Spanish judge formalizes charges against Princess CristinaJune 25, 2014 - 12:51 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - A Spanish judge has formalized charges against Princess Cristina, King Felipe's sister, in a tax fraud and money laundering case, BBC News reports. The princess, 49, was questioned in court in February about the business dealings of her husband, Inaki Urdangarin, and could now face trial. However, an appeal has been lodged against the decision. The judge's ruling will come as an embarrassment to Felipe VI, who came to the throne only six days ago. The tax fraud case was one of several scandals that weakened the popularity of the Spanish monarchy and prompted the abdication of King Juan Carlos. Princess Cristina's appearance in court in Mallorca was unprecedented for the royal family and if she goes to trial, she could face up to 11 years in jail. Judge Jose Castro has been investigating allegations that the princess's husband embezzled millions in public funds with a former business partner. Urdangarin, who is the Duke of Palma, and Diego Torres were alleged to have received 5.6m euros ($7.5mln) by overcharging regional governments for organizing sporting events as part of a not-for-profit organization called Noos. Photo: AP 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 | Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. Aliyev says no need for mediators in Armenia-Azerbaijan process Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev believes that Baku and Yerevan do not mediators in the process of normalizing relations. Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |