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 | Armenian, Saudi Foreign Minister meet in Riyadh The two commended the positive dynamics of the development of political dialogue between Armenia and Saudi Arabia Pashinyan: Azerbaijan’s proximity shouldn’t worry border residents At the same time, he said that he “does not guarantee [the security of villagers] one hundred percent”. U.S. doesn’t see Russia as contributing to peace in Caucasus Patel made the remarks when asked about the implications of Russia’s withdrawal of peacekeepers from Karabakh. Up to 1% cashback when shopping on Wildberries with IDBank cards IDBank is launching an exclusive campaign on Wildberries for online shopping enthusiasts. |