Israel's labor federation launches nationwide strikeFebruary 8, 2012 - 10:41 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Israel's labor federation has launched a nationwide strike for the first time in five years, designed to shut down national and local government offices, banks, the stock exchange, rail service and seaports, AP reported. The call for an open-ended strike is expected to draw a strong response. Ben-Gurion International Airport is to be on strike until noon on Wednesday, Feb 8. Union leaders are protesting the widespread use of contract workers who earn less than workers who are directly employed. Contract workers also do not enjoy the same benefits as regular employees. Last-ditch talks overnight between the finance ministry and the Histadrut labor federation did not produce a breakthrough. The Israeli Chambers of Commerce says the strike would cost the economy $100 million a day. 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 | 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. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. |