French President says Mistral ships will be delivered to RussiaAugust 20, 2014 - 18:46 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - There is nothing that would stop France from delivering two Mistral helicopter carrier ships to Russia, French President Francois Hollande said Wednesday, Aug 20. “Today’s level of sanctions will not hamper deliveries … Should there be new tensions and it is difficult to find a way out, we will have to think of something. As for now, it is all good,” Hollande was quoted as saying by Le Monde, according to RIA Novosti. Russia and France signed a $1.6 billion contract for two Mistral-class helicopter carriers in June 2011. The first carrier, the Vladivostok, is expected in Russia by the end of 2014. The second ship, the Sevastopol, should arrive in 2015. The completion of the deal was at risk after Western countries imposed sanctions against Russia over its alleged role in the escalation of the crisis in Ukraine. However, the French side said it would fulfill its contractual obligations and deliver the ships as agreed. The Mistral vessels are expected to be deployed in Russia’s Pacific Fleet. They are capable of carrying 16 helicopters, four landing craft, 70 armored vehicles and 450 soldiers each. 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 | Viva-MTS: Tech solutions to modernize infrastructure of border village The border village has been the focus of Viva-MTS and the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Values since 2015. Ucom's fixed network launched in Artashat To mark this occasion, the company has introduced a special offer exclusively for Artashat residents. “By Your Side”: IDBank's new support program for displaced Artsakh citizens IDBank is launching a long-term social support program for forcibly displaced Artsakh residents. The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization. |