13:00 News in Brief: $20 Billion Demand, Tsunami Threat, and Football Scandal in Armenia

Last hour's news summarized:

• From April 1, the property tax for electric vehicles will be calculated using a new methodology, factoring in reduced engine power and easing the financial burden on drivers.
• Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that direct communication with Azerbaijan and Turkey allows for avoiding potential distortions of messages by intermediaries and catering to their own interests.
• The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the “Peace Crossing” project and the launch of the Gyumri-Kars railway, placing balancing strategy at the core of foreign policy.
• A representative from the “Strong Armenia” party criticized the quality of governance by the current authorities, highlighting unresolved issues concerning agricultural water and crop sales.
• A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 struck northern Japan, followed by a tsunami warning and an evacuation order for over 20,000 residents.
• Iran has demanded substantial easing of sanctions and the unfreezing of $20 billion in assets in negotiations with Washington.
• The Football Federation of Armenia responded to complaints from FC Urartu, inviting them to discuss controversial refereeing incidents in a professional forum.