  Detained Azeri journalist’s family gets political asylum in Switzerland December 22, 2014 - 16:14 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Family members of Azerbaijani journalist Rauf Mirkadyrov detained on April 18 in Ankara were granted political asylum in Switzerland, the court’s official notification said. As Panormama.am reported, citing Caucasian Knot, the Bern court studied the case on the status of family members of Rauf Mirkadirov December 17 and heard the testimonies by Mirkadirov‘s wife Adel Babakhanova and their elder daughter Souad. According to Azerbaijani Turan news agency, some documents have been provided by international human rights organizations and relevant agencies in Switzerland. Rauf Mirkadirov, columnist at Azerbaijani newspaper Zerkalo, was arrested on April 18 in Ankara on charges of expiration of documents. On April 19, Mirkadirov was deported to Azerbaijan, where he immediately was arrested and put in custody by the Ministry of National Srcurity on suspicion of high treason. On April 21, the court in Baku sanctioned his arrest for three months. Mirkadirov is accused of cooperating with Armenia’s special services and divulging secret state-level information.   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 Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation  Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims.First Canadian expert join EU mission in Armenia The first Canadian expert to join the European Union’s civilian mission in Armenia has arrived in Armenia.Armenian cemetery in Fresno hit by arsons six times since January Six total incidents have burned 19 old-growth trees. Friday night 8 trees were torched along the beautiful main entrance.Iran vows to “decisively” defend sovereignty, national interests The Iranian embassy in Armenia has defended its “defensive and proportional action in in occupied Palestine.” |
