Turkey hopes for new era in relations with ArmeniaDecember 25, 2008 - 12:34 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - "We will cement relations with fraternal Azerbaijan, resting on our multilateral common interests. Our political, economic and cultural relations are developing. On the other hand, we hope to continue dialogue with Armenia and open a new era in relations with this country," Ali Babacan said in his address to the Grand National Assembly. "Turkey highlights political and economic stability in the South Caucasus countries and their respect for each other's territorial integrity." Peaceful resolution of regional problems, expansion of regional cooperation underlies Turkey's policy in the South Caucasus, according to him. "August hostilities in Georgia proved that 'frozen conflicts' can flare up any moment. To establish the atmosphere of confidence in the region, we proposed a stability platform," Babacan 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 | The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization. Ucom General Director gives lecture at French University in Armenia The General Director of Ucom Ralph Yirikian delivered a lecture at the French University of Armenia. Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. |