Russia seeks to protect its interests in South CaucasusNovember 2, 2009 - 12:23 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia pursues serious interests in South Caucasus and wants to protect them. Russia's linking its interests with progress in these complicated settlement processes is a positive sign, EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus Ambassador Peter Semneby stated. According to him, Russia is interested in Armenia's economic development. "Necessary conditions should be created to provide dynamic development. Opening of border with Turkey is the most important factor in RA economy growth. Armenian economy diversification and its intensification is in Russia's interests," the diplomat said. He also emphasized Armenia's participation in a number of EU programs, including European neighborhood policy and Eastern Partnership program. "Negotiations for EU associated membership will be launched soon, despite the fact whether the border will be opened or not. Eastern Partnership program, now, more than ever, is taking our neighbors' specifics in consideration, by offering mechanisms of problem's discussions, promoting further stabilization in the region," Vremya Novostey cited Peter Semneby as saying. 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 | Greece says ready to help as Armenia fights flooding consequences Greece is ready to assist Armenia in combatting the consequences of deadly floods in the country’s north. “He will leave”: Protest leader no longer demands meeting with Pashinyan Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan no longer demands a meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Lemkin Institute petition seeks release of Armenians in Azerbaijan The Lemkin Institute is deeply concerned about the continued illegal detention of political prisoners from Karabakh in Azerbaijan. Armenian Catholicos calls for national unity against threats Karekin II issued a message on Republic Day marking the anniversary of the First Armenian Republic. |