tass--2020-03-23--Russian troops eliminate overwhelming enemy forces during drills in Tajikistan

MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
Motorized infantry , armored and artillery units of the 201st military base eliminated a notional enemy ’ s overwhelming force during drills in Tajikistan , the press office of Russia ’ s Central Military District reported on Monday .
`` Under the drills ’ scenario , the notional enemy advanced on foot and on pick-up trucks towards Russian military facilities with the aim of eliminating the combat security force and carrying out subversive operations at missile and artillery armament depots , '' the press office said in a statement .
The Russian motor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the areas of the Lyaur and Sambuli mountainous practice ranges .
After gaining a foothold at dominant heights , the gunners assumed positional defense .
As the notional militants ’ main forces approached , the artillery troops delivered a sudden strike from 152mm Akatsiya self-propelled artillery guns at a distance of up to 15 km , the statement says .
`` In order to eliminate the remaining militant forces , the motor rifle units switched to an attack on BTR-82A armored personnel carriers with the support of T-72 tanks , delivering massive fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Orlan-10 unmanned aerial vehicles exercised control of the troops ’ maneuvers and operations and adjusted the fire , '' according to the statement .
Overall , the drills involved about 1,000 troops and more than 300 weapon systems , the press office specified .

MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. Motorized infantry, armored and artillery units of the 201st military base eliminated a notional enemy’s overwhelming force during drills in Tajikistan, the press office of Russia’s Central Military District reported on Monday.
"Under the drills’ scenario, the notional enemy advanced on foot and on pick-up trucks towards Russian military facilities with the aim of eliminating the combat security force and carrying out subversive operations at missile and artillery armament depots," the press office said in a statement.
The Russian motor rifle units performed a motorized march to the areas of the Lyaur and Sambuli mountainous practice ranges. After gaining a foothold at dominant heights, the gunners assumed positional defense. As the notional militants’ main forces approached, the artillery troops delivered a sudden strike from 152mm Akatsiya self-propelled artillery guns at a distance of up to 15 km, the statement says.
"In order to eliminate the remaining militant forces, the motor rifle units switched to an attack on BTR-82A armored personnel carriers with the support of T-72 tanks, delivering massive fire and routing the enemy. The teams of Orlan-10 unmanned aerial vehicles exercised control of the troops’ maneuvers and operations and adjusted the fire," according to the statement.
Overall, the drills involved about 1,000 troops and more than 300 weapon systems, the press office specified.


tass--2020-03-23--Over 80% of Russian universities shift to distance learning

MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
More than 80 % higher education institutions in Russia have shifted to distance @ @ @ @ @ the novel coronavirus pandemic , Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov said @ @ @ @ @ than 80 % of higher education establishments have already shifted [ to distnace learning ] @ @ @ @ @ a meeting of the working group on the organization of educational process amid the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ good experience of work in such conditions .
Not ideal , of course , but @ @ @ @ @ .
Russia 's ministry of science and education earlier recommended higher education institutions shift to @ @ @ @ @ to prevent further spread of the infection .
Leading universities have already opened free access @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. More than 80% higher education institutions in Russia have shifted to distance learning in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic, Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov said on Monday.
"More than 80% of higher education establishments have already shifted [to distnace learning]," he said at a meeting of the working group on the organization of educational process amid the coronavirus pandemic.
"We have good experience of work in such conditions. Not ideal, of course, but good," he stressed.
Russia's ministry of science and education earlier recommended higher education institutions shift to distance learning from March 16 to prevent further spread of the infection. Leading universities have already opened free access to online courses for students.


tass--2020-03-23--Two students nabbed for plotting armed attack on college in Russia’s Far East

MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
Two students have been detained in Sakhalin , Russia ’ s Far East @ @ @ @ @ attack on a college , the Russian Federal Security Service ( FSB ) told TASS @ @ @ @ @ , born in 2002 and 2003 , are suspected of `` propaganda of terrorism , @ @ @ @ @ the Internet , '' the FSB said , noting that a criminal case had been @ @ @ @ @ terrorism .
During the clampdown , the FSB seized a hunting shotgun with rounds of @ @ @ @ @ explosives and improvised explosive devices as well as diaries `` containing information on a plot @ @ @ @ @ attack on an educational institution . ''
A criminal case on other charges could be @ @ @ @ @ weapons and ammunition , documents and other confiscated items .

MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. Two students have been detained in Sakhalin, Russia’s Far East, for plotting an armed attack on a college, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) told TASS on Monday.
The students, born in 2002 and 2003, are suspected of "propaganda of terrorism, mass murders and suicides on the Internet," the FSB said, noting that a criminal case had been opened over public incitement to terrorism.
During the clampdown, the FSB seized a hunting shotgun with rounds of ammunition, a detonator, explosives and improvised explosive devices as well as diaries "containing information on a plot to carry out an armed attack on an educational institution."
A criminal case on other charges could be opened after experts examine the weapons and ammunition, documents and other confiscated items.


tass--2020-03-23--COVID-19 should become less active in April-May, Russian expert says

`` I think that its activity should become lower with the change of season , in any case .
In April-May , the activity of the coronavirus should drop significantly , '' he said during a live transmission of the conference held on the `` Future of Russia .
National Projects '' portal operated by TASS .
MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
Seasonal changes should affect the activity of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) , Nikolay Briko , head of the First Moscow State Medical University ’ s Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Medicine Department and Russian Health Ministry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Monday .
He added that the virus should become less active by April-May .
Briko noted that the predictions claiming that the new infection will affect the majority of the world ’ s population are unlikely .
`` We have only seen this in the Middle Ages , when the infection was completely out of control .
Right now , the measures taken by practically all states help contain it , and there won ’ t be such a spread of this infection , '' the expert explained .
A pneumonia outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 150 countries and territories , among them Russia , which by now has documented 438 cases .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 320,000 , with more than 14,000 deaths .
WHO has officially described the situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

"I think that its activity should become lower with the change of season, in any case. In April-May, the activity of the coronavirus should drop significantly," he said during a live transmission of the conference held on the "Future of Russia. National Projects" portal operated by TASS.
MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. Seasonal changes should affect the activity of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Nikolay Briko, head of the First Moscow State Medical University’s Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Medicine Department and Russian Health Ministry’s chief non-resident epidemiologist, stated on Monday. He added that the virus should become less active by April-May.
Briko noted that the predictions claiming that the new infection will affect the majority of the world’s population are unlikely. "We have only seen this in the Middle Ages, when the infection was completely out of control. Right now, the measures taken by practically all states help contain it, and there won’t be such a spread of this infection," the expert explained.
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. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 150 countries and territories, among them Russia, which by now has documented 438 cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 320,000, with more than 14,000 deaths. WHO has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-23--More than 460 die of coronavirus in Spain in 24 hours

According to the Ministry , a total of 2,182 people have died by Monday , while 3,355 patients have recovered .
Most cases have been registered in the Madrid autonomous community ( 10,575 ) .
MADRID , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
At least 33,089 new coronavirus cases have been registered in Spain since the onset of the outbreak , the Health Ministry reported Monday .
On Sunday , the Ministry reported 28,572 cases and 1,720 deaths .
In the past 24 hours , more than 460 people have succumbed to the infection .
The first coronavirus case was registered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of cases skyrocketed following an outbreak in Italy .
On March 14 , the Spanish Ministerial Council approved heightened readiness regime , which limits people ’ s freedom of movement , except for emergency .
The regime will remain in place for 15 days , but can be extended by the parliament .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously known as 2019-nCoV ) was reported in central China in late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 190 countries and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now has 438 cases .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 300,000 , with more than 14,000 deaths .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

According to the Ministry, a total of 2,182 people have died by Monday, while 3,355 patients have recovered. Most cases have been registered in the Madrid autonomous community (10,575).
MADRID, March 23. /TASS/. At least 33,089 new coronavirus cases have been registered in Spain since the onset of the outbreak, the Health Ministry reported Monday.
On Sunday, the Ministry reported 28,572 cases and 1,720 deaths. In the past 24 hours, more than 460 people have succumbed to the infection.
The first coronavirus case was registered in Spain on January 31. The number of cases skyrocketed following an outbreak in Italy. On March 14, the Spanish Ministerial Council approved heightened readiness regime, which limits people’s freedom of movement, except for emergency. The regime will remain in place for 15 days, but can be extended by the parliament.
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in central China in late December 2019. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 190 countries and territories, including Russia, which by now has 438 cases. The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 300,000, with more than 14,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-23--Coronavirus pandemic may cause EU to break up, says analyst

`` The leaders of the EU countries on March 26 will hold a video conference to discuss what the EU should do amid the spread of the coronavirus .
A similar summit that took place days ago indicated that the collapse of an united Europe is an accomplished fact .
It has turned out there is no European solidarity and in Europe each is for himself , '' Pshenichnikov recalled .
MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
The current coronavirus pandemic has forced the EU members to take off the masks , thus proving that no European solidarity exists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , expert Igor Pshenichnikov , of the Russian Institute for Strategic Studies , said on Monday .
He sees certain risks the European Union may lose its previous shape once and for all or cease to exist altogether .
He stressed that inside the EU there was a glaring divergence of opinion regarding the pandemic .
France ’ s President Emmanuel Macron has come out for a common coordinated fiscal policy that might ease the economic effects of the crisis the pandemic will entail .
France , he said , believes that each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an adequate response to the effects of the economic crisis on its own .
Macron urged a coordinated plan for struggle against numerous effects of an economic crisis that may last indefinitely long , '' he said .
In the meantime , Pshenichnikov said , Germany has opposed the measures proposed by France .
`` German Chancellor Angela Merkel leads the countries that suspect France and its supporters are aiming to shake loose the fiscal discipline and redistribution the flows of budget resources from the EU ’ s richer countries in favor of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It is pretty clear that the EU ’ s wealthy states have no intention of displaying solidarity with the coronavirus-affected countries like Italy .
Moreover , not a single EU country has provided any assistance to Italy yet .
Only China did that .
The pandemic has exposed the real worth of the European Union and its common European values . ''
`` After the global recovery from the coronavirus the European Union may emerge in a new , shattered shape , if it is destined to survive in its current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring about total disorder and confusion in the EU , '' he warned .
In the meantime , the EU ’ s collapse might play into the hands of the United States and its President Donald Trump , who sees the EU and incidentally China , as the main trading and economic adversaries . ''
An outbreak of the novel coronavirus-related disease in central China late last year has spread to most .
The World Health Organization has declared a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , more than 320,000 people have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The disease has claimed 14,000 lives .

"The leaders of the EU countries on March 26 will hold a video conference to discuss what the EU should do amid the spread of the coronavirus. A similar summit that took place days ago indicated that the collapse of an united Europe is an accomplished fact. It has turned out there is no European solidarity and in Europe each is for himself," Pshenichnikov recalled.
MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. The current coronavirus pandemic has forced the EU members to take off the masks, thus proving that no European solidarity exists and "each is for himself", expert Igor Pshenichnikov, of the Russian Institute for Strategic Studies, said on Monday. He sees certain risks the European Union may lose its previous shape once and for all or cease to exist altogether.
He stressed that inside the EU there was a glaring divergence of opinion regarding the pandemic. France’s President Emmanuel Macron has come out for a common coordinated fiscal policy that might ease the economic effects of the crisis the pandemic will entail. France, he said, believes that each individual country will be unable to provide an adequate response to the effects of the economic crisis on its own. Macron urged a coordinated plan for struggle against numerous effects of an economic crisis that may last indefinitely long," he said.
In the meantime, Pshenichnikov said, Germany has opposed the measures proposed by France.
"German Chancellor Angela Merkel leads the countries that suspect France and its supporters are aiming to shake loose the fiscal discipline and redistribution the flows of budget resources from the EU’s richer countries in favor of the poorer ones," Pshenichnkov said. "It is pretty clear that the EU’s wealthy states have no intention of displaying solidarity with the coronavirus-affected countries like Italy. Moreover, not a single EU country has provided any assistance to Italy yet. Only China did that. The pandemic has exposed the real worth of the European Union and its common European values."
"After the global recovery from the coronavirus the European Union may emerge in a new, shattered shape, if it is destined to survive in its current disguise at all. The pandemic may bring about total disorder and confusion in the EU," he warned. In the meantime, the EU’s collapse might play into the hands of the United States and its President Donald Trump, who sees the EU and incidentally China, as the main trading and economic adversaries."
An outbreak of the novel coronavirus-related disease in central China late last year has spread to most. The World Health Organization has declared a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, more than 320,000 people have contracted the virus around the world. The disease has claimed 14,000 lives.


tass--2020-03-23--Parcels are not contagious, coronavirus dies during delivery, epidemiologist says

MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
The COVID-19 coronavirus might survive on various surfaces for some time , but it is impossible to contract the infection through parcels , because the virus dies before the parcel is delivered , says Nikolai Briko , Russian Healthcare Ministry ’ s chief visiting epidemiologist .
The scientist opined that `` it would be wrong to neglect the possibility '' of contact transmission of coronavirus through objects .
`` However , in regards to parcels , they are epidemiologically irrelevant , because the virus dies before these parcels are delivered , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , just like other viruses , dies in the external environment rather quickly , because it can not live outside a living cell .
`` We have data that the virus survives for different periods of time on various materials : thus it can survive 2-3 hours on metallic surfaces , but it can survive up to several days on cardboard and plastic .
Such data exists and it must be taken into account , [ in particular ] during decontamination procedures , '' he added .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019-nCoV ) was reported in central China in late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 190 countries and territories , including Russia , which by now has 438 cases .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 300,000 , with more than 14,000 deaths .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. The COVID-19 coronavirus might survive on various surfaces for some time, but it is impossible to contract the infection through parcels, because the virus dies before the parcel is delivered, says Nikolai Briko, Russian Healthcare Ministry’s chief visiting epidemiologist.
The scientist opined that "it would be wrong to neglect the possibility" of contact transmission of coronavirus through objects. "However, in regards to parcels, they are epidemiologically irrelevant, because the virus dies before these parcels are delivered," he said Monday.
He explained that the coronavirus, just like other viruses, dies in the external environment rather quickly, because it cannot live outside a living cell.
"We have data that the virus survives for different periods of time on various materials: thus it can survive 2-3 hours on metallic surfaces, but it can survive up to several days on cardboard and plastic. Such data exists and it must be taken into account, [in particular] during decontamination procedures," he added.
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in central China in late December 2019. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 190 countries and territories, including Russia, which by now has 438 cases. The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 300,000, with more than 14,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-23--Global coronavirus death toll tops 15,000

MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
The overall number of deaths from coronavirus in the world has now exceeded @ @ @ @ @ by TASS reporters from official statements of authorities and experts in more than 150 countries @ @ @ @ @ virus was reported .
On March 23 , the total number of infections already surpassed @ @ @ @ @ % ( 15,023 ) people died .
The most coronavirus cases in the world outside @ @ @ @ @ broke out and its peak has already passed , are reported from Italy with 59,138 @ @ @ @ @ 9.26 % ) , followed by the United States ( 35,209 cases and 471 deaths @ @ @ @ @ cases and 2,182 deaths ) and Iran ( 23,049 cases and 1,812 deaths ) .
@ @ @ @ @ have identified more than 10,000 infections , while 17 more countries around the world report @ @ @ @ @ Russia is currently sitting on 438 coronavirus infections , while 17 people recovered and were @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. The overall number of deaths from coronavirus in the world has now exceeded 15,000, shows data collected by TASS reporters from official statements of authorities and experts in more than 150 countries around the globe where the virus was reported.
On March 23, the total number of infections already surpassed 330,000, while about 4.53% (15,023) people died.
The most coronavirus cases in the world outside China, where the pandemic broke out and its peak has already passed, are reported from Italy with 59,138 infections and 5,476 deaths (9.26%), followed by the United States (35,209 cases and 471 deaths), Spain (33,089 cases and 2,182 deaths) and Iran (23,049 cases and 1,812 deaths).
Iran, Germany and France have identified more than 10,000 infections, while 17 more countries around the world report more than 1,000 cases.
Russia is currently sitting on 438 coronavirus infections, while 17 people recovered and were discharged from hospitals.


tass--2020-03-23--Coronavirus may delay launch of new LNG facilities - Gazprom Export

MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
The coronavirus pandemic is the most important uncertainty of 2020 , it might delay the launch of new gas liquefaction facilities in anticipation of stabilization of markets , Head of the Contract Structuring and Pricing Directorate of Gazprom Export Sergey Komlev said in an article for Gazprom ’ s corporate magazine .
`` Spot LNG prices in Asia showed a phenomenal drop to levels even below European … Such a deep drop is caused by an extraordinary situation with the spread of coronavirus , which is why LNG imports in China decreased in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long period .
This factor , of course , is the most important uncertainty of 2020 , making any attempt at forecasts futile , '' he said .
At the same time , according to him , the European market against this background has not yet encountered an increase in LNG volumes redirected from Asia .
Thus , shipments of regasified LNG to European gas networks in the first two months of 2020 are below the record values of the end of 2019 by about 20 % .
`` The fact is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is easier for owners of LNG batches to get rid of it at any price than to pay for transport around the entire continent ...
The current price level creates a situation where even the operating costs of LNG delivery can hardly be covered , '' Komlev said .
Against this background , according to Kolmev , LNG producers have an incentive to postpone the launch of new capacities as much as possible , waiting for at least some stabilization of the markets .
Speaking about forecasts for the current year as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the point of view of the buyer , 2020 could be another successful year amid falling gas prices , however , the situation is not that favourable for the exporters .

MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. The coronavirus pandemic is the most important uncertainty of 2020, it might delay the launch of new gas liquefaction facilities in anticipation of stabilization of markets, Head of the Contract Structuring and Pricing Directorate of Gazprom Export Sergey Komlev said in an article for Gazprom’s corporate magazine.
"Spot LNG prices in Asia showed a phenomenal drop to levels even below European … Such a deep drop is caused by an extraordinary situation with the spread of coronavirus, which is why LNG imports in China decreased in January-February for the first time in a long period. This factor, of course, is the most important uncertainty of 2020, making any attempt at forecasts futile," he said.
At the same time, according to him, the European market against this background has not yet encountered an increase in LNG volumes redirected from Asia. Thus, shipments of regasified LNG to European gas networks in the first two months of 2020 are below the record values of the end of 2019 by about 20%.
"The fact is that in the current low price environment, it is easier for owners of LNG batches to get rid of it at any price than to pay for transport around the entire continent ... The current price level creates a situation where even the operating costs of LNG delivery can hardly be covered," Komlev said.
Against this background, according to Kolmev, LNG producers have an incentive to postpone the launch of new capacities as much as possible, waiting for at least some stabilization of the markets.
Speaking about forecasts for the current year as a whole, Komlev noted that from the point of view of the buyer, 2020 could be another successful year amid falling gas prices, however, the situation is not that favourable for the exporters.


tass--2020-03-23--Amazfit ZenBuds won red dot in the Design Award 2020 in the Week of World Sleep Day

SHENZHEN , China , March 23 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 22 , in recognition of World Sleep Day 2020 , Huami ( NYSE : HMI ) Amazfit released the 2019 Chinese Sleep Whitepaper [ 1 ] on March 21th , giving big data analysis on the varied sleep-themed topics in China .
Based on health-focused strategy and concerns on high quality sleep , Amazfit launched the ZenBuds at CES2020 .
Huami also won Red Dot in the Red Dot Design Award 2020 [ 2 ] with its special and innovative product design .
Report Shows Chinese women Sleep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Huami 's 2019 Chinese Sleep Whitepaper is based on the 10 million-level sleep health big data [ 3 ] and 100,000+ online survey questionnaires .
It analyzed and studied the sleep characteristics of Chinese people in 2019 through multiple dimensions .
It also calls on the public to pay attention to personal sleep health and develop good sleep habits .
According to the report , the sleep habits of Chinese women are significantly better than Chinese men .
Data shows that , on average , women sleep 21 minutes longer than men every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23 minutes earlier than men , and wake up 2 minutes earlier than men .
The average sleep score of women is 83.5 points , compared with 81 points for men .
In terms of sleeping position , men prefer to lie flat , while women prefer to lie on the right side .
After its launch at CES2020 , ZenBuds has got noticed by the industry .
Amazfit ZenBuds help users relieve daily stress and the pressure or struggle to get a good sleep .
Amazfit ZenBuds are smart , noise-blocking earbuds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relax and sleep .
By reducing distracting noises and playing relaxing sounds , the earbuds let users block out the outside world and fall asleep more easily .
The smart sleep monitoring function analyses the sleep quality each night , helping users form healthy sleeping habits .
ZenBuds fit snugly into users ears with an ergonomic , sleep-assisting design that insulates users from outside noises , giving users a peaceful night 's rest , or helping users to relax and concentrate during the day time .
Secure Fit for the Whole Night , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a comfortable and secure-fit design , so users can sleep and switch sides in comfort .
Knowles Balanced Armature generates relaxing and sleep-inducing sounds , imitating different scenarios and natural environments , to help users release tension and get a better nights sleep .
ZenBuds gather data on users heart rate , body position and movement , then compile it into a sleep quality report [ 5 ] which helps users better to know their sleep status , makes suggestions for a better sleep , helping users form healthy habits .
ZenBuds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sleep Recognition .
After users fall asleep , the earbuds automatically pause playing , so users can sleep soundly throughout the night .
Soft and skin-friendly silicone tips , ultra-comfortable to wear while sleeping .
The earbuds provide up to 12-hour [ 7 ] battery life on a single charge when sleep monitoring is running 3 hours after the sleep music ended , and supports 8 nights [ 8 ] of use when paired with the charging case .
Wake up gently to an alarm tone that increases gradually and goes off in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disturb anyone else .
[ 2 ] RedDot Award is based in Germany , one of the global industrial design awards such as IDEA Award , and IF Design Award .
[ 4 ] Each earpiece only weighs 1.78g when fitted with the Medium bud .
[ 6 ] 8 hours : Sounds continuously playing sleep monitoring and heart rate Off .
12 hours : Heart rate and sleep monitoring On .
Sounds stop playing after 3 hours and the sleep monitoring keeps working all night long .
[ 7 ] Data by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test conditions [ 8 ] 64 hours provided by charging box and earbuds itself .
Data by Amazfit Lab , could varied due to test conditions

SHENZHEN, China, March 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 22, in recognition of World Sleep Day 2020, Huami (NYSE: HMI) Amazfit released the 2019 Chinese Sleep Whitepaper[1] on March 21th, giving big data analysis on the varied sleep-themed topics in China. Based on health-focused strategy and concerns on high quality sleep, Amazfit launched the ZenBuds at CES2020. Huami also won Red Dot in the Red Dot Design Award 2020[2] with its special and innovative product design.
Report Shows Chinese women Sleep 21 More Minutes Per Night than men
Huami's 2019 Chinese Sleep Whitepaper is based on the 10 million-level sleep health big data[3] and 100,000+ online survey questionnaires. It analyzed and studied the sleep characteristics of Chinese people in 2019 through multiple dimensions. It also calls on the public to pay attention to personal sleep health and develop good sleep habits.
According to the report, the sleep habits of Chinese women are significantly better than Chinese men. Data shows that, on average, women sleep 21 minutes longer than men every night, fall asleep at 23:40, 23 minutes earlier than men, and wake up 2 minutes earlier than men. The average sleep score of women is 83.5 points, compared with 81 points for men. In terms of sleeping position, men prefer to lie flat, while women prefer to lie on the right side.
Born for better Sleep, Amazfit ZenBuds Won Red Dot Award
After its launch at CES2020, ZenBuds has got noticed by the industry. Amazfit ZenBuds help users relieve daily stress and the pressure or struggle to get a good sleep. Amazfit ZenBuds are smart, noise-blocking earbuds that are specially designed to help users relax and sleep. By reducing distracting noises and playing relaxing sounds, the earbuds let users block out the outside world and fall asleep more easily. The smart sleep monitoring function analyses the sleep quality each night, helping users form healthy sleeping habits.
NOISE-BLOCKING IN-EAR DESIGN
ZenBuds fit snugly into users ears with an ergonomic, sleep-assisting design that insulates users from outside noises, giving users a peaceful night's rest, or helping users to relax and concentrate during the day time.
LIGHT & COMFORTABLE
Secure Fit for the Whole Night, only 1.78g[4] per side and a comfortable and secure-fit design, so users can sleep and switch sides in comfort.
SOOTHING SOUNDS
Knowles Balanced Armature generates relaxing and sleep-inducing sounds, imitating different scenarios and natural environments, to help users release tension and get a better nights sleep.
SMART INTERFERENCE AND REAL-TIME SLEEP MONITORING
ZenBuds gather data on users heart rate, body position and movement, then compile it into a sleep quality report[5] which helps users better to know their sleep status, makes suggestions for a better sleep, helping users form healthy habits.
AUTO-STOP VIA SLEEP DETECTION
ZenBuds supports tap control, soothing Auto-off via Sleep Recognition. After users fall asleep, the earbuds automatically pause playing, so users can sleep soundly throughout the night.
SOFT AND SKIN FRIENDLY
Soft and skin-friendly silicone tips, ultra-comfortable to wear while sleeping.
8 to 12-HOUR BATTERY LIFE [6]
The earbuds provide up to 12-hour[7] battery life on a single charge when sleep monitoring is running 3 hours after the sleep music ended, and supports 8 nights[8] of use when paired with the charging case.
IN-EAR ALARM
Wake up gently to an alarm tone that increases gradually and goes off in users ear, so it doesn't disturb anyone else.
Specifications Amazfit ZenBuds Time to market 2020, TBC Price USD 149.90 Bluetooth version BT5.0 BLE Waterproof N/A Mic No Battery Life 8 to 12h (>68 hours with the charging box) Headphone weight 1.78g Sensors G sensor Sleeve material Silicone Speaker Knowles Technology Features Sound-blocking Design, Heart Rate Monitoring, Sleep Monitoring, Soothing Sounds, Alarm Clock Package 1 pair of earbuds, one charging case, 3 pairs of silicone earplugs (large, medium and small), 1 USB-A to Type C charging cable, 1 APP manual
[1] https://weibo.com/ttarticle/p/show?id=2309404484526402306487
[2] RedDot Award is based in Germany, one of the global industrial design awards such as IDEA Award, and IF Design Award.
[3] Based on MI Fit App
[4] Each earpiece only weighs 1.78g when fitted with the Medium bud.
[5] In the Amazﬁt App
[6] 8 hours: Sounds continuously playing sleep monitoring and heart rate Off. 12 hours: Heart rate and sleep monitoring On. Sounds stop playing after 3 hours and the sleep monitoring keeps working all night long.
[7] Data by Amazfit Lab, could varied due to test conditions
[8] 64 hours provided by charging box and earbuds itself. Data by Amazfit Lab, could varied due to test conditions
CONTACT: Liu Yunya, +86-159-9965-8480, liuyunya@huami.com


tass--2020-03-23--Tracking contacts of infected does not violate citizens’ rights — Kremlin

MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian government ’ s decision to create a system that would track the contacts of the coronavirus-infected citizens does not violate their rights and freedoms , Kremlin spokesman , Dmitry Peskov said Monday .
Earlier , Russian government press service announced that Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin tasked the Ministry of Communications to ensure development of a system that would track the contacts of the coronavirus patients , using GPS data from citizens ’ smartphones .
The system will notify citizens about a possible contact with a coronavirus patient and inform them that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these possible contacts will go to Russian regional operational HQs .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously known as 2019-nCoV ) was reported in central China in late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 190 countries and territories , including Russia , which by now has 438 cases .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 300,000 , with more than 14,000 deaths .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus as a pandemic .

MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. The Russian government’s decision to create a system that would track the contacts of the coronavirus-infected citizens does not violate their rights and freedoms, Kremlin spokesman, Dmitry Peskov said Monday.
Earlier, Russian government press service announced that Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin tasked the Ministry of Communications to ensure development of a system that would track the contacts of the coronavirus patients, using GPS data from citizens’ smartphones.
The system will notify citizens about a possible contact with a coronavirus patient and inform them that they should self-isolate. The information regarding these possible contacts will go to Russian regional operational HQs.
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in central China in late December 2019. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 190 countries and territories, including Russia, which by now has 438 cases. The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 300,000, with more than 14,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-23--Men more likely to contract COVID-19 than women, says expert

`` If we look at who contracts the novel coronavirus , men become infected more often than women .
Nearly twice as often , '' he said during the live transmission of the conference held on the `` Future of Russia .
National Projects '' portal operated by TASS .
The causes for this are unknown , he added .
`` Perhaps , this is a peculiarity of immune response , a feature of male and female resistance , '' the expert said .
MOSCOW , March 23 .
/TASS/ .
The data on novel coronavirus cases accumulated so far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to contract COVID-19 than women , Nikolay Briko , head of the First Moscow State Medical University ’ s Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Medicine Department and Russian Health Ministry ’ s chief non-resident epidemiologist , stated on Monday .
The specialist stated that he is not aware whether blood type can affect one ’ s susceptibility to the disease , however , `` there are some genetic factors that define predisposition and the way the infection develops . ''
Boiko informed that the lethality rate of the disease caused by COVID-19 is about 4.3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an epidemic reaches nearly all countries in the world .
So far , there are 171 countries , 14,706 people have died and nearly 340,000 cases of the disease [ have been documented ] .
Lethality reaches 4.3 % .
On average , this is slightly higher than usual for this infection , '' he said .
He added that this figure might not be final , as it is likely that not all cases of the infection have been documented .
`` Not everyone is included [ in the total number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are mild and invisible types .
If they are expanded , the lethality rate will be different .
There would be more people infected and the lethality rate will be lower , '' he explained .
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 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 150 countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which by now has documented 438 cases .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 320,000 , with more than 14,000 deaths .
WHO has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

"If we look at who contracts the novel coronavirus, men become infected more often than women. Nearly twice as often," he said during the live transmission of the conference held on the "Future of Russia. National Projects" portal operated by TASS. The causes for this are unknown, he added. "Perhaps, this is a peculiarity of immune response, a feature of male and female resistance," the expert said.
MOSCOW, March 23. /TASS/. The data on novel coronavirus cases accumulated so far shows that men are twice as likely to contract COVID-19 than women, Nikolay Briko, head of the First Moscow State Medical University’s Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Medicine Department and Russian Health Ministry’s chief non-resident epidemiologist, stated on Monday.
The specialist stated that he is not aware whether blood type can affect one’s susceptibility to the disease, however, "there are some genetic factors that define predisposition and the way the infection develops."
Boiko informed that the lethality rate of the disease caused by COVID-19 is about 4.3%. "A pandemic is when an epidemic reaches nearly all countries in the world. So far, there are 171 countries, 14,706 people have died and nearly 340,000 cases of the disease [have been documented]. Lethality reaches 4.3%. On average, this is slightly higher than usual for this infection," he said.
He added that this figure might not be final, as it is likely that not all cases of the infection have been documented. "Not everyone is included [in the total number of coronavirus cases], for example, there are mild and invisible types. If they are expanded, the lethality rate will be different. There would be more people infected and the lethality rate will be lower," he explained.
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. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 150 countries and territories, among them Russia, which by now has documented 438 cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 320,000, with more than 14,000 deaths. WHO has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-23--ZTE Unveils its First 5G Video Smartphone Axon 11 in China

SHENZHEN , China , March 23 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTE Corporation ( 0763.HK / 000063.SZ ) , a major international provider of telecommunications , enterprise and consumer technology solutions for the mobile Internet , has today officially unveiled its first 5G video smartphone ZTE Axon 11 5G in China .
The smart phone features exceptional 5G performance , elegant design , powerful video shooting and editing functions .
`` With sustainable commitment and deep accumulation in the telecommunication industry , ZTE will continue to strengthen the investment in innovation , '' said Mr. Xu Feng , SVP of ZTE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Meanwhile , considering that big videos and HD videos are certain to be one of the key application scenarios in the 5G era , ZTE will continuously expand the investment in video algorithm .
In the future , we will make great efforts in the following two aspects : communications capabilities and video algorithm , aiming to provide consumers with competitive 5G terminal products . ''
Powerful Video Shooting and Editing Functions Film Your New Life No matter the professional vloggers , or ordinary consumers , every one today is willing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily life , as well as gain more dynamic information , via videos .
In China , the number of short video users has exceeded 820 million in 2019 and still keeps growing .
In addition to resolution and frame rate , video stabilization is absolutely one of the key elements that determine the quality of a video .
ZTE Axon 11 5G can shoot the 4K high-resolution videos at 60fps , by virtue of its AI quad shooting system which is composed of a 64MP super HD main camera , a 8MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a dedicated 2MP macro camera and a professional depth of field camera .
It deserves attention that both the main camera and wide angel camera supports the video stabilization , which enables the feasible adjustment of video shooting jitters to make the dynamic video shooting clearer and more stable .
ZTE Axon 11 5G will help consumers to discover more beauty in life and record more details by shooting a high-quality and steady video .
To meet the consumers ' needs for editing videos whenever and wherever possible , ZTE Axon 11 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ function , supporting a variety of special effects of transition , a variety of video splice , filter and music , encouraging every one to film their new life with this 5G smartphone .
With the high bandwidth and low latency in the 5G era , hundreds of 4K HD videos can be uploaded without compression , so that you can record , present , and share those special moments in users ' life anytime and anywhere .
ZTE Axon 11 5G is compatible with both SA and NSA modes , allowing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 4G/5G ) .
It can not only easily deal with the complex signal environment , but also achieve 5G full frequency band , full Netcom and further accelerate the speed of the superimposed network .
It 's powered by the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 765G mobile platform and provides extreme 5G experiences .
Together with ZTE 's intelligent network acceleration technology Link-Booster , ZTE Axon 11 5G allows the seamlessly switching from Wi-Fi to cellular network by automatically analyzing use scenario and network conditions and boosts downloading speed by simultaneously adopting both networks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 50 % ( *Tested by ZTE Lab ) .
Moreover , ZTE Axon 11 5G adopts the new-generation full-scene system optimization engine Z-Booster 2.0 , which intelligently allocates system resources through AI algorithms , thereby optimizing the dimensions that affect user experiences such as APP startup , system operation , network switching and multiple different scenarios .
The Z-Booster 2.0 is composed of three functional modules , including App-Booster , System-Booster covering the RAM-Booster , FS-Booster , Power-Booster , and Link-Booster , respectively making apps start faster , performing more efficiently and providing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intelligent power supply adjustment solution performs intelligent control by deeply combining the usage habits with APP Operating status , improving the battery life by 35 % ( *Tested by ZTE Lab ) .
It can fully meet users ' demands for faster network , smoother operation and longer battery in the 5G era .
In terms of appearance , ZTE Axon 11 5G maintains the thinness and elegant design as usual .
It adopts a 6.47-inch flexible curved waterdrop display , marking 92 % screen-to-body ratio .
The 3D quad curved glass brings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfect size to fit in user 's palm and smoother hand feeling .
The side of this smartphone adopts a unique skateboard-shaped design , while the top and bottom use G3 level curves , making the overall body 360-degree integration , providing a better sense of holding this smartphone with a horizontal screen .
The extremely slim body design makes the ZTE Axon 11 only 7.9mm thick .
It 's currently the lightest 5G smartphone on the market , with a body weight of only 168g .
ZTE Axon 11 5G is immediately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ e-commerce channels including www.myzte.com , zte.jd.com , zte.tmall.com , starting March 23 .
ZTE Axon 11 5G will be available in China starting at RMB 2,698 .
The following is the link to access the product video : https : //www.ztedevices.com/en/videos/axon11/

SHENZHEN, China, March 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a major international provider of telecommunications, enterprise and consumer technology solutions for the mobile Internet, has today officially unveiled its first 5G video smartphone ZTE Axon 11 5G in China. The smart phone features exceptional 5G performance, elegant design, powerful video shooting and editing functions.
"With sustainable commitment and deep accumulation in the telecommunication industry, ZTE will continue to strengthen the investment in innovation," said Mr. Xu Feng, SVP of ZTE Corporation and President of Mobile Device Division. "Meanwhile, considering that big videos and HD videos are certain to be one of the key application scenarios in the 5G era, ZTE will continuously expand the investment in video algorithm. In the future, we will make great efforts in the following two aspects: communications capabilities and video algorithm, aiming to provide consumers with competitive 5G terminal products."
Powerful Video Shooting and Editing Functions Film Your New Life
No matter the professional vloggers, or ordinary consumers, every one today is willing to memorize, present, share their daily life, as well as gain more dynamic information, via videos. In China, the number of short video users has exceeded 820 million in 2019 and still keeps growing. In addition to resolution and frame rate, video stabilization is absolutely one of the key elements that determine the quality of a video.
ZTE Axon 11 5G can shoot the 4K high-resolution videos at 60fps, by virtue of its AI quad shooting system which is composed of a 64MP super HD main camera, a 8MP wide angle camera up to 120 degrees, a dedicated 2MP macro camera and a professional depth of field camera. It deserves attention that both the main camera and wide angel camera supports the video stabilization, which enables the feasible adjustment of video shooting jitters to make the dynamic video shooting clearer and more stable. ZTE Axon 11 5G will help consumers to discover more beauty in life and record more details by shooting a high-quality and steady video.
To meet the consumers' needs for editing videos whenever and wherever possible, ZTE Axon 11 5G is equipped with the video editing function, supporting a variety of special effects of transition, a variety of video splice, filter and music, encouraging every one to film their new life with this 5G smartphone. With the high bandwidth and low latency in the 5G era, hundreds of 4K HD videos can be uploaded without compression, so that you can record, present, and share those special moments in users' life anytime and anywhere.
Reinforced 5G Capabilities with Ultimate Experiences
ZTE Axon 11 5G is compatible with both SA and NSA modes, allowing the multi-channel concurrency in Wi-Fi and cellular networks (4G/5G). It can not only easily deal with the complex signal environment, but also achieve 5G full frequency band, full Netcom and further accelerate the speed of the superimposed network. It's powered by the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 765G mobile platform and provides extreme 5G experiences. Together with ZTE's intelligent network acceleration technology Link-Booster, ZTE Axon 11 5G allows the seamlessly switching from Wi-Fi to cellular network by automatically analyzing use scenario and network conditions and boosts downloading speed by simultaneously adopting both networks. The switch speed can be improved by 50% (*Tested by ZTE Lab).
Moreover, ZTE Axon 11 5G adopts the new-generation full-scene system optimization engine Z-Booster 2.0, which intelligently allocates system resources through AI algorithms, thereby optimizing the dimensions that affect user experiences such as APP startup, system operation, network switching and multiple different scenarios. The Z-Booster 2.0 is composed of three functional modules, including App-Booster, System-Booster covering the RAM-Booster, FS-Booster, Power-Booster, and Link-Booster, respectively making apps start faster, performing more efficiently and providing better internet and communication experience.
The intelligent power supply adjustment solution performs intelligent control by deeply combining the usage habits with APP Operating status, improving the battery life by 35% (*Tested by ZTE Lab). It can fully meet users' demands for faster network, smoother operation and longer battery in the 5G era.
Elegant Design with Curved Display
In terms of appearance, ZTE Axon 11 5G maintains the thinness and elegant design as usual. It adopts a 6.47-inch flexible curved waterdrop display, marking 92% screen-to-body ratio. The 3D quad curved glass brings beautiful and thinner optical effect. The perfect size to fit in user's palm and smoother hand feeling. The side of this smartphone adopts a unique skateboard-shaped design, while the top and bottom use G3 level curves, making the overall body 360-degree integration, providing a better sense of holding this smartphone with a horizontal screen. The extremely slim body design makes the ZTE Axon 11 only 7.9mm thick. It's currently the lightest 5G smartphone on the market, with a body weight of only 168g.
ZTE Axon 11 5G is immediately available in China for pre-order on the e-commerce channels including www.myzte.com, zte.jd.com,zte.tmall.com, starting March 23. ZTE Axon 11 5G will be available in China starting at RMB 2,698.
The following is the link to access the product video:
https://www.ztedevices.com/en/videos/axon11/
ZTE Axon 11 5G Specifications:
Network 5G: n1/n3/n41/n78/n79 FDD: B1/3/4/5/7/8/12/17/20 TDD: B34/38/39/40/41 UMTS: B1/2/4/5/8 CDMA: BC0 GSM: B2/3/5/8 LTE 4×4MIMO DL 3CA,DL 2CA;UL 2CA Platform Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 765G mobile platform Memory 6GB RAM + 128GB ROM 8GB RAM + 128GB ROM 8GB RAM + 256GB ROM OS MiFavor 10 (Based on Android 10) Display 6.47" FHD+(1080*2340), AMOLED Camera Rear: 64MP + 8MP + 2MP + 2MP Front: 20MP Battery 4000mAh (typical), QC4+ Interface USB Type-C 3.1 nano + nano/Micro SD(Up to 2TB) Size 159.2*73.4*7.9mm Features In-display fingerprint, DTS:X ® Ultra, Earphone Hi-Fi, NFC GPS/A-GPS/BeiDou/Galileo/GLONASS, 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, BT 5.1 Accelerometer, Proximity & Ambient, RGB Sensor, Compass, Gyroscope
Media Contacts:
Margaret Ma
ZTE Corporation
Tel: +86 755 26775189
Email: ma.gaili@zte.com.cn


tass--2020-03-24--Russian military experts deployed to Bergamo to aid Italy in fight against COVID-19

`` On the outcomes of the consultations , it was decided that Russian military experts experienced in combating epidemics caused by dangerous infectious diseases all over the world would begin their work from Italy ’ s Bergamo .
Currently , military officers are approving the 600-km route , preparing the equipment for the move , '' the ministry noted .
Bergamo , a city in northern Italy ( the province of Lombardy ) is one of the epicenters of the COVID-19 outbreak in Italy with a record number of infections and deaths in the country .
Under the order of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Defense Ministry sent several military jets to Italy that transported virologists , epidemiologists and the necessary equipment to the country .
According to the ministry , the group includes specialists who directly took part in fighting outbreaks of African swine fever , as well as developing vaccines against Ebola and the plague .
The planes also delivered mobile stations for aerosol disinfection of transport and territories and medical equipment .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously known as 2019-nCoV ) was reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a population of 11 million , in late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 190 countries and territories , among them Russia , which documented 495 cases as of March 24 .
According to recent data , novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 390,000 , with about 17,000 deaths .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

"On the outcomes of the consultations, it was decided that Russian military experts experienced in combating epidemics caused by dangerous infectious diseases all over the world would begin their work from Italy’s Bergamo. Currently, military officers are approving the 600-km route, preparing the equipment for the move," the ministry noted.
Bergamo, a city in northern Italy (the province of Lombardy) is one of the epicenters of the COVID-19 outbreak in Italy with a record number of infections and deaths in the country.
Under the order of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Russian Defense Ministry sent several military jets to Italy that transported virologists, epidemiologists and the necessary equipment to the country. According to the ministry, the group includes specialists who directly took part in fighting outbreaks of African swine fever, as well as developing vaccines against Ebola and the plague. The planes also delivered mobile stations for aerosol disinfection of transport and territories and medical equipment.
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 11 million, in late December 2019. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 190 countries and territories, among them Russia, which documented 495 cases as of March 24. According to recent data, novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 390,000, with about 17,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-24--Russian interior ministry looking at option of deporting foreign prisoners

MOSCOW , March 24 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s interior ministry is looking at options to deport foreigners kept at penitentiary institutions , the ministry ’ s press center told TASS on Tuesday .
`` Bearing in mind transport traffic restriction imposed in a number of countries , the Russian interior ministry , in cooperation with diplomatic and consular missions of foreign states , is looking at possible options to deport individuals kept at Russian penitentiary institutions to the countries of their nationality , '' it said .
According to the press center , about 500 individuals subject to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Russia .
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 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 150 countries and territories , including Russia , which by now has 438 cases , with 17 patients having recovered .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .
On March 23 , Russia ’ s air transport authority imposed more restrictions on flights to 95 countries .
Flights to these countries are possible only from Moscow to evacuate Russian nationals .

MOSCOW, March 24. /TASS/. Russia’s interior ministry is looking at options to deport foreigners kept at penitentiary institutions, the ministry’s press center told TASS on Tuesday.
"Bearing in mind transport traffic restriction imposed in a number of countries, the Russian interior ministry, in cooperation with diplomatic and consular missions of foreign states, is looking at possible options to deport individuals kept at Russian penitentiary institutions to the countries of their nationality," it said.
According to the press center, about 500 individuals subject to deportation are currently kept in detention facilities in Russia.
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. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 150 countries and territories, including Russia, which by now has 438 cases, with 17 patients having recovered. The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 350,000, with about 16,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic. On March 23, Russia’s air transport authority imposed more restrictions on flights to 95 countries. Flights to these countries are possible only from Moscow to evacuate Russian nationals.


tass--2020-03-24--Russia invited to G20 emergency summit on coronavirus — Kremlin

