tass--2020-04-21--About 30% of Russians hope to travel domestically or abroad as early as summer, says poll

MOSCOW , April 21./TASS/ .
Most Russian nationals ( 57 % ) plan to spend the upcoming May holidays and summer at home or at their dachas , while about 30 % hope they will be able to travel domestically or abroad , according to a survey carried out by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center .
Eleven percent hope to take a trip to another Russian city at a given point in time .
Four percent hope they will be able to travel to Crimea , and six percent plan a trip to the Black Sea .
Three percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while two and one percent of those surveyed accordingly plan trips within the former Soviet Union , and among them specifically to the Baltic states .
Thus , about 30 % of the Russian nationals polled in April planned trips for the May holidays or for summer , the pollster said in a survey presented to an online conference hosted by TASS on Tuesday .
The top three among the domestic destinations were Krasnodar in southern Russia , St. Petersburg and Altai .
Abkhazia , Belarus , Armenia were named as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ republics .
As for foreign countries , Turkey , the United Arab Emirates and Egypt were mentioned .
The pollster conducted similar surveys in March and in early April .
In April , most Russians ( 72 % ) said their plans for May or summer holidays had not changed in the past two months , while plans of the other 26 % did change .
The rest of the polled Russians were undecided .
In March , 81 % said their plans had not changed , while 17 % said that they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main reasons to revise the plans in April were coronavirus ( 50 % ) , the lockdown ( 34 % ) , a ban on leaving Russia ( 11 % ) .
As for March , coronavirus dominated as well ( 55 % ) , while 17 % of the surveyed people were worried about the plummeting ruble .
An exit ban was a matter of concern for another 13 % .
The pollster interviewed 1,600 Russian adults over the phone in 500 cities and townships as well as 100 villages in at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ error does not exceed 2.5 % In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 2,484,000 people have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 652,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .
To date , a total of 52,763 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 3,873 patients having recovered from the virus .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 456 fatalities nationwide .

MOSCOW, April 21./TASS/. Most Russian nationals (57%) plan to spend the upcoming May holidays and summer at home or at their dachas, while about 30% hope they will be able to travel domestically or abroad, according to a survey carried out by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center.
Eleven percent hope to take a trip to another Russian city at a given point in time. Four percent hope they will be able to travel to Crimea, and six percent plan a trip to the Black Sea. Three percent cherish the aspiration of visiting foreign countries, while two and one percent of those surveyed accordingly plan trips within the former Soviet Union, and among them specifically to the Baltic states. Thus, about 30% of the Russian nationals polled in April planned trips for the May holidays or for summer, the pollster said in a survey presented to an online conference hosted by TASS on Tuesday.
The top three among the domestic destinations were Krasnodar in southern Russia, St. Petersburg and Altai.
Abkhazia, Belarus, Armenia were named as the most popular destinations among the former Soviet republics. As for foreign countries, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt were mentioned.
The pollster conducted similar surveys in March and in early April. In April, most Russians (72%) said their plans for May or summer holidays had not changed in the past two months, while plans of the other 26% did change. The rest of the polled Russians were undecided. In March, 81% said their plans had not changed, while 17% said that they had revised their holiday arrangements.
The main reasons to revise the plans in April were coronavirus (50%), the lockdown (34%), a ban on leaving Russia (11%). As for March, coronavirus dominated as well (55%), while 17% of the surveyed people were worried about the plummeting ruble. An exit ban was a matter of concern for another 13%.
The pollster interviewed 1,600 Russian adults over the phone in 500 cities and townships as well as 100 villages in at least 80 regions. The margin of error does not exceed 2.5%
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic.
According to the latest statistics, over 2,484,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 170,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 652,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.
To date, a total of 52,763 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 3,873 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 456 fatalities nationwide.


tass--2020-04-21--No full-fledged border between Russia and Belarus will be created after pandemic — Lavrov

MOSCOW , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow sees no grounds for separating the Union State of Russia and Belarus by a full-fledged border after the coronavirus pandemic , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told a video conference with the Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund ’ s delegates on Tuesday .
`` I believe we see no grounds for introducing the border regime .
We want the Union State to develop in full compliance with those principles , goals and directions outlined in the 1999 Union Treaty , '' Lavrov said answering a question whether a full-fledged control on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after overcoming the coronavirus threat .
The top diplomat expressed hope that Russia and Belarus could finally sign an agreement on a single visa policy , which was initialed in December 2018 .
`` I believe that the signing of this treaty in many respects will alleviate those concerns and remove the reasons for those who seek to create a fully equipped border between our countries , the members of the Union State , '' Lavrov noted .
Lavrov stressed that the Russian Foreign Ministry was vested with the power to sign this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and expected a signal about the Belarusian side ’ s readiness .
`` I think our Belarusian colleagues will soon tell us about their position and confirm their readiness to sign what was initialed a year and a half ago , '' he said .
`` A solution to the problem was ready a year and a half ago and we have the power to sign it .
We hope that my Belarusian colleagues still have these powers . ''

MOSCOW, April 21. /TASS/. Moscow sees no grounds for separating the Union State of Russia and Belarus by a full-fledged border after the coronavirus pandemic, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told a video conference with the Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund’s delegates on Tuesday.
"I believe we see no grounds for introducing the border regime. We want the Union State to develop in full compliance with those principles, goals and directions outlined in the 1999 Union Treaty," Lavrov said answering a question whether a full-fledged control on the border between the countries could be established after overcoming the coronavirus threat.
The top diplomat expressed hope that Russia and Belarus could finally sign an agreement on a single visa policy, which was initialed in December 2018. "I believe that the signing of this treaty in many respects will alleviate those concerns and remove the reasons for those who seek to create a fully equipped border between our countries, the members of the Union State," Lavrov noted.
Lavrov stressed that the Russian Foreign Ministry was vested with the power to sign this treaty a year and a half ago and expected a signal about the Belarusian side’s readiness. "I think our Belarusian colleagues will soon tell us about their position and confirm their readiness to sign what was initialed a year and a half ago," he said. "A solution to the problem was ready a year and a half ago and we have the power to sign it. We hope that my Belarusian colleagues still have these powers."


tass--2020-04-21--Geolocation technologies to be used to trace ARVI patients in Moscow

A system of digital passes for trips by private and public transport came into force in Moscow on April 15 MOSCOW , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
People diagnosed with acute respiratory viral infections will have to obey by the same lockdown rules as those diagnosed with the coronavirus infection .
Their movements will be traced with the use of geolocation technologies , as follows from the Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin ’ s decree issued on Tuesday .
`` From April 22 , 2020 , people with suspected novel coronavirus infection ( 2019-nCoV ) , as well as those with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are to observe the self-isolation regime at home like the one applicable to those with confirmed coronavirus infection , '' the document reads .
Technologies of `` electronic monitoring of a person ’ s geolocation , '' including those applying technical devices , will be used to control the observance of the isolation regime .
On March 29 , the Moscow mayor signed a decree expanding the high alert regime to prevent the novel coronavirus spread .
The new measures bind people of all ages to stay at home , but for cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to travel to work .
People are also allowed to leave their homes to buy food , dispose garbage or walk a pet .
A system of digital passes for trips by private and public transport came into force in Moscow on April 15 .
Control over the observance of the lockdown pass regime will be exercised with the use of traffic cameras and traffic police patrols .

A system of digital passes for trips by private and public transport came into force in Moscow on April 15
MOSCOW, April 21. /TASS/. People diagnosed with acute respiratory viral infections will have to obey by the same lockdown rules as those diagnosed with the coronavirus infection. Their movements will be traced with the use of geolocation technologies, as follows from the Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin’s decree issued on Tuesday.
"From April 22, 2020, people with suspected novel coronavirus infection (2019-nCoV), as well as those with the symptoms of acute respiratory viral diseases are to observe the self-isolation regime at home like the one applicable to those with confirmed coronavirus infection," the document reads. Technologies of "electronic monitoring of a person’s geolocation," including those applying technical devices, will be used to control the observance of the isolation regime.
Read also Entering Moscow by car might take up to four hours, traffic authority reports


tass--2020-04-21--Consultations continue on Russian initiatives on Nagorno-Karabakh issue — Lavrov

MOSCOW , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
The initiatives on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue that Moscow put forward at a 2019 meeting of the top diplomats of Russia , Azerbaijan and Armenia are being actively discussed , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said during a video roundtable with members of the Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund on Tuesday .
`` There are the Madrid Principles [ proposed by the OSCE Minsk Group in Madrid in 2007 — TASS ] and the documents that Russia prepared in 2010-2011 , known as the Kazan Document .
There are also the initiatives that were put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foreign ministers of Russia , Armenia and Azerbaijan in April last year , which are being actively discussed , '' Lavrov pointed out .
He explained that the initiatives were aimed at `` finding a solution through a staged approach . ''
According to him , the first stage is supposed to consist of efforts to resolve the most pressing issues .
The Russian top diplomat was confident that the signing of the initiatives `` would mark an important step towards the implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions , which call on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make agreements , '' he emphasized .

MOSCOW, April 21. /TASS/. The initiatives on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue that Moscow put forward at a 2019 meeting of the top diplomats of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia are being actively discussed, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said during a video roundtable with members of the Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund on Tuesday.
"There are the Madrid Principles [proposed by the OSCE Minsk Group in Madrid in 2007 — TASS] and the documents that Russia prepared in 2010-2011, known as the Kazan Document. There are also the initiatives that were put forward at the Moscow meeting between the foreign ministers of Russia, Armenia and Azerbaijan in April last year, which are being actively discussed," Lavrov pointed out.
He explained that the initiatives were aimed at "finding a solution through a staged approach." According to him, the first stage is supposed to consist of efforts to resolve the most pressing issues.
The Russian top diplomat was confident that the signing of the initiatives "would mark an important step towards the implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions, which call on the parties to end the war and make agreements," he emphasized.
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict


tass--2020-04-21--Russian hi-tech firm starts adapting RD-180 engines for new Soyuz-6 carrier rocket

`` The RD-180 engine … will be used on the first stage of the Soyuz-6 rocket that may eventually replace the Soyuz-2 medium-class launch vehicle , and also in the central block of the super-heavy rocket .
We have already started active work to adapt the RD-180 to the rocket ’ s new version , '' the Energomash CEO was quoted as saying in a statement circulated by Russia ’ s State Space Corporation Roscosmos on Tuesday .
MOSCOW , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
Specialists of the Energomash Research and Production Association have launched active work to adapt the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Soyuz-6 carrier rocket , Energomash CEO Igor Arbuzov said on Tuesday .
As the Energomash chief stressed , the engine for the Soyuz-6 rocket will have enhanced fire protection , new filters , coatings , modern materials and a new control system .
It will also be outfitted with a high-speed emergency protection system capable of `` responding to a problem at an earlier stage '' and instantly shutting down the engines .
The RD-180 will also be used as the groundwork for reusable rockets , the chief executive said .
`` Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 times and that is why we will continue developing the necessary potential for creating reusable rockets , '' he explained .
The Energomash chief executive told TASS in December that the Russian RD-180 engine would be adapted for the new Soyuz-6 medium-class carrier rocket by 2024 .
He said at the time that active work would start in 2020 .
Russia ’ s State Space Corporation Roscosmos plans to create the Soyuz-6 rocket using the Soyuz-5 launch vehicle as its basis .
The flights tests of the new carrier rocket are due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kazakhstan in 2025 .
Roscosmos Chief Dmitry Rogozin earlier said that the new Soyuz-6 carrier rocket might get the name of Amur .
The new rocket may be tested at the first launch site of the Baikonur spaceport ( the ‘ Gagarin Start ’ launch pad ) , he added .

"The RD-180 engine … will be used on the first stage of the Soyuz-6 rocket that may eventually replace the Soyuz-2 medium-class launch vehicle, and also in the central block of the super-heavy rocket. We have already started active work to adapt the RD-180 to the rocket’s new version," the Energomash CEO was quoted as saying in a statement circulated by Russia’s State Space Corporation Roscosmos on Tuesday.
MOSCOW, April 21. /TASS/. Specialists of the Energomash Research and Production Association have launched active work to adapt the RD-180 liquid-propellant rocket engine for the new Soyuz-6 carrier rocket, Energomash CEO Igor Arbuzov said on Tuesday.
As the Energomash chief stressed, the engine for the Soyuz-6 rocket will have enhanced fire protection, new filters, coatings, modern materials and a new control system. It will also be outfitted with a high-speed emergency protection system capable of "responding to a problem at an earlier stage" and instantly shutting down the engines.
The RD-180 will also be used as the groundwork for reusable rockets, the chief executive said.
"Our engines can be used for up to 10 times and that is why we will continue developing the necessary potential for creating reusable rockets," he explained.
The Energomash chief executive told TASS in December that the Russian RD-180 engine would be adapted for the new Soyuz-6 medium-class carrier rocket by 2024. He said at the time that active work would start in 2020.
Russia’s State Space Corporation Roscosmos plans to create the Soyuz-6 rocket using the Soyuz-5 launch vehicle as its basis. The flights tests of the new carrier rocket are due to begin at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan in 2025. Roscosmos Chief Dmitry Rogozin earlier said that the new Soyuz-6 carrier rocket might get the name of Amur. The new rocket may be tested at the first launch site of the Baikonur spaceport (the ‘Gagarin Start’ launch pad), he added.


tass--2020-04-21--Sberbank CEO Gref does not expect quick 'rebound' in Russian economy, crisis may be long

New support measures for people and economy to get into gear as soon as possible — PM MOSCOW , April 21 .
/ TASS / .
The head of Sberbank Herman Gref does not expect a quick `` rebound '' in the Russian economy , the crisis may be long , said he in a video interview on Sberbank TV on Tuesday .
`` If during the first period of time we went on from the fact that we will now survive the peak of the crisis and return to full-time life after a rapid decline and a quick rebound @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completely differently .
It is quite possible that this crisis will be long , '' Gref said .
Along with the crisis , poverty in Russia will worsen significantly , and the unemployment rate will be much higher by the end of 2020 than at the beginning of the year , Gref warned .
In his opinion , to support those in need , it is necessary to create a system for identifying them with the help of information technologies .
According to the pandemic development model calculated by Sberbank , the peak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May 5 to 10 .

New support measures for people and economy to get into gear as soon as possible — PM
MOSCOW, April 21. / TASS /. The head of Sberbank Herman Gref does not expect a quick "rebound" in the Russian economy, the crisis may be long, said he in a video interview on Sberbank TV on Tuesday.
"If during the first period of time we went on from the fact that we will now survive the peak of the crisis and return to full-time life after a rapid decline and a quick rebound, today I personally see the situation completely differently. It is quite possible that this crisis will be long," Gref said.
Along with the crisis, poverty in Russia will worsen significantly, and the unemployment rate will be much higher by the end of 2020 than at the beginning of the year, Gref warned. In his opinion, to support those in need, it is necessary to create a system for identifying them with the help of information technologies.
According to the pandemic development model calculated by Sberbank, the peak incidence rate in Russia will be from May 5 to 10.


tass--2020-04-21--Over 400 people die of coronavirus in Spain over past day

MADRID , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
At least 204,178 coronavirus cases have been recorded in Spain since the beginning @ @ @ @ @ country ’ s Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday .
It noted that 21,282 people @ @ @ @ @ had recovered .
Over the past 24 hours , the number of coronavirus cases has @ @ @ @ @ 430 people have died .
Spain recorded the highest death toll on April 1 , @ @ @ @ @ .
The first coronavirus case in Spain was confirmed on January 31 .
The number @ @ @ @ @ grow dramatically after the outbreak in Italy .
In mid-March , the Spanish cabinet announced @ @ @ @ @ spread .
This measure enabled the authorities to restrict citizens ’ movement across the country @ @ @ @ @

MADRID, April 21. /TASS/. At least 204,178 coronavirus cases have been recorded in Spain since the beginning of the outbreak, the country’s Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday.
It noted that 21,282 people had died and 82,514 patients had recovered. Over the past 24 hours, the number of coronavirus cases has risen by 3,968, while 430 people have died. Spain recorded the highest death toll on April 1, when 950 coronavirus patients died.
The first coronavirus case in Spain was confirmed on January 31. The number of infected people began to grow dramatically after the outbreak in Italy. In mid-March, the Spanish cabinet announced high alert due to coronavirus spread. This measure enabled the authorities to restrict citizens’ movement across the country except for urgent reasons.


tass--2020-04-21--Russian Baltic Fleet warships eliminate enemy naval force in drills

KALININGRAD , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
The Baltic Fleet ’ s amphibious assault ships successfully repelled a notional enemy @ @ @ @ @ struck naval targets during tactical drills , the Fleet ’ s press office reported on @ @ @ @ @ Baltic Sea naval range , the naval task force comprising the large amphibious assault ships @ @ @ @ @ air-cushion small amphibious assault ship Yevgeny Kocheshkov and Dyugon-class landing craft successfully accomplished the assignments @ @ @ @ @ ’ s air attack and eliminating its surface ships , '' the press office said @ @ @ @ @ shipborne air defense capabilities locked on and eliminated notional air targets by artillery guns .
@ @ @ @ @ amphibious assault ships held artillery firings against sea targets , the statement says .
As @ @ @ @ @ combat training , the groups of amphibious assault ships will land marines onto an unequipped @ @ @ @ @ crews will also provide notional fire support for the landing troops by shipborne artillery and @ @ @ @ @ press office said .

KALININGRAD, April 21. /TASS/. The Baltic Fleet’s amphibious assault ships successfully repelled a notional enemy’s air attack and struck naval targets during tactical drills, the Fleet’s press office reported on Tuesday.
"At a Baltic Sea naval range, the naval task force comprising the large amphibious assault ships Kaliningrad and Korolyov, the air-cushion small amphibious assault ship Yevgeny Kocheshkov and Dyugon-class landing craft successfully accomplished the assignments of thwarting a notional enemy’s air attack and eliminating its surface ships," the press office said in a statement.
The shipborne air defense capabilities locked on and eliminated notional air targets by artillery guns. After that, the large amphibious assault ships held artillery firings against sea targets, the statement says.
As the final stage of their combat training, the groups of amphibious assault ships will land marines onto an unequipped shore. The ships’ crews will also provide notional fire support for the landing troops by shipborne artillery and Groza rocket launchers, the press office said.


tass--2020-04-21--Volume of Hainan's duty free trade up by 92.6% in March

HAIKOU , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
The volume of duty free sales in the southern Chinese province of Hainan increased in March compared with the previous month by 92.6 % , up to 932 million yuan ( about $ 131 million at the current exchange rate ) , the regional statistical office reported on Tuesday .
“ Duty free sales have increased noticeably , consumption in the tourism sector is confidently recovering , ” Wang Yu , deputy head of the statistics department , said at a press conference .
According to the official , last month , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tourists which is by 2.3 times more than in February .
According to official estimates , in March tourists spent 2.68 billion yuan , or about $ 380 million ( an increase of 2.1 times ) on the island .
According to the local administration , despite the novel coronavirus pandemic , the per capita income of the province 's urban population grew by 0.3 % year-on-year in the first quarter to 9,650 yuan ( $ 1,363 ) .
Over three months , Hainan residents increased their purchases of food products by 0.4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and drugs by 8.8 % .
Sanya hosts a duty free cluster which is visited by 2-3 million people every month .
According to official statistics , in 2018 , sales in Hainan 's duty free stores reached 10.1 billion yuan ( about $ 1.47 billion ) , which is about 26 % of the corresponding national figures .
In 2019 , sales grew by more than 34 % reaching 13.61 billion yuan ( $ 1.97 billion ) .

HAIKOU, April 21. /TASS/. The volume of duty free sales in the southern Chinese province of Hainan increased in March compared with the previous month by 92.6%, up to 932 million yuan (about $ 131 million at the current exchange rate), the regional statistical office reported on Tuesday.
“Duty free sales have increased noticeably, consumption in the tourism sector is confidently recovering,” Wang Yu, deputy head of the statistics department, said at a press conference.
According to the official, last month, the Hainan tourism industry served over 2.2 million tourists which is by 2.3 times more than in February. According to official estimates, in March tourists spent 2.68 billion yuan, or about $ 380 million (an increase of 2.1 times) on the island.
According to the local administration, despite the novel coronavirus pandemic, the per capita income of the province's urban population grew by 0.3% year-on-year in the first quarter to 9,650 yuan ($ 1,363). Over three months, Hainan residents increased their purchases of food products by 0.4%, drinks by 11.8%, and drugs by 8.8%.
Sanya hosts a duty free cluster which is visited by 2-3 million people every month. According to official statistics, in 2018, sales in Hainan's duty free stores reached 10.1 billion yuan (about $ 1.47 billion), which is about 26% of the corresponding national figures. In 2019, sales grew by more than 34% reaching 13.61 billion yuan ($ 1.97 billion).


tass--2020-04-21--Putin calls for equipping extra beds for Covid patients even if they may not be needed

NOVO-OGARYOVO , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for equipping more hospital beds for receiving @ @ @ @ @ beds may not be needed , for which he said he hopes .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ beds and equipment ] may not be needed , I hope to God , but @ @ @ @ @ the same , '' he said on Tuesday at an online meeting with governor of @ @ @ @ @ .
The Russian leader said he hoped the territory ’ s authorities would be able @ @ @ @ @ concerning combating the coronavirus infection .
`` The more so as you are demonstrating good @ @ @ @ @ .
`` So , you should continue this way . ''

NOVO-OGARYOVO, April 21. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for equipping more hospital beds for receiving coronavirus patients even if such beds may not be needed, for which he said he hopes.
"We understand that it [extra beds and equipment] may not be needed, I hope to God, but we must have that all the same," he said on Tuesday at an online meeting with governor of the Far Eastern Primorsky Territory.
The Russian leader said he hoped the territory’s authorities would be able to implement all their plans concerning combating the coronavirus infection. "The more so as you are demonstrating good results," he noted. "So, you should continue this way."


tass--2020-04-21--Russia ready to look at opening trade missions if Georgia requests that — Lavrov

MOSCOW , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
Russia is ready to discuss the issue of opening trade missions with Georgia if such an invitation comes from Tbilisi , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday .
`` We will be ready to resume diplomatic relations , since it was not us to sever them .
Probably , we should better wait until our Georgian colleagues approach this matter .
Trade missions also imply the existence of certain agreements .
I don ’ t think it will add any advantages but if they request it , we will look at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said at a videoconference roundtable with members of the Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund .
The minister noted that he shared the interest in developing cooperation with Georgia .
In his words , it should be done `` in a maximally wide manner and with advantages for the peoples '' of the two nations .
`` If we had a full-fledged embassy , issues of economic and trade cooperation and cultural ties would have been addressed more efficiently and promptly , '' he said .
Georgia severed diplomatic relations with Russia on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognized Abkhazia ’ s and South Ossetia ’ s independence .
This done , Georgia ’ s Foreign Ministry said it would preserve consular relations with Russia and in March 2009 opened a section of Russian interests with Russian diplomatic and technical personnel at the Swiss embassy in Tbilisi .
A similar section , representing Georgia ’ s interests and employing Georgian personnel , was opened at Switzerland ’ s embassy in Moscow .
Apart from that , regular contacts have been maintained between Georgian prime minister ’ s special envoy for relations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s former Deputy Foreign Minister and now senator Grigory Karasin .

MOSCOW, April 21. /TASS/. Russia is ready to discuss the issue of opening trade missions with Georgia if such an invitation comes from Tbilisi, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday.
"We will be ready to resume diplomatic relations, since it was not us to sever them. Probably, we should better wait until our Georgian colleagues approach this matter. Trade missions also imply the existence of certain agreements. I don’t think it will add any advantages but if they request it, we will look at such a possibility without fail," he said at a videoconference roundtable with members of the Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund.
The minister noted that he shared the interest in developing cooperation with Georgia. In his words, it should be done "in a maximally wide manner and with advantages for the peoples" of the two nations. "If we had a full-fledged embassy, issues of economic and trade cooperation and cultural ties would have been addressed more efficiently and promptly," he said.
Georgia severed diplomatic relations with Russia on September 2, 2008 after Russia had recognized Abkhazia’s and South Ossetia’s independence. This done, Georgia’s Foreign Ministry said it would preserve consular relations with Russia and in March 2009 opened a section of Russian interests with Russian diplomatic and technical personnel at the Swiss embassy in Tbilisi. A similar section, representing Georgia’s interests and employing Georgian personnel, was opened at Switzerland’s embassy in Moscow.
Apart from that, regular contacts have been maintained between Georgian prime minister’s special envoy for relations with Russia Zurab Abashidze and Russia’s former Deputy Foreign Minister and now senator Grigory Karasin.


tass--2020-04-21--Hainan's agricultural sector shows growth despite coronavirus pandemic

HAIKOU , April 21 .
/TASS/ .
The gross product of Hainan 's agricultural sector even amid the novel coronavirus pandemic and the general economic slowdown in China from January to March , grew by 0.4 % year-on-year to 25.05 billion yuan ( $ 3.54 billion at the current exchange rate ) , the regional statistical office reported on Tuesday .
“ Hainan ’ s agriculture has managed to maintain growth , especially in the production of agricultural products , which our province specializes in , ” Wang Yu , the department ’ s deputy head , told a news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , over three months , local farmers grew more than 2.63 million tonnes of vegetables ( an increase of 2.8 % ) , 1.41 million tonnes of fruits ( an increase of 10.9 % ) , collecting a rich harvest of tropical fruits — mango , longan , lychee and pitaya .
The production of natural rubber for the corresponding period showed an especially noticeable growth by 528.3 % .
At the same time , as specified in the report , due to the coronavirus pandemic in the first quarter , the province @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 111.528 billion yuan ( $ 15.76 billion ) , which is still 2.3 percentage points higher in dynamics than the national indicator for the same period .
Unlike the agricultural sector , Hainan 's gross industrial product decreased by 12.5 % , to 18.07 billion yuan ( $ 2.55 billion ) , the services sector — by 3.9 % , to 68.4 billion yuan ( $ 9.66 billion ) '' During the next stage , Hainan , in accordance with the orders of the Chinese Central Committee of the Communist Party and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures to combat coronavirus and ensure development .
We will take particularly active steps to revitalize and restore socio-economic activity , '' said Wang Yu .
According to the official , the regional authorities plan to ensure the dynamics of the economy at the level of the initially planned indicators this year despite the existing difficulties .

HAIKOU, April 21. /TASS/. The gross product of Hainan's agricultural sector even amid the novel coronavirus pandemic and the general economic slowdown in China from January to March, grew by 0.4% year-on-year to 25.05 billion yuan ($ 3.54 billion at the current exchange rate), the regional statistical office reported on Tuesday.
“Hainan’s agriculture has managed to maintain growth, especially in the production of agricultural products, which our province specializes in,” Wang Yu, the department’s deputy head, told a news conference.
According to the published data, over three months, local farmers grew more than 2.63 million tonnes of vegetables (an increase of 2.8%), 1.41 million tonnes of fruits (an increase of 10.9%), collecting a rich harvest of tropical fruits — mango, longan, lychee and pitaya. The production of natural rubber for the corresponding period showed an especially noticeable growth by 528.3%.
At the same time, as specified in the report, due to the coronavirus pandemic in the first quarter, the province's GRP decreased by 4.5%, to 111.528 billion yuan ($ 15.76 billion), which is still 2.3 percentage points higher in dynamics than the national indicator for the same period. Unlike the agricultural sector, Hainan's gross industrial product decreased by 12.5%, to 18.07 billion yuan ($ 2.55 billion), the services sector — by 3.9%, to 68.4 billion yuan ($ 9.66 billion )
"During the next stage, Hainan, in accordance with the orders of the Chinese Central Committee of the Communist Party and the State Council, will consistently implement measures to combat coronavirus and ensure development. We will take particularly active steps to revitalize and restore socio-economic activity," said Wang Yu.
According to the official, the regional authorities plan to ensure the dynamics of the economy at the level of the initially planned indicators this year despite the existing difficulties.


tass--2020-04-22--Russia has one of world’s lowest coronavirus mortality rates — healthcare minister

WHO official warns of coronavirus worsening in Russia unless citizens comply with rules MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
@ @ @ @ @ is less than 1 % , making it one of the world ’ s lowest @ @ @ @ @ Murashko told a meeting of the presidium of the coordination council on combating the spread @ @ @ @ @ `` Unfortunately , as of today we have registered 513 deaths .
The overall mortality @ @ @ @ @ ] is less than 1 % .
This is one of the lowest in the @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. The mortality rate in Russia is less than 1%, making it one of the world’s lowest, Russian Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko told a meeting of the presidium of the coordination council on combating the spread of the novel coronavirus.
"Unfortunately, as of today we have registered 513 deaths. The overall mortality rate [due to COVID-19] is less than 1%. This is one of the lowest in the world," Murashko said, noting that the situation with the death rate was monitored across the country.
To date, a total of 57,999 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 4,420 patients having recovered from the virus. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-04-22--Dialogue with parties to nuclear deal continues, says senior Russian diplomat

MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The dialogue between Russia and the parties to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of @ @ @ @ @ , there are no face-to-face contacts , Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told TASS @ @ @ @ @ for face-to-face contacts , there are no [ such contacts ] now .
We continue @ @ @ @ @ the parties , '' he said when asked whether there were dates for contacts on @ @ @ @ @ .
The future of the Iranian nuclear deal was called into question after the United @ @ @ @ @ May 8 , 2018 , and Washington ’ s unilateral oil export sanctions imposed on @ @ @ @ @ all other participants , Europeans in the first place , ignore some of their own @ @ @ @ @ , thus making the deal in its current shape senseless .
Due to this , @ @ @ @ @ stage-by-stage suspension of its commitments under the deal regarding uranium enrichment and research activities .

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. The dialogue between Russia and the parties to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) continues, there are no face-to-face contacts, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told TASS on Wednesday.
"As for face-to-face contacts, there are no [such contacts] now. We continue the working dialogue with all the parties," he said when asked whether there were dates for contacts on Iran’s nuclear program.
The future of the Iranian nuclear deal was called into question after the United States’ unilateral pullout on May 8, 2018, and Washington’s unilateral oil export sanctions imposed on Tehran. Iran argues that all other participants, Europeans in the first place, ignore some of their own obligations in the economic sphere, thus making the deal in its current shape senseless. Due to this, Iran began the process of stage-by-stage suspension of its commitments under the deal regarding uranium enrichment and research activities.


tass--2020-04-22--Finland’s coronavirus cases top 4,100

Finland’s coronavirus cases top 4,100

HELSINKI , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus cases in Finland has risen to 4,129 after a single day increase of 115 infections , the Finnish National Institute for Health and Welfare said Wednesday .
`` Finland currently registered 4,129 cases of infection , '' the statement says .
On Monday , 4,014 infections were reported .
The latest data points to 141 fatalities .
Finland shut down its borders between March 19 and May 13 due to the coronavirus developments .
Moreover , the authorities restricted movement between the capital region of Uusimaa and the rest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between March 28 and April 15 .
Schools and universities are now employing distance learning , while preschools are still open , although parents are advised to leave their children home if possible .
Moreover , gatherings of over 10 people are banned .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ globe .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 2,500,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 177,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 696,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

HELSINKI, April 22. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus cases in Finland has risen to 4,129 after a single day increase of 115 infections, the Finnish National Institute for Health and Welfare said Wednesday.
"Finland currently registered 4,129 cases of infection," the statement says. On Monday, 4,014 infections were reported. The latest data points to 141 fatalities.
Finland shut down its borders between March 19 and May 13 due to the coronavirus developments. Moreover, the authorities restricted movement between the capital region of Uusimaa and the rest of the country to curb the spread between March 28 and April 15. Schools and universities are now employing distance learning, while preschools are still open, although parents are advised to leave their children home if possible. Moreover, gatherings of over 10 people are banned.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 2,500,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 177,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 696,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-04-22--Black Sea Fleet sub to join Russian Navy’s Mediterranean Squadron

MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The Black Sea Fleet ’ s Project 636.3 diesel-electric submarine Rostov-on-Don will soon rejoin the Russian Navy ’ s permanent Mediterranean task force , a source in the defense industry told TASS on Wednesday .
`` The submarine has been prepared for its long-distance deployment to the Mediterranean Sea .
It will begin in coming days , '' the source said .
The source did not specify whether the submarine Rostov-on-Don would replace the same-type sub Krasnodar currently on its deployment in the Russian Navy ’ s Mediterranean Squadron or would join the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Black Sea Fleet ’ s six Project 636.3 submarines are deployed in the Mediterranean Squadron .
Their deployment lasts an average of 18 months , while the crews are rotated every three months .
From the previous pair , the submarine Stary Oskol left the Mediterranean Squadron for repairs at the Kronshtadt Marine Plant ( part of Russia ’ s United Shipbuilding Corporation ) while the Krasnodar is still staying in the Mediterranean Sea .
The submarine Krasnodar was earlier expected to follow the same-type sub Stay Oskol and sail to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ submarines Stary Oskol and Krasnodar joined the Russian Navy ’ s Mediterranean task force in April 2019 .
They replaced the same-type submarines Veliky Novgorod and Kolpino , which had stayed in the Mediterranean after their inter-fleet transit from the Baltic Sea and then sailed to the Black Sea .
Their crews were rotated every three months .
In late December 2019 , the Stary Oskol arrived at the Kronshtadt Marine Plant for repairs .
The Admiralty Shipyard has built a series of six Project 636.3 diesel-electric submarines for the Black Sea Fleet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Veliky Novgorod , the Kolpino and the Rostov-on-Don , numerously delivered strikes with Kalibr-PL cruise missiles against terrorist targets in Syria .
Project 636.3 submarines are referred to the third generation of diesel-electric subs .
These submarines are considered among the world ’ s most noiseless vessels .
They develop a speed of up to 20 knots , can dive to a depth of about 300 meters and their sea endurance is 45 days .
The sub has a crew of 52 men and displaces about 4,000 tonnes .
Project 636 submarines are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian conventional subs .
They have been dubbed the ‘ Black Hole ’ for their unique quietness .
They are also furnished with modern radar and communications systems , sonars and 533mm torpedoes .

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. The Black Sea Fleet’s Project 636.3 diesel-electric submarine Rostov-on-Don will soon rejoin the Russian Navy’s permanent Mediterranean task force, a source in the defense industry told TASS on Wednesday.
"The submarine has been prepared for its long-distance deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. It will begin in coming days," the source said.
The source did not specify whether the submarine Rostov-on-Don would replace the same-type sub Krasnodar currently on its deployment in the Russian Navy’s Mediterranean Squadron or would join the task force.
Normally, two of the Black Sea Fleet’s six Project 636.3 submarines are deployed in the Mediterranean Squadron. Their deployment lasts an average of 18 months, while the crews are rotated every three months. From the previous pair, the submarine Stary Oskol left the Mediterranean Squadron for repairs at the Kronshtadt Marine Plant (part of Russia’s United Shipbuilding Corporation) while the Krasnodar is still staying in the Mediterranean Sea.
The submarine Krasnodar was earlier expected to follow the same-type sub Stay Oskol and sail to the Kronshtadt Marine Plant for repairs.
The submarines Stary Oskol and Krasnodar joined the Russian Navy’s Mediterranean task force in April 2019. They replaced the same-type submarines Veliky Novgorod and Kolpino, which had stayed in the Mediterranean after their inter-fleet transit from the Baltic Sea and then sailed to the Black Sea. Their crews were rotated every three months.
In late December 2019, the Stary Oskol arrived at the Kronshtadt Marine Plant for repairs.
The Admiralty Shipyard has built a series of six Project 636.3 diesel-electric submarines for the Black Sea Fleet. The three of them, the Veliky Novgorod, the Kolpino and the Rostov-on-Don, numerously delivered strikes with Kalibr-PL cruise missiles against terrorist targets in Syria.
Project 636.3 submarines are referred to the third generation of diesel-electric subs. These submarines are considered among the world’s most noiseless vessels. They develop a speed of up to 20 knots, can dive to a depth of about 300 meters and their sea endurance is 45 days. The sub has a crew of 52 men and displaces about 4,000 tonnes.
Project 636 submarines are considered to be the most noiseless among Russian conventional subs. They have been dubbed the ‘Black Hole’ for their unique quietness. They are also furnished with modern radar and communications systems, sonars and 533mm torpedoes.


tass--2020-04-22--The Philippines record 111 more coronavirus cases and 9 new deaths

BANGKOK , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
Authorities of the Philippines have confirmed 111 new coronavirus infections in the past 24 hours bringing the total to 6,710 , the national Health Ministry said Wednesday .
According to the ministry , the country identified nine more fatalities , the total number of deaths now stands at 446 .
Recoveries also increased by 39 to 693 .
The Philippines reported its first coronavirus case on January 30 .
On February 1 , the country became the first in the world outside China where a coronavirus fatality occurred .
On March 31 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worst daily increase in cases and deaths — 537 and 50 correspondingly .
The authorities imposed a state of emergency for six months .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in every corner of the globe .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest statistics , over 2,500,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 177,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 696,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

BANGKOK, April 22. /TASS/. Authorities of the Philippines have confirmed 111 new coronavirus infections in the past 24 hours bringing the total to 6,710, the national Health Ministry said Wednesday.
Yesterday, 140 new cases were registered.
According to the ministry, the country identified nine more fatalities, the total number of deaths now stands at 446. Recoveries also increased by 39 to 693.
The Philippines reported its first coronavirus case on January 30. On February 1, the country became the first in the world outside China where a coronavirus fatality occurred. On March 31 and April 12, the Philippines saw the worst daily increase in cases and deaths — 537 and 50 correspondingly.
The authorities imposed a state of emergency for six months.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in every corner of the globe.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 2,500,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 177,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 696,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-04-22--Ty Warner Releases Limited-Edition Bear to Support United Way Worldwide COVID-19 Fund

OAK BROOK , Illinois , April 22 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Ty Warner , owner of the largest manufacturer of plush in the world , today announced the introduction of Hope , a limited-edition praying bear .
This adorable , multi-colored bear will offer a symbol of hope to the world while also bringing much-needed support to the United Way Worldwide COVID-19 Fund .
Warner will contribute 100 % of the profits from the original sale to the United Way Worldwide fund .
`` The world needs hope , and this little bear just might bring us the smile we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It is an honor to partner with United Way Worldwide , the world 's largest nonprofit organization , which has been providing hope to communities around the world for over 135 years . ''
Warner 's announcement follows his decision last month to open his Four Seasons Hotel New York to nurses and medical workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic , providing them a place to stay free of charge .
In addition to today 's release , Warner is delivering individual Hope bears to the medical professionals currently staying at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United Way Worldwide on their behalf .
Hope will be available worldwide in essential retail outlets such as drug and grocery stores , so that people can purchase the bear while shopping for groceries and other essential items .
Hope can also be ordered online at Ty.com .
`` United Ways around the world are working tirelessly to provide critical human services and much needed financial support to our most vulnerable populations in the face of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic , '' said Suzanne McCormick , U.S. President , United Way Worldwide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's introduction of Hope , whose sales profits will help the most vulnerable populations receive critical financial and social service support during this global crisis . ''
In addition to fundraising from the sale of Hope , Warner is supporting those on the frontlines battling the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City by opening the doors of his Four Seasons Hotel New York free of charge to medical workers responding to the crisis .
`` Many of those working in New York City have to travel long distances to and from their homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 patients .
Our healthcare workers need a place closer to work where they can rest and regenerate in order to continue their service to our nation 's sick and infirm , '' Warner said .
`` I am humbled that we could open the doors of the Four Seasons Hotel New York and provide a place for our nation 's heroes to rest . ''
To learn more about the Hope Bear , please visit : https : //shop.ty.com/ Ty Warner is an American toy manufacturer and owner of luxury hotels worldwide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and founder of Ty Inc. the largest manufacturer of plush in the world .
A philanthropist , Ty has donated in excess of $ 300 million to a variety of charities , including Children 's Hunger Fund , World Vision , Toy Bank , International Toy Bank , Today Show , Children 's Miracle Network , Operation Iraqi Freedom , Toys for Tots , Princess of Wales Foundation , Andre Agassi Foundation , American Red Cross , Save the Children , Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation , NY Police and Fire Widow 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mayo Clinic and UNICEF .
United Way fights for the health , education and financial stability of every person in every community .
Supported by 2.9 million volunteers , 9.8 million donors worldwide and $ 4.7 billion raised every year , United Way is the world 's largest privately funded nonprofit .
We 're engaged in 1,800 communities across more than 40 countries and territories worldwide to create sustainable solutions to the challenges facing our communities .
United Way partners include global , national and local businesses , nonprofits , government , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ educators , labor leaders , health providers , senior citizens , students and more .
For more information about United Way , please visit UnitedWay.org .
Follow us on Twitter : @ UnitedWay and # LiveUnited .

OAK BROOK, Illinois, April 22, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Ty Warner, owner of the largest manufacturer of plush in the world, today announced the introduction of Hope, a limited-edition praying bear. This adorable, multi-colored bear will offer a symbol of hope to the world while also bringing much-needed support to the United Way Worldwide COVID-19 Fund. Warner will contribute 100% of the profits from the original sale to the United Way Worldwide fund.
"The world needs hope, and this little bear just might bring us the smile we need right now," Warner said. "It is an honor to partner with United Way Worldwide, the world's largest nonprofit organization, which has been providing hope to communities around the world for over 135 years."
Warner's announcement follows his decision last month to open his Four Seasons Hotel New York to nurses and medical workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, providing them a place to stay free of charge. In addition to today's release, Warner is delivering individual Hope bears to the medical professionals currently staying at the hotel – and making additional donations to the United Way Worldwide on their behalf.
Hope will be available worldwide in essential retail outlets such as drug and grocery stores, so that people can purchase the bear while shopping for groceries and other essential items. Hope can also be ordered online at Ty.com.
"United Ways around the world are working tirelessly to provide critical human services and much needed financial support to our most vulnerable populations in the face of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic," said Suzanne McCormick, U.S. President, United Way Worldwide. "We are touched by Ty's introduction of Hope, whose sales profits will help the most vulnerable populations receive critical financial and social service support during this global crisis."
In addition to fundraising from the sale of Hope, Warner is supporting those on the frontlines battling the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City by opening the doors of his Four Seasons Hotel New York free of charge to medical workers responding to the crisis.
"Many of those working in New York City have to travel long distances to and from their homes after putting in 18-hour workdays caring for COVID-19 patients. Our healthcare workers need a place closer to work where they can rest and regenerate in order to continue their service to our nation's sick and infirm," Warner said. "I am humbled that we could open the doors of the Four Seasons Hotel New York and provide a place for our nation's heroes to rest."
To learn more about the Hope Bear, please visit: https://shop.ty.com/
About Ty Warner
Ty Warner is an American toy manufacturer and owner of luxury hotels worldwide. He is Chairman, CEO, and founder of Ty Inc. the largest manufacturer of plush in the world. A philanthropist, Ty has donated in excess of $300 million to a variety of charities, including Children's Hunger Fund, World Vision, Toy Bank, International Toy Bank, Today Show, Children's Miracle Network, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Toys for Tots, Princess of Wales Foundation, Andre Agassi Foundation, American Red Cross, Save the Children, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, NY Police and Fire Widow's Fund, Ronald McDonald House, USO, Mayo Clinic and UNICEF.
About United Way
United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. Supported by 2.9 million volunteers, 9.8 million donors worldwide and $4.7 billion raised every year, United Way is the world's largest privately funded nonprofit. We're engaged in 1,800 communities across more than 40 countries and territories worldwide to create sustainable solutions to the challenges facing our communities. United Way partners include global, national and local businesses, nonprofits, government, civic and faith-based organizations, along with educators, labor leaders, health providers, senior citizens, students and more. For more information about United Way, please visit UnitedWay.org. Follow us on Twitter: @UnitedWay and #LiveUnited.
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1158293/Ty_Inc_COVID_19.jpg
Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1076096/Ty_Logo.jpg
CONTACT: Tania Lundeen, TLundeen@tymail.com, 630.258.7936


tass--2020-04-22--Russia to help Belarus fight coronavirus epidemic

MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
Russia will be providing assistance to Belarus in fighting the coronavirus epidemic , Russian Deputy Prime Minister Viktoria Abramchenko said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 TV Channel on Wednesday .
`` We , as before , will be providing the required assistance and aid to the fraternal people of the Republic of Belarus , '' the vice premier said .
In particular , Russian Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko called up his Belarusian counterpart Vladimir Karanik on April 21 .
Both health ministers discussed the tactic of treating coronavirus patients and agreed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` No additional requests were received , '' she added .
Also , on April 5 , Russia repatriated 10 Belarusian citizens from the Chinese city of Wuhan .
One of them was in a severe form and received required medical assistance on the territory of Russia .
Now he and other Belarusian citizens have been sent home in a satisfactory condition , Abramchenko said .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in every corner of the globe .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 2,500,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 177,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 696,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .
To date , a total of 57,999 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the virus .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 513 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. Russia will be providing assistance to Belarus in fighting the coronavirus epidemic, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Viktoria Abramchenko said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 TV Channel on Wednesday.
"We, as before, will be providing the required assistance and aid to the fraternal people of the Republic of Belarus," the vice premier said.
In particular, Russian Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko called up his Belarusian counterpart Vladimir Karanik on April 21. Both health ministers discussed the tactic of treating coronavirus patients and agreed to continue interaction, the vice premier informed.
"No additional requests were received," she added.
Also, on April 5, Russia repatriated 10 Belarusian citizens from the Chinese city of Wuhan. One of them was in a severe form and received required medical assistance on the territory of Russia. Now he and other Belarusian citizens have been sent home in a satisfactory condition, Abramchenko said.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in every corner of the globe.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 2,500,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 177,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 696,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.
To date, a total of 57,999 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 4,420 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 513 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-04-22--Kremlin says unfounded accusations of man-made origin of COVID-19 unacceptable

MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The Kremlin says it is inappropriate to put forward groundless accusations that the @ @ @ @ @ created .
`` We believe it is unacceptable and inadmissible to resort to any unfounded @ @ @ @ @ '' Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters commenting on suppositions of a number of American @ @ @ @ @ novel coronavirus is not of natural origin , hinting that it could have been allegedly @ @ @ @ @ .
Peskov stressed that Russian specialists are keeping in contact with the Chinese side and @ @ @ @ @ Chinese are working on their vaccines , we have processes moving forward in various spheres @ @ @ @ @ requires international cooperation , '' the spokesman added .

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. The Kremlin says it is inappropriate to put forward groundless accusations that the virus causing COVID-19 was specifically created.
"We believe it is unacceptable and inadmissible to resort to any unfounded accusations aimed at anybody," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters commenting on suppositions of a number of American media outlets saying that the novel coronavirus is not of natural origin, hinting that it could have been allegedly manufactured in a Chinese lab.
Peskov stressed that Russian specialists are keeping in contact with the Chinese side and exchanging information. "The Chinese are working on their vaccines, we have processes moving forward in various spheres. Overall, the situation requires international cooperation," the spokesman added.
Peskov emphasized that now "every time when a certain representative or expert claims or gives a hint that the virus was man-made, simultaneously two more representatives or experts appear" who disprove such a hypothesis.
"Both categories are talking without any evidence. We are likely to lack enough information to make any conclusions," he stressed.
Virus’s origin disputes


tass--2020-04-22--Date for constitutional amendment vote to be set depending on COVID-19 situation — Kremlin

MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The date for Russia ’ s nationwide vote on constitutional amendments will be set depending on the epidemiological situation in the country , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday .
He noted though that the vote should not necessarily coincide with any memorable dates .
`` The date will be set as [ the coronavirus ] situation unfolds , '' he said .
Peskov noted that `` certain estimates exist , '' but it is too early to talk about that yet .
`` We will have to analyze the epidemiological @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of May , before making such responsible decisions , '' he explained .
`` One can not rule out that this [ vote ] may be linked to a certain date , but this is not a mandatory condition , '' the Kremlin spokesman stressed .
He added that `` the mere fact of the vote is important here . ''
On Wednesday , Chairperson of Russia ’ s Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova told TASS that the hypothetically optimal period of time for holding a nationwide vote on constitutional amendments would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be predicted now .
The Kommersant daily earlier reported that the nationwide vote , which was originally scheduled for April 22 , could take place in late June or even in early July .
According to the paper ’ s sources , June 24 and July 8 are among the possible options .

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. The date for Russia’s nationwide vote on constitutional amendments will be set depending on the epidemiological situation in the country, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday. He noted though that the vote should not necessarily coincide with any memorable dates.
"The date will be set as [the coronavirus] situation unfolds," he said. Peskov noted that "certain estimates exist," but it is too early to talk about that yet.
"We will have to analyze the epidemiological situation, probably, before the beginning of May, before making such responsible decisions," he explained.
"One cannot rule out that this [vote] may be linked to a certain date, but this is not a mandatory condition," the Kremlin spokesman stressed. He added that "the mere fact of the vote is important here."
On Wednesday, Chairperson of Russia’s Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova told TASS that the hypothetically optimal period of time for holding a nationwide vote on constitutional amendments would be until mid-June, but specific dates cannot be predicted now.
The Kommersant daily earlier reported that the nationwide vote, which was originally scheduled for April 22, could take place in late June or even in early July. According to the paper’s sources, June 24 and July 8 are among the possible options.


tass--2020-04-22--Video summit of UNSC permanent members to discuss pandemic’s impact

Russia believes that cooperation with the United States to counter the coronavirus will carry on , according to the deputy foreign minister MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The leaders of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council will discuss ways to tackle the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic , Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told TASS on Wednesday .
`` The virtual meeting is expected to discuss a specific issue , that is , the impact that the pandemic will have on cooperation in various areas .
It means that the leaders of the five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will focus on what they can do together to respond to this new challenge , '' he said .
When asked when such a meeting could take place , the senior Russian diplomat noted that no date had been set yet for a video conference .
`` Work on the meeting ’ s contents continues , including its agenda and date , '' Ryabkov said .
`` Preparations are not over yet so it is too early to speak about a specific date , '' he added .
`` We believe that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the best opportunity to discuss the pandemic ’ s consequences in relation to specific situations , conflicts and regions , '' the Russian deputy foreign minister emphasized .
Meanwhile a face-to-face meeting of the leaders of the United Nations Security Council permanent members will also take place to address a wider range of issues , according to Sergei Ryabkov .
`` A virtual meeting will not replace the Russian president ’ s initiative to hold a face-to-face meeting of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council in order to address a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said in response to a question .
However , in Ryabkov ’ s words , the coronavirus pandemic complicates efforts to agree all aspects of the summit .
`` This is why it is hard to say when it will be possible to agree specific aspects , including the date and location of the meeting , '' he added .
`` Nevertheless , the matter is on the agenda .
It is a priority for us , '' the senior Russian diplomat pointed out .
While addressing the World Holocaust Forum in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vladimir Putin called for a summit of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council .
Russia believes that cooperation with the United States to counter the coronavirus will carry on , according to Sergei Ryabkov .
`` The Russian president [ Vladimir Putin ] mentioned this topic a few days ago .
We are cooperating with the US side on this issue as well .
We believe that this cooperation will continue , '' he noted .
Responding to the question on upcoming contacts with the US side , the diplomat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through embassies , with phone calls also being held if necessary .
On Monday , Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that a contract was signed with the US to supply ventilator assembly parts to Russia .
On April 1 , John F. Kennedy International Airport welcomed a plane transporting medical protective gear from Russia .
The agreement to send the jet was reached on March 30 during a phone call between Putin and US President Donald Trump .

Russia believes that cooperation with the United States to counter the coronavirus will carry on, according to the deputy foreign minister
MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. The leaders of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council will discuss ways to tackle the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told TASS on Wednesday. "The virtual meeting is expected to discuss a specific issue, that is, the impact that the pandemic will have on cooperation in various areas. It means that the leaders of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council will focus on what they can do together to respond to this new challenge," he said. When asked when such a meeting could take place, the senior Russian diplomat noted that no date had been set yet for a video conference. "Work on the meeting’s contents continues, including its agenda and date," Ryabkov said. "Preparations are not over yet so it is too early to speak about a specific date," he added. "We believe that the upcoming meeting will provide the leaders with the best opportunity to discuss the pandemic’s consequences in relation to specific situations, conflicts and regions," the Russian deputy foreign minister emphasized.
Meanwhile a face-to-face meeting of the leaders of the United Nations Security Council permanent members will also take place to address a wider range of issues, according to Sergei Ryabkov. "A virtual meeting will not replace the Russian president’s initiative to hold a face-to-face meeting of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council in order to address a wide range of global issues," he said in response to a question. However, in Ryabkov’s words, the coronavirus pandemic complicates efforts to agree all aspects of the summit. "This is why it is hard to say when it will be possible to agree specific aspects, including the date and location of the meeting," he added. "Nevertheless, the matter is on the agenda. It is a priority for us," the senior Russian diplomat pointed out. While addressing the World Holocaust Forum in Israel on January 23, Russian President Vladimir Putin called for a summit of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council. Cooperation with US Russia believes that cooperation with the United States to counter the coronavirus will carry on, according to Sergei Ryabkov. "The Russian president [Vladimir Putin] mentioned this topic a few days ago. We are cooperating with the US side on this issue as well. We believe that this cooperation will continue," he noted.
Read also Russian plane with medical aid for US lands in New York


tass--2020-04-22--Preparations underway for talks between UNSC permanent members — Kremlin

MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
Preparations are underway for a summit of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council ( Russia , China , France , the United Kingdom and the United States ) , Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday .
He pointed out that French President Emmanuel Macron in a telephone call with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin put forward an initiative to hold a video conference of the five countries ’ leaders .
`` Diplomats are working on a video conference , work is also underway on a possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ According to him , `` once things are clear , '' an announcement will be made .
The joint document for a summit of the UN Security Council ’ s five permanent members is being worked out via diplomatic channels and may be agreed in the coming days , Dmitry Peskov went on .
`` This will be in the coming days .
This will [ happen ] rather swiftly , '' Peskov said .
`` Yes , there is such a possibility . ''
According to the Kremlin spokesman , the document @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Peskov declined to reveal its content , advising journalists to wait until the diplomats completed their work .
`` I don ’ t want to forecast anything now and speak about the document ’ s provisions .
It still has to be endorsed by the heads of state . ''
Putin and Macron held a telephone conversation on April 17 .
The call was initiated by Paris .

