Mario Monti nominated as Italy's Prime MinisterNovember 14, 2011 - 09:48 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Economist and former European commissioner Mario Monti has been nominated to take over as Italy's Prime Minister. Dubbed 'Super Mario' for his work in international finance and as European commissioner, Mr Monti's appointment is expected to usher in a new era of sobriety to Italian politics. President Giorgio Napolitano asked Mr Monti to form a government, expected to be composed largely of technocrats. The respected economist, made a life senator last week, said he would work urgently to form a government and is likely to name around 12 ministers within days. "I intend to fulfill this task with a great sense of responsibility in the service of our country. In a moment of particular difficulty for Italy, in a turbulent situation for Europe and the world, the country needs to meet the challenge," he said after his nomination. "We owe it to our children to offer them a future with dignity and hope," he added, ABC News reports. During his time in the EU administration in Brussels, Mr Monti gained global attention for taking on Microsoft for abusing its virtual monopoly power on the PC in Europe. He also heads up Milan's prestigious Bocconi University. Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. 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". Partner news | Ameriabank's Trade Finance portfolio enriched with four prestigious awards from EBRD and IFC Ameriabank received the awards from international financial institutions in recognition of its trade finance operations. Armenian Economy Minister to make trip to UAE May 20-22 A delegation led by Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan will travel to the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi on May 20-22 Armenia Security Council chief traveling to Qatar Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia Armen Grigoryan will travel on a working visit to Qatar. Pillars installed in Armenian border village of Kirants In the Armenian village of Kirants, three border markers have been installed, and border guards stand next to them. |