tass--2020-03-31--Coronavirus epidemic in Italy to end in early May, experts say

Scientists expect the acute phase of the pandemic to be over by mid-April .
The northern region of Trentino-South Tyrol is expected to end the state of emergency on April 6 , followed by central regions of Basilicata , Liguria and Umbria on April 7 .
The Lazzio region will stop announcing new cases by April 16 .
The institute 's epidemiological scenario is based on an algorithm that takes into account all major parameters of the outbreak , including the number of new cases , hospitalization , recovery of patients and mortality rate .
ROME , March 31 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Economics and Finance forecasts the novel coronavirus epidemic in Italy to end by May 5 .
Northern regions of Veneto and Piedmont , which were among the first to report cases of the disease on their territory , are expected to declare the end of the outbreak on April 14 and 15 .
The hardest-hit region of Lombardy and its administrative center Milano will overcome the coronavirus outbreak by April 22 .
The adjacent region of Emilia-Romagna , which has the second-biggest number of confirmed cases in Italy , will do so on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to report zero new cases will be Toscana , on May 5 .
Italian Deputy Minister of Health Pierpaolo Sileri , who was among the first novel coronavirus patients in the country , said on Monday that the country would leave the peak of infection behind in about 7-10 days .
A total of 812 coronavirus patients died in Italy in the past 24 hours , the country ’ s Civil Protection Department said on Monday .
According to the department , 1,648 new cases were recorded in the past 24 hours , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the daily average of over 3,000 .
A total of 101,739 people have contracted the virus since the start of the outbreak .

Scientists expect the acute phase of the pandemic to be over by mid-April. The northern region of Trentino-South Tyrol is expected to end the state of emergency on April 6, followed by central regions of Basilicata, Liguria and Umbria on April 7. The Lazzio region will stop announcing new cases by April 16.
The institute's epidemiological scenario is based on an algorithm that takes into account all major parameters of the outbreak, including the number of new cases, hospitalization, recovery of patients and mortality rate.
ROME, March 31. /TASS/. The Rome-based Einaudi Institute for Economics and Finance forecasts the novel coronavirus epidemic in Italy to end by May 5.
Northern regions of Veneto and Piedmont, which were among the first to report cases of the disease on their territory, are expected to declare the end of the outbreak on April 14 and 15. The hardest-hit region of Lombardy and its administrative center Milano will overcome the coronavirus outbreak by April 22. The adjacent region of Emilia-Romagna, which has the second-biggest number of confirmed cases in Italy, will do so on April 28.
The last Italian region to report zero new cases will be Toscana, on May 5.
Italian Deputy Minister of Health Pierpaolo Sileri, who was among the first novel coronavirus patients in the country, said on Monday that the country would leave the peak of infection behind in about 7-10 days.
A total of 812 coronavirus patients died in Italy in the past 24 hours, the country’s Civil Protection Department said on Monday. According to the department, 1,648 new cases were recorded in the past 24 hours, which is a record low compared to the daily average of over 3,000. A total of 101,739 people have contracted the virus since the start of the outbreak.


tass--2020-03-31--UN Security Council may continue working remotely within next two months

UNITED NATIONS , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The UN Security Council may continue to work remotely during the next @ @ @ @ @ s First Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Dmitry Polyansky told TASS on Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ the foreseeable future , if we look at that realistically , in April-May , the @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
Polyansky also noted that the status of video conferences could @ @ @ @ @ Security Council meetings .
`` The UN Charter says clearly that briefings and consultations are @ @ @ @ @ We do not want to set a precedent or create a legal problem , so @ @ @ @ @ conference meetings will have the status of informal consultations . ''
Since March 16 , @ @ @ @ @ the UN headquarters in New York were requested to telecommute , while the Security Council @ @ @ @ @ usual way .

UNITED NATIONS, March 31. /TASS/. The UN Security Council may continue to work remotely during the next two months, Russia’s First Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Dmitry Polyansky told TASS on Monday.
"I believe that in the foreseeable future, if we look at that realistically, in April-May, the remote work system will continue," he said.
Polyansky also noted that the status of video conferences could not be equated with regular Security Council meetings. "The UN Charter says clearly that briefings and consultations are Security Council ‘meetings.’ We do not want to set a precedent or create a legal problem, so we agreed that all video conference meetings will have the status of informal consultations."
Since March 16, almost all staff members at the UN headquarters in New York were requested to telecommute, while the Security Council stopped holding meetings in the usual way.


tass--2020-03-31--LANIT-Integration Joins the Absen VAP Network

MOSCOW , March 31 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Absen ( SZSE : 300389 ) , the global leader in LED display solution , has announced the addition of LANIT-Integration , a professional system integrator in Russia and flagship division of LANIT , to its global Value-Added Partner ( VAP ) network .
The addition assigns LANIT-Integration the highest partner status and enables it to provide advanced technical support for its customers .
The strengthened partnership will also further enhance the ever-growing partner network of Absen in Russian market .
The LED display market has seen rapid growth over the past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular display choice for its unrivalled advantages such as high brightness and ability to create screens of almost any sizes and shapes .
Now LED screens are utilized everywhere from music conserts , city billboards , building facades and shopping malls to corporate sectors and beyond .
LANIT-Integration and Absen have already implemented a few projects jointly , including the Moscow Central Diameters exhibition pavilion on the Kievsky Station Square , which was equipped with two external media facade and two LED screens inside from Absen , and the Moscow Musical Theater featuring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ create an immersive entertainment environment and make the theatrical performances even more exciting .
Leonid Zhestev , head of multimedia systems and video conferencing at LANIT-Integration said , `` The agreement on further cooperation is a logical step that indicates the high qualification of the technical specialists of the multimedia systems department and mutual trust between LANIT and Absen .
I am sure that together we can provide our customers with high-tech solutions and the best level of service in the market . ''
Commenting on the cooperation , Alexander Liu , director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , `` With LANIT , we have found a good partner with whom we share a common strategic alignment in the LED market .
I am glad that our partnership takes a step further .
Absen prides itself on developing the very best partner network in the markets it supports .
The addition of LANIT as Absen 's newest valueadded partner in Russia is part of Absen 's commitment to developing our key markets . ''
Established in 2001 , Absen is a leading LED display manufacturer .
The company is renowned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and high quality products for the live events , broadcasting and rental staging industry .
Through constant innovation and development , Absen has been the number one Chinese exporter of LED panels for 11 consecutive years .

MOSCOW, March 31, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Absen (SZSE: 300389), the global leader in LED display solution, has announced the addition of LANIT-Integration, a professional system integrator in Russia and flagship division of LANIT, to its global Value-Added Partner (VAP) network.
The addition assigns LANIT-Integration the highest partner status and enables it to provide advanced technical support for its customers. The strengthened partnership will also further enhance the ever-growing partner network of Absen in Russian market.
The LED display market has seen rapid growth over the past years and it has become an increasingly popular display choice for its unrivalled advantages such as high brightness and ability to create screens of almost any sizes and shapes. Now LED screens are utilized everywhere from music conserts, city billboards, building facades and shopping malls to corporate sectors and beyond.
LANIT-Integration and Absen have already implemented a few projects jointly, including the Moscow Central Diameters exhibition pavilion on the Kievsky Station Square, which was equipped with two external media facade and two LED screens inside from Absen, and the Moscow Musical Theater featuring five Absen LED screens, which help create an immersive entertainment environment and make the theatrical performances even more exciting.
Leonid Zhestev, head of multimedia systems and video conferencing at LANIT-Integration said, "The agreement on further cooperation is a logical step that indicates the high qualification of the technical specialists of the multimedia systems department and mutual trust between LANIT and Absen. I am sure that together we can provide our customers with high-tech solutions and the best level of service in the market."
Commenting on the cooperation, Alexander Liu, director of CIS and Russia Market at Absen said, "With LANIT, we have found a good partner with whom we share a common strategic alignment in the LED market. I am glad that our partnership takes a step further. Absen prides itself on developing the very best partner network in the markets it supports. The addition of LANIT as Absen's newest valueadded partner in Russia is part of Absen's commitment to developing our key markets."
About Absen
Established in 2001, Absen is a leading LED display manufacturer. The company is renowned for its global presence, full-service capability and high quality products for the live events, broadcasting and rental staging industry. Through constant innovation and development, Absen has been the number one Chinese exporter of LED panels for 11 consecutive years.
www.absen.com
CONTACT: Yuchun Li, +86-138-2355-3631


tass--2020-03-31--US government expects new wave of coronavirus this fall, expert says

WASHINGTON , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The US authorities expect a new wave of the novel coronavirus infection to hit the country this fall , according to Anthony Faucci , who heads the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases .
`` In fact , I would anticipate that that would actually happen , because of the degree of transmissibility .
However , if you come back in the fall , it will be a totally different ballgame of what happened when we first got hit with it in the beginning of this year , '' he told reporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump at the White House .
`` Our ability to go out and be able to test , identify , isolate and contact trace will be orders of magnitude better than what it was just a couple months ago . ''
`` In addition , we have a number of cilincal trials that are looking at a variety of therapeutic intervitions .
We hope one or more of them will be available , '' he continued .
`` Importantly < ... > is that we have a vaccine that ’ s on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ According to Trump , the country is ready for the possible second wave of the infection .
`` I hope it does not happen , but we are certainly prepared , '' Trump said .
The Johns Hopkins University , which calculates statistics based on the government , WHO and other official source numbers , says the US has more than 160,000 confirmed coronavirus cases , while over 2,900 people died from it .

WASHINGTON, March 31. /TASS/. The US authorities expect a new wave of the novel coronavirus infection to hit the country this fall, according to Anthony Faucci, who heads the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
"In fact, I would anticipate that that would actually happen, because of the degree of transmissibility. However, if you come back in the fall, it will be a totally different ballgame of what happened when we first got hit with it in the beginning of this year," he told reporters during a media briefing with US President Donald Trump at the White House. "Our ability to go out and be able to test, identify, isolate and contact trace will be orders of magnitude better than what it was just a couple months ago."
"In addition, we have a number of cilincal trials that are looking at a variety of therapeutic intervitions. We hope one or more of them will be available," he continued. "Importantly <...> is that we have a vaccine that’s on track and multiple other candidates."
According to Trump, the country is ready for the possible second wave of the infection.
"I hope it does not happen, but we are certainly prepared," Trump said.
The Johns Hopkins University, which calculates statistics based on the government, WHO and other official source numbers, says the US has more than 160,000 confirmed coronavirus cases, while over 2,900 people died from it.


tass--2020-03-31--Moscow to use geolocation data to monitor whereabouts of coronavirus patients

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
Geolocation data will be used in Moscow to monitor whereabouts of novel coronavirus patients who are receiving treatment at home , Deputy Mayor Anastasia Rakova said .
Earlier , a patient with confirmed novel coronavirus fled the Kommunarka hospital for coronavirus patients .
She was tracked via a video surveillance system and returned back to the ward .
`` We are toughening the regime [ for patients who stay in self-isolation at home ] .
At present , constantly providing geolocation data is a mandatory requirement for a person who receives treatment at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offer a more prompt response , '' Rakova said .
In her words , the majority of those who are being treated at home , observe all the necessary precautions and quarantine rules .
As of March 30 , a total of 1,836 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia .
Sixty-six patients have recovered .
According to data as of 12:00 Moscow time , nine patients died .
Later in the day , coronavirus-associated deaths were reported from Moscow , St. Petersburg , and the Vladimir region .
Moscow accounts for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public informed about the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. Geolocation data will be used in Moscow to monitor whereabouts of novel coronavirus patients who are receiving treatment at home, Deputy Mayor Anastasia Rakova said.
Earlier, a patient with confirmed novel coronavirus fled the Kommunarka hospital for coronavirus patients. She was tracked via a video surveillance system and returned back to the ward.
"We are toughening the regime [for patients who stay in self-isolation at home]. At present, constantly providing geolocation data is a mandatory requirement for a person who receives treatment at home. This will help us to offer a more prompt response," Rakova said.
In her words, the majority of those who are being treated at home, observe all the necessary precautions and quarantine rules.
As of March 30, a total of 1,836 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia. Sixty-six patients have recovered. According to data as of 12:00 Moscow time, nine patients died. Later in the day, coronavirus-associated deaths were reported from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Vladimir region. Moscow accounts for the majority of cases (1,226). The Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public informed about the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-03-31--Russian scientists develop highly accurate test for novel coronavirus

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Russia ’ s sanitary watchdog Rospotrebnadzor has created a highly accurate test to detect the novel coronavirus infection in humans , the governmental agency said on its website on Tuesday .
`` The testing kit has successfully passed clinical trials and was registered for use in the Russian Federation < … > on March 25 , 2020 , '' Rospotrebnadzor said in a statement .
`` The new test meets all modern requirements for accuracy and specificity , allowing not only to detect SARS-CoV-2 , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ viruses and MERS-Cov , '' the statement reads .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 160 countries , including Russia .
The WHO on March 11 declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
As of now , more than 720,000 people have been infected around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia has 1,836 cases of the infection , with nine deaths .
The Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public informed about the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. The Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Russia’s sanitary watchdog Rospotrebnadzor has created a highly accurate test to detect the novel coronavirus infection in humans, the governmental agency said on its website on Tuesday.
"The testing kit has successfully passed clinical trials and was registered for use in the Russian Federation <…> on March 25, 2020," Rospotrebnadzor said in a statement.
"The new test meets all modern requirements for accuracy and specificity, allowing not only to detect SARS-CoV-2, but also to differentiate it from other SARS-Cov-type viruses and MERS-Cov," the statement reads.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 160 countries, including Russia.
The WHO on March 11 declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. As of now, more than 720,000 people have been infected around the world and over 35,000 have died. Russia has 1,836 cases of the infection, with nine deaths. The Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public informed about the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-03-31--France, Germany call for Donbass ceasefire amid coronavirus pandemic

BERLIN , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The sides of the conflict in eastern Ukraine should lay down their weapons @ @ @ @ @ earlier made by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres , the foreign ministries of France and @ @ @ @ @ statement .
`` Regarding the conflict in Ukraine - France and Germany call upon all @ @ @ @ @ their responsibility due to a great threat to people ’ s health , '' the @ @ @ @ @ call upon all sides to heed the call of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres for @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic . ''
Germany and France also called upon the sides to ensure @ @ @ @ @ mission and to observe the agreements reached during the Normandy Four summit in Paris .
@ @ @ @ @ called for a full and immediate ceasefire all across the globe amid the pandemic of @ @ @ @

BERLIN, March 31. /TASS/. The sides of the conflict in eastern Ukraine should lay down their weapons and heed the ceasefire call earlier made by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, the foreign ministries of France and Germany said in a joint statement.
"Regarding the conflict in Ukraine - France and Germany call upon all sides to be aware of their responsibility due to a great threat to people’s health," the statement says. "We call upon all sides to heed the call of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres for a global ceasefire due to the coronavirus pandemic."
Germany and France also called upon the sides to ensure unimpeded access to the monitoring mission and to observe the agreements reached during the Normandy Four summit in Paris.
On March 23, Guterres called for a full and immediate ceasefire all across the globe amid the pandemic of the novel coronavirus.


tass--2020-03-31--Russian parliament to consider ‘antiviral’ package of bills

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
During a plenary session on Tuesday , both chambers of the Russian parliament are expected to consider a series of bills , intended to mitigate the aftermath of the global coronavirus pandemic for Russian citizens and businesses , and to impose tougher penalties on those violating the quarantine and spreading fake news .
The lower chamber of parliament , the State Duma , will consider the initiatives in three readings on Tuesday morning , so that the upper chamber - the Federation Council - could review some of them during its session that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the initiatives is aimed at toughening penalties for violation of sanitary and epidemiological rules .
Under with the current legislation , offenses that triggered an outbreak of a disease or a mass poisoning are now punishable with a fine of 80,000 rubles ( $ 1,000 ) or community service of 360 hours , or corrective labor of up to one year , or restricted liberty for the same period .
If an offense of this kind results in a death of one person , tougher penalties will be imposed , up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Under the proposed law , violations of sanitary and epidemiological regulations that led to a death of one person or creating a threat of a mass outbreak of a disease will be punishable with a fine of up to two million rubles ( $ 25,000 ) or restricted liberty for up to five years .
If a violation entails an outbreak of a disease or a mass poisoning , fines of between 500,000 ( $ 6,000 ) rubles and 1 million rubles ( $ 12,500 ) will be imposed , or liberty restricted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who spread deliberately false information that led to serious consequences will be punished with a prison term of up to five years .
Those who disseminate fake news about circumstances that pose a threat to people ’ s lives or public health , epidemics included , will face a fine of up to 700,000 rubles ( $ 8,800 ) or restricted liberty of up to three years .
Apart from criminal responsibility , lawmakers will discuss administrative fines for citizens , including fines of up to 300,000 rubles ( $ 3,800 ) for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an individual violated quarantine amid an outbreak of an infectious disease , he or she will face a fine of between 15,000 rubles ( $ 200 ) and 40,000 rubles ( $ 500 ) .
The same violation by an official entails a fine of between 50,000 rubles ( $ 630 ) and 150,000 rubles ( $ 1,900 ) , by a legal entity - between 200,000 rubles ( $ 2,500 ) and 500,000 rubles ( $ 6,000 ) rubles or administrative suspension of operations for up to 30 days .
Legislators are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal entities spreading fake news about emergency situations , such as an outbreak .
If those fake news resulted in a person ’ s death , bodily harm or property damage , in a public disorder , or damage to vital infrastructure , it will be punished with a fine of between 5 and 10 million rubles ( $ 63,000- $ 125,600 ) .
The amendments also introduce fines for unjustified increase in prices of medicines .
On Tuesday , the State Duma will also consider a bill allowing doctors to provide remote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on telemedicine , doctors are obliged to carry out the initial examination of a patient in person .
However , in case of an emergency situation or an epidemic , citizens `` are entitled to accessible medical aid , including with the help of telemedicine . ''
The lawmakers are also to consider a bill easing requirements for online sales of medicines , including prescribed ones .
However , the initiative will not be applicable to narcotic and psychotropic substances .
The lower chamber of the Russian parliament will also discuss the proposal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 1 million rubles ( $ 12,500 ) or more .
Besides , the Duma will consider in first reading a bill enabling regions to levy their own taxes on self-employed persons .
Besides , the Budget Code is expected to be amended , giving the Russian government a possibility to re-channel budget expenditures without amending the three-year budget law .
The amendment also establishes a parliamentary commission that would authorize budgetary expenditures for anti-coronavirus efforts and measures to protect the economy in 2020 .
The commissions will include seven State Duma lawmakers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the initiatives to be discussed on Tuesday were first voiced by Russian President Vladimir Putin during his address to the nation on March 25 .
In his speech , the head of state proposed measures to support citizens and businesses .
In particular , such measures include granting a grace period for six months to small and medium-sized companies to pay all taxes , with the exception of VAT , introducing a deferral of payment of bank loans for the same period , a six-month moratorium for bankruptcy of enterprises , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. During a plenary session on Tuesday, both chambers of the Russian parliament are expected to consider a series of bills, intended to mitigate the aftermath of the global coronavirus pandemic for Russian citizens and businesses, and to impose tougher penalties on those violating the quarantine and spreading fake news.
The lower chamber of parliament, the State Duma, will consider the initiatives in three readings on Tuesday morning, so that the upper chamber - the Federation Council - could review some of them during its session that begins at 15:00 Moscow time.
Tougher criminal responsibility
One of the initiatives is aimed at toughening penalties for violation of sanitary and epidemiological rules. Under with the current legislation, offenses that triggered an outbreak of a disease or a mass poisoning are now punishable with a fine of 80,000 rubles ($1,000) or community service of 360 hours, or corrective labor of up to one year, or restricted liberty for the same period. If an offense of this kind results in a death of one person, tougher penalties will be imposed, up to a prison term of five years.
Under the proposed law, violations of sanitary and epidemiological regulations that led to a death of one person or creating a threat of a mass outbreak of a disease will be punishable with a fine of up to two million rubles ($25,000) or restricted liberty for up to five years.
If a violation entails an outbreak of a disease or a mass poisoning, fines of between 500,000 ($6,000) rubles and 1 million rubles ($12,500) will be imposed, or liberty restricted for up to three years.
Individuals who spread deliberately false information that led to serious consequences will be punished with a prison term of up to five years. Those who disseminate fake news about circumstances that pose a threat to people’s lives or public health, epidemics included, will face a fine of up to 700,000 rubles ($8,800) or restricted liberty of up to three years.
Fines for quarantine violations and fake news
Apart from criminal responsibility, lawmakers will discuss administrative fines for citizens, including fines of up to 300,000 rubles ($3,800) for healthy citizens who violate quarantine.
If an individual violated quarantine amid an outbreak of an infectious disease, he or she will face a fine of between 15,000 rubles ($200) and 40,000 rubles ($500). The same violation by an official entails a fine of between 50,000 rubles ($630) and 150,000 rubles ($1,900), by a legal entity - between 200,000 rubles ($2,500) and 500,000 rubles ($6,000) rubles or administrative suspension of operations for up to 30 days.
Legislators are also set to impose multimillion fines for legal entities spreading fake news about emergency situations, such as an outbreak. If those fake news resulted in a person’s death, bodily harm or property damage, in a public disorder, or damage to vital infrastructure, it will be punished with a fine of between 5 and 10 million rubles ($63,000-$125,600).
The amendments also introduce fines for unjustified increase in prices of medicines.
Telemedicine and pharmaceuticals
On Tuesday, the State Duma will also consider a bill allowing doctors to provide remote healthcare services. Under the current legislation on telemedicine, doctors are obliged to carry out the initial examination of a patient in person. However, in case of an emergency situation or an epidemic, citizens "are entitled to accessible medical aid, including with the help of telemedicine."
The lawmakers are also to consider a bill easing requirements for online sales of medicines, including prescribed ones. However, the initiative will not be applicable to narcotic and psychotropic substances.
Budget and taxation
The lower chamber of the Russian parliament will also discuss the proposal to levy a tax on bank deposits of 1 million rubles ($12,500) or more. Besides, the Duma will consider in first reading a bill enabling regions to levy their own taxes on self-employed persons.
Besides, the Budget Code is expected to be amended, giving the Russian government a possibility to re-channel budget expenditures without amending the three-year budget law.
The amendment also establishes a parliamentary commission that would authorize budgetary expenditures for anti-coronavirus efforts and measures to protect the economy in 2020. The commissions will include seven State Duma lawmakers and seven Federation Council senators.
Many of the initiatives to be discussed on Tuesday were first voiced by Russian President Vladimir Putin during his address to the nation on March 25.
In his speech, the head of state proposed measures to support citizens and businesses. In particular, such measures include granting a grace period for six months to small and medium-sized companies to pay all taxes, with the exception of VAT, introducing a deferral of payment of bank loans for the same period, a six-month moratorium for bankruptcy of enterprises, which found themselves in a difficult situation.


tass--2020-03-31--Novel coronavirus death toll in US tops 3,000 — university

WASHINGTON , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The number of people who died of the novel coronavirus on the US territory has topped 3,000 , the Johns Hopkins University said , citing information obtained from federal and local authorities .
According to the updated report , a total of 163,429 people were diagnosed with the novel coronavirus in the United States , 3,008 of them died and 5,764 recovered .
The United States has the biggest number of confirmed cases so far , surpassing Italy , Spain and China .
US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he expected the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 160 countries , including Russia .
The WHO on March 11 declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
As of now , more than 720,000 people have been infected around the world and over 35,000 have died .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with nine deaths .
The Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public informed about the coronavirus situation .

WASHINGTON, March 31. /TASS/. The number of people who died of the novel coronavirus on the US territory has topped 3,000, the Johns Hopkins University said, citing information obtained from federal and local authorities.
According to the updated report, a total of 163,429 people were diagnosed with the novel coronavirus in the United States, 3,008 of them died and 5,764 recovered.
The United States has the biggest number of confirmed cases so far, surpassing Italy, Spain and China. US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he expected the infection to reach its peak in two weeks.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 160 countries, including Russia.
The WHO on March 11 declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. As of now, more than 720,000 people have been infected around the world and over 35,000 have died. Russia has 1,836 cases of the infection, with nine deaths. The Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public informed about the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-03-31--China reports 48 new coronavirus cases in past day, one death

BEIJING , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
As many as 48 new coronavirus cases were identified in China in the past 24 hours , all of those cases are imported , the National Health Commission said on Tuesday .
A total of 282 patients recovered in the reported period and one died .
`` As of 24:00 local time ( 19:00 Moscow time ) on March 30 , the overall number of confirmed cases in China reached 81,518 , including 76,052 people who recovered and were discharged from hospitals , and 3,305 patients who died , '' the commission said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were recorded in the Chinese province of Hubei , the epicenter of the outbreak , in the past 24 hours .
The overall number of imported novel coronavirus cases in China reached 771 people ; 104 have already been discharged from hospitals .
A total of 667 patients are now being treated , including 18 people who are in intensive care .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , central China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 160 countries , including Russia .
The WHO on March 11 declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
As of now , more than 720,000 people have been infected around the world and over 35,000 have died .

BEIJING, March 31. /TASS/. As many as 48 new coronavirus cases were identified in China in the past 24 hours, all of those cases are imported, the National Health Commission said on Tuesday.
A total of 282 patients recovered in the reported period and one died.
"As of 24:00 local time (19:00 Moscow time) on March 30, the overall number of confirmed cases in China reached 81,518, including 76,052 people who recovered and were discharged from hospitals, and 3,305 patients who died," the commission said in a statement.
No new cases were recorded in the Chinese province of Hubei, the epicenter of the outbreak, in the past 24 hours.
The overall number of imported novel coronavirus cases in China reached 771 people; 104 have already been discharged from hospitals. A total of 667 patients are now being treated, including 18 people who are in intensive care.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 160 countries, including Russia.
The WHO on March 11 declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. As of now, more than 720,000 people have been infected around the world and over 35,000 have died.


tass--2020-03-31--Number of novel coronavirus cases in Ukraine rises to 548 — health ministry

KIEV , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection in Ukraine has @ @ @ @ @ the death toll increased to 13 , the country ’ s health ministry said on @ @ @ @ @ past 24 hours , a total of 68 novel coronavirus cases were confirmed in the @ @ @ @ @ 22:00 local time on March 30 , Ukraine has 548 COVID-19 cases , confirmed by @ @ @ @ @ ministry ’ s press service said in a statement .
A total of 13 patients @ @ @ @ @ The Ukrainian government declared the nationwide state of emergency on March 26 and extended the @ @ @ @ @ .

KIEV, March 31. /TASS/. The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection in Ukraine has risen to 548, while the death toll increased to 13, the country’s health ministry said on Monday night.
In the past 24 hours, a total of 68 novel coronavirus cases were confirmed in the country.
"As of 22:00 local time on March 30, Ukraine has 548 COVID-19 cases, confirmed by PCR tests," the ministry’s press service said in a statement.
A total of 13 patients died and eight recovered.
The Ukrainian government declared the nationwide state of emergency on March 26 and extended the nationwide quarantine by April 24.


tass--2020-03-31--Russian minister urges G20 states to ease sanctions amid pandemic

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov , who attended a video conference of G20 ministers of trade on Monday , called upon states to reduce their sanctions amid the novel coronavirus pandemic .
`` It seems that an important joint step would be to reduce restrictive measures , primarily those that block or severely complicate access to medicines , equipment and technologies , '' he said .
The minister said the present-day global situation is further complicated by numerous trade conflicts , baseless restrictions and sanctions .
In his words , the current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blow to the global economy and trade .
`` The entire framework of trade and investment ties , global production chains created during decades of globalization is now under threat .
We need to reverse this dangerous trend , '' Reshetnikov said .
`` Under the severe conditions of the present day , it becomes as important as never before to limit factors that add more unpredictability and instability to the multilateral trade system , '' he continued .
`` That is why we urge to do everything possible to restore normal operations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Organizaiton ] , one of the most important institutions in global management . ''
He added that G20 should be at the forefront of this effort .
`` We also call upon all G20 members to ensure the transparency of their anti-crisis policies in good faith , '' the Russian minister said .
The G20 ministers earlier adopted a joint statement about collective action to counter the pandemic ’ s devastating consequences for trade .
`` We agree that emergency measures designed to tackle COVID-19 , if deemed necessary , must be targeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and that they do not create unnecessary barriers to trade or disruption to global supply chains , and are consistent with WTO rules , '' the statement reads .
The ministers also declared their commitment to countering profiteering and unjustified price increases .
`` We will support the availability and accessibility of essential medical supplies and pharmaceuticals at affordable prices , on an equitable basis , where they are most needed , and as quickly as possible , including by encouraging additional production through incentives and targeted investment , according to national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They said they would continue working with international organizations to establish coordinated approaches and collect and share good practices to facilitate flows of essential goods and services .

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov, who attended a video conference of G20 ministers of trade on Monday, called upon states to reduce their sanctions amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.
"It seems that an important joint step would be to reduce restrictive measures, primarily those that block or severely complicate access to medicines, equipment and technologies," he said.
The minister said the present-day global situation is further complicated by numerous trade conflicts, baseless restrictions and sanctions.
In his words, the current novel coronavirus pandemic has dealt a serious blow to the global economy and trade.
"The entire framework of trade and investment ties, global production chains created during decades of globalization is now under threat. We need to reverse this dangerous trend," Reshetnikov said.
"Under the severe conditions of the present day, it becomes as important as never before to limit factors that add more unpredictability and instability to the multilateral trade system," he continued. "That is why we urge to do everything possible to restore normal operations and improve the WTO [World Trade Organizaiton], one of the most important institutions in global management."
He added that G20 should be at the forefront of this effort.
"We also call upon all G20 members to ensure the transparency of their anti-crisis policies in good faith," the Russian minister said.
Joint statement
The G20 ministers earlier adopted a joint statement about collective action to counter the pandemic’s devastating consequences for trade.
"We agree that emergency measures designed to tackle COVID-19, if deemed necessary, must be targeted, proportionate, transparent, and temporary, and that they do not create unnecessary barriers to trade or disruption to global supply chains, and are consistent with WTO rules," the statement reads.
The ministers also declared their commitment to countering profiteering and unjustified price increases.
"We will support the availability and accessibility of essential medical supplies and pharmaceuticals at affordable prices, on an equitable basis, where they are most needed, and as quickly as possible, including by encouraging additional production through incentives and targeted investment, according to national circumstances," the G20 ministers said.
They said they would continue working with international organizations to establish coordinated approaches and collect and share good practices to facilitate flows of essential goods and services.


tass--2020-03-31--Aeroflot cancels over 50 flights due to Sheremetyevo airport restrictions

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
Russian flagship air carrier Aeroflot had to cancel more than 50 outcoming flights due from March 31 to April 2 , amid restrictions on arrivals imposed by Moscow ’ s Sheremetyevo Airport , the company said on its website .
At the same time , the Aeroflot Group ( the company itself plus the Rossiya airline ) will perform seven flights in the reported period , including to New Delhi ( India ) , Bangkok ( Thailand ) , Denpasar ( Indonesia ’ s Bali ) , Monastir ( Tunisia ) , London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lanka ) to take out Russian citizens from those countries .
Russia ’ s Air Transport Agency ( Rosaviatsiya ) said on Monday that Moscow ’ s Sheremetyevo airport will receive not more than 500 people a day returning to Russia from foreign countries amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The quota for other Russian cities is not more than 200 people a day .
The Pobeda airline also had to cancel some of its flights .
The air carrier said on Monday it did not receive a Rosaviatsiya permission for delivering about 400 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sheremetyevo on March 31 and April 1 .
The S7 airline said it was `` urgently studying the opportunities '' .

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. Russian flagship air carrier Aeroflot had to cancel more than 50 outcoming flights due from March 31 to April 2, amid restrictions on arrivals imposed by Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport, the company said on its website.
At the same time, the Aeroflot Group (the company itself plus the Rossiya airline) will perform seven flights in the reported period, including to New Delhi (India), Bangkok (Thailand), Denpasar (Indonesia’s Bali), Monastir (Tunisia), London (UK) and Colombo (Sri Lanka) to take out Russian citizens from those countries.
Russia’s Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) said on Monday that Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport will receive not more than 500 people a day returning to Russia from foreign countries amid the coronavirus pandemic. The quota for other Russian cities is not more than 200 people a day.
The Pobeda airline also had to cancel some of its flights. The air carrier said on Monday it did not receive a Rosaviatsiya permission for delivering about 400 passengers from Turkey’s Antalya to Sheremetyevo on March 31 and April 1. The S7 airline said it was "urgently studying the opportunities".


tass--2020-03-31--US, Russian energy chiefs to discuss oil market volatility

WASHINGTON , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
US Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette will discuss ways of solving the problem of volatility on global oil markets with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak , Department of Energy Spokeswoman Shaylyn Hynes told TASS .
`` Secretary Brouillette will discuss with his Russian counterpart , Minister Novak , ways the world ’ s largest producers can address volatility in the global oil markets during this unprecedented period of turmoil , '' she said , commenting on the results of the recent phone conversation between the presidents of Russia and the United States , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kremlin press service said earlier on Monday that Trump and Putin discussed the current situation at the global oil market .
`` An arrangement was made on Russian-US consultations in this regard through energy department heads , '' the Kremlin said .
Commenting on the results of the talks , the White House said the Russian and US leaders `` agreed on the importance of stability in global energy markets . ''
The OPEC+ oil output reduction agreement , which expires at the end of March , has not been extended due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia suggested that the deal be extended under the previous conditions and for the second quarter of 2020 only , whereas Saudi Arabia insisted on deepening cuts by another 1.5 mln barrels per day by the end of the year .
The failure of the deal has triggered a sharp drop in oil prices coupled with a reduction in global demand due to the coronavirus pandemic .

WASHINGTON, March 31. /TASS/. US Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette will discuss ways of solving the problem of volatility on global oil markets with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak, Department of Energy Spokeswoman Shaylyn Hynes told TASS.
"Secretary Brouillette will discuss with his Russian counterpart, Minister Novak, ways the world’s largest producers can address volatility in the global oil markets during this unprecedented period of turmoil," she said, commenting on the results of the recent phone conversation between the presidents of Russia and the United States, Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.
The Kremlin press service said earlier on Monday that Trump and Putin discussed the current situation at the global oil market. "An arrangement was made on Russian-US consultations in this regard through energy department heads," the Kremlin said.
Commenting on the results of the talks, the White House said the Russian and US leaders "agreed on the importance of stability in global energy markets."
The OPEC+ oil output reduction agreement, which expires at the end of March, has not been extended due to divergent positions of two biggest participants as Russia suggested that the deal be extended under the previous conditions and for the second quarter of 2020 only, whereas Saudi Arabia insisted on deepening cuts by another 1.5 mln barrels per day by the end of the year. The failure of the deal has triggered a sharp drop in oil prices coupled with a reduction in global demand due to the coronavirus pandemic.


tass--2020-04-01--Venezuelan officials reject US initiative on transitional government

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
/TASS/ .
The Venezuelan government considers the US initiative on establishing a transitional @ @ @ @ @ an attempt to interfere into Venezuela 's internal affairs , Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza @ @ @ @ @ account on Tuesday .
`` The Bolivarian government once again underscores that Venezuela is a @ @ @ @ @ and democratic country which does not agree and will never agree to any type of @ @ @ @ @ government , '' Arreaza said .
Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido in turn welcomed Washington @ @ @ @ @ contacted US Secretary of State Pompeo to thank him for his support on behalf of @ @ @ @ @ a transitional government and state council , '' Guaido wrote on his official Twitter account @

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. /TASS/. The Venezuelan government considers the US initiative on establishing a transitional government in the country as an attempt to interfere into Venezuela's internal affairs, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza wrote on his official Twitter account on Tuesday.
"The Bolivarian government once again underscores that Venezuela is a free, sovereign, independent and democratic country which does not agree and will never agree to any type of external governance by a foreign government," Arreaza said.
Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido in turn welcomed Washington's initiative. "I contacted US Secretary of State Pompeo to thank him for his support on behalf of the United States for establishing a transitional government and state council," Guaido wrote on his official Twitter account.


tass--2020-04-01--Russian embassy taking measures to help Russian citizens at New York airport — ambassador

NEW YORK , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Embassy in the United States is doing everything possible to provide assistance to Russian citizens who remain at an airport in New York after Russia introduced restrictions on the return of compatriots from abroad , Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said in a statement released on Tuesday .
`` The embassy knows about the difficult situation at JFK with transporting Russian citizens from New York to Moscow , '' Antonov said .
`` Due to restrictions introduced by Russia on the number of returning compatriots ( 500 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next few days have been cancelled , '' he added .
`` The embassy has set up hotlines to stay in touch with Russian citizens who want to return home , '' the ambassador noted .
`` The lists of people have been sent to Moscow so that they are considered when future evacuation of citizens is planned .
We remain in regular contact with them .
Together with Aeroflot , the embassy organized on March 30 accommodations in hotels for citizens who found themselves in a difficult situation at the New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary measures to resolve this , '' he said .
`` Mutual support , solidarity , restraint , patience are especially important now , '' Antonov said .
`` We call for ignoring the possible attempts to artificially fan tensions and to direct discontent at Aeroflot staff and Russian diplomats .
We call for remaining calm , staying in temporary accommodations if possible until receiving information from the embassy and Aeroflot about flying to Russia , '' he concluded .

NEW YORK, March 31. /TASS/. The Russian Embassy in the United States is doing everything possible to provide assistance to Russian citizens who remain at an airport in New York after Russia introduced restrictions on the return of compatriots from abroad, Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said in a statement released on Tuesday.
"The embassy knows about the difficult situation at JFK with transporting Russian citizens from New York to Moscow," Antonov said. "Due to restrictions introduced by Russia on the number of returning compatriots (500 per day), Aeroflot flights for the next few days have been cancelled," he added.
"The embassy has set up hotlines to stay in touch with Russian citizens who want to return home," the ambassador noted. "The lists of people have been sent to Moscow so that they are considered when future evacuation of citizens is planned. We remain in regular contact with them. Together with Aeroflot, the embassy organized on March 30 accommodations in hotels for citizens who found themselves in a difficult situation at the New York airport. We are taking all necessary measures to resolve this," he said.
"Mutual support, solidarity, restraint, patience are especially important now," Antonov said. "We call for ignoring the possible attempts to artificially fan tensions and to direct discontent at Aeroflot staff and Russian diplomats. We call for remaining calm, staying in temporary accommodations if possible until receiving information from the embassy and Aeroflot about flying to Russia," he concluded.


tass--2020-04-01--Over 5,00 cases of novel coronavirus confirmed in Israel — health ministry

TEL AVIV , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The number of confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in Israel has reached @ @ @ @ @ and the death toll has climbed to 20 , the country 's Ministry of Health @ @ @ @ @ ministry said that 94 people remain in a serious condition , and 224 people recovered.The @ @ @ @ @ was confirmed in Israel on February 27 .
On March 20 , the first death @ @ @ @ @ in the country .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health @ @ @ @ @ the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central @ @ @ @ @ cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported @ @ @ @ @ , including Russia .

TEL AVIV, March 31. /TASS/. The number of confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in Israel has reached 5,385 by Tuesday evening, and the death toll has climbed to 20, the country's Ministry of Health said on Tuesday.
The ministry said that 94 people remain in a serious condition, and 224 people recovered.The first case of novel coronavirus was confirmed in Israel on February 27. On March 20, the first death from novel coronavirus was reported in the country.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries, including Russia.


tass--2020-04-01--Prince of Monaco recovers from coronavirus

PARIS , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
Prince Albert II of Monaco has successfully recovered from coronavirus after testing positive a few weeks ago and is ready to reunite with his family , the Royal Palace of Monaco said in a statement issued on Tuesday .
The palace underlined that doctors who have been monitoring the Prince ’ s health since his coronavirus test results came back positive said that he could stop self-isolating .
`` The Sovereign Prince is declared cured and in good health , '' the statement says .
The palace also clarified that Albert II will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the same time , will keep up the self-isolation measures in close contact with the government and his advisors .
The news that the Prince of Monaco tested positive for the virus broke out on March 19 , less than two weeks ago .
Official reports , however , stressed that his condition is not concerning for doctors and he would continue carrying out his duties .
As of Monday , Monaco had 49 confirmed coronavirus cases , one patient is said to have recovered .
No fatalities were reported .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
To date , more than 786,600 people have been infected worldwide and over 37,800 have died , while more than 165,800 have recovered .

PARIS, March 31. /TASS/. Prince Albert II of Monaco has successfully recovered from coronavirus after testing positive a few weeks ago and is ready to reunite with his family, the Royal Palace of Monaco said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
The palace underlined that doctors who have been monitoring the Prince’s health since his coronavirus test results came back positive said that he could stop self-isolating. "The Sovereign Prince is declared cured and in good health," the statement says.
The palace also clarified that Albert II will soon reunite with his family but, at the same time, will keep up the self-isolation measures in close contact with the government and his advisors.
The news that the Prince of Monaco tested positive for the virus broke out on March 19, less than two weeks ago. Official reports, however, stressed that his condition is not concerning for doctors and he would continue carrying out his duties.
As of Monday, Monaco had 49 confirmed coronavirus cases, one patient is said to have recovered. No fatalities were reported.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. To date, more than 786,600 people have been infected worldwide and over 37,800 have died, while more than 165,800 have recovered.


tass--2020-04-01--Number of coronavirus cases in Belarus up to 163 — health ministry

MINSK , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus cases in Belarus has risen from 152 to 163 , the country ’ s health ministry said on Tuesday .
`` Over the past day , eleven people with suspected coronavirus infection were taken to hospitals .
As many as 128 patents have been released , including six who earlier tested positive for COVID-2019 , '' the ministry said .
The ministry provided no COVID statistics but based of the March 30 figures — 152 cases — it can be surmised that the current figure is 163 .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying it was a senior patient `` suffering for a range of chronic diseases complicated by the coronavirus infection . ''
`` As of now , more than 31,000 coronavirus tests have been made in Belarus , '' the ministry said .
`` Measures are being taken to exercise control over the epidemiological situation . ''
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously known as 2019-nCoV ) was reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan , a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then , cases of the new coronavirus have been reported from 160 countries , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest update , the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 760,000 , with nearly 37,000 fatalities .

MINSK, March 31. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus cases in Belarus has risen from 152 to 163, the country’s health ministry said on Tuesday.
"Over the past day, eleven people with suspected coronavirus infection were taken to hospitals. As many as 128 patents have been released, including six who earlier tested positive for COVID-2019," the ministry said. The ministry provided no COVID statistics but based of the March 30 figures — 152 cases — it can be surmised that the current figure is 163.
The ministry also confirmed the first coronavirus-related death, saying it was a senior patient "suffering for a range of chronic diseases complicated by the coronavirus infection."
"As of now, more than 31,000 coronavirus tests have been made in Belarus," the ministry said. "Measures are being taken to exercise control over the epidemiological situation."
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in China’s city of Wuhan, a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million, in late December 2019. Since then, cases of the new coronavirus have been reported from 160 countries, including Russia. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest update, the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 760,000, with nearly 37,000 fatalities.


tass--2020-03-31--Five more coronavirus patients die in Moscow — coronavirus response taskforce

`` Five patients with confirmed pneumonia and positive coronavirus tests have died .
< … > All the five patients of old age had concurrent diseases , '' it said .
According to the headquarters , the patients were aged from 61 to 74 .
Four of them were connected to artificial lung ventilation .
`` All had other chronic diseases , including cardiosclerosis , essential hypertension , chronic obstructive lung disease .
Three patients had diabetes .
One patient had cancer , '' it said .
As of March 31 , a total of 2,337 coronavirus cases have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 121 patients have recovered .
According to data as of 12:00 Moscow time , seventeen patients died .
Moscow accounts for the majority of cases ( 1,613 ) .
The Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public informed about the coronavirus situation .
On March 29 , Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin expanded high alert measures by signing respective orders .
The new steps particularly stipulate self-isolation for all citizens of all ages unless citizens require urgent medical help , need to buy food or medicines or head to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ physically .
Residents are ordered to stay at home , leaving it only to go to a drug store or a supermarket , to receive emergency medical aid , to walk a pet within a distance of 100 meters from the house , as well as to dispose garbage and travel to work if they can not work from home .
However , people can arrive in or leave the city but are banned from moving around it without a serious reason .
Similar measures have been taken in most of Russia ’ @ @ @

"Five patients with confirmed pneumonia and positive coronavirus tests have died. <…> All the five patients of old age had concurrent diseases," it said.
According to the headquarters, the patients were aged from 61 to 74. Four of them were connected to artificial lung ventilation. "All had other chronic diseases, including cardiosclerosis, essential hypertension, chronic obstructive lung disease. Three patients had diabetes. One patient had cancer," it said.
As of March 31, a total of 2,337 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia. As many as 121 patients have recovered. According to data as of 12:00 Moscow time, seventeen patients died. Moscow accounts for the majority of cases (1,613). The Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public informed about the coronavirus situation.
On March 29, Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin expanded high alert measures by signing respective orders. The new steps particularly stipulate self-isolation for all citizens of all ages unless citizens require urgent medical help, need to buy food or medicines or head to work if they still need to be there physically. Residents are ordered to stay at home, leaving it only to go to a drug store or a supermarket, to receive emergency medical aid, to walk a pet within a distance of 100 meters from the house, as well as to dispose garbage and travel to work if they cannot work from home. However, people can arrive in or leave the city but are banned from moving around it without a serious reason.
Similar measures have been taken in most of Russia’s regions.


tass--2020-03-31--Russian embassy in Rome flies flag at half-mast to show solidarity with Italian nation

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Embassy in Italy has flown its flag at half-mast on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ with the Italian nation that suffered significant losses due to the outbreak of the novel @ @ @ @ @ the embassy informed on Twitter .
`` The Russian Embassy in Italy is joining the @ @ @ @ @ of Italian Municipalities ( ANCI ) .
Today , we fly our flag at half-mast @ @ @ @ @ show of solidarity with the Italian nation , '' the message informs .
Italy has @ @ @ @ @ the novel coronavirus .
The number of deaths from COVID-19 there has risen by 837 @ @ @ @ @ , reaching 12,428 , Italy 's Head of Civil Protection Angelo Borrelli said on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ those infected since the start of the epidemic , including those who died and recovered @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. The Russian Embassy in Italy has flown its flag at half-mast on Tuesday in a show of solidarity with the Italian nation that suffered significant losses due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the embassy informed on Twitter.
"The Russian Embassy in Italy is joining the initiative of the National Association of Italian Municipalities (ANCI). Today, we fly our flag at half-mast in mourning and in a show of solidarity with the Italian nation," the message informs.
Italy has the highest death toll from the novel coronavirus. The number of deaths from COVID-19 there has risen by 837 in the past 24 hours, reaching 12,428, Italy's Head of Civil Protection Angelo Borrelli said on Tuesday. The total number of those infected since the start of the epidemic, including those who died and recovered, reaches 105,792.


tass--2020-03-31--IAEA says continuously monitoring nuclear deal in Iran amid pandemic

VIENNA , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The International Atomic Energy Agency ( IAEA ) continues to fully inspect nuclear facilities in Iran in accordance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action ( JCPOA ) on the Iranian nuclear program , IAEA spokesperson Fredrik Dahl told TASS on Tuesday responding to a question of how the agency is monitoring compliance with the nuclear deal amid the coronavirus pandemic .
According to him , the IAEA is continuing to monitor the coronavirus developments unfolding in the world .
However , Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi vowed that the agency `` will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will continue safeguarding nuclear material all around the world , the spokesperson quoted him as saying .
`` While there have been widespread travel disruptions and other logistical hurdles due to the outbreak , the IAEA is taking all necessary steps to overcome such challenges .
It continues to carry out its safeguards activities in Iran and elsewhere , ensuring the effective implementation of its mandate while also taking all appropriate measures to protect the safety and security of our staff , whose work is crucial for international peace and security , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interacting with , '' Dahl noted .
Moreover , IAEA inspectors are unhindered when working with difficult technical instruments .
`` These safeguards activities are conducted by our inspectors , who also have a range of sophisticated technical tools at their disposal .
They are continuing their important work in a highly professional and dedicated manner during these extraordinary times .
In the case of Iran , the Agency continues to maintain a 24/7 presence of inspectors on the ground , '' the IAEA spokesperson emphasized .
Iran ’ s confirmed coronavirus cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 14,656 recovered .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries .
On March 9 , the IAEA director general reported to the Board of Governors that agency inspectors had not identified any changes in Iran ’ s honoring its obligations to the nuclear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in scaling back its commitments .
Grossi also urged Tehran to provide access to any facilities where undeclared nuclear material can possibly be stored where IAEA inspectors were not allowed .
The JCPOA was signed between Iran , the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council ( Russia , the United Kingdom , China , the United States and France ) and Germany in 2015 .
Under the deal , Iran undertook to curb its nuclear activities and place them under total control of the International Atomic Energy Agency ( IAEA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sanctions imposed previously by the United Nations Security Council , the European Union and the United States over its nuclear program .
Iran pledged not to enrich uranium above the level of 3.67 % for 15 years and maintain enriched uranium stockpiles at the level not exceeding 300 kg , as well as not to build new heavy-water reactors , not to accumulate heavy water and not to develop nuclear explosive devices .

VIENNA, March 31. /TASS/. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) continues to fully inspect nuclear facilities in Iran in accordance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian nuclear program, IAEA spokesperson Fredrik Dahl told TASS on Tuesday responding to a question of how the agency is monitoring compliance with the nuclear deal amid the coronavirus pandemic.
According to him, the IAEA is continuing to monitor the coronavirus developments unfolding in the world. However, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi vowed that the agency "will not stop for a single minute" and will continue safeguarding nuclear material all around the world, the spokesperson quoted him as saying. "While there have been widespread travel disruptions and other logistical hurdles due to the outbreak, the IAEA is taking all necessary steps to overcome such challenges. It continues to carry out its safeguards activities in Iran and elsewhere, ensuring the effective implementation of its mandate while also taking all appropriate measures to protect the safety and security of our staff, whose work is crucial for international peace and security, and of the national officials they are interacting with," Dahl noted.
Moreover, IAEA inspectors are unhindered when working with difficult technical instruments. "These safeguards activities are conducted by our inspectors, who also have a range of sophisticated technical tools at their disposal. They are continuing their important work in a highly professional and dedicated manner during these extraordinary times. In the case of Iran, the Agency continues to maintain a 24/7 presence of inspectors on the ground," the IAEA spokesperson emphasized.
Iran’s confirmed coronavirus cases exceed 44,600, while 2,898 people died and 14,656 recovered. In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries.
On March 9, the IAEA director general reported to the Board of Governors that agency inspectors had not identified any changes in Iran’s honoring its obligations to the nuclear deal after Iran announced the fifth step in scaling back its commitments. Grossi also urged Tehran to provide access to any facilities where undeclared nuclear material can possibly be stored where IAEA inspectors were not allowed.
The JCPOA was signed between Iran, the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (Russia, the United Kingdom, China, the United States and France) and Germany in 2015. Under the deal, Iran undertook to curb its nuclear activities and place them under total control of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in exchange for abandonment of the sanctions imposed previously by the United Nations Security Council, the European Union and the United States over its nuclear program. Iran pledged not to enrich uranium above the level of 3.67% for 15 years and maintain enriched uranium stockpiles at the level not exceeding 300 kg, as well as not to build new heavy-water reactors, not to accumulate heavy water and not to develop nuclear explosive devices.


tass--2020-03-31--Russia may send plane with medical equipment to US by end of day

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
Russia may send a plane with medical equipment and protection gear to the United States already on Tuesday , Russian president ’ s press secretary Dmitry Peskov told TASS .
`` Technical coordination and preparations for the flight of a Russian plane went on during the day .
The plane is expected to take off by the end of the day , '' he said , adding that this assistance had been agreed during Russian President Vladimir Putin ’ s telephone conversation with his US counterpart , Donald Trump , on Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation in America , the Russian side offered medical equipment and protective gear as assistance , '' Peskov commented .
The Kremlin spokesman noted that while agreeing details of how to implement the two leaders ’ agreement `` there was an impression that some on the American side were at least not eager to promote swift resolution of technical issues . ''
`` Importantly , when offering assistance to the American colleagues , President Putin is guided by the following consideration : when US manufacturers of medical equipment gain momentum they will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said , adding that this is the pattern for cooperation between Moscow and Beijing .
The Kremlin is certain that inter-country cooperation has no alternative amid fight against the coronavirus pandemic .
`` Now , when the current situation affects each and every one and can be characterized as global , there is no alternative to working together in the spirit of partnership and mutual help , '' Peskov stated .

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. Russia may send a plane with medical equipment and protection gear to the United States already on Tuesday, Russian president’s press secretary Dmitry Peskov told TASS.
"Technical coordination and preparations for the flight of a Russian plane went on during the day. The plane is expected to take off by the end of the day," he said, adding that this assistance had been agreed during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s telephone conversation with his US counterpart, Donald Trump, on Monday.
"Being aware of the serious epidemiological situation in America, the Russian side offered medical equipment and protective gear as assistance," Peskov commented.
The Kremlin spokesman noted that while agreeing details of how to implement the two leaders’ agreement "there was an impression that some on the American side were at least not eager to promote swift resolution of technical issues."
"Importantly, when offering assistance to the American colleagues, President Putin is guided by the following consideration: when US manufacturers of medical equipment gain momentum they will be able to reciprocate if need be," he said, adding that this is the pattern for cooperation between Moscow and Beijing.
The Kremlin is certain that inter-country cooperation has no alternative amid fight against the coronavirus pandemic. "Now, when the current situation affects each and every one and can be characterized as global, there is no alternative to working together in the spirit of partnership and mutual help," Peskov stated.


tass--2020-03-31--US coronavirus death toll surpasses China’s

According to the university that regularly calculates data based on federal and local authorities ’ reports , 175,067 people have tested positive for coronavirus in the US , while 3,415 people died and 5,995 recovered .
WASHINGTON , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus-related deaths in the US has exceeded the 3,400 mark , Johns Hopkins University said Tuesday .
Therefore , the US now has more coronavirus deaths than China , where 3,309 people died , the university noted .
US media outlets also underline that the US coronavirus death toll also exceeded the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terror attacks in 2001 .
Back then , around 3,000 people died when Al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four passenger jets .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been infected worldwide and over 37,800 have died , while more than 165,800 have recovered .

According to the university that regularly calculates data based on federal and local authorities’ reports, 175,067 people have tested positive for coronavirus in the US, while 3,415 people died and 5,995 recovered.
WASHINGTON, March 31. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus-related deaths in the US has exceeded the 3,400 mark, Johns Hopkins University said Tuesday.
Therefore, the US now has more coronavirus deaths than China, where 3,309 people died, the university noted.
US media outlets also underline that the US coronavirus death toll also exceeded the number of people who were killed in the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001. Back then, around 3,000 people died when Al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four passenger jets.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. To date, more than 786,600 people have been infected worldwide and over 37,800 have died, while more than 165,800 have recovered.


tass--2020-03-31--ACRA confirms Russia’s credit rating at A-level, with stable outlook

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Analytical Credit Rating Agency ( ACRA ) confirmed long-term sovereign credit @ @ @ @ @ and local currencies at A- level with the stable outlook , the press service of @ @ @ @ @ Russian economy is strong enough to get through volatility in oil market — Kremlin The @ @ @ @ @ credit rating in foreign and domestic currencies at S1 level .
The long-term rating `` @ @ @ @ @ level and sustainable structure of public debt , strong external position , and an effective @ @ @ @ @ policy that significantly improves macroeconomic stability , '' ACRA says .
At the same time @ @ @ @ @ `` by the low potential for economic growth , limited diversity of exports , lack @ @ @ @ @ Government ’ s obligations to a number of state-owned companies , weakness of institutions , @ @ @ @ @ sanctions capable of limiting investment and hindering technology-based cooperation and trade with potential foreign partners @ @ @ @ @ added .

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. The Russian Analytical Credit Rating Agency (ACRA) confirmed long-term sovereign credit ratings of Russia in foreign and local currencies at A- level with the stable outlook, the press service of ACRA says on Tuesday.
Russian economy is strong enough to get through volatility in oil market — Kremlin
The agency also keeps the short-term credit rating in foreign and domestic currencies at S1 level.
The long-term rating "is supported by the low level and sustainable structure of public debt, strong external position, and an effective monetary policy coordinated with fiscal policy that significantly improves macroeconomic stability," ACRA says.
At the same time, the rating is constrained "by the low potential for economic growth, limited diversity of exports, lack of transparency of the Russian Government’s obligations to a number of state-owned companies, weakness of institutions, and the threat of new sanctions capable of limiting investment and hindering technology-based cooperation and trade with potential foreign partners," the rating agency added.


tass--2020-03-31--Russia slams NATO approaches during pandemic as counter-productive to unifying agenda

The reaction from the Foreign Ministry came in the wake of North Macedonia ’ s accession to NATO MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
NATO ’ s course towards its enlargement is only creating new dividing lines while the world needs unity in the fight against the coronavirus , Russia ’ s Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday in the wake of North Macedonia ’ s accession to the alliance .
`` It is obvious that Skopje ’ s accession to the alliance brings no added value to European , regional or national security .
This step @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts to fight common threats and challenges , including the coronavirus pandemic .
It will only be creating dividing lines , '' the statement reads .
The attempts to `` make this event pompous and reverberating '' have proven to be futile due to the deteriorating situation caused by the coronavirus pandemic , Russia ’ s Foreign Ministry pointed out .
`` Amid the state of emergency declared in the country , the leaders of North Macedonia nonetheless did not miss the opportunity to pompously declare the historic nature of the accession to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s stability and security .
Foreign Minister Nikola Dimitrov even called the membership in the organization ‘ the behest of fathers and grandfathers , ’ '' the statement runs .
However , what was left unnoticed was the fact that North Macedonia ’ s accession to the alliance almost coincided with the date of the start of NATO ’ s bombings of the former Yugoslavia , the Russian Foreign Ministry recalled .
From the time of signing the Prespa agreement with Greece in June 2018 , North Macedonia ’ s integration into NATO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violations , the ministry said .
In particular , in compliance with the national legislation , the turnout at the referendum on the accession to the European Union and NATO on September 30 , 2018 proved to be insufficient to deem it valid .
Moreover , the cases of various kinds of interference into the country ’ s internal affairs , up to blackmail and intimidation , were observed , the statement says .
`` All this passed unnoticed by our Western partners who are usually quite sensitive about the peculiarities of observing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foreign Ministry stressed .
North Macedonia has failed to provide up to now any clear substantiation for the country ’ s accession to NATO , Russia ’ s Foreign Ministry said .
`` The local population is getting promises of economic growth , higher investment attractiveness and the strengthening of the law-governed state .
But for this purpose , it is absolutely unnecessary to join the military and political bloc .
However , they are demanding already now that Skopje increase defense spending and the amount of purchases of Western , primarily American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the price , which the Macedonian people will have to pay for giving up sovereignty in the military and political area and not only in that sphere , '' Russia ’ s Foreign Ministry added .
The alliance `` is far from always able to provide reliable protection for its members and even to stop long-standing disputes between themselves : it has learnt to skillfully sweep them under the rug , '' the ministry pointed out .
`` We expect Skopje to confirm in compliance with the established procedure that it assumes the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line with the documents signed with Russia , in particular , the 1997 Founding Act and the 2002 Rome Declaration , '' Russia ’ s Foreign Ministry concluded .

The reaction from the Foreign Ministry came in the wake of North Macedonia’s accession to NATO
MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. NATO’s course towards its enlargement is only creating new dividing lines while the world needs unity in the fight against the coronavirus, Russia’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday in the wake of North Macedonia’s accession to the alliance. "It is obvious that Skopje’s accession to the alliance brings no added value to European, regional or national security. This step surely does not contribute to unifying the efforts to fight common threats and challenges, including the coronavirus pandemic. It will only be creating dividing lines," the statement reads.
The attempts to "make this event pompous and reverberating" have proven to be futile due to the deteriorating situation caused by the coronavirus pandemic, Russia’s Foreign Ministry pointed out. "Amid the state of emergency declared in the country, the leaders of North Macedonia nonetheless did not miss the opportunity to pompously declare the historic nature of the accession to NATO, which allegedly guarantees Skopje’s stability and security. Foreign Minister Nikola Dimitrov even called the membership in the organization ‘the behest of fathers and grandfathers,’" the statement runs. However, what was left unnoticed was the fact that North Macedonia’s accession to the alliance almost coincided with the date of the start of NATO’s bombings of the former Yugoslavia, the Russian Foreign Ministry recalled. From the time of signing the Prespa agreement with Greece in June 2018, North Macedonia’s integration into NATO was accompanied by numerous procedural and legislative violations, the ministry said. In particular, in compliance with the national legislation, the turnout at the referendum on the accession to the European Union and NATO on September 30, 2018 proved to be insufficient to deem it valid. Moreover, the cases of various kinds of interference into the country’s internal affairs, up to blackmail and intimidation, were observed, the statement says. "All this passed unnoticed by our Western partners who are usually quite sensitive about the peculiarities of observing legislative procedures," Russia’s Foreign Ministry stressed. Price of security
Read also Serbia blasts NATO’s 1999 aggression as crime against humanity


tass--2020-03-31--Eurovision to hold special concert instead of contest cancelled due to pandemic

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
Organizers of the Eurovision international song contest that had to be cancelled in 2020 due to the coronavirus spread will hold a special show on May 16 featuring musicians and singers who were supposed to be performing at this year ’ s edition as well as participants from previous years , the contest ’ s official website says .
`` Sadly there will be no Eurovision Song Contest this year .
Instead , we intend to unite Europe on 16 May with a unique prime-time TV programme .
We are encouraging all broadcasters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year ’ s Eurovision Song Contest , and EBU [ European Broadcasting Union — TASS ] Members in other countries , to air this show in the spirit of unity and togetherness , '' the website quoted Jon Ola Sand , Executive Supervisor of the Contest , as saying .
Eurovision : Europe Shine A Light will celebrate 41 songs from the countries that announced their intention to compete in 2020 .
`` The show also intends to bring together 2020 ’ s artists , from their locations across Europe , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with unifying lyrics appropriate for the current situation we find ourselves in , '' Eurovision organizers noted .
Famous participants of the past editions will also be invited to take part in it with famous songs performed in iconic European sites .
The show is expected to run for two hours .
The full list of singers and broadcasters will be revealed in the coming weeks .
It is already announced that Eurovision ’ s YouTube channel will live stream the show .

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. Organizers of the Eurovision international song contest that had to be cancelled in 2020 due to the coronavirus spread will hold a special show on May 16 featuring musicians and singers who were supposed to be performing at this year’s edition as well as participants from previous years, the contest’s official website says.
"Sadly there will be no Eurovision Song Contest this year. Instead, we intend to unite Europe on 16 May with a unique prime-time TV programme. We are encouraging all broadcasters who were due to take part in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, and EBU [European Broadcasting Union — TASS] Members in other countries, to air this show in the spirit of unity and togetherness," the website quoted Jon Ola Sand, Executive Supervisor of the Contest, as saying.
Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light will celebrate 41 songs from the countries that announced their intention to compete in 2020. "The show also intends to bring together 2020’s artists, from their locations across Europe, in a performance of a past Eurovision hit, with unifying lyrics appropriate for the current situation we find ourselves in," Eurovision organizers noted. Famous participants of the past editions will also be invited to take part in it with famous songs performed in iconic European sites.
The show is expected to run for two hours. The full list of singers and broadcasters will be revealed in the coming weeks. It is already announced that Eurovision’s YouTube channel will live stream the show.
Eurovision and coronavirus


tass--2020-03-31--Finance minister voices economic measures amid pandemic instead of Vucic who feels unwell

BELGRADE , March 31./TASS/ .
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic feels unwell , Finance Minister Sinisa Mali said on Tuesday when @ @ @ @ @ ’ s nationals economic relief measures amid the coronavirus pandemic instead of the president .
@ @ @ @ @ of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic was to have presented this program , I apologize on his @ @ @ @ @ today , he is not here with us today .
He will address the public @ @ @ @ @ , '' Mali explained .
In November 2019 , President Vucic was hospitalized with a @ @ @ @ @ December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the @ @ @ @ @ pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases @ @ @ @ @ named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries , @ @ @ @ @ 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
To date @ @ @ @ @ have been infected worldwide and over 37,800 have died .

BELGRADE, March 31./TASS/. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic feels unwell, Finance Minister Sinisa Mali said on Tuesday when he presented to the country’s nationals economic relief measures amid the coronavirus pandemic instead of the president.
"President of the Republic of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic was to have presented this program, I apologize on his behalf, he feels unwell today, he is not here with us today. He will address the public within the next 48 hours," Mali explained.
In November 2019, President Vucic was hospitalized with a heart attack.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in more than 160 countries, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. To date, more than 786,600 people have been infected worldwide and over 37,800 have died.


tass--2020-03-31--Trump, Erdogan stress importance of adhering to Syrian and Libyan ceasefires

MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
US President Donald Trump has held a phone call with Turkish President Recep @ @ @ @ @ have expressed their commitment to peaceful regulation in Syria and Libya , White House Deputy @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday on Twitter .
`` Today , @ realDonaldTrump spoke with President Recep Tayyip @ @ @ @ @ Trump and President Erdogan discussed ongoing efforts to combat the coronavirus in the United States @ @ @ @ @ tweeted .
`` The two leaders agreed to work closely together on the international campaign @ @ @ @ @ bolster the global economy .
The leaders also discussed critical regional and bilateral issues .
@

MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. US President Donald Trump has held a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The sides have expressed their commitment to peaceful regulation in Syria and Libya, White House Deputy Press Secretary Judd Deere stated on Tuesday on Twitter.
"Today, @realDonaldTrump spoke with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey. President Trump and President Erdogan discussed ongoing efforts to combat the coronavirus in the United States and Turkey," Deere tweeted. "The two leaders agreed to work closely together on the international campaign to defeat the virus and bolster the global economy. The leaders also discussed critical regional and bilateral issues."


tass--2020-03-31--Putin reports 2019 revenues

Putin reports 2019 revenues

Russian government to lay tax on deposit percentage of over $ 770 — Prime Minister MOSCOW , March 31 .
@ @ @ @ @ filed a 2019 tax return within the timeframe prescribed by law , press secretary of @ @ @ @ @ Peskov told TASS on Tuesday .
`` Yes , in accordance with the law , @ @ @ @ @ , answering the question whether the president reported his revenues for the last year .
@ @ @ @ @ annual returns of high-ranking officials is April 1 .
Officials of the presidential administration already @ @ @ @ @ , Peskov informed earlier on Tuesday .
The Russian president earned about 8.65 million rubles @ @ @ @ @ 2018 , according to the last-year tax return .

Russian government to lay tax on deposit percentage of over $770 — Prime Minister
MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. The Russian president filed a 2019 tax return within the timeframe prescribed by law, press secretary of the head of state Dmitry Peskov told TASS on Tuesday.
"Yes, in accordance with the law," the press secretary said, answering the question whether the president reported his revenues for the last year.
The deadline for submission of annual returns of high-ranking officials is April 1. Officials of the presidential administration already filed all the required returns, Peskov informed earlier on Tuesday.
The Russian president earned about 8.65 million rubles ($110,800) in 2018, according to the last-year tax return.


tass--2020-03-31--Russian government to lay tax on deposit percentage of over $770 — Prime Minister

`` The tax will not apply to deposits as such , it concerns only interest income on them , and the first 60,000 rubles of interest income will not be taxed , '' Mishustin said .
MOSCOW , March 31 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian authorities will withdraw tax on gains from bank deposits worth more than 1 million rubles ( $ 13,000 ) , if the deposit percentage amount exceeds 60,000 rubles ( $ 770 ) , Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said at a meeting on economic issues on Tuesday .
Kremlin spokesman calls tax on interest on deposits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He stressed that only amounts exceeding this level are subject to tax .
The Prime Minister also assured that interest from salary accounts of citizens will not be taxed .
`` Current bank accounts , the rate on which does not exceed 1 % , in particular , salary accounts of citizens , are generally excluded from the calculation of taxes , '' he stated .
The head of government recalled that Russians would start paying this tax only in 2022 .
According to him , this measure is not driven by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to ensure stability of the financial and economic budget system of the country in the long term .
`` I stress that the tax will only affect income that will be received in 2021 , and the tax itself will be payable only in 2022 .
This year , there is no need to pay tax on such income , '' Mishustin reiterated .
Earlier this month , Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said that withholding of the tax on gains from bank deposits amounting to more than 1 million rubles ( $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gains received in 2021 .

"The tax will not apply to deposits as such, it concerns only interest income on them, and the first 60,000 rubles of interest income will not be taxed," Mishustin said.
MOSCOW, March 31. /TASS/. The Russian authorities will withdraw tax on gains from bank deposits worth more than 1 million rubles ($13,000), if the deposit percentage amount exceeds 60,000 rubles ($770), Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said at a meeting on economic issues on Tuesday.
Kremlin spokesman calls tax on interest on deposits of over $12,772 restoration of justice
He stressed that only amounts exceeding this level are subject to tax.
The Prime Minister also assured that interest from salary accounts of citizens will not be taxed. "Current bank accounts, the rate on which does not exceed 1%, in particular, salary accounts of citizens, are generally excluded from the calculation of taxes," he stated.
The head of government recalled that Russians would start paying this tax only in 2022.
According to him, this measure is not driven by the current economic situation, but by the need to ensure stability of the financial and economic budget system of the country in the long term.
"I stress that the tax will only affect income that will be received in 2021, and the tax itself will be payable only in 2022. This year, there is no need to pay tax on such income," Mishustin reiterated.
Earlier this month, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said that withholding of the tax on gains from bank deposits amounting to more than 1 million rubles ($13,000) is due from 2022 for gains received in 2021.