Turkish Presidential Symphony Orchestra may tour ArmeniaJanuary 28, 2009 - 15:32 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - While diplomatic efforts continue for the normalization of relations between Turkey and Armenia, a cultural rapprochement between the two nations is on the horizon as Turkey's Presidential Symphony Orchestra plans a visit to Yerevan, Hurriyet Daily reports. Music director of the orchestra, Rengim Gokmen, confirmed the possibility of a visit. "The orchestra could travel to Armenia. However, we should assess the process of improving relations first," Gokmen said, adding that in the event of the normalization of relations, such a tour could be held with the authorization of President Abdullah Gul. The rapprochement in the cultural arena between the two countries dates back to 2005 when the Armenian State Opera and Ballet traveled in Istanbul and performed at the Ataturk Cultural Center. However, due to inadequate advertising, the performance did not attract large audience. 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 | 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. Aliyev says no need for mediators in Armenia-Azerbaijan process Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev believes that Baku and Yerevan do not mediators in the process of normalizing relations. Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |