tass--2020-08-14--Russian Su-27 fighter scrambled to intercept US spy planes over Black Sea

MOSCOW , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
A Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jet was scrambled to intercept a US Air Force RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft and a US Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol plane over the Black Sea , Russia ’ s National Defense Control Center reported on Friday .
Russian airspace control systems detected two air targets over the neutral waters of the Black Sea approaching Russia ’ s state border on August 14 , the Center said .
`` A Su-27 fighter plane from the Southern Military District ’ s air defense quick reaction alert forces was scrambled to identify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s crew consistently approached the air objects at a safe distance and identified them as a US Air Force RC-135 reconnaissance plane and a US Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft , '' the National Defense Control Center said .
After the US spy planes moved away from Russia ’ s state border , the Russian fighter safely returned to its home airfield , it said .
`` The entire flight of the Su-27 fighter proceeded in strict compliance with the international rules of using the airspace .
No violations of the Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed , '' the National Defense Control Center stressed .

MOSCOW, August 14. /TASS/. A Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jet was scrambled to intercept a US Air Force RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft and a US Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol plane over the Black Sea, Russia’s National Defense Control Center reported on Friday.
Russian airspace control systems detected two air targets over the neutral waters of the Black Sea approaching Russia’s state border on August 14, the Center said.
"A Su-27 fighter plane from the Southern Military District’s air defense quick reaction alert forces was scrambled to identify the targets. The Russian fighter’s crew consistently approached the air objects at a safe distance and identified them as a US Air Force RC-135 reconnaissance plane and a US Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft," the National Defense Control Center said.
After the US spy planes moved away from Russia’s state border, the Russian fighter safely returned to its home airfield, it said.
"The entire flight of the Su-27 fighter proceeded in strict compliance with the international rules of using the airspace. No violations of the Russian state border by the US aircraft were allowed," the National Defense Control Center stressed.


tass--2020-08-14--Head of Belarusian Orthodox Church urges Lukashenko to stop violence

MINSK , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus , Metropolitan Pavel of Minsk and Zaslavl , has called on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to stop violence in the country and wished people peace in their hearts .
Earlier on Friday , Metropolitan Pavel took part in the ceremony of laying a capsule in the foundation of the Church of St. Seraphim of Sarov in Minsk .
`` He urged the Belarusian authorities , President Alexander Grigorievich Lukashenko to do that [ stop violence - TASS ] , '' Chairman of the Synodal Information Department of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , told TASS on Friday .
`` I ask Alexander Grigorievich Lukashenko < … > to do his utmost to stop violence .
I think this can be done .
At the same time I urge our citizens not to incite [ protests ] .
I urge them to pray , '' the tut.by website quotes the head of the Belarusian Orthodox Church as saying .
`` Violence has no place in our lives .
< … > The most important thing is to ensure that peace reigns in the heart of every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belarus held the presidential election on August 9 .
According to the final data of the Central Election Commission , incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won 80.1 % of the vote .
His key rival Svetlana Tikhanovskaya garnered 10.12 % of the vote .
After the results of exit polls were announced late on August 9 , mass protests flared up in downtown Minsk and other cities , which spiraled into clashes with the police .
More protests followed in the next few days .
According to the Interior Ministry , several thousand people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonstrators were injured .

MINSK, August 14. /TASS/. Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, Metropolitan Pavel of Minsk and Zaslavl, has called on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to stop violence in the country and wished people peace in their hearts.
Earlier on Friday, Metropolitan Pavel took part in the ceremony of laying a capsule in the foundation of the Church of St. Seraphim of Sarov in Minsk.
"He urged the Belarusian authorities, President Alexander Grigorievich Lukashenko to do that [stop violence - TASS]," Chairman of the Synodal Information Department of the Belarusian Orthodox Church, Archpriest Sergiy Lepin, told TASS on Friday.
"I ask Alexander Grigorievich Lukashenko <…> to do his utmost to stop violence. I think this can be done. At the same time I urge our citizens not to incite [protests]. I urge them to pray," the tut.by website quotes the head of the Belarusian Orthodox Church as saying.
"Violence has no place in our lives. <…> The most important thing is to ensure that peace reigns in the heart of every person," the metropolitan said.
Belarus held the presidential election on August 9. According to the final data of the Central Election Commission, incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won 80.1% of the vote. His key rival Svetlana Tikhanovskaya garnered 10.12% of the vote.
After the results of exit polls were announced late on August 9, mass protests flared up in downtown Minsk and other cities, which spiraled into clashes with the police. More protests followed in the next few days. According to the Interior Ministry, several thousand people were detained. Dozens of police and demonstrators were injured.


tass--2020-08-14--Tikhanovskaya’s team does not recognize Lukashenko’s victory in Belarusian election

MINSK , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
The campaign office of Belarusian presidential candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya does not recognize the victory of incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko in the election held on August 9 , Tikhanovskaya ’ s spokesperson Anna Krasulina told TASS on Friday .
`` The fact the data is official does not mean that it reflects the real situation and the choice of the people .
They ( the Belarusian government - TASS ) still do not understand that the situation has changed radically .
The announcement of the official results does not affect our further actions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Tikhanovskaya said in a video address that she had received 60-70 % , and in some cases up to 90 % of the vote at the polling stations where the ballots were counted fairly .
She said that in her opinion , the majority of the nation does not believe the official results .
She stressed the importance of human life , condemning violence .
Belarus held a presidential election on August 9 .
According to the final results provided by the Belarusian Central Election Commission on August 14 , incumbent President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the vote .
Svetlana Tikhanovskaya , who was considered his main opponent , came in second with 10.12 % .
After exit poll results were announced in the evening of August 9 , protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other regions of the country , leading to clashes between protesters and the law enforcement .
The protests continued over the following days .
As a result , several thousand people were detained while dozens of police officers and protesters were injured .

MINSK, August 14. /TASS/. The campaign office of Belarusian presidential candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya does not recognize the victory of incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko in the election held on August 9, Tikhanovskaya’s spokesperson Anna Krasulina told TASS on Friday.
"The fact the data is official does not mean that it reflects the real situation and the choice of the people. They (the Belarusian government - TASS) still do not understand that the situation has changed radically. The announcement of the official results does not affect our further actions," Krasulina said.
Earlier on Thursday, Tikhanovskaya said in a video address that she had received 60-70%, and in some cases up to 90% of the vote at the polling stations where the ballots were counted fairly. She said that in her opinion, the majority of the nation does not believe the official results. She stressed the importance of human life, condemning violence.
Belarus held a presidential election on August 9. According to the final results provided by the Belarusian Central Election Commission on August 14, incumbent President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko got 80.10% of the vote. Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who was considered his main opponent, came in second with 10.12%.
After exit poll results were announced in the evening of August 9, protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other regions of the country, leading to clashes between protesters and the law enforcement. The protests continued over the following days. As a result, several thousand people were detained while dozens of police officers and protesters were injured.


tass--2020-08-14--Vietnam to purchase Russian COVID-19 vaccine

HANOI , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Vietnam ’ s Ministry of Health has applied for the purchase of the @ @ @ @ @ Minister of Health Nguyen Thanh Long said on Friday at a meeting of the National @ @ @ @ @ and Control .
According to the acting minister , Vietnam plans to order from 50 @ @ @ @ @ the vaccine from Russia .
There is no information on the dates for the delivery @ @ @ @ @ the meeting also noted that Vietnam continued to develop its own COVID-19 vaccine .
Two @ @ @ @ @ local companies will be sent to the United States for clinical trials soon .
On @ @ @ @ @ the world ’ s first COVID-19 vaccine named Sputnik V. The vaccine was developed by @ @ @ @ @ for Epidemiology and Microbiology , and its clinical trials were successfully completed in June-July .
@ @ @ @ @ on the platform , which is the basis for Russia ’ s coronavirus vaccine .

HANOI, August 14. /TASS/. Vietnam’s Ministry of Health has applied for the purchase of the Russian-made coronavirus vaccine, Acting Minister of Health Nguyen Thanh Long said on Friday at a meeting of the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control.
According to the acting minister, Vietnam plans to order from 50 to 150 million doses of the vaccine from Russia. There is no information on the dates for the delivery yet.
The participants in the meeting also noted that Vietnam continued to develop its own COVID-19 vaccine. Two of its prototypes created by local companies will be sent to the United States for clinical trials soon.
On August 11, Russia registered the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine named Sputnik V. The vaccine was developed by the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology, and its clinical trials were successfully completed in June-July. Some other drugs were created on the platform, which is the basis for Russia’s coronavirus vaccine.


tass--2020-08-14--Election results confirmed, Lukashenko elected president

EU should introduce new sanctions against Belarus , head of European Commission says MINSK , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
@ @ @ @ @ won the presidential election on August 9 , the announcement was made via the Central @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The commission ’ s decision approved the results of the election .
Alexander @ @ @ @ @ the Republic of Belarus , '' the statement runs .
According to the commission , @ @ @ @ @ the votes , while Svetlana Tikhanovskaya , his key rival , secured 10.12 % .

EU should introduce new sanctions against Belarus, head of European Commission says
MINSK, August 14. /TASS/. Incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko has won the presidential election on August 9, the announcement was made via the Central Election Commission’s website.
"The commission’s decision approved the results of the election. Alexander Lukashenko is elected president of the Republic of Belarus," the statement runs.
According to the commission, Lukashneko got 80.1% of the votes, while Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, his key rival, secured 10.12%.


tass--2020-08-14--EU should introduce new sanctions against Belarus, head of European Commission says

Foreign ministers of the EU states will conduct an unscheduled video conference on Friday on the situation in Belarus where protest rallies after the August 9 presidential election continue BRUSSELS , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
The European Union should introduce sanctions against those who `` violated democratic values '' in Belarus , President of the European Commission ( EC ) Ursula von der Leyen stated on Friday .
`` We need additional sanctions against those who violated democratic values or abused human rights in Belarus , '' she wrote on her Twitter page .
We need additional sanctions against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ human rights in # Belarus .
I am confident today ’ s EU Foreign Ministers ’ discussion will demonstrate our strong support for the rights of the people in Belarus to fundamental freedoms & democracy .
— Ursula von der Leyen ( @ vonderleyen ) August 14 , 2020 The head of the EC expressed confidence that the emergency meeting of the EU council scheduled for Friday `` will demonstrate our strong support for the rights of the people in Belarus to fundamental freedoms & democracy . ''
Foreign ministers of the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Friday on the situation in Belarus where protest rallies after the August 9 presidential election continue .
During the conference , they will exchange opinions on the possible EU actions , including the introduction of sanctions against Belarus and possible activation of the support for the opposition .
So far they haven ’ t achieved consensus .
They may return to the issue of sanctions at the next scheduled meeting of the EU top diplomats on August 27-28 in Berlin .
The presidential election was held in Belarus on August 9 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ show incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko securing his reelection with 80.08 % of the vote , while his main rival Svetlana Tikhanovskaya received 10.09 % .
After exit poll results were announced in the evening of August 9 , mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other regions of the country , leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement forces .
Since Sunday , residents have been taking to the streets in the evenings .
As a result , according to the republic ’ s Interior Ministry , over 6,000 people were detained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injured .

Foreign ministers of the EU states will conduct an unscheduled video conference on Friday on the situation in Belarus where protest rallies after the August 9 presidential election continue
BRUSSELS, August 14. /TASS/. The European Union should introduce sanctions against those who "violated democratic values" in Belarus, President of the European Commission (EC) Ursula von der Leyen stated on Friday. "We need additional sanctions against those who violated democratic values or abused human rights in Belarus," she wrote on her Twitter page.
We need additional sanctions against those who violated democratic values or abused human rights in #Belarus.
I am confident today’s EU Foreign Ministers’ discussion will demonstrate our strong support for the rights of the people in Belarus to fundamental freedoms & democracy. — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) August 14, 2020
The head of the EC expressed confidence that the emergency meeting of the EU council scheduled for Friday "will demonstrate our strong support for the rights of the people in Belarus to fundamental freedoms & democracy."
Read also Baltic countries, Poland ready to broker settlement in Belarus
Foreign ministers of the EU states will conduct an unscheduled video conference on Friday on the situation in Belarus where protest rallies after the August 9 presidential election continue. During the conference, they will exchange opinions on the possible EU actions, including the introduction of sanctions against Belarus and possible activation of the support for the opposition. So far they haven’t achieved consensus. They may return to the issue of sanctions at the next scheduled meeting of the EU top diplomats on August 27-28 in Berlin.
Read also Possible EU sanctions against Belarus should target individuals — top Lithuanian diplomat


tass--2020-08-14--Russian diplomat detained in Czech Republic in June

PRAGUE , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
A Russian diplomat was detained by the Czech police in June of this @ @ @ @ @ , the Czech Radio informed on Friday .
The diplomat was detained in the town @ @ @ @ @ Police claim that he was illegally purchasing bullets for a sniper rifle and other ammunition @ @ @ @ @ that he had diplomatic immunity , the diplomat was released .
According to the radio @ @ @ @ @ employed at the department of the Russian Embassy ’ s military attache .
Soon after @ @ @ @ @ left the Czech Republic .
TASS has not received a comment from the Russian Embassy @ @ @ @ @ far .

PRAGUE, August 14. /TASS/. A Russian diplomat was detained by the Czech police in June of this year for illegally buying ammunition, the Czech Radio informed on Friday.
The diplomat was detained in the town of Ricany near Prague. Police claim that he was illegally purchasing bullets for a sniper rifle and other ammunition. Due to the fact that he had diplomatic immunity, the diplomat was released.
According to the radio, the detained person was employed at the department of the Russian Embassy’s military attache. Soon after the incident, the diplomat left the Czech Republic.
TASS has not received a comment from the Russian Embassy in the Czech Republic so far.


tass--2020-08-14--Number of casualties in Beirut blast increases to 178

BEIRUT , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
At least 178 people have been killed as a result of the explosion @ @ @ @ @ , Al Arabiya TV channel reported on Friday citing the UN sources in Beirut .
@ @ @ @ @ , no less than 30 people remain missing .
Earlier , 171 casualties and about @ @ @ @ @ A powerful blast at a warehouse rocked the Beirut seaport area on August 4 , @ @ @ @ @ neighborhoods of the Lebanese capital .
According to chairman of the Lebanese contractors syndicate Maroun @ @ @ @ @ and damaged about 40,000 buildings and 200,000 apartments with over 300,000 people left homeless .
@ @ @ @ @ Interior Ministry , a fire was started by welding work and caused the detonation of @ @ @ @ @ ammonium nitrate , which had been stored in the port for six years after being @ @ @ @ @ .
Insurance companies currently estimate the damage as $ 3 bln .

BEIRUT, August 14. /TASS/. At least 178 people have been killed as a result of the explosion in the Beirut port district, Al Arabiya TV channel reported on Friday citing the UN sources in Beirut.
According to the TV channel, no less than 30 people remain missing.
Earlier, 171 casualties and about 6,000 injured were reported.
A powerful blast at a warehouse rocked the Beirut seaport area on August 4, sending a shockwave through residential neighborhoods of the Lebanese capital. According to chairman of the Lebanese contractors syndicate Maroun Helou, the shockwave destroyed and damaged about 40,000 buildings and 200,000 apartments with over 300,000 people left homeless. According to Lebanon’s Interior Ministry, a fire was started by welding work and caused the detonation of more than 2,700 tonnes of ammonium nitrate, which had been stored in the port for six years after being seized by the customs service. Insurance companies currently estimate the damage as $3 bln.


tass--2020-08-14--Belarusian opposition insists on new elections before September 15

MINSK , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Opposition in Belarus insists on conducting new elections in the country before September @ @ @ @ @ the headquarters of arrested unregistered presidential candidate Viktor Babariko said on Friday .
`` To @ @ @ @ @ September 15 with the participation of all alternative candidates under the observation of international organizations @ @ @ @ @ a new Central Election Committee , video surveillance , open vote count , '' the @ @ @ @ @ s headquarters also urged the authorities `` to cease immediately the use of physical force @ @ @ @ @ all political prisoners and detainees of the peaceful rallies and protests '' without trials , @ @ @ @ @ .

MINSK, August 14. /TASS/. Opposition in Belarus insists on conducting new elections in the country before September 15, the statement of the headquarters of arrested unregistered presidential candidate Viktor Babariko said on Friday.
"To announce new honest election before September 15 with the participation of all alternative candidates under the observation of international organizations with new election commissions, a new Central Election Committee, video surveillance, open vote count," the statement noted.
Babariko’s headquarters also urged the authorities "to cease immediately the use of physical force and detention, to release all political prisoners and detainees of the peaceful rallies and protests" without trials, fines, with damages recovered.


tass--2020-08-14--Russian defense firm develops new 9x19mm compact pistol

`` This compact model is smaller and lighter than the standard army handgun and can be used as a concealed carry weapon .
Its modular design allows replacing the grip without changing the main parts and using various-capacity magazines .
It is convenient , reliable and easy to handle , which is extremely important for operational units ’ personnel , '' the press office quoted TsNIITochMash CEO Albert Bakov as saying .
MOSCOW , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
The Central Research Institute of Precision Machine-Building ( TsNIITochMash , part of the state tech corporation Rostec ) demonstrated a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rounds and based on the latest 9x21mm Udav army handgun , the Rostec press office reported on Friday .
The new pistol is designated for the operational and concealed carry by the personnel of the Interior Ministry and the National Guard , the chief executive specified .
The new pistol has an accuracy firing range of up to 50 meters and can operate in temperatures ranging from minus 50 degrees to plus 50 degrees Celsius .
The handgun can fire 9x19mm pistol rounds standard for federal agencies and 9x19mm cartridges with steel-core bullets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold 15 or 18 rounds .
The weapon has a service life of at least 10,000 shots .
TsNIITochMash is working on the Poloz new pistol as part of the experimental design work launched on its own initiative .
The new handgun will be unveiled to the public at the Army-2020 international military and technical forum both on the institute ’ s display stand in the Rostec demonstration center and in the dynamic show at the shooting range of the Patriot multifunctional firing center .
Rostec announced on August 5 that TsNIITochMash had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the latest 9x21mm Udav self-loading pistol .
The Udav has an effective firing range of 100 meters .
The pistol is capable of piercing individual armor vests ( including fabric vests ) and Type II helmets at a distance of up to 75 meters .
The Udav can operate within a temperature range of minus 50 degrees to plus 50 degrees Celsius .
The pistol weighs just 780 g with its magazine ( without rounds ) and is 206mm long and 145mm high .
The magazine ’ s capacity is 18 9x21mm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life of 10,000 shots .

"This compact model is smaller and lighter than the standard army handgun and can be used as a concealed carry weapon. Its modular design allows replacing the grip without changing the main parts and using various-capacity magazines. It is convenient, reliable and easy to handle, which is extremely important for operational units’ personnel," the press office quoted TsNIITochMash CEO Albert Bakov as saying.
MOSCOW, August 14. /TASS/. The Central Research Institute of Precision Machine-Building (TsNIITochMash, part of the state tech corporation Rostec) demonstrated a new Poloz self-loading compact pistol chambered for 9x19mm rounds and based on the latest 9x21mm Udav army handgun, the Rostec press office reported on Friday.
The new pistol is designated for the operational and concealed carry by the personnel of the Interior Ministry and the National Guard, the chief executive specified.
The new pistol has an accuracy firing range of up to 50 meters and can operate in temperatures ranging from minus 50 degrees to plus 50 degrees Celsius. The handgun can fire 9x19mm pistol rounds standard for federal agencies and 9x19mm cartridges with steel-core bullets. The pistol’s magazine can hold 15 or 18 rounds. The weapon has a service life of at least 10,000 shots.
TsNIITochMash is working on the Poloz new pistol as part of the experimental design work launched on its own initiative. The new handgun will be unveiled to the public at the Army-2020 international military and technical forum both on the institute’s display stand in the Rostec demonstration center and in the dynamic show at the shooting range of the Patriot multifunctional firing center.
Rostec announced on August 5 that TsNIITochMash had launched the production of the first batch of the latest 9x21mm Udav self-loading pistol.
The Udav has an effective firing range of 100 meters. The pistol is capable of piercing individual armor vests (including fabric vests) and Type II helmets at a distance of up to 75 meters.
The Udav can operate within a temperature range of minus 50 degrees to plus 50 degrees Celsius. The pistol weighs just 780 g with its magazine (without rounds) and is 206mm long and 145mm high. The magazine’s capacity is 18 9x21mm rounds. It has a guaranteed service life of 10,000 shots.


tass--2020-08-14--Press review: Belarus sanctions may hit Moscow and Europe chooses LNG over Russian gas

Protests in Belarus will result in losses for Russia if Moscow officially supports Minsk and shares the burden of Western sanctions with it , or even if Russia completely withdraws from the situation , Nezavisimaya Gazeta writes .
In any case , it seems that Moscow will have to forget about the timely repayment of Minsk ’ s debt to Russia in the amount of almost $ 8 bln .
Experts interviewed by the newspaper believe that Moscow would have to help Minsk with the repayment of other foreign loans for another $ 10 bln .
And if ties are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ally worth some $ 9-10 bln of investment per year .
In the first hypothetical scenario , with Moscow officially and openly supporting Minsk , Moscow would directly or indirectly assume the sanctions burden of Minsk , the newspaper writes .
`` It is obvious that now there are very serious risks of restricting access to borrowed capital .
To repay foreign currency debts , Belarus needs to borrow , and if sanctions follow , the list of possible lenders would shrink to the minimum , '' Chief analyst at Alor Broker Aleksey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scenario is that Moscow completely withdraws from the events in Minsk , allowing the situation take its course .
According to the most conservative estimates , Russia 's instant losses would exceed $ 20 bln .
`` Our countries are carrying out many joint projects in the field of geological exploration and nature management , medicine , space industry , energy , agriculture , industry , science , '' Associate professor of Plekhanov Russian University of Economics Diana Stepanova said .
According to the expert , Belarus may begin to take an increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or refuse to fulfill its financial obligations to Russia .
`` Russia runs the risk of losing virtually the only remaining land transport artery with Europe , '' Stepanova added .
Although there are other assessments in the expert community .
`` Events in Belarus by themselves do not have a serious impact on the Russian economy due to the small size of the Belarusian economy compared to Russia ’ s , '' Associate professor at the Russian Academy of National Economy and Civil Service Sergey Khestanov told the newspaper .
He noted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Russia could also increase , but this will mainly depend on the outcome of the political struggle in the United States . ''
Nezavisimaya Gazeta : A US-Chinese tech war could be a win for Russia The confrontation between the United States and China is spilling into an increasing number of sectors and industries .
From trade contradictions , the conflict has spread to the technology sector and mutual ideological claims .
According to Nezavisimaya Gazeta , direct financial constraints should be expected next .
Experts told the newspaper that the current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ war between the two countries , which will have negative consequences for the entire global economy , including Russia .
It is impossible to predict the further development of relations between the United States and China , professor of the Department of Oriental Studies at MGIMO Alexey Voskresensky told the newspaper .
However , now that the two largest economic superpowers are `` separating , '' the confrontation between them could lead to a cold war , he said .
At the same time , Russia can also get its benefits from this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newspaper .
`` The planned US sanctions for activities with Chinese IT companies , including Huawei and ZTE , can help Russian manufacturers in terms of competition , '' Director of the information technology department at CROC IT company Maria Ukolova said .
Potential difficulties for Chinese manufacturers will help Russian products be more competitive , she added .
Russian scientists and engineers would benefit from the technological war between the United States and China , which gives them the opportunity to stay in the country and work in the field of high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The Russian market is not as big as the American , but it is still attractive .
This is a plus for those who use equipment made in China , although from the point of view of developing their own technologies it creates a certain obstacle - why make your own , if there is an inexpensive alternative from large manufacturers , '' the expert told the newspaper .
Kommersant : Israel signs first diplomatic agreement with an Arabic state in 26 years Israel and the United Arab Emirates have reached @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement that was negotiated with the mediation of the United States .
Israel agreed to suspend its plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank .
According to experts interviewed by Kommersant , the deal might be controversial , but it could bring major political gains to all parties - especially to Trump right before the elections .
According to the document , in the coming days the delegations of the two countries will meet in order to sign bilateral agreements in various fields - from security and economy to tourism .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ - the US included - share similar views on security threats in the region .
The reaction of Israelis and Arabs to the agreement is ambiguous , the newspaper writes .
However , `` Most Israelis , like many citizens of Arab countries , will perceive this step as progress , '' expert at the Interdisciplinary Center in Herzliya Ksenia Svetlova told Kommersant .
She recalled that Israel and the UAE had been moving towards this agreement for decades , but the regional agenda hindered its conclusion .
`` Now the Gulf countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including those for the sake of confronting Iran .
The Palestinian topic , which was used to unite the Arabs , faded into the background , '' the expert noted .
She added that the agreement with the UAE is a victory for Benjamin Netanyahu , which will be a significant bonus in his struggle for power , even in the event of the next early elections .
President Trump also received an election bonus - peace between Israel and the Palestinians remained almost his only unfulfilled pre-election promise .
`` Despite the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the century ' , Trump will certainly present his Middle East policy as successful to his supporters and donors , '' Senior researcher at MGIMO Maxim Suchkov told Kommersant .
In the first half of the year , Gazprom curbed its gas sales to Europe much faster than most of its competitors .
The company reduced its exports to non-CIS countries by 18 % , while market demand fell by only 6.5 % due to the coronavirus and a warm winter , Kommersant writes .
Germany , Gazprom 's largest customer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost exclusively from Russia .
By contrast , LNG suppliers - Qatar and the United States - have gradually increased their share in the European market .
Analysts told the newspaper that in the second half of the year Gazprom would be able to partially restore supplies , but tough competition with LNG would not go away .
In January-June , Gazprom cut gas exports to Europe by 18 % to 78.9 billion cubic meters ( bcm ) .
In the main sales market - in Western Europe - supplies fell by 17 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same time , exports to Germany , the largest market for Russian gas , fell by 25 % to 20.1 blm , to Italy - by 14.6 % to 9.9 bcm .
The worst dynamics was shown by Turkey - exports to this country , where Gazprom has specially built the direct gas pipeline TurkStream , collapsed by 41 % to 4.7 bcm , Kommersant writes .
According to experts , the situation could be more favorable for Gazprom the second half of the year .
So far , however , supplies in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , starting from Q4 , support for Gazprom 's supplies may be provided by prices under old contracts with oil product price adjustment , gas analyst at the Skolkovo Energy Center of the Moscow School of Management Sergey Kapitonov told the newspaper .
`` A lot will depend on the marketing strategy in Turkey , where the supply situation has become catastrophic , '' Kapitonov added .
In his opinion , although the second half of the year may turn out to be somewhat easier for Gazprom from the point of view of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less fierce - if gas prices in Europe rise , then LNG producers will also increase supplies to Europe .
Izvestia : Russia ’ s business borrows more amid threat of second COVID wave In April-June , small and medium-sized businesses in Russia took out loans for 699.5 bln rubles ( $ 9.59 bln ) , which is 26 % more than a year earlier , Izvestia writes citing the data of the United Credit Bureau , SPARK , and Frank Research Group .
At the same time , contrary to expectations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ micro and small companies were able to improve payment discipline , as well as attract new loans at preferential rates .
A slight deterioration in the quality of the portfolio occurred in medium-sized businesses .
Experts told the newspaper that future will largely depend on the epidemiological situation .
Alfa Bank told Izvestia that business recovery after a period of restrictions is indeed happening faster than anticipated , and the worst expectations were not met .
This was evidenced by the growing trend of clients leaving credit holidays for the standard repayment schedule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recover in the second half of 2020 , then there will be no significant growth in delinquencies and restructuring on SME loans , managing director of the corporate ratings group at NKR agency Dmitry Orekhov told the newspaper .
If the second wave of the pandemic comes in the next months , banks would not be able to avoid deterioration in the quality of the loan portfolio of small and medium-sized businesses , he summed up .
The Bank of Russia told Izvestia that forecasts for further lending to SMEs depend on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half of the year .
If there are no new restrictive measures , many companies will cope with a temporary period of declining revenues and gradually return to normal levels of operation .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews

Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Western sanctions against Belarus might hit Russia Protests in Belarus will result in losses for Russia if Moscow officially supports Minsk and shares the burden of Western sanctions with it, or even if Russia completely withdraws from the situation, Nezavisimaya Gazeta writes. In any case, it seems that Moscow will have to forget about the timely repayment of Minsk’s debt to Russia in the amount of almost $8 bln. Experts interviewed by the newspaper believe that Moscow would have to help Minsk with the repayment of other foreign loans for another $10 bln. And if ties are severed, then Russia will lose an ally worth some $9-10 bln of investment per year.
Read also Authorities start releasing people detained in Belarusian protests
In the first hypothetical scenario, with Moscow officially and openly supporting Minsk, Moscow would directly or indirectly assume the sanctions burden of Minsk, the newspaper writes. "It is obvious that now there are very serious risks of restricting access to borrowed capital. To repay foreign currency debts, Belarus needs to borrow, and if sanctions follow, the list of possible lenders would shrink to the minimum," Chief analyst at Alor Broker Aleksey Antonov told Nezavisimaya Gazeta. The second scenario is that Moscow completely withdraws from the events in Minsk, allowing the situation take its course. According to the most conservative estimates, Russia's instant losses would exceed $20 bln. "Our countries are carrying out many joint projects in the field of geological exploration and nature management, medicine, space industry, energy, agriculture, industry, science," Associate professor of Plekhanov Russian University of Economics Diana Stepanova said. According to the expert, Belarus may begin to take an increased fee for the transit of Russian goods or refuse to fulfill its financial obligations to Russia. "Russia runs the risk of losing virtually the only remaining land transport artery with Europe," Stepanova added. Although there are other assessments in the expert community. "Events in Belarus by themselves do not have a serious impact on the Russian economy due to the small size of the Belarusian economy compared to Russia’s," Associate professor at the Russian Academy of National Economy and Civil Service Sergey Khestanov told the newspaper. He noted that "in theory, sanctions pressure on Russia could also increase, but this will mainly depend on the outcome of the political struggle in the United States." Nezavisimaya Gazeta: A US-Chinese tech war could be a win for Russia The confrontation between the United States and China is spilling into an increasing number of sectors and industries. From trade contradictions, the conflict has spread to the technology sector and mutual ideological claims. According to Nezavisimaya Gazeta, direct financial constraints should be expected next. Experts told the newspaper that the current confrontation could lead to a full-fledged cold war between the two countries, which will have negative consequences for the entire global economy, including Russia.
Read also China says demand to sell TikTok to US company is political pressure
It is impossible to predict the further development of relations between the United States and China, professor of the Department of Oriental Studies at MGIMO Alexey Voskresensky told the newspaper. However, now that the two largest economic superpowers are "separating," the confrontation between them could lead to a cold war, he said. At the same time, Russia can also get its benefits from this "war", experts told the newspaper. "The planned US sanctions for activities with Chinese IT companies, including Huawei and ZTE, can help Russian manufacturers in terms of competition," Director of the information technology department at CROC IT company Maria Ukolova said. Potential difficulties for Chinese manufacturers will help Russian products be more competitive, she added. Russian scientists and engineers would benefit from the technological war between the United States and China, which gives them the opportunity to stay in the country and work in the field of high technologies, Finam analyst Leonid Delitsyn agrees. "The Russian market is not as big as the American, but it is still attractive. This is a plus for those who use equipment made in China, although from the point of view of developing their own technologies it creates a certain obstacle - why make your own, if there is an inexpensive alternative from large manufacturers," the expert told the newspaper. Kommersant: Israel signs first diplomatic agreement with an Arabic state in 26 years Israel and the United Arab Emirates have reached a deal to normalize relations with the agreement that was negotiated with the mediation of the United States. Israel agreed to suspend its plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank. According to experts interviewed by Kommersant, the deal might be controversial, but it could bring major political gains to all parties - especially to Trump right before the elections. According to the document, in the coming days the delegations of the two countries will meet in order to sign bilateral agreements in various fields - from security and economy to tourism. It was noted that the three countries - the US included - share similar views on security threats in the region.
The reaction of Israelis and Arabs to the agreement is ambiguous, the newspaper writes. However, "Most Israelis, like many citizens of Arab countries, will perceive this step as progress," expert at the Interdisciplinary Center in Herzliya Ksenia Svetlova told Kommersant. She recalled that Israel and the UAE had been moving towards this agreement for decades, but the regional agenda hindered its conclusion. "Now the Gulf countries see benefits in relations with Israel, including those for the sake of confronting Iran. The Palestinian topic, which was used to unite the Arabs, faded into the background," the expert noted. She added that the agreement with the UAE is a victory for Benjamin Netanyahu, which will be a significant bonus in his struggle for power, even in the event of the next early elections. President Trump also received an election bonus - peace between Israel and the Palestinians remained almost his only unfulfilled pre-election promise. "Despite the lack of tangible progress on the 'deal of the century', Trump will certainly present his Middle East policy as successful to his supporters and donors," Senior researcher at MGIMO Maxim Suchkov told Kommersant. Kommersant: European consumers choose LNG over Russian gas In the first half of the year, Gazprom curbed its gas sales to Europe much faster than most of its competitors. The company reduced its exports to non-CIS countries by 18%, while market demand fell by only 6.5% due to the coronavirus and a warm winter, Kommersant writes. Germany, Gazprom's largest customer, has cut gas purchases that it got almost exclusively from Russia. By contrast, LNG suppliers - Qatar and the United States - have gradually increased their share in the European market. Analysts told the newspaper that in the second half of the year Gazprom would be able to partially restore supplies, but tough competition with LNG would not go away.
Read also Gazprom signs contract with Mytilineos to supply gas to Greece until 2030
In January-June, Gazprom cut gas exports to Europe by 18% to 78.9 billion cubic meters (bcm). In the main sales market - in Western Europe - supplies fell by 17% to 60 bcm. At the same time, exports to Germany, the largest market for Russian gas, fell by 25% to 20.1 blm, to Italy - by 14.6% to 9.9 bcm. The worst dynamics was shown by Turkey - exports to this country, where Gazprom has specially built the direct gas pipeline TurkStream, collapsed by 41% to 4.7 bcm, Kommersant writes. According to experts, the situation could be more favorable for Gazprom the second half of the year. So far, however, supplies in July-August continue to fall drastically. However, starting from Q4, support for Gazprom's supplies may be provided by prices under old contracts with oil product price adjustment, gas analyst at the Skolkovo Energy Center of the Moscow School of Management Sergey Kapitonov told the newspaper. "A lot will depend on the marketing strategy in Turkey, where the supply situation has become catastrophic," Kapitonov added. In his opinion, although the second half of the year may turn out to be somewhat easier for Gazprom from the point of view of economic factors, competition will not become less fierce - if gas prices in Europe rise, then LNG producers will also increase supplies to Europe. Izvestia: Russia’s business borrows more amid threat of second COVID wave In April-June, small and medium-sized businesses in Russia took out loans for 699.5 bln rubles ($9.59 bln), which is 26% more than a year earlier, Izvestia writes citing the data of the United Credit Bureau, SPARK, and Frank Research Group. At the same time, contrary to expectations, in the midst of the coronavirus, micro and small companies were able to improve payment discipline, as well as attract new loans at preferential rates. A slight deterioration in the quality of the portfolio occurred in medium-sized businesses. Experts told the newspaper that future will largely depend on the epidemiological situation.


tass--2020-08-14--Tikhanovskaya urges Belarusian authorities to stop violence, start dialogue

MINSK , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko ’ s rival in the August 9 election , @ @ @ @ @ the country for Lithuania on Tuesday , has published another video message in which she @ @ @ @ @ violence and enter into a dialogue with the people .
`` We should put an @ @ @ @ @ streets of Belarusian cities .
I urge the authorities to stop it and start a @ @ @ @ @ in a message uploaded to YouTube .

MINSK, August 14. /TASS/. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko’s rival in the August 9 election, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who left the country for Lithuania on Tuesday, has published another video message in which she urged the authorities to stop violence and enter into a dialogue with the people.
"We should put an end to violence on the streets of Belarusian cities. I urge the authorities to stop it and start a dialogue," she said in a message uploaded to YouTube.


tass--2020-08-14--Hainan officially launches international integrated system for investors

HAIKOU , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
The Hainan authorities have announced the official launch of an international integrated system for registering investors ' activities , reported the Hainan Daily .
Hainan 's system for investors is China 's first comprehensive investment service platform , test-launched last April .
This service integrates the administrative systems of a number of state bodies , in particular , those involved in attracting investment , market regulation and management , as well as economic development and reforms .
The integrated system provides foreign and Chinese investors with business consulting services , registration of enterprises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of construction and other support investors might need .
With the help of this integrated platform , entrepreneurs will be able to arrange 179 types of various services .
Thanks to the optimization of administrative work , the number of documents submitted by investors to the `` window '' will decrease by 55 % , and the time for consideration and approval of documents will be reduced by almost 70 % , the publication explains .
The minimum period for consideration of applications from businessmen is two working days .
The Hainan authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open , transparent and predictable investment climate in the province , as well as facilitate the activity of various market players , which will ultimately contribute to Hainan 's free trade port .
In April 2018 , President Xi Jinping said that the Chinese authorities intend to actively involve Hainan in globalization and to draw foreign investors to the island province .
By 2050 , according to the authorities , the island should become a unique international cluster with an advanced economy , developed tourism , top-notch scientific , technical and financial potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the best universities and offices of the most powerful corporations in the world will be located on the Island of Hainan .
By 2025 , the Chinese government intends to create an `` international center for tourism and consumption '' on Hainan .
In order to do so , the `` Eastern Hawaii '' with their unique natural landscapes , thick rainforests and great climate will establish a developed network of hotels , which blend perfectly with white sandy beaches stretching along the coastline .
The combination of an exotic subtropical nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tourist inflow to the island from the most distant parts of the world .

HAIKOU, August 14. /TASS/. The Hainan authorities have announced the official launch of an international integrated system for registering investors' activities, reported the Hainan Daily.
Hainan's system for investors is China's first comprehensive investment service platform, test-launched last April. This service integrates the administrative systems of a number of state bodies, in particular, those involved in attracting investment, market regulation and management, as well as economic development and reforms.
The integrated system provides foreign and Chinese investors with business consulting services, registration of enterprises, management of bank accounts, registration of construction and other support investors might need. With the help of this integrated platform, entrepreneurs will be able to arrange 179 types of various services. Thanks to the optimization of administrative work, the number of documents submitted by investors to the "window" will decrease by 55%, and the time for consideration and approval of documents will be reduced by almost 70%, the publication explains.
The minimum period for consideration of applications from businessmen is two working days.
The Hainan authorities believe the integrated system will create an open, transparent and predictable investment climate in the province, as well as facilitate the activity of various market players, which will ultimately contribute to Hainan's free trade port.
Hainan's free trade zone
In April 2018, President Xi Jinping said that the Chinese authorities intend to actively involve Hainan in globalization and to draw foreign investors to the island province. By 2050, according to the authorities, the island should become a unique international cluster with an advanced economy, developed tourism, top-notch scientific, technical and financial potential, and modern medicine. The branches of the best universities and offices of the most powerful corporations in the world will be located on the Island of Hainan.
By 2025, the Chinese government intends to create an "international center for tourism and consumption" on Hainan. In order to do so, the "Eastern Hawaii" with their unique natural landscapes, thick rainforests and great climate will establish a developed network of hotels, which blend perfectly with white sandy beaches stretching along the coastline. The combination of an exotic subtropical nature and a modern eco-friendly infrastructure will boost tourist inflow to the island from the most distant parts of the world.


tass--2020-08-14--Shanghai Electric Ranks 48th Most Valuable in China

SHANGHAI , Aug. 14 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On August 5th , Shanghai Electric Group Company Limited ( Shanghai Electric ) , the world 's leading manufacturer and supplier of electric power generation equipment , industrial equipment and integration services , was named the 48th most valuable Chinese brand in the World Brand Conference 's official 2020 `` China 's 500 Most Valuable Brands '' list .
This marks a more than 30 % increase in brand value from 2019 to 105.637 billion yuan and puts Shanghai Electric at the head of China 's energy industry .
With roots tracing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emerged in recent years as a powerhouse of industrial innovation both domestically and abroad .
Following a comprehensive three-phase strategy , the Group has seen remarkable growth and achieved a gross revenue increase of 26 % , with the profit attributable to shareholders of the parent company increasing by 24.83 % and new orders growing 30.6 % year-on-year .
All these are record highs for Shanghai Electric and signify the growing value of brand presence shaped around world-class innovation and quality industrial products .
Into the future , Shanghai Electric has identified developing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential to doing business across the globe .
With the aim to vitalize its overseas brand within the next 3-5 years , Shanghai Electric is committed to becoming an international first-class enterprise , dedicating resources for the social progress and development , open innovation and upholding EHS best-practices .
From participation in industry exhibition in Hannover , Germany , to meeting with prospective business partners at the World Energy Congress in Dubai , Shanghai Electric is looking to strengthen its cooperation with world-class organizations to make a positive change and address some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and concerns .
The environmental impact of large-scale electricity production is a regrettable consequence of societies .
Shanghai Electric , however , believes that even though a degree of disruption may be necessary , this damage can effectively be minimized through improved monitoring and management practices .
A major focus shift across the Group towards renewable sources of energy saw a record year-on-year revenue growth of 51 % from 2018 to 2019 , compared with only 8.4 % from thermal power during the same timeframe .
Pairing this focus on sustainability with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , environmental conscientiousness and 'green ' policies are at the forefront of Shanghai Electric 's brand pivot .
This is also evidenced by progress across its major internal initiative , 'SEC-LOVE ' .
Aimed at ensuring all departments are aligned with their green goals , a recorded over 80 % of all affiliated companies now satisfy the requirements of the ISO14001 Environmental Management System ( EMS ) standard .
'Made in China 2025 ' is the focus of China 's initiative to bring more high-quality products and services with cutting-edge innovation to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effort to refresh the 'Made in China ' image and make the positive impact on the communities where it operates - one of the Group 's major CSR goals and commitment to delivering world-class energy innovation .

SHANGHAI, Aug. 14, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On August 5th, Shanghai Electric Group Company Limited (Shanghai Electric), the world's leading manufacturer and supplier of electric power generation equipment, industrial equipment and integration services, was named the 48th most valuable Chinese brand in the World Brand Conference's official 2020 "China's 500 Most Valuable Brands" list. This marks a more than 30% increase in brand value from 2019 to 105.637 billion yuan and puts Shanghai Electric at the head of China's energy industry.
With roots tracing back to 1902, Shanghai Electric has emerged in recent years as a powerhouse of industrial innovation both domestically and abroad. Following a comprehensive three-phase strategy, the Group has seen remarkable growth and achieved a gross revenue increase of 26%, with the profit attributable to shareholders of the parent company increasing by 24.83% and new orders growing 30.6% year-on-year. All these are record highs for Shanghai Electric and signify the growing value of brand presence shaped around world-class innovation and quality industrial products.
Into the future, Shanghai Electric has identified developing a positive internationally recognizable brand as being essential to doing business across the globe. With the aim to vitalize its overseas brand within the next 3-5 years, Shanghai Electric is committed to becoming an international first-class enterprise, dedicating resources for the social progress and development, open innovation and upholding EHS best-practices. From participation in industry exhibition in Hannover, Germany, to meeting with prospective business partners at the World Energy Congress in Dubai, Shanghai Electric is looking to strengthen its cooperation with world-class organizations to make a positive change and address some of the world's most prominent energy-related challenges and concerns.
The environmental impact of large-scale electricity production is a regrettable consequence of societies. Shanghai Electric, however, believes that even though a degree of disruption may be necessary, this damage can effectively be minimized through improved monitoring and management practices. A major focus shift across the Group towards renewable sources of energy saw a record year-on-year revenue growth of 51% from 2018 to 2019, compared with only 8.4% from thermal power during the same timeframe. Pairing this focus on sustainability with a desire to build a positive international brand, environmental conscientiousness and 'green' policies are at the forefront of Shanghai Electric's brand pivot. This is also evidenced by progress across its major internal initiative, 'SEC-LOVE'. Aimed at ensuring all departments are aligned with their green goals, a recorded over 80% of all affiliated companies now satisfy the requirements of the ISO14001 Environmental Management System (EMS) standard.
'Made in China 2025' is the focus of China's initiative to bring more high-quality products and services with cutting-edge innovation to the world. Shanghai Electric is leading this effort to refresh the 'Made in China' image and make the positive impact on the communities where it operates - one of the Group's major CSR goals and commitment to delivering world-class energy innovation.


tass--2020-08-14--Belarusian president denies rumors he is abroad

MINSK , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said on Friday that he is `` alive and @ @ @ @ @ He was speaking at a meeting on the work of the construction industry .
`` @ @ @ @ @ am still alive and not abroad , as some ‘ well-informed ’ people here say @ @ @ @ @ left the country and is abroad.
’ Today , on August 14 , we are @ @ @ @ @ of the construction industry , '' BelTA news agency quotes him as saying .

MINSK, August 14. /TASS/. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said on Friday that he is "alive and is not abroad." He was speaking at a meeting on the work of the construction industry.
"To begin with, I am still alive and not abroad, as some ‘well-informed’ people here say - ‘the president has left the country and is abroad.’ Today, on August 14, we are meeting to discuss the work of the construction industry," BelTA news agency quotes him as saying.


tass--2020-08-14--Expedition team of Navy, Russian Geographic Society begins working on Novaya Zemlya

MOSCOW , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
A team of the complex expedition , involving the Northern Fleet , the Defense Ministry ’ s 12th Chief Department and the Russian Geographic Society , began working on the Novaya Zemlya , the Northern Fleet ’ s press service told reporters on Wednesday .
`` The Northern Fleet ’ s MB-12 sea tug has left the Belushya Bay of the Southern Island , the Novaya Zemlya archipelago , heading for the Matochkin Shar Strait , '' the press service said .
`` On board the vessel there are participants in another complex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jointly with the Defense Ministry ’ s 12th Chief Department and the Russian Geographic Society . ''
According to the press service , the team will work near islands of the Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the Kara Sea .
Experts will examine the coastline , register new geographic objects and conduct scientific , practical and historical studies .
In 2020 , the complex expedition consists of two teams .
The first team works onboard the Ilya Muromets icebreaker , which presently as a member of the Northern Fleet ’ s grouping heads for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and surveys in the Arctic seas along the Northern Sea Route .

MOSCOW, August 14. /TASS/. A team of the complex expedition, involving the Northern Fleet, the Defense Ministry’s 12th Chief Department and the Russian Geographic Society, began working on the Novaya Zemlya, the Northern Fleet’s press service told reporters on Wednesday.
"The Northern Fleet’s MB-12 sea tug has left the Belushya Bay of the Southern Island, the Novaya Zemlya archipelago, heading for the Matochkin Shar Strait," the press service said. "On board the vessel there are participants in another complex expedition, which the Northern Fleet organizes jointly with the Defense Ministry’s 12th Chief Department and the Russian Geographic Society."
According to the press service, the team will work near islands of the Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the Kara Sea. Experts will examine the coastline, register new geographic objects and conduct scientific, practical and historical studies.
In 2020, the complex expedition consists of two teams. The first team works onboard the Ilya Muromets icebreaker, which presently as a member of the Northern Fleet’s grouping heads for Dudinka. The expedition participants conduct studies and surveys in the Arctic seas along the Northern Sea Route.


tass--2020-08-14--Belarusian opposition leader urges to continue protests

MINSK , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
One of the leaders of the Belarusian opposition , politician Valery Tsepkalo , presidential candidate denied registration by the Central Election Committee , on Friday urged to continue protest rallies in the republic .
On the Telegram channel of the National Salvation Front that he founded , he proposed to join `` peaceful and mass protest rallies during the day , to avoid provocations . ''
His demands include the release of `` all political and economic prisoners , '' recognition of Svetlana Tikhanovskaya as the `` lawfully elected and legitimate president .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ interim government and conduct new presidential elections . ''
The presidential election was held in Belarus on August 9 .
According to the preliminary data of the Central Election Committee , incumbent president of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko got 80.08 % of the vote .
Svetlana Tikhanovskaya who was considered his main opponent , was second with 10.09 % .
After exit poll results were announced in the evening of August 9 , mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other regions of the country , leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the republic ’ s Interior Ministry , over 6,000 people were detained , dozens of policemen and protesters were injured .

MINSK, August 14. /TASS/. One of the leaders of the Belarusian opposition, politician Valery Tsepkalo, presidential candidate denied registration by the Central Election Committee, on Friday urged to continue protest rallies in the republic. On the Telegram channel of the National Salvation Front that he founded, he proposed to join "peaceful and mass protest rallies during the day, to avoid provocations."
His demands include the release of "all political and economic prisoners," recognition of Svetlana Tikhanovskaya as the "lawfully elected and legitimate president." He also urges to "designate interim government and conduct new presidential elections."
The presidential election was held in Belarus on August 9. According to the preliminary data of the Central Election Committee, incumbent president of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko got 80.08% of the vote. Svetlana Tikhanovskaya who was considered his main opponent, was second with 10.09%. After exit poll results were announced in the evening of August 9, mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other regions of the country, leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement forces. As a result, according to the republic’s Interior Ministry, over 6,000 people were detained, dozens of policemen and protesters were injured.


tass--2020-08-14--Russia reports 5,065 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours

MOSCOW , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Another 5,065 coronavirus cases were confirmed in Russia in the past 24 hours , the total number of infected people has reached 912,823 , the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Friday .
Data on Russian COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials to be published in the coming days According to its data , the daily growth rate does not exceed 0.6 % for thirteen days in a row .
The lowest daily growth rates were recorded in the Chukotka autonomous region ( 0.0 % ) , the Nenets autonomous region ( 0.0 % ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , the Moscow region ( 0.2 % ) , North Ossetia ( 0.2 % ) , Moscow ( 0.3 % ) , Tuva ( 0.3 % ) , Kabardino-Balkaria ( 0.3 % ) , Karachay-Cherkessia ( 0.3 % ) , the Trans-Baikal region ( 0.3 % ) and Chechnya ( 0.3 % ) .
Another 688 cases were recorded in Moscow , 159 in St. Petersburg , 156 in the Moscow region , 154 in the Sverdlovsk region and 130 in the Stavropol region .
A total of 174,361 coronavirus patients are @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, August 14. /TASS/. Another 5,065 coronavirus cases were confirmed in Russia in the past 24 hours, the total number of infected people has reached 912,823, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Friday.
Data on Russian COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials to be published in the coming days
According to its data, the daily growth rate does not exceed 0.6% for thirteen days in a row.
The lowest daily growth rates were recorded in the Chukotka autonomous region (0.0%), the Nenets autonomous region (0.0%), the Smolensk region (0.2%), the Moscow region (0.2%), North Ossetia (0.2%), Moscow (0.3%), Tuva (0.3%), Kabardino-Balkaria (0.3%), Karachay-Cherkessia (0.3%), the Trans-Baikal region (0.3%) and Chechnya (0.3%).
Another 688 cases were recorded in Moscow, 159 in St. Petersburg, 156 in the Moscow region, 154 in the Sverdlovsk region and 130 in the Stavropol region.
A total of 174,361 coronavirus patients are undergoing treatment in Russia.


tass--2020-08-14--More than 70 diplomats to discuss international trade cooperation on Hainan

HAIKOU , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
More than 70 diplomatic officials from 37 countries arrived on Hainan to discuss the prospects for enhancing international trade and economic cooperation , reporte the Hainan administration .
`` This is the largest simultaneous visit by foreign diplomats since our province was founded [ in 1988 — TASS ] , '' said Wang Sheng , head of the international relations department of the regional party committee as quoted by Hainan 's state website .
He specified that the event will run until August 15 and can be considered `` the first strategic symposium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beginning of June , when the General Program for the establishment of Hainan 's Free Trade Port was published .
As the official noted , representatives of all five continents are participating in this multilateral dialogue .
According to the event 's program , the guests will attend the ceremony of signing agreements on construction of big facilities .
They will also visit sites whwre companies operating in IT industry , cruise and medical tourism , modern services and advanced technologies are located .
`` The arrival of foreign diplomats demonstrates that Hainan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and more international attention , '' Wang Sheng said .
According to the official , Hainan will continue to expand its `` circle of foreign friends '' and will draw more and more global resources for the development of the region 's economy .

HAIKOU, August 14. /TASS/. More than 70 diplomatic officials from 37 countries arrived on Hainan to discuss the prospects for enhancing international trade and economic cooperation, reporte the Hainan administration.
"This is the largest simultaneous visit by foreign diplomats since our province was founded [in 1988 — TASS]," said Wang Sheng, head of the international relations department of the regional party committee as quoted by Hainan's state website.
He specified that the event will run until August 15 and can be considered "the first strategic symposium on important economic issues" since the beginning of June, when the General Program for the establishment of Hainan's Free Trade Port was published. As the official noted, representatives of all five continents are participating in this multilateral dialogue.
According to the event's program, the guests will attend the ceremony of signing agreements on construction of big facilities. They will also visit sites whwre companies operating in IT industry, cruise and medical tourism, modern services and advanced technologies are located.
"The arrival of foreign diplomats demonstrates that Hainan's free trade port is attracting more and more international attention," Wang Sheng said. According to the official, Hainan will continue to expand its "circle of foreign friends" and will draw more and more global resources for the development of the region's economy.


tass--2020-08-14--Aeroflot resumes flights to Geneva from August 15

MOSCOW , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Aeroflot Airlines will resume flights to Geneva , Switzerland , from August 15 @ @ @ @ @ government made a decision on the possibility of resuming flights with the country .
Aeroflot @ @ @ @ @ scheduled international flights until August 31 '' Flights will be operated from August 15 under @ @ @ @ @ flight per week on Saturdays ) , '' the report said .
`` As international @ @ @ @ @ the frequency of flights may change , '' the company noted .
Earlier , Russian @ @ @ @ @ an order to lift restrictions on entry to Russia for Swiss citizens .
People arriving @ @ @ @ @ be required to undergo a 10-day quarantine .
Earlier , Russia opened air connections with @ @ @ @ @ , Tanzania , and a land border with Abkhazia .

MOSCOW, August 14. /TASS/. Aeroflot Airlines will resume flights to Geneva, Switzerland, from August 15. Earlier, the Russian government made a decision on the possibility of resuming flights with the country.
Aeroflot to cancel part of previously scheduled international flights until August 31
"Flights will be operated from August 15 under a reduced program (one flight per week on Saturdays)," the report said. "As international air traffic is restored, the frequency of flights may change," the company noted.
Earlier, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed an order to lift restrictions on entry to Russia for Swiss citizens.
People arriving in Switzerland from Russia will be required to undergo a 10-day quarantine.
Earlier, Russia opened air connections with the United Kingdom, Turkey, Tanzania, and a land border with Abkhazia.


tass--2020-08-14--Over 231,000 people in Russia remain under medical supervision due to COVID-19

MOSCOW , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
More than 231,000 people in Russia remain under medical supervision due to being @ @ @ @ @ the Russian Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing reported on @ @ @ @ @ protect from COVID-19 for at least two years , developer says '' [ A total @ @ @ @ @ under medical supervision in Russia , '' its press service said .
According to the @ @ @ @ @ million coronavirus tests have been conducted nationwide so far , including 304,000 tests in the @ @ @ @ @ date , 907,758 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 716,396 patients having @ @ @ @ @ Russia ’ s latest data indicates 15,384 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government @ @ @ @ @ to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, August 14. /TASS/. More than 231,000 people in Russia remain under medical supervision due to being suspected of having COVID-19, the Russian Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing reported on Friday.
Russian vaccine will protect from COVID-19 for at least two years, developer says
"[A total of] 231,568 people remain under medical supervision in Russia," its press service said.
According to the watchdog, more than 31.9 million coronavirus tests have been conducted nationwide so far, including 304,000 tests in the past 24 hours.
To date, 907,758 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 716,396 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 15,384 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-08-14--At least 19 new species discovered at Hainan's tropical park

HAIKOU , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
In less than two years , Chinese researchers have discovered 19 new biological species in the pilot zone of Hainan 's Rainforest National Park , reported the Hainan Daily .
This pilot zone was set up in January 2019 to protect and restore the Hainan ecosystem .
During this time , biologists have discovered nine new varieties of plants , as well as five species of animals and fungi .
`` This territory , which occupies one-seventh of the island , still hides many unknown secrets , '' the newspaper writes .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ researchers discovered a new species of gecko on the island .
A small lizard with four black and yellow stripes along its body was named Goniurosaurus sinensis .
In addition , this year , scientists on Hainan discovered Thismia jianfenglingensis , a new species of tropical plant that resembles a tiny red Chinese lantern.Moreover , Hainan is making efforts to protect the unique living organisms inhabiting the island 's rainforests , in particular , the Hainan black crested gibbon and the Hainan newt .
The pilot zone of the Hainan Rainforest National Park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kilometers in the highlands in the central part of the island .
It includes five state-level nature reserves and four provincial ones .
Regional authorities plan to complete the creation of the Tropical Forest National Park on the island by the end of 2020 , which will attract even more tourists from China and other countries to Hainan .
According to statistics , the total area of tropical forests in the Hainan Province in 2018 exceeded 659,000 hectares .
Since the nineties of the last century , the authorities completely banned deforestation on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for vast state-protected zones in the province .

HAIKOU, August 14. /TASS/. In less than two years, Chinese researchers have discovered 19 new biological species in the pilot zone of Hainan's Rainforest National Park, reported the Hainan Daily.
This pilot zone was set up in January 2019 to protect and restore the Hainan ecosystem. During this time, biologists have discovered nine new varieties of plants, as well as five species of animals and fungi. "This territory, which occupies one-seventh of the island, still hides many unknown secrets," the newspaper writes.
In particular, last year, the Chinese researchers discovered a new species of gecko on the island. A small lizard with four black and yellow stripes along its body was named Goniurosaurus sinensis. In addition, this year, scientists on Hainan discovered Thismia jianfenglingensis, a new species of tropical plant that resembles a tiny red Chinese lantern.Moreover, Hainan is making efforts to protect the unique living organisms inhabiting the island's rainforests, in particular, the Hainan black crested gibbon and the Hainan newt.
The pilot zone of the Hainan Rainforest National Park covers an area of over 4,400 square kilometers in the highlands in the central part of the island. It includes five state-level nature reserves and four provincial ones. Regional authorities plan to complete the creation of the Tropical Forest National Park on the island by the end of 2020, which will attract even more tourists from China and other countries to Hainan.
According to statistics, the total area of tropical forests in the Hainan Province in 2018 exceeded 659,000 hectares. Since the nineties of the last century, the authorities completely banned deforestation on the island, which paved the way for vast state-protected zones in the province.


tass--2020-08-14--Data on Russian COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials to be published in the coming days

Moscow residents will be able to choose out of a few coronavirus vaccines — mayor PETROPAVLOVSK-KAMCHATSKY , August 14 .
@ @ @ @ @ and clinical studies of a new Russian coronavirus vaccine will be made public in the @ @ @ @ @ Minister Mikhail Murashko told reporters .
`` Data on preclinical and clinical studies will be @ @ @ @ @ , possibly by Monday , '' he said .
The minister noted that criticism of @ @ @ @ @ largely due to the fact `` that more data had to be obtained on research @ @ @ @ @ everyone knows that `` the vaccine is based on a platform , on which six @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He assured that clinical trials would continue .

Moscow residents will be able to choose out of a few coronavirus vaccines — mayor
PETROPAVLOVSK-KAMCHATSKY, August 14. /TASS/. Data on preclinical and clinical studies of a new Russian coronavirus vaccine will be made public in the coming days, Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko told reporters.
"Data on preclinical and clinical studies will be published in the coming days, possibly by Monday," he said.
The minister noted that criticism of the new Russian vaccine was largely due to the fact "that more data had to be obtained on research," adding that not everyone knows that "the vaccine is based on a platform, on which six products have already been made." He assured that clinical trials would continue.


tass--2020-08-14--Japan to suspend visa-free travel programs for Russia over coronavirus

TOKYO , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Tokyo has decided to suspend all events related to visa-free travel between Japanese @ @ @ @ @ Islands until the end of the year due to the coronavirus pandemic , the Kyodo @ @ @ @ @ .
According to the news agency , nine such trips were scheduled for this year @ @ @ @ @ visa-free travel programs every year , such trips take place between May and October .
@ @ @ @ @ 1992 based on an intergovernmental agreement aimed at improving mutual understanding between the two countries @ @ @ @ @ , over 8,000 of Iturup , Kunashir and Shikotan islands have visited Japan and more @ @ @ @ @ traveled to the southern Kuril Islands .

TOKYO, August 14. /TASS/. Tokyo has decided to suspend all events related to visa-free travel between Japanese prefectures and the southern Kuril Islands until the end of the year due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Kyodo news agency reported on Friday.
According to the news agency, nine such trips were scheduled for this year.
The two countries agree visa-free travel programs every year, such trips take place between May and October. Visa-free trips were launched in 1992 based on an intergovernmental agreement aimed at improving mutual understanding between the two countries’ people. Since then, over 8,000 of Iturup, Kunashir and Shikotan islands have visited Japan and more than 18,000 Japanese nationals have traveled to the southern Kuril Islands.


tass--2020-08-14--Caracas mayor dies of coronavirus

Caracas mayor dies of coronavirus

HAVANA , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
Mayor of the Venezuelan capital of Caracas Dario Vivas , who earlier tested @ @ @ @ @ has died at the age of 70 , Venezuela ’ s Prosecutor General Tarek William @ @ @ @ @ `` We were deeply saddened to learn about the passing of our good friend and @ @ @ @ @ with whom we have fought on the streets of Caracas since the 1980s to defend @ @ @ @ @ '' the tweet reads .
Venezuela reported its first two coronavirus cases on March 13 @ @ @ @ @ emergency on the same day .
On March 17 , Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro introduced @ @ @ @ @ of 29,088 cases have so far been confirmed in the country , and 247 patients @ @ @

HAVANA, August 14. /TASS/. Mayor of the Venezuelan capital of Caracas Dario Vivas, who earlier tested positive for the coronavirus, has died at the age of 70, Venezuela’s Prosecutor General Tarek William Saab said on Twitter.
"We were deeply saddened to learn about the passing of our good friend and dedicated revolutionary Dario Vivas, with whom we have fought on the streets of Caracas since the 1980s to defend our people and country," the tweet reads.
Venezuela reported its first two coronavirus cases on March 13 and declared a state of emergency on the same day. On March 17, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro introduced nationwide lockdown. A total of 29,088 cases have so far been confirmed in the country, and 247 patients have died.


tass--2020-08-15--Russia’s UN envoy urges Security Council to avoid confrontation on Iranian issue

UNITED NATIONS , August 15 .
/TASS/ .
Russia urges its partners in the UN Security Council to avoid further escalation of confrontation over the Iranian issue , Russia ’ s UN envoy Vasily Nebenzya said in a statement .
`` On August 14 the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin suggested convening an online meeting of the heads of state of the permanent members of the UN Security Council , with the participation of the heads of Germany and Iran , as soon as possible , in order to outline steps that can prevent confrontation or a spike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the Russian diplomat said .
`` We call on our partners to carefully consider this proposal .
Otherwise , we could see the further escalation of tension and an increased risk of conflict .
This must be avoided , '' he continued .
`` Russia is ready to work constructively with all parties interested in taking the situation back from the dangerous brink , '' Nebenzya added .
`` We strongly believe that there is an alternative to threats and blackmail , confrontation and coercion , '' he said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ field of multilateral actions that take into account legitimate security concerns of all regional players . ''
On Friday , the US draft resolution on extending the arms embargo against Iran failed to get the required number of votes at the UN Security Council and was rejected .
The majority of Security Council ’ s members abstained , while Russia and China voted against .
Only the United States and the Dominican Republic supported the resolution .
Under the Iran nuclear deal , the restrictions on selling armaments to Iran expire on October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they will seek the embargo ’ s extension , despite the US pullout from the Iran nuclear deal .

UNITED NATIONS, August 15. /TASS/. Russia urges its partners in the UN Security Council to avoid further escalation of confrontation over the Iranian issue, Russia’s UN envoy Vasily Nebenzya said in a statement.
"On August 14 the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin suggested convening an online meeting of the heads of state of the permanent members of the UN Security Council, with the participation of the heads of Germany and Iran, as soon as possible, in order to outline steps that can prevent confrontation or a spike in tensions in the UN Security Council," the Russian diplomat said.
"We call on our partners to carefully consider this proposal. Otherwise, we could see the further escalation of tension and an increased risk of conflict. This must be avoided," he continued.
"Russia is ready to work constructively with all parties interested in taking the situation back from the dangerous brink," Nebenzya added.
"We strongly believe that there is an alternative to threats and blackmail, confrontation and coercion," he said. "The mutually acceptable solution lies in the field of multilateral actions that take into account legitimate security concerns of all regional players."
On Friday, the US draft resolution on extending the arms embargo against Iran failed to get the required number of votes at the UN Security Council and was rejected. The majority of Security Council’s members abstained, while Russia and China voted against. Only the United States and the Dominican Republic supported the resolution.
Under the Iran nuclear deal, the restrictions on selling armaments to Iran expire on October 18. US officials have numerously stated that they will seek the embargo’s extension, despite the US pullout from the Iran nuclear deal.


tass--2020-08-15--Kiev to continue in absentia proceedings against Russians handed over by Minsk to Moscow

KIEV , August 15 .
/TASS/ .
Ukraine will continue in absentia proceedings against Russian citizens detained in Belarus and handed over to Russia , Ukrainian Deputy Prosecutor General Gyunduz Mamedov told the Ukrainskaya Pravda paper .
`` With the evidence basis , we will bring them to criminal responsibility at the national level , using the mechanism of in absentia proceedings , because charges against them have already been filed , '' he said .
Earlier , the Ukrainian Prosecutor General ’ s Office requested the extradition of the 28 detained Russians from Belarus .
According to Ukrainian investigators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eastern Ukrainian conflict , fighting for the self-proclaimed people ’ s republics of Donetsk and Lugansk ( DPR and LPR ) .
Mamedov said Kiev ’ s extradition request had been left unanswered by Belarus .
The office of Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky said on Friday it regretted Minsk ’ s decision to return the 32 Russians to their home country , adding that Kiev was expecting `` a decision that would be more judicially correct and balanced . ''
`` Ukraine regrets the decision by the Republic of Belarus to hand over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individuals , employed by the Vagner private security firm .
Undoubtedly , the Republic of Belarus is an independent state with its own views , but the Ukrainian side expected a decision that would be more judicially correct and balanced . ''
The Russian Prosecutor General ’ s Office said on Friday that `` under a motion issued by Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov on August 5 in conformity with the Minsk Convention of Legal Assistance and Legal Relations in Civil , Family and Criminal Cases of January 22 , 1993 , thirty-two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belarus have crossed Russia ’ s state border . ''
One more person who was among those detained stayed in Belarus as he hold both Russian and Belarusian passports .
Early on July 29 , 32 Russian citizens were apprehended near Minsk , and one more was detained in southern Belarus .
In his address to the nation and the parliament on August 4 , Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said the Russians were deliberately deployed to his country .
It was reported that Belarus submitted the list of the detainees to Ukraine .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said some of those individuals probably had several passports , including Ukrainian ones .
In this case , he said , Ukraine would treat them as its citizens .
Meanwhile , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow did not recognize the Ukrainian citizenship of some members of the group detained in Belarus .
Besides , he noted that these Russian citizens had come to Belarus and were due to fly by transit to another country and their stay was neither linked to Belarus nor Belarusian affairs .
Peskov pointed out that those detained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

