Madrid principles contain new elementsJuly 16, 2009 - 15:37 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Madrid principles propose not only the principal ways of settling Karabakh conflict but also very important steps to be undertaken by parties, said Stepan Grigoryan, board chairman of Analytical Center on Globalization and Regional Cooperation. "Madrid principles contain new elements, such as the principle of equality among nations. The basic clauses envisage such steps as determining Kharabakh's interim status, withdrawing forces and returning refugees," Armenian expert noted.In the meantime, Mr. Grigoryan introduced the positive and negative aspects of Madrid principles. "The positive aspect is that negotiation process was resumed after two years' silence. What we were following in the past were meetings rather than negotiations," the expert said, adding that Armenian and Azeri Presidents will touch upon more serious issues such as enhancing measures of trust. Another positive pro-Armenian phenomenon, according to the expert, was Turkish President Abdullah Gul's statement concerning the right of South Cyprus people to determine their status through referendum. "Turkish leader's statement coincided with the recent progress in Karabakh process, and Armenian side should take advantage of that." Grigoryan noted. Touching upon negative aspects, Mr. Grigoryan stressed that the clauses supporting Baku's interests are defined in a more precise manner. "The clauses concerning Armenian party are inaccurately formulated, and Armenian leadership should demand precision," Grigoryan stressed, adding that Madrid principles propose phasal rather than package solutions. 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. |