  COVID-19: Georgia declares a one-month state of emergency March 21, 2020 - 17:01 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia has announced a state of emergency in the former Soviet republic in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus, RFE/RL reveals. Gakharia told journalists in the capital, Tbilisi, on March 21 that the state of emergency was scheduled to last for one month. It could be extended further depending on how the situation unfolds in the weeks ahead. "Our main task today is preventing a fast spread of coronavirus among the population," Gakharia said, adding that punishments will be imposed against those who violate "quarantine and self-isolation regulations during the state of emergency." Gahkharia said restrictions on traffic, except for the transport of cargo, will be imposed. He also said property rights for individuals and legal entities may be restricted during the state of emergency. Georgian health officials early on March 21 reported four new cases during the previous 24 hours, raising the total number of confirmed infections in the country to 47. So far, there have not been any deaths in Georgia from the virus.   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 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 |
