Armenia lifts state of emergency

20 Mar, 2008 03:55 / Updated 16 years ago

The state of emergency in the Armenian capital Yerevan, introduced almost three weeks ago, ends today. President Robert Kocharyan said he sees no reason to extend it further.

The state of emergency was imposed when rallies against the result of the presidential election sparked violence. Eight people died and hundreds of police and civilians were hurt. All demonstrations and mass gatherings were temporarily banned and restrictions imposed on the media.