Famous Turkish pianist goes on trial for insulting IslamOctober 18, 2012 - 12:42 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Famous Turkish pianist Fazıl Say's trial for remarks he made on Twitter allegedly supporting atheism begins in an Istanbul court today, Oct 18, Hurriyet Daily News reported. The indictment calls for Say to be sentenced to 18 months in prison for "insulting the religious values of a section of society." A number of prominent artists have expressed their support for Say in a written statement, protesting court cases that they said are forced upon artists. Minister for EU Affairs Egemen Bağış voiced regret over the trial: "I wish Fazıl Say wouldn't oblige us to make such explanations on international platforms." 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 | 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. |