Ashkhabad, 1 March 1999 (RFE/RL) -- Turkmen President Saparmurat Niyazov today signed decrees granting amnesty to 379 foreigners serving terms in Turkmen prisons. The Itar-Tass news agency reported that Niyazov announced his decision at a government meeting.
Last month, Niyazov granted amnesty to 85 Russians, 129 Afghans, and 40 Iranians. Today's decision affects prisoners from 14 countries.
A report released last week by the U.S. State Department criticized Turkmenistan's human rights record, saying the country's prisons remain poor and unsafe.
Last month, Niyazov granted amnesty to 85 Russians, 129 Afghans, and 40 Iranians. Today's decision affects prisoners from 14 countries.
A report released last week by the U.S. State Department criticized Turkmenistan's human rights record, saying the country's prisons remain poor and unsafe.