Putin encourages businesses to expand unless sanctions liftedMay 26, 2015 - 16:37 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russian President Vladimir Putin has encouraged businesses to expand domestically before Western nations lift economic sanctions, allowing once again the sale of many foreign goods in Russia, the Associated Press reports. Russia's economy is expected to contract 3.8 percent this year in the World Bank's estimates, battered by the sanctions and capital outflows. Speaking at a business forum Tuesday, May 26, Putin called on businesses to expand until the sanctions are lifted. Putin mentioned that some Western nations "are beginning to see the light" but he didn't say what his hopes were based on. The main EU sanctions, which have hit Russian banks and oil companies and have banned arms exports and the export of dual-use goods, are in place through July. Russia has responded by banning some Western goods, like agricultural imports from the EU. Related links: 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 | 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. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. Czech-Armenian military cooperation discussed in Yerevan A delegation led by the Director General for the Industrial Cooperation Division of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic visited Armenia. |