Georgia smoking ban coming into effect in MayFebruary 26, 2018 - 18:39 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - A ban on smoking in public areas in Georgia will enter into force starting from May 1 after the country’s parliament approved an anti-tobacco legislation in May 2017. Under the changes, the country is banning smoking in public places such as in bars, restaurants, hotels, cafes, while open verandas or terraces of bars and restaurants won’t be affected. According to experts, by adopting such a strict anti-tobacco law, Georgia is closer to European standards. A draft law prohibiting tobacco smoking in public spaces was recently unveiled in Armenia too. The bill unveiled just recently imposes major fines for smoking in public catering facilities, hotels, cars, medical, cultural, entertainment centers and other spaces prohibited by law. A great number of social media users have taken to Facebook to express their discontent with the decision. 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 | Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event. Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party. 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. Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |