By Alima Bissenova (4/23/2009 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Tajik Parliament approves controversial restitution treaty 10 April The Tajik parliament's lower house has approved the CIS Treaty on Restitution, RFE/RL's Tajik Service reports. Deputy Culture Minister Mirali Dostiev told the parliament that ratification of the treaty would help bring back home all the artwork and historic valuables lost and stolen during the 1992-97 civil war in Tajikistan. However, Abduvali Sharifov, the head of the Tajik National Museum, says that the ratification of the treaty is not enough.

By Alima Bissenova (4/8/2009 issue of the CACI Analyst)

RUSSIA OPEN TO MODERATE TALIBAN CONTACTS

25 March

Russia backs the idea of talks between Afghanistan's government and moderate elements of the Taliban, a senior Russian diplomat has told Interfax news agency. U.S.

By Alima Bissenova (3/26/2009 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Putin will visit Armenia IN May 2009

12 March

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin will visit Armenia on May, 2009, informed ArmInfo news agency with reference to reliable source, close to government circles. According to the source, Russian Premier Minister will visit the number of enterprises with the Russian capital along with official meeting with Armenian authorities and participation in a business-forum.