Russia may recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia independence?February 15, 2008 - 16:40 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia has indicated it may change its policy towards breakaway regions in Georgia if the West recognizes the independence of Kosovo. Moscow has repeatedly hinted it could recognize South Ossetia and Abkhazia if Kosovo separates from Serbia. The Foreign Ministry said Moscow would "take into account" developments in Kosovo, but did not say how. Kosovo may declare independence this weekend, and the U.S. and most EU states are expected to recognize it quickly. Kosovo's Prime Minister Hashim Thaci is expected to say later on Friday that the declaration of independence will be made on 17 February, the AFP reports quoting a source in Mr Thaci's office. Serbia earlier urged the UN Security Council to oppose Kosovo's expected move. Serbian Foreign Minister Vuk Jeremic said Belgrade would not use force to stop the secession of the southern province but warned that allowing it would give a green light to other separatist movements. "We will, without doubt, have to take into account a declaration and recognition of Kosovo independence in connection with the situation in Abkhazia and South Ossetia," Russia's foreign ministry said in a statement. The statement came after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met the leaders of South Ossetia and Abkhazia in Moscow, BBC reports. 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 | The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization. Ucom General Director gives lecture at French University in Armenia The General Director of Ucom Ralph Yirikian delivered a lecture at the French University of Armenia. 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. |