MOSCOW , March 24 .
/TASS/ .
Russia has been invited to a G20 emergency summit on the coronavirus , @ @ @ @ @ March 26 , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told TASS .
When asked if the Kremlin @ @ @ @ @ the event , he answered in the affirmative , adding that `` preparations are underway @ @ @ @ @ expected to hold a video conference on March 26 to discuss the coronavirus pandemic , @ @ @ @ @ Agency reported on Tuesday , citing Japanese government sources .
On March 18 , the @ @ @ @ @ Riyadh planned to call a virtual emergency summit of the G20 group to discuss the @ @ @ @ @ is presiding over the G20 this year .
The 2020 summit of the group is @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 24. /TASS/. Russia has been invited to a G20 emergency summit on the coronavirus, scheduled to take place on March 26, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told TASS.
When asked if the Kremlin had received an invitation to the event, he answered in the affirmative, adding that "preparations are underway."
G20 leaders are expected to hold a video conference on March 26 to discuss the coronavirus pandemic, Japan’s Kyodo News Agency reported on Tuesday, citing Japanese government sources.
On March 18, the Saudi Press Agency reported that Riyadh planned to call a virtual emergency summit of the G20 group to discuss the coronavirus situation. Saudi Arabia is presiding over the G20 this year. The 2020 summit of the group is scheduled for November.


tass--2020-03-24--Coronavirus cases in Russia rise to 495 over past day

Lifting sanctions is noteworthy , but Russia does not plan to be first to do it — Kremlin The Russian @ @ @ @ @ the decision is with the `` well-known capitals , '' adding that he is not @ @ @ @ @ being made

MOSCOW, March 24. /TASS/. The number of the novel coronavirus cases in Russia has grown by 57 to 495 over the past day, and a total of 22 patients have recovered, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Tuesday.
New Moscow hospital for coronavirus patients to be built soon, says mayor
"Over the past day, 57 novel coronavirus cases have been registered in 14 regions in Russia," the crisis center said. The number of coronavirus cases in Moscow has risen by 28 to 290.
Five people have been discharged over the past 24 hours and the total number of those who have recovered is 22.


tass--2020-03-24--46 boxes with medical face masks stolen from warehouse in Moscow

Biden says alternative to sanctions against Russia would be Third World War
"Russia will pay a serious price for this short term and long term, particularly long term," the US leader stressed
Read more


tass--2020-03-24--Quarantine breaker nabbed at Moscow nail salon

`` A woman who broke coronavirus quarantine was detained at a nail salon in the Presnensky district yesterday .
She told the salon ’ s staff that she had returned from Italy in early March and had been placed under quarantine despite testing negative for the virus .
The staff called the police , '' the source said .
According to him , health workers also arrived in the salon to once again test the quarantine breaker for the coronavirus .
The test showed a negative result .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 150 countries , including Russia .
On March 11 , the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic .
As of now , about 350,000 people have been infected around the world and about 16,000 have died .
Russia has identified 438 cases so far , 17 patients have recovered .
The Russian government has launched an Internet hotline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ informed about the coronavirus situation .

"A woman who broke coronavirus quarantine was detained at a nail salon in the Presnensky district yesterday. She told the salon’s staff that she had returned from Italy in early March and had been placed under quarantine despite testing negative for the virus. The staff called the police," the source said.
According to him, health workers also arrived in the salon to once again test the quarantine breaker for the coronavirus. The test showed a negative result.
Coronavirus pandemic
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 150 countries, including Russia.
On March 11, the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic. As of now, about 350,000 people have been infected around the world and about 16,000 have died. Russia has identified 438 cases so far, 17 patients have recovered. The Russian government has launched an Internet hotline to keep the country’s people informed about the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-03-24--Teams of Buk-M3 anti-aircraft missile systems strike targets in southern Russia drills

MOSCOW , March 24 .
/TASS/ .
The teams of Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile systems struck air targets during drills at the Kapustin Yar practice range in the Astrakhan Region , the press office of Russia ’ s Southern Military District reported on Tuesday .
`` The anti-aircraft gunners conducted launches from Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile systems against high-altitude fast-moving targets that simulated the flight of the notional enemy ’ s tactical aircraft .
Overall , about 10 targets were hit , '' the press office said in a statement .
Saman high-altitude missiles launched at a distance of over 100 km @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drills .
The live-fire exercise was held in the normal mode and the combat teams and their military hardware will return to their permanent stations in North Ossetia after the drills are over , the statement says .
As the press office specified for TASS , the drills involved over 500 troops and about 100 items of military hardware .
The Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile system is designated to intercept all types of cruise missiles and aerodynamic targets .
The Buk-M3 launcher carries 12 missiles while the self-propelled fire unit is armed with six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ versions , the new anti-aircraft missile systems feature the chassis ’ increased capacity to carry a larger number of missiles , an improved control system and the crew ’ s enhanced anti-blast protection .

MOSCOW, March 24. /TASS/. The teams of Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile systems struck air targets during drills at the Kapustin Yar practice range in the Astrakhan Region, the press office of Russia’s Southern Military District reported on Tuesday.
"The anti-aircraft gunners conducted launches from Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile systems against high-altitude fast-moving targets that simulated the flight of the notional enemy’s tactical aircraft. Overall, about 10 targets were hit," the press office said in a statement.
Saman high-altitude missiles launched at a distance of over 100 km were used as the targets during the drills. The live-fire exercise was held in the normal mode and the combat teams and their military hardware will return to their permanent stations in North Ossetia after the drills are over, the statement says.
As the press office specified for TASS, the drills involved over 500 troops and about 100 items of military hardware.
The Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile system is designated to intercept all types of cruise missiles and aerodynamic targets. The Buk-M3 launcher carries 12 missiles while the self-propelled fire unit is armed with six missiles. As compared to their previous versions, the new anti-aircraft missile systems feature the chassis’ increased capacity to carry a larger number of missiles, an improved control system and the crew’s enhanced anti-blast protection.


tass--2020-03-24--Moscow officials not considering full shutdown of restaurants and shopping centers

MOSCOW , March 24 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow officials are not considering a full shutdown of restaurants and shopping centers in the city , head of the Moscow trade and services department Alexei Nemeryuk informed TASS on Tuesday .
Earlier , it was reported that Moscow restaurants are awaiting recommendations to shut down their businesses due to the spread of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) .
`` A potential full shutdown of restaurants , cafes , cafeterias , and other catering institutions in Moscow is not discussed so far .
It is recommended to close specific areas in shopping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some cinemas , '' Nemeryuk said .
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 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 150 countries and territories , among them Russia , which by now has documented 438 cases .
According to recent data , novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 350,000 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Organization ( WHO ) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

MOSCOW, March 24. /TASS/. Moscow officials are not considering a full shutdown of restaurants and shopping centers in the city, head of the Moscow trade and services department Alexei Nemeryuk informed TASS on Tuesday.
Earlier, it was reported that Moscow restaurants are awaiting recommendations to shut down their businesses due to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
"A potential full shutdown of restaurants, cafes, cafeterias, and other catering institutions in Moscow is not discussed so far. It is recommended to close specific areas in shopping centers: playgrounds, fitness centers, some cinemas," Nemeryuk said.
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. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 150 countries and territories, among them Russia, which by now has documented 438 cases. According to recent data, novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 350,000, with about 16,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-24--Abkhazia’s new president pledges to continue efforts towards closer ties with Russia

SUKHUM , March 24./TASS/ .
Abkhazian President Elect Aslan Bzhania said on Tuesday that the new leadership of the country would pay specific attention to rapprochement with Russia .
`` As for relations with the Russian Federation , I intend to act within the framework of the existing agreements .
Some provisions in these agreements have been put into practice , others - haven ’ t been implemented .
The commitments assumed by the Abkhazian side must be translated into practice .
We will be bringing our positions closer on many issues , there are no tasks that can not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the new leader stressed '' The heads of state and government will be paying specific attention to this trajectory , since cooperation with the Russian Federation has a direct effect on the living standards of our nationals , '' Bzhania told journalists on Tuesday .
Bzhania won the Sunday ’ s presidential election , securing 56.5 % of the votes , Chairman of the Central Election Commission Tamaz Gogiya announced earlier on Tuesday .
Other presidential candidates were Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Adgur Ardzinba , and former Interior Minister Leonid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the votes , while Dzapshba - a meager 2.22 % .
The voter turnout was 71.56 % According to the chief of the Abkhazian Central Election Commission , the commission reported no violations that could influence the course of the voting .
The election campaign was not marred by any incidents , there have been no official statements or complaints for now .

SUKHUM, March 24./TASS/. Abkhazian President Elect Aslan Bzhania said on Tuesday that the new leadership of the country would pay specific attention to rapprochement with Russia.
"As for relations with the Russian Federation, I intend to act within the framework of the existing agreements. Some provisions in these agreements have been put into practice, others - haven’t been implemented. The commitments assumed by the Abkhazian side must be translated into practice. We will be bringing our positions closer on many issues, there are no tasks that cannot be resolved," in bilateral relations, the new leader stressed
"The heads of state and government will be paying specific attention to this trajectory, since cooperation with the Russian Federation has a direct effect on the living standards of our nationals," Bzhania told journalists on Tuesday.
Bzhania won the Sunday’s presidential election, securing 56.5% of the votes, Chairman of the Central Election Commission Tamaz Gogiya announced earlier on Tuesday.
Other presidential candidates were Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Adgur Ardzinba, and former Interior Minister Leonid Dzapshba. Ardzinba won 35.42% of the votes, while Dzapshba - a meager 2.22%. The voter turnout was 71.56% According to the chief of the Abkhazian Central Election Commission, the commission reported no violations that could influence the course of the voting. The election campaign was not marred by any incidents, there have been no official statements or complaints for now.


tass--2020-03-24--Over 80% of schools in Russia closed or vacations from March 23

MOSCOW , March 24 .
/TASS/ .
More than 80 % of secondary schools in Russian have been closed for vacations in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic .
The rest continue classes , Russia ’ s ministry of education said on Tuesday .
`` According to the statistics we update daily , the overwhelming majority of schools stopped classes and began vacations as of the beginning of the week .
There are 83.5 % of such schools .
As many as 16.5 % of schools continue classes with the use of distance learning technologies ( 8.4 % ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % ) , '' the ministry cited its head , Sergei Kravtsov .
The minister stressed that strict sanitary norms are being observed in those schools that continue classes in a regular regime .
`` The regions strictly observe healthcare norms and the Ministry of Education keeps a close eye on that .
All corresponding instructions have been referred to territorial education management bodies , '' he added .
On March 14 , the Russian ministry of education recommended its regional structures to shift schools to distance learning amid coronavirus infection spread threats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Education Sergei Kravtsov announced that this year ’ s spring vacations at secondary schools in Russia would begin from March 23 to last to April 12 .
He also promised that efforts would be taken to provide possibilities for distance learning .
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 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including Russia , which by now has 438 cases , with 17 patients having recovered .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 350,000 , with about 16,000 deaths .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

MOSCOW, March 24. /TASS/. More than 80% of secondary schools in Russian have been closed for vacations in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The rest continue classes, Russia’s ministry of education said on Tuesday.
"According to the statistics we update daily, the overwhelming majority of schools stopped classes and began vacations as of the beginning of the week. There are 83.5% of such schools. As many as 16.5% of schools continue classes with the use of distance learning technologies (8.4%) or in a regular format (8.1%)," the ministry cited its head, Sergei Kravtsov.
The minister stressed that strict sanitary norms are being observed in those schools that continue classes in a regular regime. "The regions strictly observe healthcare norms and the Ministry of Education keeps a close eye on that. All corresponding instructions have been referred to territorial education management bodies," he added.
On March 14, the Russian ministry of education recommended its regional structures to shift schools to distance learning amid coronavirus infection spread threats. On March 18, Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov announced that this year’s spring vacations at secondary schools in Russia would begin from March 23 to last to April 12. He also promised that efforts would be taken to provide possibilities for distance learning.
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. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 150 countries and territories, including Russia, which by now has 438 cases, with 17 patients having recovered. The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 350,000, with about 16,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-24--Iranian president points to decline in coronavirus deaths

TEHRAN , March 24 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus admissions has started to decline in Iran , as @ @ @ @ @ deaths , the country ’ s President Hassan Rouhani said on Tuesday .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ declined in several regions .
The number of deaths has also decreased , '' the @ @ @ @ @ him as saying .
According to Rouhani , the government ’ s measures have proved @ @ @ @ @ added that `` the main goal is to make sure that as much people as @ @ @ @ @

TEHRAN, March 24. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus admissions has started to decline in Iran, as well as the number of deaths, the country’s President Hassan Rouhani said on Tuesday.
"The number of hospital admissions has declined in several regions. The number of deaths has also decreased," the Islamic Republic News Agency quoted him as saying. According to Rouhani, the government’s measures have proved to be effective. He added that "the main goal is to make sure that as much people as possible stay home."


tass--2020-03-24--Salary should not be reduced due to work from home transition, says Labor Minister

MOSCOW , March 24 .
/ TASS / .
Salaries should not be reduced in due to the employee transition to remote work while maintaining the full scope of responsibilities , said the Minister of Labor and Social Protection Anton Kotyakov on Tuesday .
`` Salaries with remote employment while maintaining the entire amount of the job duties assigned to the employee should be preserved .
There should not be any reduction , '' he said .
Kotyakov noted that the situation on the labor market is now also stable , back pay number are not growing .
`` To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rubles .
And over the past week , that number has decreased by 44 mln rubles . ''
he added .
The coronavirus outbreak was recorded in central China in late December 2019 .
Later more than 150 countries were hit by this infection , which was labeled as a pandemic by the World Health Organization .
According to the latest data , nearly 350,000 people have contracted the virus and more than 16,000 have died .
There are 438 confirmed coronavirus cases registered in Russia , 17 people have gotten better and @ @ @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 24. / TASS /. Salaries should not be reduced in due to the employee transition to remote work while maintaining the full scope of responsibilities, said the Minister of Labor and Social Protection Anton Kotyakov on Tuesday.
"Salaries with remote employment while maintaining the entire amount of the job duties assigned to the employee should be preserved. There should not be any reduction," he said.
Kotyakov noted that the situation on the labor market is now also stable, back pay number are not growing. "To date, this amount exceeds 2 bln rubles. And over the past week, that number has decreased by 44 mln rubles." he added.
The coronavirus outbreak was recorded in central China in late December 2019. Later more than 150 countries were hit by this infection, which was labeled as a pandemic by the World Health Organization. According to the latest data, nearly 350,000 people have contracted the virus and more than 16,000 have died. There are 438 confirmed coronavirus cases registered in Russia, 17 people have gotten better and have been released from the hospital.


tass--2020-03-24--Press review: Why COVID-19 hardly touched Africa and keeps viewers glued to TV screens

Global markets opened on a negative note Monday but the declining figures were lower than early last week .
Investors are concerned about the large-scale consequences of the global coronavirus quarantine but at the same time , they hope that unprecedented measures by central banks will help overcome the crisis , Kommersant writes .
The panic that reigned over the market for the past two weeks has faded but the threat of an economic downturn due to the coronavirus is steering investors away from risks .
According to Alfa Capital Analyst Maxim Biryukov , investors re-evaluate risks every day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic keeps increasing , risks will continue to grow , too , forcing the sales of various assets .
A slowdown in major economic fields will lead to a global recession , and a historic blow to economic activities will come in the second quarter of the year , Global Chief Investment Officer at Credit Suisse Michael Strobaek predicted .
The steps that central banks and governments are taking are partially helpful .
The US Federal Reserve has particularly cut interest rates to zero .
The European Central Bank , the Bank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced big quantitative easing plans .
According to Chief Analyst at BCS Premier Anton Pokatovich , Russia ’ s Central Bank seeks to support the ruble .
The regulator ’ s daily sales did not exceed $ 80 mln at the beginning of last week but surged to reach $ 170 mln at the end of the week .
However , the global recession continues to influence the value of assets , and the risk remains high that oil prices will drop to $ 20-25 per barrel .
`` Under such circumstances , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weaken further , '' Pokatovich emphasized .
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has stated that given the current situation , it would be impossible to hold the Olympic Games as scheduled .
The International Olympic Committee ( IOC ) , in turn , said that a decision on the dates of the Olympics would be made within the next four weeks .
Meanwhile , a number of countries have announced that they would not send athletes to Japan if the Games took place on the scheduled dates , between July 24 and August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian Wrestling Federation President Mikhail Mamiashvili , `` given the scope of the problem , holding a comprehensive event such as the Olympic Games on the scheduled dates is out of the question . ''
`` It is not just about a two-week competition in the city of Tokyo .
It is also about qualifying tournaments in many sports , which take place in different countries .
And those have been cancelled .
The training of athletes and their preparations for the competition have been disrupted .
Besides , though the epidemic may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thousands of athletes and sports fans from other countries will gather there , and in many countries , including Spain , Italy and the United States , the epidemic is at its peak , '' he pointed out .
Valery Kistanov , who heads of the Center of Japanese Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ Institute of Far Eastern Studies , told Nezavisimaya Gazeta that Japan was frustrated by those developments for both image and economic reasons .
`` The prime minister has bet a lot on the Olympics .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during Abe ’ s term in office .
The country expected foreign sports fans to flock there in large numbers , which would have helped Japan escape an economic downturn .
If the Olympic Games are cancelled , Japan may lose 3.5-4.5trillion yen [ $ 31.7-40.8 bln ] , '' the expert noted .
Izvestia : Why COVID-19 has little impact on Africa In Africa , popular tourist destinations such as Egypt , Algeria and Morocco have been hit by the coronavirus pandemic the hardest , while other countries of the region have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The number of coronavirus cases and deaths on the African continent is a hundred times lower there than in developed European countries , Izvestia wrote .
According to experts , the reason behind Africa ’ s low infection rates is clear : African countries ’ share of international passenger traffic is relatively small , which is why most coronavirus cases have been recorded in countries that are more integrated into the global economy and attract more tourists .
Technical Officer at the World Health Organization ’ s Africa Office Dr. Mary Stephen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been anticipated to enter Africa from China , but in fact , it had been brought to the continent later from European countries .
According to the WHO official , African countries have a chance to prevent the virus from spreading but everything will depend on the authorities ’ ability to identify those infected , isolate them and trace their contacts .
At the same time , it is too early to say that the continent has been spared from the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` According to the US-based Johns Hopkins University , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cope with the coronavirus outbreak because healthcare coverage is limited in most of those nations and medical facilities are poorly equipped .
In particular , there aren ’ t enough coronavirus tests , so the infection may be spreading in some African countries unnoticed , '' said Sergei Kostelyanets , Head of the Center for Sociological and Political Sciences Studies at the Russian Academy of Science ’ Institute for African Studies .
However , there are some factors that could contain the coronavirus spread .
As is well-known , COVID-19 poses the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ age in Africa is 20 years , and only three percent of the population are older than 65 .
This gives reason to believe that the death rates in Africa will be lower than in other parts of the world .
The Erdogan regime continues to use the Syrian refugee crisis as blackmail against the European Union amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Meanwhile , the refugees are a social group particularly vulnerable to the coronavirus , which complicates attempts to capitalize on the issue , Nezavisimaya Gazeta noted .
A recent statement by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Ankara seeks to make Brussels abide by an agreement that the parties reached in 2016 , when Turkey closed its borders with the European Union to migrants , and the EU vowed to pay six bln euro to Ankara in return .
Meanwhile , the coronavirus situation has made migration from Syria impossible .
The Turkish government has closed checkpoints on the Syrian border .
According to Ankara Policy Center expert Orhan Gafarli , the Turkish public fears that the migrants will bring the coronavirus with them .
Apart from Syrians , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who arrive in Turkey via Iran - a country deemed to be the coronavirus epicenter of the Middle East .
The Turkish expert admitted that given the unprecedented spread of COVID-19 , the threat of another migration crisis was becoming less important as a tool of political pressure .
`` In the current situation , Europe has more reasons to keep refugees out , '' Gafarli emphasized .
`` It gives European countries a chance to stop the human inflow because now they have an official excuse to do it , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ audience grew by four percent over the past week , and the biggest new viewers recorded were among children and young people who had lost interest in watching TV in recent years .
This is part of a global trend that has emerged in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic , Kommersant wrote .
Self-isolation and telecommuting did not lead to a surge in daily TV viewing rates in Moscow on March 16-22 , but changed the audience ’ s preferences , Director General of MediaHills TV analytics Andrei Boyarinov noted .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by most news channels , as well as channels specializing in feature films and educational shows , particularly those related to healthcare .
Online streaming services also saw a rise in views over the past week , with a two-to-four-fold increase in average traffic .
Feature films about epidemics and documentaries on the coronavirus are particularly popular with viewers at the moment , said a spokesperson for the Okko multimedia service .
TelecomDaily Director General Denis Kuskov believes that online streaming services ’ traffic may continue to grow , especially if the quarantine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surge in their audience is temporary but some of the new users will still be there after their self-isolation is over as they will realize the advantages of using legal streaming services and by then they will have gotten used to watching movies and TV series on those platforms , TMT Consulting Managing Partner Konstantin Ankilov noted .
As a result , the quarantine will boost the online movie market , the expert emphasized .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews

Kommersant: Investors embracing global recession Global markets opened on a negative note Monday but the declining figures were lower than early last week. Investors are concerned about the large-scale consequences of the global coronavirus quarantine but at the same time, they hope that unprecedented measures by central banks will help overcome the crisis, Kommersant writes. The panic that reigned over the market for the past two weeks has faded but the threat of an economic downturn due to the coronavirus is steering investors away from risks.
Read also Coronavirus can hit world economy harder than SARS did in 2003 — rating agency
According to Alfa Capital Analyst Maxim Biryukov, investors re-evaluate risks every day, and as long as the scope of the pandemic keeps increasing, risks will continue to grow, too, forcing the sales of various assets. A slowdown in major economic fields will lead to a global recession, and a historic blow to economic activities will come in the second quarter of the year, Global Chief Investment Officer at Credit Suisse Michael Strobaek predicted. The steps that central banks and governments are taking are partially helpful. The US Federal Reserve has particularly cut interest rates to zero. The European Central Bank, the Bank of Japan and other regulators have also announced big quantitative easing plans. According to Chief Analyst at BCS Premier Anton Pokatovich, Russia’s Central Bank seeks to support the ruble. The regulator’s daily sales did not exceed $80 mln at the beginning of last week but surged to reach $170 mln at the end of the week. However, the global recession continues to influence the value of assets, and the risk remains high that oil prices will drop to $20-25 per barrel. "Under such circumstances, the ruble may show a tendency to weaken further," Pokatovich emphasized. Media: Postponement of Tokyo Olympics seems inevitable Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has stated that given the current situation, it would be impossible to hold the Olympic Games as scheduled. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), in turn, said that a decision on the dates of the Olympics would be made within the next four weeks. Meanwhile, a number of countries have announced that they would not send athletes to Japan if the Games took place on the scheduled dates, between July 24 and August 9, Izvestia reported. According to Russian Wrestling Federation President Mikhail Mamiashvili, "given the scope of the problem, holding a comprehensive event such as the Olympic Games on the scheduled dates is out of the question." "It is not just about a two-week competition in the city of Tokyo. It is also about qualifying tournaments in many sports, which take place in different countries. And those have been cancelled. The training of athletes and their preparations for the competition have been disrupted. Besides, though the epidemic may end in Japan by the summer, thousands of athletes and sports fans from other countries will gather there, and in many countries, including Spain, Italy and the United States, the epidemic is at its peak," he pointed out.
Read also Japan ready to postpone Tokyo Olympics by one year — paper
Valery Kistanov, who heads of the Center of Japanese Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Far Eastern Studies, told Nezavisimaya Gazeta that Japan was frustrated by those developments for both image and economic reasons. "The prime minister has bet a lot on the Olympics. It could have been the last big project during Abe’s term in office. The country expected foreign sports fans to flock there in large numbers, which would have helped Japan escape an economic downturn. If the Olympic Games are cancelled, Japan may lose 3.5-4.5trillion yen [$31.7-40.8 bln]," the expert noted. Izvestia: Why COVID-19 has little impact on Africa In Africa, popular tourist destinations such as Egypt, Algeria and Morocco have been hit by the coronavirus pandemic the hardest, while other countries of the region have hardly been touched by it at all. The number of coronavirus cases and deaths on the African continent is a hundred times lower there than in developed European countries, Izvestia wrote. According to experts, the reason behind Africa’s low infection rates is clear: African countries’ share of international passenger traffic is relatively small, which is why most coronavirus cases have been recorded in countries that are more integrated into the global economy and attract more tourists.
Read also UN Secretary-General's Appeal for Global Ceasefire
Technical Officer at the World Health Organization’s Africa Office Dr. Mary Stephen told the newspaper that the virus had been anticipated to enter Africa from China, but in fact, it had been brought to the continent later from European countries. According to the WHO official, African countries have a chance to prevent the virus from spreading but everything will depend on the authorities’ ability to identify those infected, isolate them and trace their contacts. At the same time, it is too early to say that the continent has been spared from the COVID-19 pandemic. "According to the US-based Johns Hopkins University, African countries are the least prepared to cope with the coronavirus outbreak because healthcare coverage is limited in most of those nations and medical facilities are poorly equipped. In particular, there aren’t enough coronavirus tests, so the infection may be spreading in some African countries unnoticed," said Sergei Kostelyanets, Head of the Center for Sociological and Political Sciences Studies at the Russian Academy of Science’ Institute for African Studies. However, there are some factors that could contain the coronavirus spread. As is well-known, COVID-19 poses the most danger to elderly people. The average age in Africa is 20 years, and only three percent of the population are older than 65. This gives reason to believe that the death rates in Africa will be lower than in other parts of the world. Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Coronavirus pandemic denies Turkey leverage to pressure EU The Erdogan regime continues to use the Syrian refugee crisis as blackmail against the European Union amid the coronavirus pandemic. Meanwhile, the refugees are a social group particularly vulnerable to the coronavirus, which complicates attempts to capitalize on the issue, Nezavisimaya Gazeta noted. A recent statement by Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has clarified that Ankara seeks to make Brussels abide by an agreement that the parties reached in 2016, when Turkey closed its borders with the European Union to migrants, and the EU vowed to pay six bln euro to Ankara in return.
Read also Coronavirus fears turn life upside down throughout the world


tass--2020-03-24--Volkswagen to halt production in Russia due to lack of components

MOSCOW , March 24 .
/TASS/ .
Production will be halted at Russian facilities of Volkswagen in the period between @ @ @ @ @ due to the lack of components supplied from European plants , a source in the @ @ @ @ @ told TASS .
`` Due to the lack of components supplied from European plants Volkswagen @ @ @ @ @ production at the car plant in Kaluga and contract assembly in Nizhny Novgorod for two @ @ @ @ @ to April 10 , 2020 , '' the company said .
`` Currently we can @ @ @ @ @ parts supplies to our dealers and clients , '' Volkswagen added .
Earlier reports said @ @ @ @ @ reduce Skoda Rapid production at the plant in Kaluga due to the lack of components @ @ @ @ @ provided by the Association of European Businesses ( AEB ) , sales of Volkswagen in @ @ @ @ @ in 2019 to 104,400 units .

MOSCOW, March 24. /TASS/. Production will be halted at Russian facilities of Volkswagen in the period between March 30 and April 10 due to the lack of components supplied from European plants, a source in the company’s press service told TASS.
"Due to the lack of components supplied from European plants Volkswagen Group Rus will temporarily halt production at the car plant in Kaluga and contract assembly in Nizhny Novgorod for two weeks - from March 30 to April 10, 2020," the company said.
"Currently we can ensure stable cars and spare parts supplies to our dealers and clients," Volkswagen added.
Earlier reports said that the company would temporarily reduce Skoda Rapid production at the plant in Kaluga due to the lack of components.
According to the data provided by the Association of European Businesses (AEB), sales of Volkswagen in Russia decreased by 2% in 2019 to 104,400 units.