Merkel slams Russian military presence in Abkhazia, South OssetiaAugust 24, 2018 - 11:59 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - German Chancellor Angela Merkel criticized the continued presence of Russian troops in the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, local media report. “What happens in Georgia is unfair. The Russian president knows my position regarding Georgia and about Ukraine too... Despite great effort, very little is being done to end this injustice forever. It should not become a daily reality…We should not tolerate such a situation,” Merkel said at a joint press-conference with the Prime Minister of Georgia, Mamuka Bakhtadze, on August 23. She also noted that Germany supports Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and will do its best to help peacefully resolve the conflict. “We are doing what we can to contribute to the regulation of the situation…Last year we celebrated 25 years of diplomatic ties between our countries…Georgia and Germany have a long-lasting relationship. Of course we support Georgia,” the Chancellor affirmed. Merkel will arrive in Armenia on Friday and leave for Azerbaijan the next day. 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 | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. 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. 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. |