Armenia becomes associated member of International Organization of La FrancophonieOctober 20, 2008 - 16:51 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenia has become an associated member of the International Organization of La Francophonie (IOF). The decision was taken during the 12th IOF summit in Quebec attended by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso. Four main themes were discussed at the summit: democracy and the rule of law, economic governance, the environment, and the French language, the RA MFA press office reported. During a meeting with IOF Secretary General Abdou Diouf in April 2008, Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian confirmed the republic's intention to deeper engage in the Organization's activities. Addressing the 12th summit, the Armenian Minister emphasized that Armenia is faithful to the Organization's values and appreciated highly the cooperation between its member states. 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. |