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. Preparations are underway for a summit of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom and the United States), Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday.
He pointed out that French President Emmanuel Macron in a telephone call with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin put forward an initiative to hold a video conference of the five countries’ leaders.
"Diplomats are working on a video conference, work is also underway on a possible joint document," Peskov said. According to him, "once things are clear," an announcement will be made.
The joint document for a summit of the UN Security Council’s five permanent members is being worked out via diplomatic channels and may be agreed in the coming days, Dmitry Peskov went on.
"This will be in the coming days. This will [happen] rather swiftly," Peskov said. "Yes, there is such a possibility."
According to the Kremlin spokesman, the document was "being prepared and coordinated." Peskov declined to reveal its content, advising journalists to wait until the diplomats completed their work. "I don’t want to forecast anything now and speak about the document’s provisions. It still has to be endorsed by the heads of state."
Putin and Macron held a telephone conversation on April 17. The call was initiated by Paris.


tass--2020-04-22--Coronavirus count in Singapore surpasses 10,000

SINGAPORE , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus cases in Singapore surpassed 10,100 increasing by over 1,000 in a day , the Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday .
According to the report , the number of new cases surged by 1,016 ; in total , 10,141 infected were confirmed in the country .
This is the highest figure in Southeast Asia .
To date , 11 people have died from diseases caused by the new virus .
On April 21 , Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong extended the partial quarantine regime imposed on April 7 for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This implies closing all institutions that do not have social significance and are not fundamental to maintaining a stable life of the state .
In addition , schools and universities were transferred to distance learning .
At the same time , food stores , pharmacies and hairdressers continue to work , and cafes and restaurants sell food for take-away .
A ban on moving around the city has not been introduced ; public transport and taxis continue to function .
Meanwhile , the government urged the population to stay at home , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to maintain social distance , and not to gather in groups .
In addition , wearing masks in all places is a must .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO @ @ @ @ @ @ @

SINGAPORE, April 22. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus cases in Singapore surpassed 10,100 increasing by over 1,000 in a day, the Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday.
According to the report, the number of new cases surged by 1,016; in total, 10,141 infected were confirmed in the country. This is the highest figure in Southeast Asia. To date, 11 people have died from diseases caused by the new virus.
On April 21, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong extended the partial quarantine regime imposed on April 7 for another four weeks — until June 1. This implies closing all institutions that do not have social significance and are not fundamental to maintaining a stable life of the state. In addition, schools and universities were transferred to distance learning. At the same time, food stores, pharmacies and hairdressers continue to work, and cafes and restaurants sell food for take-away. A ban on moving around the city has not been introduced; public transport and taxis continue to function.
Meanwhile, the government urged the population to stay at home, to go out only if necessary, to maintain social distance, and not to gather in groups. In addition, wearing masks in all places is a must.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia. On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic.


tass--2020-04-22--Kremlin says situation with oil prices not easy, but too early to make assessments

MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The situation with world oil prices is not easy now , but one should not make assessments after one day or one week , Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday .
When asked if Russia would take any measures following the recent bottoming-out of oil prices , Peskov noted that first it will be necessary to analyze the situation after the new OPEC+ deal goes into effect .
`` We need to wait .
The dynamics of global oil prices is really negative , the current situation is not easy , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not by one day and not even by one week , but in a longer perspective .
Therefore , now we just have to wait , '' he said .
The recent days saw a sharp decline in oil prices amid the news on the ongoing increase if number of people infected with the new coronavirus .
On April 21 , the cost of a futures contract for Brent crude oil fell to $ 15.98 per barrel in the course of trading on the ICE Exchange in London .
The last time Brent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ barrel in June 1999 .
The new OPEC+ agreement will enter into force on May 1 .
It implies that 23 countries of the alliance , led by Russia and Saudi Arabia , will cut oil production by 9.7 mln barrels per day in May and June .

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. The situation with world oil prices is not easy now, but one should not make assessments after one day or one week, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday.
When asked if Russia would take any measures following the recent bottoming-out of oil prices, Peskov noted that first it will be necessary to analyze the situation after the new OPEC+ deal goes into effect.
"We need to wait. The dynamics of global oil prices is really negative, the current situation is not easy, but one should assess it as a whole not by one day and not even by one week, but in a longer perspective. Therefore, now we just have to wait," he said.
The recent days saw a sharp decline in oil prices amid the news on the ongoing increase if number of people infected with the new coronavirus.
On April 21, the cost of a futures contract for Brent crude oil fell to $15.98 per barrel in the course of trading on the ICE Exchange in London. The last time Brent crude price was below $16 per barrel in June 1999. The new OPEC+ agreement will enter into force on May 1. It implies that 23 countries of the alliance, led by Russia and Saudi Arabia, will cut oil production by 9.7 mln barrels per day in May and June.


tass--2020-04-22--Over 500 COVID-19 patients discharged from Russia’s hospitals per day for the first time

According to the anti-coronavirus crisis center , another 5,236 cases have been recorded in Russia ( compared to 5,642 confirmed on Tuesday ) .
The growth was 9.9 % , the lowest figure since March 15 .
MOSCOW , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
More than 500 coronavirus patients have been discharged from hospitals in Russia over the past day for the first time since the outbreak in the country began .
The total number of infected people has reached 57,999 , with almost 40 infections per 100,000 people .
Russia ranks 24th in that number among 30 countries where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
To date , more than 2.25 mln coronavirus tests have been conducted throughout the country .
The proportion of patients who have tested positive for the virus has reached 2.58 % .
Another 547 coronavirus patients have recovered in Russia over the past day ( with the previous record being 467 ) .
A total of 4,420 people have been discharged from hospitals ( 7.6 % of all infected individuals ) .
Moscow accounts for slightly over one half of those who have recovered ( 2,267 ) .
More than 200 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian capital for a second day in a row .
Meanwhile , the number of fatalities has risen by 57 reaching 513 over the past 24 hours .
In other countries , where many people have contracted the virus , the fatality rate is markedly higher .
Even in Germany , which is considered to be an example to follow in the fight against the pandemic , it is 3.2 % .

According to the anti-coronavirus crisis center, another 5,236 cases have been recorded in Russia (compared to 5,642 confirmed on Tuesday). The growth was 9.9%, the lowest figure since March 15.
MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. More than 500 coronavirus patients have been discharged from hospitals in Russia over the past day for the first time since the outbreak in the country began.
The total number of infected people has reached 57,999, with almost 40 infections per 100,000 people. Russia ranks 24th in that number among 30 countries where the largest number of infections was reported.
To date, more than 2.25 mln coronavirus tests have been conducted throughout the country. The proportion of patients who have tested positive for the virus has reached 2.58%.
Record number of recoveries
Another 547 coronavirus patients have recovered in Russia over the past day (with the previous record being 467). A total of 4,420 people have been discharged from hospitals (7.6% of all infected individuals).
Moscow accounts for slightly over one half of those who have recovered (2,267). More than 200 people have been discharged from hospitals in the Russian capital for a second day in a row.
Meanwhile, the number of fatalities has risen by 57 reaching 513 over the past 24 hours. In other countries, where many people have contracted the virus, the fatality rate is markedly higher. Even in Germany, which is considered to be an example to follow in the fight against the pandemic, it is 3.2%.


tass--2020-04-22--Coronavirus cases in Czech Republic surpass 7,000

PRAGUE , April 22 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus cases in the Czech Republic since the beginning of March amounted to 7,033 on Wednesday .
According to the country ’ s Ministry of Health , 133 new cases of infection have been registered over the past 24 hours .
Meanwhile , 201 residents of the country died from the complications associated with the virus , while 1,753 people recovered .
Since March 1 , 178,617 citizens were tested for coronavirus .
A state of emergency was introduced in the Czech Republic on March 12 , and a national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 16 .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 2,500,000 people have been infected worldwide and more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In addition , so far , over 696,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .
To date , a total of 57,999 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 4,420 patients having recovered from the virus .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 513 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

PRAGUE, April 22. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus cases in the Czech Republic since the beginning of March amounted to 7,033 on Wednesday. According to the country’s Ministry of Health, 133 new cases of infection have been registered over the past 24 hours.
Meanwhile, 201 residents of the country died from the complications associated with the virus, while 1,753 people recovered. Since March 1, 178,617 citizens were tested for coronavirus.
A state of emergency was introduced in the Czech Republic on March 12, and a national quarantine has been in effect since March 16.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 2,500,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 177,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 696,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.
To date, a total of 57,999 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 4,420 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 513 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.