Russian, Ukrainian President to hold talks in ParisOctober 2, 2015 - 12:28 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to meet leaders of Ukraine, France and Germany in a revived European push to bring peace to eastern Ukraine, the Associated Press reports. The long-awaited summit in Paris on Friday, October 2, is being overshadowed by international concerns about Russia's military intervention in Syria this week. A senior French diplomat expressed guarded optimism about Friday's talks, which are expected to address more autonomy for eastern regions and withdrawing weapons. French President Francois Hollande, in proposing the meeting, praised progress in implementing a troubled February peace deal and said if that continues, "I will argue for lifting the sanctions." EU sanctions and a subsequent Russian embargo have hurt many European companies. The conflict between government forces and Russia-backed separatists has killed more than 8,000 and displaced 2 million since April 2014. Related links: 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 | 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. Ucom General Director gives lecture at French University in Armenia The General Director of Ucom Ralph Yirikian delivered a lecture at the French University of Armenia. 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. |