Russia and Belarus are risking to completely sever tiesJune 8, 2009 - 14:30 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Relations between Russia and Belarus got so aggraded that the countries are risking to completely sever ties, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko stated.He also accused Russia of trying to link the issue of $500 million stabilization credit to be provided for Belarus, with Minsk's recognition of Abkhazia's and South Ossetia's independence. ''Belarus is capable of shoving the issues of self-proclaimed republics' recognition and does not intend to sell any issues or cede any positions,'' Lukashenko emphasized. The President also stressed that Russia has closed its market for Byelorussian goods. He cited the example of milk and meat products, sugar and Byelorussian tractors. Lukashenko denied Russia's accusations on Belarus' attempts to sell its production at dumping prices. 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. |