tass--2020-07-14--Microsoft announces 2020 Partner of the Year Awards winners and finalists

REDMOND , Washington , July 14 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. on Monday announced the winners and finalists of the 2020 Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards .
The annual awards recognize Microsoft partners demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology .
Award winners and finalists from around the world will be recognized at the first-ever digital Microsoft Inspire , July 21-22 , 2020 .
This year , Microsoft acknowledged partners in 49 categories celebrating each of the solution areas , industries and sectors globally in which Microsoft technologies are used .
Microsoft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the first-ever Community Response Award , which recognizes partners that have made a great difference , providing innovative and unique services or solutions to help solve problems for our customers and community during these unprecedented times .
The finalists and winners for all Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards were selected from more than 3,300 nominations collected from more than 100 different countries worldwide based on their commitment to customers , their solution 's impact on the market and exemplary use of Microsoft technologies .
`` It is an honor to recognize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 Partner of the Year Awards , '' said Gavriella Schuster , corporate vice president , One Commercial Partner , Microsoft .
`` These partners go above and beyond , delivering timely solutions that solve the complex challenges that businesses around the world face — from communicating and collaborating virtually to helping customers realize their full potential with Azure cloud services , and beyond .
I am proud to honor and congratulate each winner and finalist . ''
Additional details on the Microsoft 2020 Partner of the Year Awards are available in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : https : //blogs.partner.microsoft.com/mpn/congratulations-to-the-2020-microsoft-partner-of-the-year-awards-winners-and-finalists/ .
The complete list of categories , winners and finalists , including the Microsoft Country Partner of the Year Award winners for 2020 , is available at https : //aka.ms/POTYA_WinnersFinalist_List .
For more information visit https : //partner.microsoft.com/en-us/inspire/awards .
Microsoft ( Nasdaq `` MSFT '' @ microsoft ) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge .
Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more .
Microsoft Inspire provides Microsoft 's partner community with access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leadership , and information regarding specific customer solutions designed to help partners succeed in the marketplace .
Microsoft Inspire provides partners with informative learning opportunities covering sales , marketing , services and technology .
More information can be found at https : //partner.microsoft.com/en-us/inspire .
CONTACT : For more information , press only : Microsoft Media Relations , WE Communications , ( 425 ) 638-7777 , rrt @ we-worldwide.com ; Note to editors : For more information , news and perspectives from Microsoft , please visit the Microsoft News Center at http : //news.microsoft.com @ @ @ @ @ @ @ titles were correct at time of publication but may have changed .
For additional assistance , journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft 's Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http : //news.microsoft.com/microsoft-public-relations-contacts .

REDMOND, Washington, July 14, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. on Monday announced the winners and finalists of the 2020 Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards. The annual awards recognize Microsoft partners demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology. Award winners and finalists from around the world will be recognized at the first-ever digital Microsoft Inspire, July 21-22, 2020.
This year, Microsoft acknowledged partners in 49 categories celebrating each of the solution areas, industries and sectors globally in which Microsoft technologies are used. Microsoft introduced ten new categories this year, including the first-ever Community Response Award, which recognizes partners that have made a great difference, providing innovative and unique services or solutions to help solve problems for our customers and community during these unprecedented times.
The finalists and winners for all Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards were selected from more than 3,300 nominations collected from more than 100 different countries worldwide based on their commitment to customers, their solution's impact on the market and exemplary use of Microsoft technologies.
"It is an honor to recognize the winners and finalists of the Microsoft 2020 Partner of the Year Awards," said Gavriella Schuster, corporate vice president, One Commercial Partner, Microsoft. "These partners go above and beyond, delivering timely solutions that solve the complex challenges that businesses around the world face — from communicating and collaborating virtually to helping customers realize their full potential with Azure cloud services, and beyond. I am proud to honor and congratulate each winner and finalist."
Additional details on the Microsoft 2020 Partner of the Year Awards are available in a Microsoft Partner Network blog by Gavriella Schuster: https://blogs.partner.microsoft.com/mpn/congratulations-to-the-2020-microsoft-partner-of-the-year-awards-winners-and-finalists/.
The complete list of categories, winners and finalists, including the Microsoft Country Partner of the Year Award winners for 2020, is available at https://aka.ms/POTYA_WinnersFinalist_List. For more information visit https://partner.microsoft.com/en-us/inspire/awards.
Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT" @microsoft) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.
About Microsoft Inspire
Microsoft Inspire provides Microsoft's partner community with access to key marketing and business strategies, leadership, and information regarding specific customer solutions designed to help partners succeed in the marketplace. Microsoft Inspire provides partners with informative learning opportunities covering sales, marketing, services and technology. More information can be found at https://partner.microsoft.com/en-us/inspire.
CONTACT: For more information, press only: Microsoft Media Relations, WE Communications, (425) 638-7777, rrt@we-worldwide.com; Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://news.microsoft.com. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft's Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-public-relations-contacts.


tass--2020-07-14--SGTT CEO: Power Machines may remain Siemens’ partner even after the exit from SGTT

Siemens Gas Turbine Technologies ( SGTT ) , the only large gas turbines production facility in Russia , celebrated the fifth anniversary in June.The CEO of SGTT Nico Paetzold , who had carried out dozens of Siemens projects all over the world , spoke in the TASS interview about how SGTT is different from other international projects of the German conglomerate , what remaining issues have to be resolved before starting the activities to increase the localization level in Russia to 100 % , and how he sees cooperation with the current Siemens ’ partner , Power Machines , after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - Nico , please summarize SGTT ’ s key accomplishments over five years .
What are you especially proud of ?
- I came to Russia in February 2015 when the construction of the facility was underway , but already on June 18 , 2015 during the SGTT ’ s opening ceremony we could present the first gas turbine assembled by our company to Siemens management and Leningrad region officials .
As of today , the capacity of our factory is 10-12 turbines per year .
We started from the assembly but focused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turbine production resulting in the localization level of more than 60 % at this point in time .
As you know , we are committed to increase the local content with the global Siemens supporting this endeavor .
Another key aspect is that we have created the entire service chain for our turbines : we have our own Strategic Spare Parts Warehouse , which helps deliver necessary components to our customers within a short time , the Power Diagnostics Center , where we offer our gas turbine monitoring expertise ; in 2018 we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refurbishment of hot gas path components , which enables repair of components without taking them abroad .
Our service of power generating equipment is fully localized .
Our Customer Service employs over 100 highly qualified local Russian experts , who have been also trained in Germany .
In addition , we produce the components of power-generating equipment for global Siemens network , assemble wind turbines in cooperation with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy , partner with Linde to manufacture heat exchangers for Russian and foreign LNG projects .
However , I would like to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ production facility for power-generating equipment , but an Energy Hub , where the team of engineers develops tools for production of hot gas path components , which is important to increase the localization level .
- Is SGTT any different from other Siemens projects in other countries ?
- I have worked in Siemens for 28 years and carried out projects in a variety of countries : construction and commissioning of thermal power plants , wind power , joint venture for production of hot gas path components in China , B & V @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a factory similar to SGTT in Saudi Arabia .
As compared to my previous assignments , e.g .
in China or Saudi Arabia , record investments of around 110 mln .
euro were made in SGTT .
The scope of works made in the Leningrad region is comparable to our headquarter factory in Berlin .
Siemens rarely implements such projects outside Germany .
- One of SGTT ’ s primary objectives for the next few years is to increase the turbine local content up to the level when the power equipment can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the government program .
Siemens reported earlier about the commitment to increase the turbine localization level to almost 100 % by the end of 2024 .
May these plans be adjusted if SPIC 2.0 is not concluded by the end of this year ?
- We are currently analyzing the SPIC 2.0 requirements to work out our position in this matter .
It is important that we obtain additional clarifications to this mechanism in order to secure both our and our potential partners ’ investments .
We are still interested to enter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happens this year , we will stick to our initial deadline commitments of 2024 .
Essentially , we are ready to invest in the localization increase even without SPIC 2.0 , but we have to be sure that we will have orders for localized turbines .
According to our estimations , to ensure that the project pays back , we will need orders for 10-15 gas turbines for the period of 10-12 years .
Now , SGTT is underutilized , even though we manufacture not only turbines for the Russian market , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ market .
- Have the lack of understanding about some SPIC 2.0 provisions and the coronavirus crisis affected deadlines for turbine localization ?
- With regard to coronavirus we have all measures in place to protect our employees on SGTT premises and at Customers ’ sites .
SGTT did not stop for a single day : with the production facility operating at full capacity and contract performance ongoing .
During the pandemic we continued production of combustion chambers for projects in Asia , heat exchangers for Linde and assembly of wind turbines .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 300 employees and ensured factory utilization .
SGTT and Siemens Energy have a motto - Keep the lights on .
It means that we help to keep power plants and infrastructure operational , ensuring that lights are always on in our homes .
Getting back to localization , our engineers are now developing specifications for production of GT hot gas path components ( the most difficult components to localize on the Russian market – comment from TASS ) for our suppliers .
And this is not just translation of documents from English into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ processes for production of hot gas path components here in Russia .
Works are in the active phase .
But we all understand that the time frame for localization of a gas turbine to 100 % is very challenging .
However , it is realistic to complete the project by the end of 2024 .
And the coronavirus does not pose a serious challenge in this regard .
As I mentioned earlier , before we would start to invest we must clearly understand the SPIC 2.0 requirements and be sure that we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clarify some mandatory requirements of the Decree No .
719 as well ( list of criteria specifying the localization level of equipment – TASS . )
We are currently negotiating over this matter .
- How much does SGTT estimate it would cost to increase the localization of the turbine by the end of 2024 ?
- We have made a detailed calculation of the entire investment volume required for localization , including machines , technology transfer , training , support of Russian suppliers .
The total amount is not less than 1,1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this number because the calculation was made based on the experience of establishing a JV for production of hot gas path components in Shanghai As you can see , we have accumulated experience and can transfer it to Russia .
- What work has SGTT accomplished as of now to localize hot gas path components in Russia ?
- As regards the delivery of components of castings and forgings , such as casing , rotor discs and shafts , we have already completed qualification of suppliers and received first components from them .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and steel foundry BVK in Chelyabinsk .
But the hot gas path components are more difficult to localize .
We conducted technical audit of companies , who were capable of casting and machining of blades and vanes , 2-3 years ago and realized that suppliers needed to invest in modernization and new machines for their facilities .
-Is SGTT ready to invest in modernization of existing and establishment of new production facilities of company 's future contractors ?
- Talking about investments from our side I did not mean direct investments in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can support them by providing all necessary documents , transferring knowledge , so that the suppliers can estimate the amount of necessary investments and devise the production modernization plan .
We are ready to conduct trainings , support product development , organize know-how transfer .
The most advanced production facilities will be included in the global suppliers database of Siemens Energy .
For example , BVK has been qualified and included in such list .
Now they can participate both in Siemens Russia and international Siemens Energy projects .
- Can one speak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Russian company after the localization of the turbine is completed in 2025 ?
- Considering tight deadlines for localization , instant management transfer seems unreasonable .
Based on my experience from China and Saudi Arabia , transfer of management control during the period of know-how transfer involves a certain risk , as local suppliers and SGTT itself do not have necessary competencies yet and fully rely on support from Siemens Energy specialists and their knowledge .
When transferring technologies , it is also important to maintain Siemens product quality .
This will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will also be challenging to persuade future buyers that Russia-made products fully comply with international standards .
- How are you organizing the work with your shareholder Power Machines , that was against SPIC 2.0 and is currently developing its own technology for domestic turbines ?
Is there no conflict of interest ?
- I would like to mention that Siemens has more than 30 years of experience in transfer of gas turbine technologies to Russia under license with various partners .
Power Machines ’ experience , especially in production of hot gas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Under the current joint-venture agreement Power Machines have the right to develop their own technology , but if they make their own turbine , they can sell it either only via our JV or after the exit from the JV , as the rights to sell gas turbines with a power output of more than 60 MW in Russia and almost all CIS countries belong to SGTT .
I would like to point out that this situation does not hamper our efforts on increasing the localization level of the SGTT gas turbine to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we cooperate actively .
Power Machines is our supplier of some gas turbine components .
And considering our past experience of cooperation , I can say that by combining our expertise in gas and steam turbines , our joint venture could be a good solution supplier for projects under the new government program of thermal power plant modernization , in particular for repowering projects .
As it was the case for the modernization of Inter RAO power plant in Verkhny Tagil several years ago .
- Nevertheless , early this year Power Machines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the status of this matter ?
- Both teams representing SGTT ’ s shareholders are currently working on this process in full compliance with the provisions of the current joint-venture agreement .
Negotiations are underway ; the parties are trying to find common ground .
- Is SGTT ready to continue cooperation with Power Machines combining the competencies in gas and steam turbines under the modernization program , even if they withdraw from the JV ?
- SGTT is primarily focused on gas turbines .
With regard to other products , e.g @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are two companies on the Russian market , which could be potential suppliers for SGTT turbines - Elsib and Power Machines .
I would consider Power Machines as a potential supplier even in the new company set-up .
- Will the change of JV shareholders affect the efforts to increase the localization level ?
- SGTT ’ s mission remains unchanged - to localize production of the gas turbine in Russia to the full extent , including hot gas path components .
Localization does not depend on shareholders but on access to orders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you believe in the high demand for gas turbines in Russia after completion of the power plant modernization program ?
- I see two large market elements .
First , we must consider that as of today more than 50 Siemens large gas turbines are installed in Russia , and sooner or later they will need to be replaced .
Second , the Ministry of Industry and Trade estimated the mid-term demand to be 30-40 turbines .
In such gas-rich country as Russia , it would be strange not to exploit the CCP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than that of traditional steam turbine power plants .
In addition , replacing coal-fired stations with combined-cycle GT units would reduce CO2 and NOx emissions .
CO2 emissions of a 2000E-based CCP are 35 % lower than those of a gas-fired Steam power plant and 65 % lower than those of a coal-fired steam power plant .
A shift to the combined-cycle technology would be a great contribution to reaching the Paris Agreement climate target .
This technology combined with renewables , nuclear and hydro power would help protect the environment .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear understanding of where the components for our turbine could be produced , and we are aware of all technical challenges we may face .
I would like to highlight that SGTT does not seek financial support from the government or any tax benefits , which other companies avail themselves of .
What we need is a clear understanding and certainty with orders to ensure return on required investments and to be regarded as local suppliers .

Siemens Gas Turbine Technologies (SGTT), the only large gas turbines production facility in Russia, celebrated the fifth anniversary in June.The CEO of SGTT Nico Paetzold, who had carried out dozens of Siemens projects all over the world, spoke in the TASS interview about how SGTT is different from other international projects of the German conglomerate, what remaining issues have to be resolved before starting the activities to increase the localization level in Russia to 100%, and how he sees cooperation with the current Siemens’ partner, Power Machines, after their exit from the joint venture.
- Nico, please summarize SGTT’s key accomplishments over five years. What are you especially proud of?
- I came to Russia in February 2015 when the construction of the facility was underway, but already on June 18, 2015 during the SGTT’s opening ceremony we could present the first gas turbine assembled by our company to Siemens management and Leningrad region officials. As of today, the capacity of our factory is 10-12 turbines per year. We started from the assembly but focused on localization and technology transfer for gas turbine production resulting in the localization level of more than 60% at this point in time. As you know, we are committed to increase the local content with the global Siemens supporting this endeavor.
Another key aspect is that we have created the entire service chain for our turbines: we have our own Strategic Spare Parts Warehouse, which helps deliver necessary components to our customers within a short time, the Power Diagnostics Center, where we offer our gas turbine monitoring expertise; in 2018 we opened the Service Center for repair and refurbishment of hot gas path components, which enables repair of components without taking them abroad. Our service of power generating equipment is fully localized. Our Customer Service employs over 100 highly qualified local Russian experts, who have been also trained in Germany.
In addition, we produce the components of power-generating equipment for global Siemens network, assemble wind turbines in cooperation with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, partner with Linde to manufacture heat exchangers for Russian and foreign LNG projects. However, I would like to emphasize that SGTT is not just a production facility for power-generating equipment, but an Energy Hub, where the team of engineers develops tools for production of hot gas path components, which is important to increase the localization level.
- Is SGTT any different from other Siemens projects in other countries?
- I have worked in Siemens for 28 years and carried out projects in a variety of countries: construction and commissioning of thermal power plants, wind power, joint venture for production of hot gas path components in China, B&V production facility in Hungary, construction of a factory similar to SGTT in Saudi Arabia.
As compared to my previous assignments, e.g. in China or Saudi Arabia, record investments of around 110 mln. euro were made in SGTT. The scope of works made in the Leningrad region is comparable to our headquarter factory in Berlin. Siemens rarely implements such projects outside Germany.
- One of SGTT’s primary objectives for the next few years is to increase the turbine local content up to the level when the power equipment can be supplied for modernization of thermal power plants under the government program. Siemens reported earlier about the commitment to increase the turbine localization level to almost 100% by the end of 2024. May these plans be adjusted if SPIC 2.0 is not concluded by the end of this year?
- We are currently analyzing the SPIC 2.0 requirements to work out our position in this matter. It is important that we obtain additional clarifications to this mechanism in order to secure both our and our potential partners’ investments. We are still interested to enter into SPIC 2.0, and if it happens this year, we will stick to our initial deadline commitments of 2024.
Essentially, we are ready to invest in the localization increase even without SPIC 2.0, but we have to be sure that we will have orders for localized turbines. According to our estimations, to ensure that the project pays back, we will need orders for 10-15 gas turbines for the period of 10-12 years. Now, SGTT is underutilized, even though we manufacture not only turbines for the Russian market, but components of power-generating equipment for the global market.
- Have the lack of understanding about some SPIC 2.0 provisions and the coronavirus crisis affected deadlines for turbine localization?
- With regard to coronavirus we have all measures in place to protect our employees on SGTT premises and at Customers’ sites. SGTT did not stop for a single day: with the production facility operating at full capacity and contract performance ongoing. During the pandemic we continued production of combustion chambers for projects in Asia, heat exchangers for Linde and assembly of wind turbines. We have secured workplaces for more than 300 employees and ensured factory utilization. SGTT and Siemens Energy have a motto - Keep the lights on. It means that we help to keep power plants and infrastructure operational, ensuring that lights are always on in our homes.
Getting back to localization, our engineers are now developing specifications for production of GT hot gas path components (the most difficult components to localize on the Russian market – comment from TASS) for our suppliers. And this is not just translation of documents from English into Russian, they develop tools and manufacturing processes for production of hot gas path components here in Russia. Works are in the active phase. But we all understand that the time frame for localization of a gas turbine to 100% is very challenging. However, it is realistic to complete the project by the end of 2024. And the coronavirus does not pose a serious challenge in this regard. As I mentioned earlier, before we would start to invest we must clearly understand the SPIC 2.0 requirements and be sure that we have enough orders; we would like to clarify some mandatory requirements of the Decree No. 719 as well (list of criteria specifying the localization level of equipment – TASS.) We are currently negotiating over this matter.
- How much does SGTT estimate it would cost to increase the localization of the turbine by the end of 2024?
- We have made a detailed calculation of the entire investment volume required for localization, including machines, technology transfer, training, support of Russian suppliers. The total amount is not less than 1,1 bln rubles. We are confident about this number because the calculation was made based on the experience of establishing a JV for production of hot gas path components in Shanghai As you can see, we have accumulated experience and can transfer it to Russia.
- What work has SGTT accomplished as of now to localize hot gas path components in Russia?
- As regards the delivery of components of castings and forgings, such as casing, rotor discs and shafts, we have already completed qualification of suppliers and received first components from them. For example, OMZ in Saint Petersburg and steel foundry BVK in Chelyabinsk. But the hot gas path components are more difficult to localize. We conducted technical audit of companies, who were capable of casting and machining of blades and vanes, 2-3 years ago and realized that suppliers needed to invest in modernization and new machines for their facilities.
-Is SGTT ready to invest in modernization of existing and establishment of new production facilities of company's future contractors?
- Talking about investments from our side I did not mean direct investments in the production facilities of Russian suppliers. We can support them by providing all necessary documents, transferring knowledge, so that the suppliers can estimate the amount of necessary investments and devise the production modernization plan. We are ready to conduct trainings, support product development, organize know-how transfer.
The most advanced production facilities will be included in the global suppliers database of Siemens Energy. For example, BVK has been qualified and included in such list. Now they can participate both in Siemens Russia and international Siemens Energy projects.
- Can one speak about SGTT’s management transfer to a Russian company after the localization of the turbine is completed in 2025?
- Considering tight deadlines for localization, instant management transfer seems unreasonable.
Based on my experience from China and Saudi Arabia, transfer of management control during the period of know-how transfer involves a certain risk, as local suppliers and SGTT itself do not have necessary competencies yet and fully rely on support from Siemens Energy specialists and their knowledge. When transferring technologies, it is also important to maintain Siemens product quality. This will be difficult without management control; it will also be challenging to persuade future buyers that Russia-made products fully comply with international standards.
- How are you organizing the work with your shareholder Power Machines, that was against SPIC 2.0 and is currently developing its own technology for domestic turbines? Is there no conflict of interest?
- I would like to mention that Siemens has more than 30 years of experience in transfer of gas turbine technologies to Russia under license with various partners. Power Machines’ experience, especially in production of hot gas path components, is rather limited. Under the current joint-venture agreement Power Machines have the right to develop their own technology, but if they make their own turbine, they can sell it either only via our JV or after the exit from the JV, as the rights to sell gas turbines with a power output of more than 60 MW in Russia and almost all CIS countries belong to SGTT. I would like to point out that this situation does not hamper our efforts on increasing the localization level of the SGTT gas turbine to 100%.
On the operational level we cooperate actively. Power Machines is our supplier of some gas turbine components. And considering our past experience of cooperation, I can say that by combining our expertise in gas and steam turbines, our joint venture could be a good solution supplier for projects under the new government program of thermal power plant modernization, in particular for repowering projects. As it was the case for the modernization of Inter RAO power plant in Verkhny Tagil several years ago.
- Nevertheless, early this year Power Machines announced the exit from SGTT. What is the status of this matter?
- Both teams representing SGTT’s shareholders are currently working on this process in full compliance with the provisions of the current joint-venture agreement. Negotiations are underway; the parties are trying to find common ground.
- Is SGTT ready to continue cooperation with Power Machines combining the competencies in gas and steam turbines under the modernization program, even if they withdraw from the JV?
- SGTT is primarily focused on gas turbines. With regard to other products, e.g. generators for gas turbines, there are two companies on the Russian market, which could be potential suppliers for SGTT turbines - Elsib and Power Machines. I would consider Power Machines as a potential supplier even in the new company set-up.
- Will the change of JV shareholders affect the efforts to increase the localization level?
- SGTT’s mission remains unchanged - to localize production of the gas turbine in Russia to the full extent, including hot gas path components. Localization does not depend on shareholders but on access to orders and to the market.
- Do you believe in the high demand for gas turbines in Russia after completion of the power plant modernization program?
- I see two large market elements. First, we must consider that as of today more than 50 Siemens large gas turbines are installed in Russia, and sooner or later they will need to be replaced. Second, the Ministry of Industry and Trade estimated the mid-term demand to be 30-40 turbines. In such gas-rich country as Russia, it would be strange not to exploit the CCP technology with the efficiency 50% higher than that of traditional steam turbine power plants.
In addition, replacing coal-fired stations with combined-cycle GT units would reduce CO2 and NOx emissions. CO2 emissions of a 2000E-based CCP are 35% lower than those of a gas-fired Steam power plant and 65% lower than those of a coal-fired steam power plant. A shift to the combined-cycle technology would be a great contribution to reaching the Paris Agreement climate target. This technology combined with renewables, nuclear and hydro power would help protect the environment.
We have a comprehensive localization program, a clear understanding of where the components for our turbine could be produced, and we are aware of all technical challenges we may face. I would like to highlight that SGTT does not seek financial support from the government or any tax benefits, which other companies avail themselves of. What we need is a clear understanding and certainty with orders to ensure return on required investments and to be regarded as local suppliers.


tass--2020-07-14--Russia-China trade turnover down 5.6% in January-June

BEIJING , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Trade turnover between Russia and China dropped by 5.6 % in January-June period @ @ @ @ @ 49.15 bln , according to the data released by China ’ s General Administration of @ @ @ @ @ from China to Russia lost 6 % in the reporting period to roughly $ 20.94 @ @ @ @ @ s imports to the People ’ s Republic of China decreased by 5.3 % year-on-year @ @ @ @ @ Russia ’ s surplus account amounted to $ 7.27 bln in six months , down @ @ @ @ @ the same period last year .
In 2016 , Russia-China trade turnover grew by 2.2 @ @ @ @ @ $ 69.52 bln .
In 2017 , it surged by 20.8 % year-on-year to $ @ @ @ @ @ it added 27.1 % to over $ 107 bln , while in 2019 it rose @ @ @ @ @ 110.75 bln .

BEIJING, July 14. /TASS/. Trade turnover between Russia and China dropped by 5.6% in January-June period of 2020 year-on-year to $49.15 bln, according to the data released by China’s General Administration of Customs on Tuesday.
Exports from China to Russia lost 6% in the reporting period to roughly $20.94 bln, while Russia’s imports to the People’s Republic of China decreased by 5.3% year-on-year to $28.21 bln.
Russia’s surplus account amounted to $7.27 bln in six months, down by 2.9% compared with the same period last year.
In 2016, Russia-China trade turnover grew by 2.2% in annual terms to $69.52 bln. In 2017, it surged by 20.8% year-on-year to $84.07 bln, in 2018 it added 27.1% to over $107 bln, while in 2019 it rose by 3.4% to $110.75 bln.


tass--2020-07-14--Militants detained near Palmyra trained by US instructors

TADMOR/Syria/ , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Three militants of Maghawir al-Thawra group detained by the Syrian military in the outskirts of Tadmor , near Palmyra , had been trained to spy by US instructors , one of neutralized extremists Abdallah al-Mishuat said .
`` We were trained how to use all types of weapons by US instructors , '' the militant said .
`` All weapons were made in the US .
I saw US instructors , they attend trainings , but the exercises are conducted by the Syrians .
The Americans watch from a distance , check and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult , they took two or three hours , not less . ''
According to the militant , during the training the radicals used US-made weapons , but they were deployed for a mission with Russian arms , namely Kalashnikov guns .
The militants were part of an armed group , which was heading to Raqqa province from Al-Tanf , where the US military base is located .
Their mission was to collect data on Russian , Syrian and Iranian military facilities .
The militants found themselves on a mined field , some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were captured .
The Syrian forces seized weapons , ammunition and drugs from them .

TADMOR/Syria/, July 14. /TASS/. Three militants of Maghawir al-Thawra group detained by the Syrian military in the outskirts of Tadmor, near Palmyra, had been trained to spy by US instructors, one of neutralized extremists Abdallah al-Mishuat said.
"We were trained how to use all types of weapons by US instructors," the militant said. "All weapons were made in the US. I saw US instructors, they attend trainings, but the exercises are conducted by the Syrians. The Americans watch from a distance, check and assess the training. The exercises were difficult, they took two or three hours, not less."
According to the militant, during the training the radicals used US-made weapons, but they were deployed for a mission with Russian arms, namely Kalashnikov guns.
The militants were part of an armed group, which was heading to Raqqa province from Al-Tanf, where the US military base is located. Their mission was to collect data on Russian, Syrian and Iranian military facilities. The militants found themselves on a mined field, some of them were killed and three others were captured. The Syrian forces seized weapons, ammunition and drugs from them.


tass--2020-07-14--Militants collecting data on Russian military facilities detained in Syria

TADMOR/Syria/ , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Syrian servicemen detained three militants of an extremist group Maghawir al-Thawra , who were tasked with collecting data on Russian military facilities .
The extremists were taken to Tadmor , located near Syria ’ s Palmyra .
Earlier the armed group had been blown up by a mine and as a result several radicals were killed .
`` We are part of Maghawir al-Thawra organization .
Our group consisted of eight people : seven fighters and one guide , who was involved in drug trafficking and transported personnel .
We went by motorbikes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a mine field .
As a result , the group ’ s commander , a guide and another person were blown up by a mine .
We lost our way and did not know where to go , because the guide died , and we started looking for the way out and continued moving .
Then we were taken hostage and the Syrian forces brought us here , '' one of those detained Jasem al-Ali told reporters .
The armed group was tasked with an espionage mission : the extremists had to collect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We were sent for fulfilling a mission in Raqqa province , in Al-Mansurah .
The goal was to collect information .
< ... > We had to obtain data on Russian , Iranian and Syrian facilities , '' the militant said , noting that the mission had started in Al-Tanf .
The militants received large sums of money from their sponsors .
Several Kalashnikov guns and grenades , a large number of rounds of ammunition as well as money and drugs were seized .

TADMOR/Syria/, July 14. /TASS/. Syrian servicemen detained three militants of an extremist group Maghawir al-Thawra, who were tasked with collecting data on Russian military facilities.
The extremists were taken to Tadmor, located near Syria’s Palmyra. Earlier the armed group had been blown up by a mine and as a result several radicals were killed.
"We are part of Maghawir al-Thawra organization. Our group consisted of eight people: seven fighters and one guide, who was involved in drug trafficking and transported personnel. We went by motorbikes to fulfil missions and were trapped in a mine field. As a result, the group’s commander, a guide and another person were blown up by a mine. We lost our way and did not know where to go, because the guide died, and we started looking for the way out and continued moving. Then we were taken hostage and the Syrian forces brought us here," one of those detained Jasem al-Ali told reporters.
The armed group was tasked with an espionage mission: the extremists had to collect data on military facilities, he admitted. "We were sent for fulfilling a mission in Raqqa province, in Al-Mansurah. The goal was to collect information. <...> We had to obtain data on Russian, Iranian and Syrian facilities," the militant said, noting that the mission had started in Al-Tanf.
The militants received large sums of money from their sponsors. Several Kalashnikov guns and grenades, a large number of rounds of ammunition as well as money and drugs were seized.


tass--2020-07-14--Russian expert predicts terror groups will return to tactics of creating cells

MOSCOW , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Terror groups are unlikely to conduct full-fledged fighting soon like the Islamic State ( terror group , outlawed in Russia ) did in Iraq and Syria and will resume the tactics of small cells , Director of the Center for Arab and Islamic Studies of the Institute of Oriental Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences Vasily Kuznetsov said .
`` I believe that the resurgence of Jihadist structures and their strengthening in the format like in 2014 , 2015 and 2016 is highly unlikely .
It seems to me that the more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... > this is returning to the tactics used by Al-Qaeda ( outlawed in Russia ) , creating cells , including sleeper cells , carrying out terrorist activity , which does not demand meeting social commitments , '' Kuznetsov told a session of the Russian International Affairs Council .
Besides , the analyst noted that terrorist activity is expected to be enhanced in such regions as Southeast Asia , Sub-Saharan Africa and Central Asia to a lesser extent .
The specialist also noted that the economic situation , which is worsening over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give a boost to extremism in society .
`` It is obvious that in those cases when the state does not meet its commitments and when state policy arouses misunderstanding from the society , radical ideologists of various kinds can use this pandemic as a mobilizing factor , '' the expert noted .

MOSCOW, July 14. /TASS/. Terror groups are unlikely to conduct full-fledged fighting soon like the Islamic State (terror group, outlawed in Russia) did in Iraq and Syria and will resume the tactics of small cells, Director of the Center for Arab and Islamic Studies of the Institute of Oriental Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences Vasily Kuznetsov said.
"I believe that the resurgence of Jihadist structures and their strengthening in the format like in 2014, 2015 and 2016 is highly unlikely. It seems to me that the more probable scenario is the renewed return <...> this is returning to the tactics used by Al-Qaeda (outlawed in Russia), creating cells, including sleeper cells, carrying out terrorist activity, which does not demand meeting social commitments," Kuznetsov told a session of the Russian International Affairs Council.
Besides, the analyst noted that terrorist activity is expected to be enhanced in such regions as Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa and Central Asia to a lesser extent. The specialist also noted that the economic situation, which is worsening over the crisis caused by the coronavirus, could give a boost to extremism in society.
"It is obvious that in those cases when the state does not meet its commitments and when state policy arouses misunderstanding from the society, radical ideologists of various kinds can use this pandemic as a mobilizing factor," the expert noted.


tass--2020-07-14--UN chief urges Azerbaijan, Armenia to immediately end fighting

THE UNITED NATIONS , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately stop clashes and start de-escalating the conflict , his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Monday .
`` The Secretary-General urges an immediate end to the fighting and calls on all involved to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation and refrain from provocative rhetoric , '' the statement said .
The UN chief also expressed full support for efforts by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe ( OSCE ) Minsk Group Co-Chairs to `` address this dangerous situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ settlement to the long-standing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict . ''
Azerbaijan ’ s Defense Ministry said on July 12 Armenian army units had tried to attack Azerbaijan ’ s positions at the Tovuz section of the border with use of artillery systems .
According to the ministry , clashes continued through the night .
Four Azerbaijani soldiers were killed and four others were wounded .
Armenia ’ s Defense Ministry said , in turn , that the border situation had aggravated after Azerbaijan ’ s attempted attack .
The Armenian Defense Ministry said that two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minor wounds in shelling by the Azerbaijani side .
The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed serious concerns on Monday over the sharp deterioration on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border and called on the sides to show restraint and fully abide by the ceasefire .
Moscow voiced readiness to provide assistance in ironing out the crisis .
The conflict between neighboring Armenia and Azerbaijan over the highland region of Nagorno-Karabakh , a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up but was mainly populated by Armenians , broke out in the early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its withdrawal from the Azerbaijani Soviet Republic .
In 1991-1994 , the confrontation spilled over into large-scale military action for control over Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them .
Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been held since 1992 in the format of the so-called OSCE Minsk Group led by three co-chairs - Russia , France and the United States .

THE UNITED NATIONS, July 14. /TASS/. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately stop clashes and start de-escalating the conflict, his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Monday.
"The Secretary-General urges an immediate end to the fighting and calls on all involved to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation and refrain from provocative rhetoric," the statement said.
The UN chief also expressed full support for efforts by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group Co-Chairs to "address this dangerous situation and search for a peaceful, negotiated settlement to the long-standing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict."
Azerbaijan’s Defense Ministry said on July 12 Armenian army units had tried to attack Azerbaijan’s positions at the Tovuz section of the border with use of artillery systems. According to the ministry, clashes continued through the night. Four Azerbaijani soldiers were killed and four others were wounded.
Armenia’s Defense Ministry said, in turn, that the border situation had aggravated after Azerbaijan’s attempted attack. The Armenian Defense Ministry said that two Armenian policemen and three soldiers had received minor wounds in shelling by the Azerbaijani side.
The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed serious concerns on Monday over the sharp deterioration on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border and called on the sides to show restraint and fully abide by the ceasefire. Moscow voiced readiness to provide assistance in ironing out the crisis.
The conflict between neighboring Armenia and Azerbaijan over the highland region of Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up but was mainly populated by Armenians, broke out in the early 1988 after the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region announced its withdrawal from the Azerbaijani Soviet Republic.
In 1991-1994, the confrontation spilled over into large-scale military action for control over Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them.
Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been held since 1992 in the format of the so-called OSCE Minsk Group led by three co-chairs - Russia, France and the United States.


tass--2020-07-14--Nearly 6,000 seek to keep statue of Russian America governor in Alaska

NEW YORK , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
The Coordinating Council of Russian Compatriots of the US has collected 5,956 signatures in favor of an online petition against a proposal to remove a statue to Alexander Baranov , the first governor of Russian America , from the center of Sitka , Alaska , according to the petition ’ s website .
The monument was built in the historic center of the city , which used to be called Novo-Arkhangelsk until Alaska ’ s transfer from Russia to the US in 1867 and was the capital of Russian lands .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , was presented to the municipality in 1989 by one of local families and erected in a park in front of a public center Harrigan Centennial Hall , located oceanfront .
A spokesperson for Sitka ’ s city council Melissa Henshaw told TASS the authorities would discuss two proposals on July 14 .
The first proposal is to consider a resolution on removing the monument from the city center to a historic museum of Sitka located in Harrigan Centennial Hall .
The second initiative is to discuss the issue on relocating the statue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ October 6 , when Sitka is due to hold municipal elections .
Some 2,884 people have signed another petition in favor of removing the monument from Sitka .
A group of citizens earlier suggested pulling down the monument to Baranov in the historic center in Sitka .
They addressed a session of the city council on June 23 , saying that the statue could insult the feelings of indigenous peoples ’ representatives .
Sitka Mayor Gary Paxton admitted that one of the options could be preserving the statue of Baranov and erecting another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of North America .
He said it was unlikely that the statue would be sold , including to Art Russe Foundation , which earlier voiced readiness to buy the monument .
Mass protests and riots sparked in many US states following the death of African American George Floyd .
He died in hospital after a police officer used a choke hold during his arrest in Minneapolis , Minnesota , on May 25 .
Later protesters in some US cities started taking down monuments to historic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Confederate States of America that united southern slave-owning states during the US Civil War ( 1861-1865 ) .
Moreover , a few statues of Christopher Columbus , an Italian navigator who is known for discovering America , and a statue of first US President George Washington in Portland were pulled down as well .

NEW YORK, July 14. /TASS/. The Coordinating Council of Russian Compatriots of the US has collected 5,956 signatures in favor of an online petition against a proposal to remove a statue to Alexander Baranov, the first governor of Russian America, from the center of Sitka, Alaska, according to the petition’s website.
The monument was built in the historic center of the city, which used to be called Novo-Arkhangelsk until Alaska’s transfer from Russia to the US in 1867 and was the capital of Russian lands. The statue, created by sculptor Joan Bugbee-Jackson, was presented to the municipality in 1989 by one of local families and erected in a park in front of a public center Harrigan Centennial Hall, located oceanfront.
A spokesperson for Sitka’s city council Melissa Henshaw told TASS the authorities would discuss two proposals on July 14. The first proposal is to consider a resolution on removing the monument from the city center to a historic museum of Sitka located in Harrigan Centennial Hall. The second initiative is to discuss the issue on relocating the statue from the center during the vote on October 6, when Sitka is due to hold municipal elections.
Some 2,884 people have signed another petition in favor of removing the monument from Sitka.
A group of citizens earlier suggested pulling down the monument to Baranov in the historic center in Sitka. They addressed a session of the city council on June 23, saying that the statue could insult the feelings of indigenous peoples’ representatives. Sitka Mayor Gary Paxton admitted that one of the options could be preserving the statue of Baranov and erecting another monument to a representative of Tlingit, the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of North America. He said it was unlikely that the statue would be sold, including to Art Russe Foundation, which earlier voiced readiness to buy the monument.
Mass protests and riots sparked in many US states following the death of African American George Floyd. He died in hospital after a police officer used a choke hold during his arrest in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on May 25.
Later protesters in some US cities started taking down monuments to historic personalities, including to the leaders of Confederate States of America that united southern slave-owning states during the US Civil War (1861-1865). Moreover, a few statues of Christopher Columbus, an Italian navigator who is known for discovering America, and a statue of first US President George Washington in Portland were pulled down as well.


tass--2020-07-14--Over 13 mln people diagnosed with COVID-19 globally

TASS , July 14 .
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection worldwide surpassed 13 mln , @ @ @ @ @ Hopkins University .
The organization , which calculates its own statistics on the basis of @ @ @ @ @ , federal and local authorities , said 13,006,764 people contracted COVID-19 and 570,776 of them @ @ @ @ @ is the most affected country , with some 3,346,246 cases , followed by Brazil ( @ @ @ @ @ 878,254 ) .
Russia is ranked fourth for the number of confirmed cases .
To @ @ @ @ @ have been confirmed in Russia , with 504,021 patients having recovered from the disease .
@ @ @ @ @ indicates 11,439 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline @ @ @ @ @ on the coronavirus situation .

TASS, July 14. The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection worldwide surpassed 13 mln, according to the US-based Johns Hopkins University.
The organization, which calculates its own statistics on the basis of data obtained from international organizations, federal and local authorities, said 13,006,764 people contracted COVID-19 and 570,776 of them died.
The United States is the most affected country, with some 3,346,246 cases, followed by Brazil (1,864,681) and India (878,254).
Russia is ranked fourth for the number of confirmed cases. To date, 733,699 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 504,021 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 11,439 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-07-15--Number of COVID-2019 cases across globe up by over 196,000 in past day — WHO

MOSCOW , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
More than 196,000 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection were registered worldwide on July 14 , with the overall number of such cases exceeding 12.9 million , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) said in its daily bulletin on Tuesday .
As of 11:00 Moscow time on July 14 , as many as 12,964,809 novel coronavirus cases and 570,288 coronavirus-associated deaths were registered across the globe .
The number of confirmed cases grew by 196,775 in the past 24 hours and the number of fatalities increased by 3,634 .
The WHO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the countries .
South and North America accounts for the majority of confirmed coronavirus cases - 6,780,428 .
In the past 24 hours , the number of cases grew by 110,549 and the number of deaths - by 1,853 and reached 288,430 .
The number confirmed COVID-2019 cases in Europe amounts to 2,946,104 and the number of fatalities is 203,957 .
In the past 24 hours , the number of cases grew by 20,691 and the number of deaths - by 373 .
The East Mediterranean region has 1,302,297 cases and 31,751 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the past 24 hours , the number of cases grew by 15,646 and the number of deaths - by 523 .
The biggest number of coronavirus cases was reported from the United States ( 3,286,063 ) , Brazil ( 1,864,681 ) , India ( 906,752 ) , Russia ( 739,947 ) , Peru ( 326,326 ) , Chile ( 317,657 ) , Mexico ( 299,750 ) , the United Kingdom ( 290,137 ) , South Africa ( 287,796 ) , and Iran ( 259,652 ) .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan , a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million , in late December 2019 .
Since then , cases of the new coronavirus have been reported from nearly all parts of the world .
On March 11 , 2020 , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .

MOSCOW, July 14. /TASS/. More than 196,000 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection were registered worldwide on July 14, with the overall number of such cases exceeding 12.9 million, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in its daily bulletin on Tuesday.
As of 11:00 Moscow time on July 14, as many as 12,964,809 novel coronavirus cases and 570,288 coronavirus-associated deaths were registered across the globe. The number of confirmed cases grew by 196,775 in the past 24 hours and the number of fatalities increased by 3,634.
The WHO statistics is based on officially confirmed data from the countries.
South and North America accounts for the majority of confirmed coronavirus cases - 6,780,428. In the past 24 hours, the number of cases grew by 110,549 and the number of deaths - by 1,853 and reached 288,430.
The number confirmed COVID-2019 cases in Europe amounts to 2,946,104 and the number of fatalities is 203,957. In the past 24 hours, the number of cases grew by 20,691 and the number of deaths - by 373.
The East Mediterranean region has 1,302,297 cases and 31,751 fatalities as of July 14. In the past 24 hours, the number of cases grew by 15,646 and the number of deaths - by 523.
The biggest number of coronavirus cases was reported from the United States (3,286,063), Brazil (1,864,681), India (906,752), Russia (739,947), Peru (326,326), Chile (317,657), Mexico (299,750), the United Kingdom (290,137), South Africa (287,796), and Iran (259,652).
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in China’s city of Wuhan, a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million, in late December 2019. Since then, cases of the new coronavirus have been reported from nearly all parts of the world. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic.


tass--2020-07-15--29 more coronavirus patients die in Moscow in past day — crisis center

MOSCOW , July14 .
/TASS/ .
Twenty-nine more coronavirus patients died in Moscow during the past day , with the @ @ @ @ @ 4,230 the city ’ s anti-coronavirus crisis center said on Tuesday .
`` Twenty-nine coronavirus-positive @ @ @ @ @ died in Moscow , '' it said , adding the overall number of coronavirus-related deaths @ @ @ @ @ .
The coronavirus situation in Moscow , which was the most difficult in Russia , @ @ @ @ @ overall number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Moscow stands at 230,642 , with 613 of @ @ @ @ @ past day .
As many as 165,966 patients have recovered .
A campaign of voluntary @ @ @ @ @ underway in Moscow .
To date , 739,947 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia @ @ @ @ @ recovered from the disease .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 11,614 fatalities nationwide .
@ @ @ @ @ set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, July14. /TASS/. Twenty-nine more coronavirus patients died in Moscow during the past day, with the overall number of fatalities exceeding 4,230 the city’s anti-coronavirus crisis center said on Tuesday.
"Twenty-nine coronavirus-positive patients diagnosed with pneumonia have died in Moscow," it said, adding the overall number of coronavirus-related deaths in Moscow has reached 4,234.
The coronavirus situation in Moscow, which was the most difficult in Russia, has improved visibly. The overall number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Moscow stands at 230,642, with 613 of them being registered during the past day. As many as 165,966 patients have recovered. A campaign of voluntary testing for coronavirus antibodies is underway in Moscow.
To date, 739,947 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 512,825 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 11,614 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-07-15--Situation on Armenian-Azerbaijani border relatively calm — Armenian defense ministry

