Massive explosion kills 2 at Azerbaijan munitions plantJuly 27, 2016 - 10:55 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Authorities in Azerbaijan say two people were killed by an explosion at a munitions factory on Tuesday, July 26 in the town of Shirvan, about 100 kilometers from the capital, Baku, RFE/RL reports. A statement from Azerbaijan’s Defense Industry Ministry said both of the people who died in the explosion were employees at the Araz plant. The ministry, which manages the facility, named the victims of the blast as Agamir Mamedov and Ilhama Nuriyeva. RFE/RL’s Azerbaijani Service reported that at least 20 people were injured and that explosions continued to rock the city and its surroundings for hours while a fire raged at the facility. Initial reports suggested that the explosion involved munitions that were being loaded in an area where finished products are stored. 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 | Macron says France commemorates 109th anniv. of Armenian genocide Today France commemorates the 109th anniversary of the Armenian genocide of 1915, Macron says. Freedom House concerned by mounting reports of police violence in Armenia Freedom House urged Armenian authorities to investigate this pattern of excessive force and inhumane treatment. CSTO recognizes Armenia’s sovereign right to withdraw Tasmagambetov has said that if Armenia decides to leave the organization, “it will be the sovereign right of Armenia.” Ex-President: Only removal of “defeatist” rulers can save Armenia Former Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan has shared a message on the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. |