Russia: CSTO doors should be open to Azerbaijan tooMay 24, 2021 - 11:54 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The doors of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) should be open to everyone, including Azerbaijan, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko said in an interview with Izvestia. Rudenko noted that the only thing that can restrict membership is certain provisions of the organization's charter, according to which, in order to join the CSTO, it is necessary to have diplomatic relations with its members. “There are no such relations yet between Azerbaijan and Armenia. When they are established – we hope that sooner or later this will happen – then this issue can also be put into practice in one form or another," Rudenko said. On the morning of May 12, the armed forces of Azerbaijan violated the border of Armenia in the southern province of Syunik, advancing 3.5 kilometers and surrounding Sev Lake, which is situated on the border between the two countries but is predominantly a part of Armenia. On May 13, the Azerbaijani military committed more border violations against Armenia, advancing near Vardenis (Gegharkunik province) and Sisian (Syunik province). Armenia has already asked CSTO for help but the Organization is still monitoring the situation "with concern." 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 | Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event. Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party. Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims. Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |