Gates travels to Moscow to find common ground on missile-defense shield in EuropeMarch 19, 2011 - 11:52 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates is making his final trip to Russia as a cabinet member this weekend, as the two military powers struggle to find common ground in the campaign to put a missile-defense shield in Europe. Gates trip comes just days after Moscow helped open the door for military action in Libya by not blocking the UN Security Council resolution supporting the move. Defense officials say it reflects a broader spirit of cooperation between the nations. The travel will take Gates away from Washington just as the U.S. and its allies threaten a military attack on Libya if Moammar Gadhafi does not halt his brutal assault on civilians rebelling against the government. The U.S. is expected to provide strategic support if allies enforce a no-fly zone, The Associated Press 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 | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |