Latvian parliament passes law for adopting euro January 31, 2013 - 16:23 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Latvian MPs have passed a law necessary for adopting the euro in January 2014 despite widespread opposition to the country's adoption of the troubled European single currency, The Associated Press reported. The law represents a final legal obstacle before Latvia formally asks to become the 18th European Union country that uses the euro, a step expected next month. A small group of protesters gathered outside parliament on Thursday, Jan 31, to heckle lawmakers as they headed to vote. Recent polls suggest a majority of Latvians are against adopting the euro in light of the debt crisis that has afflicted the eurozone for over three years and fears that the Baltic country will have to help bail out struggling countries. Many are demanding a referendum, but the center-right government says it won't hold a separate vote.   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 |  Latest news Narek Manasyan wins European Boxing Championships silver for Armenia  Armenia’s Narek Manasyan (92kg) won Armenia’s second silver medal at the European Boxing Championships 2024 on April 28.Blinken urges Azerbaijan to continue negotiations with Armenia Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has urged Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to continue negotiations with Armenia.Pashinyan, Blinken talk Armenia-U.S. ties over the phone Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on April 28, Pashinyan’s office reports.Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. |