KIEV, August 15. /TASS/. Ukraine will continue in absentia proceedings against Russian citizens detained in Belarus and handed over to Russia, Ukrainian Deputy Prosecutor General Gyunduz Mamedov told the Ukrainskaya Pravda paper.
"With the evidence basis, we will bring them to criminal responsibility at the national level, using the mechanism of in absentia proceedings, because charges against them have already been filed," he said.
Earlier, the Ukrainian Prosecutor General’s Office requested the extradition of the 28 detained Russians from Belarus. According to Ukrainian investigators, those individuals took part in the Eastern Ukrainian conflict, fighting for the self-proclaimed people’s republics of Donetsk and Lugansk (DPR and LPR).
Mamedov said Kiev’s extradition request had been left unanswered by Belarus.
The office of Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky said on Friday it regretted Minsk’s decision to return the 32 Russians to their home country, adding that Kiev was expecting "a decision that would be more judicially correct and balanced."
"Ukraine regrets the decision by the Republic of Belarus to hand over to Russia a previously detained group of individuals, employed by the Vagner private security firm. Undoubtedly, the Republic of Belarus is an independent state with its own views, but the Ukrainian side expected a decision that would be more judicially correct and balanced."
The Russian Prosecutor General’s Office said on Friday that "under a motion issued by Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov on August 5 in conformity with the Minsk Convention of Legal Assistance and Legal Relations in Civil, Family and Criminal Cases of January 22, 1993, thirty-two Russian nationals who were earlier detained in Belarus have crossed Russia’s state border." One more person who was among those detained stayed in Belarus as he hold both Russian and Belarusian passports.
Early on July 29, 32 Russian citizens were apprehended near Minsk, and one more was detained in southern Belarus. In his address to the nation and the parliament on August 4, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said the Russians were deliberately deployed to his country.
It was reported that Belarus submitted the list of the detainees to Ukraine. Earlier, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba said some of those individuals probably had several passports, including Ukrainian ones. In this case, he said, Ukraine would treat them as its citizens.
Meanwhile, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow did not recognize the Ukrainian citizenship of some members of the group detained in Belarus. Besides, he noted that these Russian citizens had come to Belarus and were due to fly by transit to another country and their stay was neither linked to Belarus nor Belarusian affairs. Peskov pointed out that those detained were members of a private security firm.


tass--2020-08-15--Russian Foreign Ministry invites Trump to look at Putin’s initiative on Iran

MOSCOW , August 15 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Foreign Ministry invited US President Donald Trump to take a look at Russian President Vladimir Putin ’ s initiative on convoking an online summit on Iran and the nuclear deal , while the US top diplomat 'is busy . '
`` @ realDonaldTrump [ US President Donald Trump ] , we 've heard you have n't been informed of @ KremlinRussia_E [ President of Russia ] 's proposal .
In a nutshell : We propose to ensure security in the Persian Gulf , '' the ministry said in a Twitter post @ @ @ @ @ @ @ document in English .
`` Keep calm and follow @ mfa_russia [ Russian Foreign Ministry ] to stay informed when @ SecPompeo [ US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo ] is busy , '' Russian diplomats said .
Trump told reporters on Friday he was not yet informed about Putin ’ s initiative .
On Friday , Russian President Vladimir Putin came out with an initiative to organize a summit of the United Nations Security Council permanent members , Germany and Iran to discuss problems of the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We suggest holding an online meeting of the heads of state from the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and the leaders of Germany and Iran in the near future , '' the president said in a statement posted on the Kremlin website .
`` The purpose is to identify steps that will allow for avoiding confrontation and an aggravation of the situation in the UN Security Council and for furnishing collective support for the further uninterrupted implementation of UN Security Council ’ s Resolution 2231 , which provided an international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Plan of Action on Iran ’ s nuclear program ] implementation .
`` .

MOSCOW, August 15. /TASS/. The Russian Foreign Ministry invited US President Donald Trump to take a look at Russian President Vladimir Putin’s initiative on convoking an online summit on Iran and the nuclear deal, while the US top diplomat 'is busy.'
"@realDonaldTrump [US President Donald Trump], we've heard you haven't been informed of @KremlinRussia_E [President of Russia]'s proposal. In a nutshell: We propose to ensure security in the Persian Gulf," the ministry said in a Twitter post, attaching a link to the relevant document in English.
"Keep calm and follow @mfa_russia [Russian Foreign Ministry] to stay informed when @SecPompeo [US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo] is busy," Russian diplomats said.
Trump told reporters on Friday he was not yet informed about Putin’s initiative.
On Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin came out with an initiative to organize a summit of the United Nations Security Council permanent members, Germany and Iran to discuss problems of the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). "We suggest holding an online meeting of the heads of state from the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and the leaders of Germany and Iran in the near future," the president said in a statement posted on the Kremlin website. "The purpose is to identify steps that will allow for avoiding confrontation and an aggravation of the situation in the UN Security Council and for furnishing collective support for the further uninterrupted implementation of UN Security Council’s Resolution 2231, which provided an international legal basis for JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on Iran’s nuclear program] implementation.".


tass--2020-08-15--US resolution to extend arms embargo on Iran fails to get enough Security Council votes

UN , August 15 .
/TASS/ .
The US resolution to extend the arms embargo on Iran failed to get the required number of votes during a UN Security Council session on Friday , as the majority of members abstained .
According to Ambassador Dian Triansyah Djani , Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of August 2020 , two countries voted in favor of the resolution ( the United States and the Dominican Republic ) , two were against ( Russia and China ) .
The remaining 11 nations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Belgium , Germany , Vietnam , South Africa , Indonesia , Niger , Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , Tunisia and Estonia ) .
US Ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft announced on Wednesday that the United States had submitted a draft resolution to the UN Security Council on extending the embargo on selling conventional weapons to Iran and buying them from it , until the Security Council rules otherwise .
Washington urged all the Security Council members to support this initiative .
Under the Iran nuclear deal , the restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ October 18 .
US officials have numerously stated that they will seek the embargo ’ s extension , despite the US pullout from the Iran nuclear deal .

UNITED NATIONS, August 15. /TASS/. The US resolution to extend the arms embargo on Iran failed to get the required number of votes during a UN Security Council session on Friday, as the majority of members abstained.
According to Ambassador Dian Triansyah Djani, Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of August 2020, two countries voted in favor of the resolution (the United States and the Dominican Republic), two were against (Russia and China).
The remaining 11 nations abstained (France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, Vietnam, South Africa, Indonesia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia, Estonia).
The voting was held in the written format due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said in a statement the United Nations Security Council "failed today to uphold its fundamental mission" of maintaining international peace and security.
"It rejected a reasonable resolution to extend the 13-year old arms embargo on Iran and paved the way for the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism to buy and sell conventional weapons without specific UN restrictions in place for the first time in over a decade," the statement says, describing the Security Council’s move as "inexcusable."
"The Security Council rejected direct appeals to extend the arms embargo from numerous countries in the Middle East endangered by Iran’s violence. Arab nations and Israel strongly supported extending the embargo," the US top diplomat said.
"The United States will never abandon our friends in the region who expected more from the Security Council. We will continue to work to ensure that the theocratic terror regime does not have the freedom to purchase and sell weapons that threaten the heart of Europe, the Middle East and beyond," Pompeo added.
US Ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft announced on Wednesday that the United States had submitted a draft resolution to the UN Security Council on extending the embargo on selling conventional weapons to Iran and buying them from it, until the Security Council rules otherwise. Washington urged all the Security Council members to support this initiative.
Under the Iran nuclear deal, the restrictions on selling armaments to Iran expire on October 18. US officials have numerously stated that they will seek the embargo’s extension, despite the US pullout from the Iran nuclear deal.
In June, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov issued a letter to the United Nations Secretary-General and the Security Council Chairman pointing to the lack of any objective reasons to discuss the topic of the arms embargo extension at the UN Security Council. The Russian top diplomat recalled that under UN Security Council Resolution 2231 the procedure of arms supplies to Iran had a temporary nature. He stressed that it did not provide for the use of restrictions on weapons supplies to Iran after October 18, 2020 and there were neither legal nor any other reasons to revise it.
On Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin came out with an initiative to organize a summit of the United Nations Security Council permanent members, Germany and Iran to discuss problems of the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). "We suggest holding an online meeting of the heads of state from the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and the leaders of Germany and Iran in the near future," the president said in a statement posted on the Kremlin website. "The purpose is to identify steps that will allow for avoiding confrontation and an aggravation of the situation in the UN Security Council and for furnishing collective support for the further uninterrupted implementation of UN Security Council’s Resolution 2231, which provided an international legal basis for JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on Iran’s nuclear program] implementation.".


tass--2020-08-15--Number of coronavirus cases worldwide exceeds 21 million — Johns Hopkins University

MOSCOW , August 14 .
/TASS/ .
The number of novel coronavirus cases worldwide exceeded 21 million on Friday , @ @ @ @ @ Hopkins University , which relies on data provided by international organizations , federal and local @ @ @ @ @ researchers , 21,010,700 cases have been registered all over the globe , 761,260 people have @ @ @ @ @ .
The highest caseload has been recorded in the United States ( 5,280,315 ) , @ @ @ @ @ ( 3,224,876 ) and India ( 2,461,190 ) .
Russia has confirmed 912,823 coronavirus cases @ @ @ @ @ deaths , according to the federal anti-coronavirus crisis center .

MOSCOW, August 14. /TASS/. The number of novel coronavirus cases worldwide exceeded 21 million on Friday, according to the US-based Johns Hopkins University, which relies on data provided by international organizations, federal and local authorities.
According to US researchers, 21,010,700 cases have been registered all over the globe, 761,260 people have died and 13,047,560 have recovered. The highest caseload has been recorded in the United States (5,280,315), which is followed by Brazil (3,224,876) and India (2,461,190).
Russia has confirmed 912,823 coronavirus cases, 722,964 recoveries and 15,498 deaths, according to the federal anti-coronavirus crisis center.