Iran, U.S. plan to establish covert communicationSeptember 23, 2010 - 11:38 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Diplomats from the United States and Iran have begun initial contacts to examine the establishment of covert communication between the two countries. Citing sources in New York, Haaretz reported that the two sides secretly convened at the United Nations headquarters in New York, as preparations continue for the UN General Assembly on Thursday. American and Iranian officials discussed a U.S. initiative to establish unofficial diplomatic relations. Officials from the entourage of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who arrived in New York this week, are involved in the secret talks. Sources add that Iranians are demanding a U.S. "tribute" in return for the release of American backpacker Sarah Shourd last week. Recent statements by U.S. President Barack Obama have shown restraint in regard to Iranian nuclear plans and a clear preference to resolve the issue diplomatically. 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. |