Reconstruction of St. Cross Church on Akhtamar is a political decisionMarch 16, 2007 - 16:13 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Opening of the Armenian St. Cross Church on Akhtamar will contribute to constructive dialogue between the two states, RA Minister of Culture and Youth Affairs Hasmik Poghosian told a news conference in Yerevan. "Reconstruction of the church is a political decision. Nevertheless, the church will be open for attendance and it's a positive fact for Armenia. The final composition of the Armenian delegation will be determined next week," the Minister said, reports Novosti-Armenia.The Turkish government has assigned $1.5 million for reconstruction of the church. The works were accomplished by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism jointly with the administration of Van city. The church is a unique monument of Armenian medieval architecture. It was built in 915-921 AD by architect Manvel under the rule of King Gagik Artsruni. 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 | Armenia, Turkey discuss restoration of historic bridge The meeting took place on May 17 in Ashgabat on the sidelines of an international conference of ministers of culture. India wants Armenia’s proposals on use of Chabahar port India is expecting proposals from Armenia regarding the use of Chabahar port in Iran, Indian ambassador says. EU welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan “progress” The EU has welcomed “progress” made in the framework of the Armenia-Azerbaijan border delimitation process. Belarus opposition leader slams Lukashenko for Karabakh trip Belarusian opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya has harshly criticized the visit of Lukashenko to Karabakh. |