OSCE: amnesty to open new chapter in dialogue with opposition in Armenia May 28, 2011 - 15:50 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Audronius Ažubalis, commended the decision by the authorities of Armenia to release through an amnesty the remaining imprisoned participants of March 2008 demonstrations following the presidential election. “I sincerely welcome this decision which will open a new chapter in dialogue with the opposition, and congratulate the country’s authorities on this step,” Ažubalis said. “Successive OSCE Chairpersons, as well as our international partners, have relentlessly urged Armenian authorities to release these prisoners as a political goodwill gesture,” he said, adding that he had raised the issue with the President and Foreign Minister of Armenia during his visit to the country in March this year. “Freedom of assembly and expression are key commitments all OSCE participating States have undertaken and this is our hope that the authorities will continue upholding these commitments at all times, and that upcoming parliamentary elections will take place in accordance with international standards. The OSCE, its institutions and OSCE Office in Yerevan stand ready to assist the country in ensuring this.” 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 | Armenian, Saudi Foreign Minister meet in Riyadh The two commended the positive dynamics of the development of political dialogue between Armenia and Saudi Arabia Pashinyan: Azerbaijan’s proximity shouldn’t worry border residents At the same time, he said that he “does not guarantee [the security of villagers] one hundred percent”. U.S. doesn’t see Russia as contributing to peace in Caucasus Patel made the remarks when asked about the implications of Russia’s withdrawal of peacekeepers from Karabakh. Up to 1% cashback when shopping on Wildberries with IDBank cards IDBank is launching an exclusive campaign on Wildberries for online shopping enthusiasts. |