German MFA hails efforts for Turkish-Armenian reconciliationFebruary 17, 2009 - 17:48 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Germany's Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said Turkey's importance in energy transportation would be better acknowledged in the years to come.Steinmeier, who delivered a speech at the lunch hosted in Berlin by Turkish Community in Germany (TGD), said he always supported Turkey's accession to the EU, adding however that there were certain countries, which were rather hesitant about it. Steinmeier said he appreciates Turkey's efforts to enhance both its own relations with Armenia and the relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He also emphasized that if his Social Democratic Party (SPD) wins the elections on September 27, Germany's attitude towards Turkey's bid will change. "Our party supports Turkey's full membership in the EU," he said, World Bulletin reports. 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. |