UN adopts new sanctions to halt Iran’s nuclear programJune 9, 2010 - 21:15 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The UN Security Council has adopted a fourth round of tough new sanctions aimed at halting Iran's suspect nuclear program. The resolution was approved Wednesday with 12 countries voting for, two against and one abstention, reflecting some division among the 15-member council, VOA News reported. Brazil and Turkey were the two dissenters in the vote, while Lebanon abstained. Resolution 1929 increases the pressure on Iran to halt its nuclear activities and come to the negotiating table. Among the new measures are an expanded arms embargo and a ban on certain ballistic missile activities. Additionally, there are new restrictions on Iran's financial and insurance sectors and a cargo inspection regime intended to prevent Iran from smuggling in prohibited items. The resolution also imposes sanctions on 40 new entities linked to Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guards Corps, the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines, and one individual - Javad Rahiqi, the head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization. In Washington, President Barack Obama said the resolution sends an "unmistakable message" about the world's commitment to stopping the spread of nuclear weapons. The resolution was primarily drafted and negotiated among the permanent five members of the U.N. Security Council - Britain, China, France, Russia, and the United States - plus Germany. 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 |