Ethnic Armenian appointed France's Secretary of State for relations with ParliamentMay 21, 2007 - 14:42 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Ethnic Armenian Roger Karoutchi was appointed France's Secretary of State for relations with Parliament. French independent journalist Jean Eckian told PanARMENIAN.Net that Roger Karoutchi, born in Casablanca (Morocco) in 1951, started his political career in 1977. Since 1999 he has been a member of the French Senate. Mr Karoutchi, being resolutely against Turkey's accession to the European Union, urges Turkey to recognize the Armenian Genocide. Former Industry Minister of France Patrick Devedjian will assume the post of Secretary General of the ruling UMP party. This post was vacant after former UMP leader Nicolas Sarkozy was elected France's new President. At the meeting with Devedjian on May 17 Sarkozy noted that charges him with the job of the party leader and thus puts a great responsibility on Devedjian. Sarkozy also wished the ex-Minister of Industry to take his new responsibilities as soon as possible. May 18 the newly elected French President formed the new government, which includes 15 ministers. Seven ministers are women. Particularly ex-Defense Minister Michele Alliot-Marie is appointed Minister of Interior and Overseas Territories. Rachida Dati is appointed Justice Minister. Socialist Bernard Kouchner received the portfolio of Foreign Minister. Herve Morin became the Defense Minister. 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 | 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. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |