Iraq to discuss arms supply with RussiaOctober 8, 2012 - 21:50 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iraq needs Russian assistance in its military and defense sectors, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki stressed on Monday, October 8, according to RIA Novosti. Arab media reports have said that al-Maliki, currently visiting Moscow, will discuss a host of potential economic, political and military projects with Russia worth an estimated $5 billion. “Some people describe this visit as solely about arms purchases. But that is not the case,” he said, responding to media reports previewing his trip. “Of course, we need Russia's support in the military and defense areas. Iraq needs weapons to defend itself and fight terrorism,” the prime minister added, particularly highlighting the country's need for those used in combat in mountainous and desert terrains. Asked how the Iraqi authorities will explain Russian arms purchases to the United States, al-Maliki replied by saying that his country did not consult anyone regarding arms purchases. He added that the country is willing to work with everyone. “We have good relations both with the US and with Iran,” he added. On Tuesday, al-Maliki is expected to discuss cooperation in military technology with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and on Wednesday he is due to meet with President Vladimir Putin. Top stories The creative crew of the Public TV had chosen 13-year-old Malena as a participant of this year's contest. She called on others to also suspend their accounts over the companies’ failure to tackle hate speech. Penderecki was known for his film scores, including for William Friedkin’s “The Exorcist”, Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining”. The festival made the news public on March 19, saying that “several options are considered in order to preserve its running” 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. Azerbaijan must respect human rights, Scholz tells Aliyev German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has called for greater respect for human rights in Azerbaijan. 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. |