Armenia extending state of emergency for fifth timeAugust 5, 2020 - 19:01 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenia will extend the state of emergency for a fifth time until mid-September, giving the government more leverage to tackle the spread of the coronavirus. Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan announced the government's intention in a briefing on Wednesday, August 5. According to him, this will probably be the final extension of the state of emergency in the country. Avinyan also revealed that new travel guidelines, restrictions on the export of certain goods, and allowing rallies and public events will be considered. Under the state of emergency first declared in mid-March, the movement of citizens was restricted for several weeks, but most restrictions have already been removed. Armenians are now required to wear masks when leaving their homes and in public areas, inside cars when there are other people besides the driver, and in the street. Public gatherings are prohibited with the exception of those authorized by the Commandant's office. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Armenia reached 39,586 on Wednesday, according to information provided by the Health Ministry. So far, 30,850 people have recovered, 770 have died from the coronavirus in the country, while 228 others carrying the virus have died from other causes. Top stories The number of state universities will be reduced from 23 to 8 by 2030, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport Zhanna Andreasyan has said. From September 21 to November 11, a total of 2,820 Russians registered at a place of residence in Armenia, the police has said. The situation on the contact line between Karabakh and Azerbaijan was relatively stable overnight, the Defense Army says. Defense Minister Suren Papikyan has visited the southern Armenian province of Syunik, the Defense Ministry reported on March 18. Partner news | European Parliament to discuss repression in Azerbaijan The European Parliament will discuss repression of civil society in Azerbaijan on April 24 PACE wants concessions from Azerbaijan to accept Baku back A PACE co-rapporteur said that Azerbaijani authorities must make certain concessions so that the country can return to PACE. 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. |