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Armenians stone Sargsyan’s car in Beirut

07 October 2009 17:00 (UTC +04:00)

Numerous Armenians gathered at the Beirut airport. Some of them were rather aggressive, trying to throw stones at the Presidentâ€™s car. People were whistling and throwing their mobiles at the motorcade. The President naturally did not hold a meeting at the airport. The six to seven thousand protesters then made their way for the hotel, where President Sargsyan was to stay. Lebanese policemen and army blocked the road. Contract soldiers were involved in ensuring the Armenian Presidentâ€™s security â€“ standard practice when distinguished guests arrive. The first clash with the police occurred at 5:30 p.m. local time, after the protesters tried to come nearer to the hotel. One of the protesters received a brain trauma and was hospitalized. A policeman was injured as well. The clash lasted for about 30 minutes, but the rally continued.