Merkel urges Turkey to normalize ties with CyprusJanuary 12, 2011 - 16:30 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - German Chancellor Angela Merkel urged Turkey to make progress on normalizing relations with Cyprus and open its ports to traffic from the island. EU conditions opening new chapters in talks with Turkey with opening ports to Greek Cyprus. After meeting with Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias, Merkel said Turkey needed to show "more willingness" in the resolution of its dispute with Cyprus. “You have shown great willingness to compromise that has unfortunately not been reciprocated by the other side,” she told Christofias at a news conference during the first visit of a German chancellor to Greek Cyprus. Merkel said Germany's experiences of reunification could be helpful when the negotiations between Greek Cyprus and the northern part of the island were more advanced. 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 | Biden honors resilience of Armenian people on April 24 U.S. President Joe Biden has issued a statement on the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Ex-Karabakh leader moved to solitary confinement cell in Baku, his son says David Vardanyan is the son of former Karabakh leader Ruben Vardanyan who who is currently imprisoned in Azerbaijan. Macron says France commemorates 109th anniv. of Armenian genocide Today France commemorates the 109th anniversary of the Armenian genocide of 1915, Macron says. Freedom House concerned by mounting reports of police violence in Armenia Freedom House urged Armenian authorities to investigate this pattern of excessive force and inhumane treatment. |