Turkish membership in the European Union would strengthen Europe's foundationApril 7, 2009 - 17:45 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - French President Nicolas Sarkozy's refusal to grant EU membership to Turkey is not a result of French-Armenian relations, TRT-2 cited US President Barack Obama as saying.Speaking Monday to the Turkish Parliament, Obama reiterated U.S. support of Turkey's bid to be a member of the economic alliance as Turkish membership in the European Union would "broaden and strengthen" Europe's foundation. Obama said Monday the U.S. isn't speaking as a member of the EU, but as "close friends of Turkey and Europe", and hopes Europe will reconsider its views on the issue. 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. |