EU foreign policy chief deplores Israeli settlement plansSeptember 28, 2011 - 09:27 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - European Union's foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton deplored Tuesday, September 27, Israel's decision to advance settlement construction in East Jerusalem with approximately 1000 new housing units in the Gilo neighborhood, European Jewish Press reported. She called on the Israeli authorities “to reverse this plan.” "Last Friday, the Quartet called on the Israelis and Palestinians to refrain from provocative actions if negotiations are to resume and be effective, and reiterated the obligations of both parties under the Roadmap," she said in a statement. She continued, "the EU has repeatedly called on Israel to end all settlement activity, including natural growth, and to dismantle outposts erected since March 2001." "Settlement activity threatens the viability of an agreed two-state solution and raises questions about Israel's stated commitment to resume negotiations," Ashton added. Addressing the European Parliament in, Strasbourg later on Tuesday during a debate on the demand for UN recognition of a Palestinian state, Catherine Ashton said that she heard "with deep regret" that Israeli settlement plans were continuing and planned to take up the issue again with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when she next meets him. 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 | “By Your Side”: IDBank's new support program for displaced Artsakh citizens IDBank is launching a long-term social support program for forcibly displaced Artsakh residents. The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization. Ucom General Director gives lecture at French University in Armenia The General Director of Ucom Ralph Yirikian delivered a lecture at the French University of Armenia. Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. |