YEREVAN , July 14 .
/TSS/ .
The situation in the northeastern section of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border has been relatively calm since 18:00 local time ( 17:00 Moscow time ) , Armenian Defense Ministry Spokesman Artsrun Ovannisyan said on Tuesday .
`` The situation in the northeastern section of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border has been relatively calm since 18:00 .
At least , only sporadic shooting is reported .
Heavy guns are not used , '' he said .
According to Armenian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Anna Nagdalyan , the country lost four servicemen killed and five injured since July 12 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ servicemen have been killed and five injured , including two police officers .
No casualties among civilians have been reported so far , although the Azerbaijani side is deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure and population , '' she said .
Meanwhile , Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan meet with the country ’ s supreme military command on Tuesday to discuss the current situation on the border with Azerbaijian , the governmental press service said .
`` The supreme command of the armed forces briefed the premier on the situation that has been developing in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the opponent ’ s military actions in the Tavush sector of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border , and on the measures that the Armenian armed forces are taking to contain the opponent ’ s actions , '' the Armenian government ’ s press service said in a statement .
The participants of the meeting stressed that the situation is under full control of the Armenian armed forces .
`` Various scenarios of the situation ’ s development and the military ’ s adequate responses to them were discussed in the course of the meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border escalated on July 12 , when Azerbaijan ’ s defense ministry said that Armenian army units had tried to attack Azerbaijan ’ s positions at the Tovuz section of the border with use of artillery systems .
According to the ministry , the situation is still tense , with clashes continuing .
It reported the death of eleven Azerbaijani soldiers .
Armenia ’ s defense ministry said , in turn , that the border situation had aggravated after Azerbaijan ’ s attempted attack .
The Armenian defense ministry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soldiers had received minor wounds in shelling by the Azerbaijani side .
The situation was in focus of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov ’ s telephone talks with his Armenian and Azerbaijani counterparts , Zograb Mnatsakanyan and Elamr Mamedyarov .
The Russian top diplomat called on the parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and demonstrate restraint .
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has also urged Armenia and Azerbaijan to stop hostilities and begin de-escalation of the conflict .
The conflict between neighboring Armenia and Azerbaijan over the highland region of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up but was mainly populated by Armenians , broke out in the early 1988 after the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region announced its withdrawal from the Azerbaijani Soviet Republic .
In 1991-1994 , the confrontation spilled over into large-scale military action for control over the enclave and some adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them .
Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been held since 1992 in the format of the so-called OSCE Minsk Group , comprising along with its three co-chairs - Russia , France @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Germany , Italy , Sweden , Finland and Turkey .

YEREVAN, July 14. /TSS/. The situation in the northeastern section of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border has been relatively calm since 18:00 local time (17:00 Moscow time), Armenian Defense Ministry Spokesman Artsrun Ovannisyan said on Tuesday.
"The situation in the northeastern section of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border has been relatively calm since 18:00. At least, only sporadic shooting is reported. Heavy guns are not used," he said.
According to the spokesman, the Armenian armed forces have destroyed about ten Azerbaijani drones since hostilities broke out in the border area on July 12.
"The exact number of downed drones will be made public tomorrow. At present, I can say that about ten drones of the adversary have already been destroyed, including a very expensive Elbit Hermes 900," Ovannisyan said.
He also said that Azerbaijan’s armed forces have chosen Armenian towns and villages as target for their shelling, including with the use of howitzers and Grad multiple rocket launchers. No casualties among civilians have been reported so far.
According to Armenian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Anna Nagdalyan, the country lost four servicemen killed and five injured since July 12.
"From the Armenian side, four servicemen have been killed and five injured, including two police officers. No casualties among civilians have been reported so far, although the Azerbaijani side is deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure and population," she said.
Meanwhile, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan meet with the country’s supreme military command on Tuesday to discuss the current situation on the border with Azerbaijian, the governmental press service said.
"The supreme command of the armed forces briefed the premier on the situation that has been developing in the past two days as a result of the opponent’s military actions in the Tavush sector of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, and on the measures that the Armenian armed forces are taking to contain the opponent’s actions," the Armenian government’s press service said in a statement.
The participants of the meeting stressed that the situation is under full control of the Armenian armed forces.
"Various scenarios of the situation’s development and the military’s adequate responses to them were discussed in the course of the meeting," the document says.
Armenian-Azerbaijani border tensions
The situation on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border escalated on July 12, when Azerbaijan’s defense ministry said that Armenian army units had tried to attack Azerbaijan’s positions at the Tovuz section of the border with use of artillery systems. According to the ministry, the situation is still tense, with clashes continuing. It reported the death of eleven Azerbaijani soldiers.
Armenia’s defense ministry said, in turn, that the border situation had aggravated after Azerbaijan’s attempted attack. The Armenian defense ministry said that two Armenian policemen and three soldiers had received minor wounds in shelling by the Azerbaijani side.
The situation was in focus of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s telephone talks with his Armenian and Azerbaijani counterparts, Zograb Mnatsakanyan and Elamr Mamedyarov. The Russian top diplomat called on the parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and demonstrate restraint.
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has also urged Armenia and Azerbaijan to stop hostilities and begin de-escalation of the conflict.
The conflict between neighboring Armenia and Azerbaijan over the highland region of Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up but was mainly populated by Armenians, broke out in the early 1988 after the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region announced its withdrawal from the Azerbaijani Soviet Republic.
In 1991-1994, the confrontation spilled over into large-scale military action for control over the enclave and some adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them.
Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been held since 1992 in the format of the so-called OSCE Minsk Group, comprising along with its three co-chairs - Russia, France and the United States - Belarus, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Finland and Turkey.


tass--2020-07-14--Russia’s Urals oil costs more than Brent but high demand for it weakens in July — Platts

MOSCOW , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Russian export oil blend Urals secured a premium over the North Sea Brent crude and traded at a higher price than the European blend all last week , which was caused by a reduction in crude supplies under the OPEC+ deal .
However , already in July , the feverish demand for the Russian blend slightly weakened , and the premium fell to $ 1 per barrel , S & P Global Platts told TASS .
According to the agency , the cost of Russian oil in northwestern Europe ( CIF Rotterdam ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beginning of last week , but then it followed Brent and fell to $ 43.83 per barrel .
At the same time , the premium over the North Sea grade reached $ 1.46 per barrel , and then dropped to $ 1.06 per barrel .
In the Mediterranean ( CIF Augusta ) , the maximum cost of Russian crude was $ 44.77 per barrel last week , and the premium over Brent was $ 1.14 per barrel .
In June , Russian oil in Europe became more expensive than Brent , when crude @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the OPEC+ agreement .
As part of the agreement , Russia is to reduce oil production by 2.5 mln bpd , to 8.5 mln bpd .
In June , the premium to the North Sea benchmark reached $ 2.45 per barrel .
In early July , the feverish demand for Russian crude slightly weakened , says Iain Stevenson , Managing Editor , Crude Oil , EMEA , S & P Global Platts , Managing Editor of the S & P Global Platts .
`` Arbitrage demand to China has dropped following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery , while refineries in Northwest Europe and the Mediterranean have turned to cheaper North Sea and West African alternatives in pursuit of sour crudes , '' he said .

