Abkhazia shuts border checkpoint with GeorgiaJune 28, 2019 - 12:26 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Abkhazia has closed its border checkpoint with Georgia, local media reveal, citing protests in Tbilisi and Zugdidi, a city in the Samegrelo Region of Western Georgia, as the reason behind the decision. "Mass demonstrations are held throughout Georgia, which is provocative. Demonstrations are held in Zugdidi as well, which is located close to the border", Georgia Today cited Abkhazian media as saying. At this stage, it is not clear when the government of Abkhazia is going to open the border. 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 | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |