European Commission shares OSCE assessment of Armenia's presidential electionFebruary 22, 2008 - 14:51 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - "I have taken note of the preliminary findings of the OSCE Election Observation Mission for the February 19 presidential elections in Armenia. I commend the people of Armenia and its leaders on the fact that these elections were conducted mostly in line with the country's international commitments," says a statement issued by European Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner on the conduct of presidential elections in Armenia."As the OSCE Election Observation Mission stated in its preliminary statement further improvements will be necessary to address remaining challenges, in particular strengthening of public confidence in the electoral process. At the same time it is important to note that considerable progress has been achieved with regard to the preparation and conduct of the electoral process since the last Presidential elections in 2003 thanks to reforms undertaken. Support for these reforms is a key priority of the EU/Armenia Action Plan under the European Neighborhood Policy. The European Commission will continue to assist Armenia on its path to political and economic reforms. The recent strengthening of the Commission presence in Yerevan through the opening of an EC Delegation is a clear sign of our ongoing commitment. I am confident that the new President of Armenia, together with the new government, will continue firmly on the path of reform, which is vital for the Armenian people as well as for the future of our relationship," Mr. Ferrero-Waldner said. 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 | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush. Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. |