NATO urges parties to Kosovo conflict to exercise maximum restraintFebruary 18, 2008 - 15:09 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - "After the Kosovo declaration of independence, NATO is following ongoing developments closely. The North Atlantic Council will meet tomorrow to assess the situation," NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said. "All parties should recognize that KFOR will continue to fulfill its responsibility for a safe and secure environment throughout the territory of Kosovo, in accordance with UNSCR 1244, unless the Security Council decides otherwise. KFOR will continue to provide security for all citizens of Kosovo, majority and minority alike, in an impartial manner, just as before. "KFOR's force levels and chain of command are not altered by today's events. During this sensitive period, KFOR will respond swiftly and firmly against anyone who might resort to violence in Kosovo. "NATO urges all parties involved to exercise the maximum restraint and moderation," he said. 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 | 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. Aliyev says no need for mediators in Armenia-Azerbaijan process Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev believes that Baku and Yerevan do not mediators in the process of normalizing relations. Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |