Saudi King offers money, reformsMarch 18, 2011 - 16:03 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Saudi Arabia's monarch is promising money to residents of the kingdom in his first national address since unrest began sweeping the Arab world. King Abdullah spoke after midday Muslim prayers on Friday, March 18. He thanked residents and security forces for being "the hands" of the country's stability. News readers then read series of royal decrees promising a minimum wage increase, cash gifts and an anti-corruption drive, AP reported. The rare speech by the country's ailing 86-year-old monarch came after a several small demonstrations in the oil-rich kingdom. Though only dozens of people participated, it appears the monarchy is worried the protests could escalate into more intense gatherings, inspired by the protests around the Arab world. 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 | Lemkin Institute urges Armenia to respect people’s right to dissent The Lemkin Institute has urged the Armenian government to respect people’s fundamental human right to express their dissent. Iran’s Red Crescent sends aid to Armenia’s flood-hit regions The Iranian Red Crescent Society has sent humanitarian aid to the victims of deadly floods that hit northern Armenia on May 25-26. Putin congratulates Pashinyan’s birthday Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on his birthday on June 1. Opposition motorcade en route to Gyumri for large rally A motorcade of protesters headed by Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan is heading to the city of Gyumri. |