Iran Foreign Minister arrives in Damascus for Syria talksSeptember 3, 2018 - 14:31 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif arrived in Damascus on Monday, September 3 to begin his talks with the Syrian leadership, Al-Masdar News reports. Zarif is expected to meet with the Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad and Foreign Minister Walid Muallem during his brief visit to Damascus. The Iranian Foreign Minister’s talks with the Syrian leadership comes just a week after Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami attended a meeting with Assad in Damascus. Syria and Iran are strong regional allies that maintain close political and military cooperation, despite pressure from neighboring countries. Iran has been one of Syria’s closest allies during the seven year long conflict; they have provided a great deal of military and humanitarian aid over past years 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 | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |