Japan's Abe says wants to resolve territorial row with RussiaApril 29, 2017 - 15:50 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Japan wants to resolve a territorial row that has over-shadowed ties with Russia since World War Two, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Saturday, April 29, according to Reuters. "A peace treaty between Japan and Russia has not been concluded yet, even after 70 years have passed since the end of World War Two," Abe told reporters in London. "It is an extremely unusual situation. Infinite possibilities are latent in the cooperation between Japan and Russia." Russia and Japan did not sign a formal peace treaty at the end of World War Two because of a dispute over islands in the Western Pacific, called the Northern Territories in Japan and the Southern Kuriles in Russia. The islands were seized by Soviet forces at the end of World War Two and 17,000 Japanese residents were forced to flee. "Russia's constructive engagement is essential in resolving global challenges," Abe said. "It is my intention to continue to have dialogue with President [Vladimir] Putin, so as to co-ordinate regarding these challenges." 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 | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |