Oskanian and Rice discussed U.S. initiatives on normalization of Turkey-Armenia relationsMarch 6, 2007 - 13:13 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian currently in the United States with a working visit, the day before met with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice , the RA MFA Press Office reports. At the meeting the sides discussed issues concerning bilateral relations. The officials stressed the great importance of "Millenium Challenges" program in the framework of realization of such programs, which will allow to decrease level of poverty in rural areas of Armenia. In this regard V. Oskanian presented preparation works, which were done up till now for realization of the program. The two officials also discussed coming parliamentary elections in Armenia, stressing the importance to conduct them in accordance with the international standards. Alongside Vartan Oskanian and Condoleezza Rice discussed regional issues, situation in Armenian-Turkish relations and mediatorial initiatives of the United States for their normalization. The sides exchanged views concerning the process and perspectives of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement. Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. 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". Partner news | Ameriabank's Trade Finance portfolio enriched with four prestigious awards from EBRD and IFC Ameriabank received the awards from international financial institutions in recognition of its trade finance operations. Armenian Economy Minister to make trip to UAE May 20-22 A delegation led by Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan will travel to the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi on May 20-22 Armenia Security Council chief traveling to Qatar Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia Armen Grigoryan will travel on a working visit to Qatar. Pillars installed in Armenian border village of Kirants In the Armenian village of Kirants, three border markers have been installed, and border guards stand next to them. |