Iranian FM to visit Moscow to discuss nuclear issueJuly 27, 2011 - 18:19 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi will visit Moscow at the invitation of his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov to discuss Tehran's controversial nuclear drive. "Regarding Mr Lavrov's invitation to Mr Salehi ... the topics of discussion will be elevating bilateral relations, studying regional and international developments," Foreign ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast told a media conference. "We welcome Russia's positive efforts to try to find a diplomatic solution and replace (existing) wrong solutions of threat and pressure," Mehmanparast added without detailing when such visit will take place. He was alluding to an idea raised in mid-July in Washington by Lavrov aimed at restarting talks between Iran and major world powers on "step-by-step" approach. The Iranian nuclear issue has been the centre of bitter row between Tehran and the major powers. Iran has been slapped by six UN Security Council resolutions, including four backed by sanctions, condemning its nuclear programme that the major powers and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) suspected of having a military dimension despite repeated denials from Tehran. Washington and the EU have strengthened UN sanctions by a severe economic and political embargo against Islamic republic, focusing in particular on the banking and oil sectors, AFP reported. 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. |