Greek police fires teargas at protesting migrantsNovember 23, 2012 - 20:35 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Greek police fired teargas at dozens of immigrants pelting them with sticks and metal objects during a protest at a detention center in the northeastern city of Komotini on Friday, November 23, police said, according to Reuters. The clashes broke out after more than 400 of about 550 immigrants held at the center protested against their living conditions, shouting "Freedom!" and "Send us home!". Some set fire to dozens of mattresses. At least four immigrants and four police officers were injured, police said. Greece is a gateway for mostly Asian and African migrants trying to enter the European Union. The country's deep economic crisis has fuelled tensions between Greeks and immigrants, who right groups say are often held in poor conditions or subject to racist attacks by a powerful far right. About 130,000 immigrants cross Greece's sea and land borders every year, most via Turkey, and authorities are forced to release those arrested because of a lack of permanent housing. Komotini, a town hard hit by the recession, is close to the Turkish border. Police launched a sweep operation in August called "Xenios Zeus" after the ancient Greek god of guests and travelers. They have so far arrested thousands of suspected illegal immigrants. 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. |