Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, joined leaders of the self-declared Nagorno-Karabakh Republic at ceremonies marking the 23rd anniversary since the Armenians of Karabakh declared independence.

The presence of the head of the Armenian diplomacy at the ceremony may mark a new thaw in relations between the two countries.

In his inauguration speech President Erdogan promised a new era for Turkey.

The Armenian President said that his country had been invited for the inauguration ceremony and will be represented by Foreign Minister Nalbandian.

Turkey's ruling Party has nominated Foreign Minister Ahmit Davitogly, a long time political ally of PM Erdogan, as its new Chairman and Prime Minister designate.

Commentary: Recent incidents involving prisoners captured in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone are part of a wider degradation of the situation.

Armenia wants to double its $61 million food exports to Russia but some fear shortages and high prices at home as a result.

Speaking to members of the Duma at a meeting in Crimea President Vladimir Putin said Russian society needs to consolidate itself and mobilise "neither for wars, nor conflicts, but for persistent work for Russia and in the name of Russia."

Putin is expected to use his speech later today to rally support for his "United Russia" Party ahead of local elections due to take place in September.

Speaking after meeting his Azerbaijani counterpart in Sochi the Armenian President said peacekeeping forces can be deployed if there is a peace agreement.