  Georgian Minister resigns over prison torture September 19, 2012 - 13:21 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Georgian Minister of Corrections, Probation and Legal Assistance Khatuna Kalmakhelidze has resigned, Azerbaijani Trend news agency reported. At a briefing, she explained her resignation was tied into evidence of torture in Tbilisi Prison No.8. "I take responsibility for what happened, as such a practice should not be observed. We did everything so that our prison system complied with European standards, but these facts are unacceptable," she said expressing her sympathy and understanding to all the victims of torture. Kalmakhelidze said she has already submitted her resignation to Prime Minister Vano Merabishvili. On Sept 18, protest actions were held in Georgia in connection with videos of abuse of prisoners that were shown by opposition TV channels. Georgian President promised to punish all those who are responsible for the torture of prisoners.   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 |  Latest news Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals  Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation.Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush.Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year.Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. |
