, said during during Black Sea security program regional workshop. "Nevertheless, this is a long process and the recent events in Georgia bewildered NATO," he added. "We intend to support reforms in Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan and continue integration policy toward these states," Mr. Skonieczka said. 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 | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush. 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. |