Day: December 16, 2024

12 Die at Georgian Ski Resort From Suspected Carbon Monoxide Poisoning  The New York Times

The United States faces significant challenges if its leadership fails to address the growing budget deficit, Azernews reports.

Azercell-initiated Hotline supports women and girls in challenging life circumstances

Azerbaijan records an increase in vegetable oil production in 2024.

Armenia’s diplomatic mission in Syria resumes its activities  Armenpress

On December 16, EU Foreign Ministers discussed the political situation in Georgia at the Foreign Affairs Council meeting. According to Rikard Jozwiak, RFE/RL’s Europe editor, the Council failed to reach the necessary unanimity to sanction Georgian Dream officials, but it did ask the European Commission to prepare an official document on suspending visa liberalization for Georgians holding diplomatic passports, which requires only a qualified majority.

Jozwiak reports that the sanctions issue was “as expected” vetoed by Hungary and Slovakia. “European Commission will however propose visa liberalization suspension for Georgian diplomats, possibly as early as this week. There is a qualified majority for this,” he stated.

Paweł Herczyński, the EU ambassador to Georgia, mentioned the possibility of the EU suspending visa-free travel for certain categories of passports on December 9. According to him, the decision was based on the expectation that some countries would block sanctions against Georgia. Some member states are also wary of punishing the pro-European population for the actions of the ruling party by suspending visa liberalisation altogether.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó voiced his country’s promise to block any sanctions against Georgian Dream officials during Georgian Dream Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili’s first official visit to Budapest.

Also Read:

• 15/12/2024 – Georgian Opposition Addresses EU, Urging Action
• 10/12/2024 – EU Spokesperson Demands De-escalation, Warns of Consequences
• 01/12/2024 – EU Leadership “Regrets” GD’s EU Turn

International Conference titled “Mapping the World in Lexicography: on the 950th anniversary of Diwan Lughat al-Turk,” has been held at at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, Azernews reports.

French Foreign Minister calls on EU to strengthen ties with Armenia  Armenpress

Central Bank of Armenia: exchange rates and prices of precious metals – 16/12/24  Armenpress

An exclusive private showcase of the collection by renowned fashion designer, Russian Honored Artist Igor Chapuri has been held within the 17th season of the Azerbaijan Fashion Week, Azernews reports.