U.S. to keep its course in Afghanistan until 2014January 23, 2012 - 21:14 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The U.S. ambassador to NATO says America is committed to staying its course in Afghanistan until 2014. But whether cash-strapped European nations feel the same at an upcoming Chicago summit in May is another question, The Associated Press reports. Ambassador Ivo Daadler said Monday, Jan 23, the summit will focus on NATO's strategy in Afghanistan, costs and the alliance's capabilities. He said its planned missile defense system will go forward with or without the cooperation of Russia. Daadler also spoke about Iran, saying international isolation may force Tehran back to the bargaining table. The EU on Monday banned the purchase of Iranian oil. Iran responded, threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's crude is transported. 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 | Lithuania sending €100,000 to help Armenia fight floods consequences Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan took to social media to thank his Lithuanian counterpart for the contribution. Turkey condemns Uruguay’s recognition of Armenian Genocide Turkey has condemned a newly passed law in Uruguay that recognizes the Armenian Genocide, TRT reports. For the first time, Armenia votes in favor of Georgia resolution in UN Armenia on Tuesday, June 4 voted for the first time in favor a resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. Moscow warns Armenia against leaving Russian-led defense bloc Armenia could ruin its military ties with Russia if it continues drifting towards the West, according to a senior official in Moscow. |