MOSCOW, July 14. /TASS/. Russian export oil blend Urals secured a premium over the North Sea Brent crude and traded at a higher price than the European blend all last week, which was caused by a reduction in crude supplies under the OPEC+ deal. However, already in July, the feverish demand for the Russian blend slightly weakened, and the premium fell to $1 per barrel, S&P Global Platts told TASS.
According to the agency, the cost of Russian oil in northwestern Europe (CIF Rotterdam) reached $44.46 per barrel at the beginning of last week, but then it followed Brent and fell to $43.83 per barrel.
At the same time, the premium over the North Sea grade reached $1.46 per barrel, and then dropped to $1.06 per barrel.
In the Mediterranean (CIF Augusta), the maximum cost of Russian crude was $44.77 per barrel last week, and the premium over Brent was $1.14 per barrel.
In June, Russian oil in Europe became more expensive than Brent, when crude exports fell sharply due to restrictions operating under the OPEC+ agreement. As part of the agreement, Russia is to reduce oil production by 2.5 mln bpd, to 8.5 mln bpd. In June, the premium to the North Sea benchmark reached $2.45 per barrel.
In early July, the feverish demand for Russian crude slightly weakened, says Iain Stevenson, Managing Editor, Crude Oil, EMEA, S&P Global Platts, Managing Editor of the S&P Global Platts.
"Arbitrage demand to China has dropped following the surge in buying for May and June delivery, while refineries in Northwest Europe and the Mediterranean have turned to cheaper North Sea and West African alternatives in pursuit of sour crudes," he said.


tass--2020-07-14--Armenia waiting for CSTO’s constructive reaction to clashes on border with Azerbaijan – PM

YEREVAN , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Armenia expects member states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization ( CSTO ) to express a constructive stance in relation to the escalation of tensions on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border , Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Tuesday during a meeting with Belarusian Ambassador to Armenia Igor Nazaryuk .
“ Prime Minister Pashinyan has stressed the importance of open dialogue and cooperation based on trust within common integration organizations – the CSTO and the EAEU , ” the Armenian government ’ s press service informed .
The press service added that Pashinyan had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the talks with the ambassador , “ stressing the importance of a constructive stance of CSTO partner states on this issue.
” The situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border On July 12 , the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry informed of an attempt by the Armenian Armed Forces to attack the republic ’ s positions in the direction of Tovuz on the border using artillery .
According to the ministry , the attacks have continued during the night .
Baku informed that eleven Azerbaijani troops had been killed since clashes had begun .
For its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 4 casualties and added that border tensions had escalated after an attempted breach from the side of Afghanistan .
On Monday , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed the escalation of tensions of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border with his colleagues from Armenia and Azerbaijan Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and Elmar Mammadyarov , calling on both sides to establish a ceasefire .
On Tuesday , UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has also called on both conflict sides to stop the clashes and to begin the de-escalation of the conflict .
Nagorno-Karabakh , a disputed border region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Azerbaijan at the end of the 1980s , which resulted in a war between Azerbaijan and Armenia that claimed the lives of 25,000-30,000 people between 1988 and 1994 .
Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been going on since 1992 .
Russia , the US and France are co-chairs of the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe ( OSCE ) that acts as a mediator in resolving the crisis .
The group also includes Azerbaijan , Armenia , Belarus , Germany , Italy , Portugal , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

YEREVAN, July 14. /TASS/. Armenia expects member states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) to express a constructive stance in relation to the escalation of tensions on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Tuesday during a meeting with Belarusian Ambassador to Armenia Igor Nazaryuk.
“Prime Minister Pashinyan has stressed the importance of open dialogue and cooperation based on trust within common integration organizations – the CSTO and the EAEU,” the Armenian government’s press service informed.
The press service added that Pashinyan had mentioned the situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border during the talks with the ambassador, “stressing the importance of a constructive stance of CSTO partner states on this issue.”
The situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border
On July 12, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry informed of an attempt by the Armenian Armed Forces to attack the republic’s positions in the direction of Tovuz on the border using artillery. According to the ministry, the attacks have continued during the night. Baku informed that eleven Azerbaijani troops had been killed since clashes had begun.
For its part, the Armenian Defense Ministry informed of 4 casualties and added that border tensions had escalated after an attempted breach from the side of Azerbaijan.
On Monday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed the escalation of tensions of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border with his colleagues from Armenia and Azerbaijan Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and Elmar Mammadyarov, calling on both sides to establish a ceasefire. On Tuesday, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has also called on both conflict sides to stop the clashes and to begin the de-escalation of the conflict.
Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed border region between Armenia and Azerbaijan, sought independence from Azerbaijan at the end of the 1980s, which resulted in a war between Azerbaijan and Armenia that claimed the lives of 25,000-30,000 people between 1988 and 1994. Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been going on since 1992. Russia, the US and France are co-chairs of the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) that acts as a mediator in resolving the crisis. The group also includes Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Germany, Italy, Portugal, the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland and Turkey.


tass--2020-07-14--Russia authorized to supply heat-treated dairy products to Japan

MOSCOW , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Russia was granted a right to supply heat-treated dairy products to Japan , @ @ @ @ @ regulator Rosselkhoznadzor said on Tuesday .
`` The Ministry of Agriculture , Forestry and Fisheries @ @ @ @ @ the right to supply heat-treated dairy products received by Russia , '' the regulator noted @ @ @ @ @ exported , accompanied with a relevant certificate and without further qualification of Russian companies by @ @ @ @ @ the authority said .
It is not required also to include Russian companies into the @ @ @ @ @ Japan ’ s authority .
`` The Japan ’ s market opening for Russian dairy @ @ @ @ @ of the joint work on risk analysis by Rosselkhoznadzor and Japanese colleagues , performed during @ @ @ @ @ Russian agency added .

MOSCOW, July 14. /TASS/. Russia was granted a right to supply heat-treated dairy products to Japan, the Russian veterinary and phytosanitary regulator Rosselkhoznadzor said on Tuesday.
"The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan informed Rosselkhoznadzor about the right to supply heat-treated dairy products received by Russia," the regulator noted.
Such goods can be exported, accompanied with a relevant certificate and without further qualification of Russian companies by Japan’s inspectors, the authority said. It is not required also to include Russian companies into the register of importers of the Japan’s authority.
"The Japan’s market opening for Russian dairy produce has become the result of the joint work on risk analysis by Rosselkhoznadzor and Japanese colleagues, performed during several years," the Russian agency added.


tass--2020-07-14--Russia to resume transport service with Belarus within days

MINSK , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Russia may resume transport service with Belarus within days , Belarusian Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ after his working visit to Moscow .
`` As far as we understood , transport @ @ @ @ @ resumed within days , '' his press secretary Alexandra Isayeva quoted him as saying on @ @ @ @ @ to the Belarusian prime minister , other topics discussed in Moscow included `` terms of @ @ @ @ @ the next years . ''
`` We agreed that this work will be continued in @ @ @ @ @ have already said , we have settled the issues of supplies in 2020 .
Now @ @ @ @ @ , '' Golovchenko noted .

MINSK, July 14. /TASS/. Russia may resume transport service with Belarus within days, Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko said on Tuesday after his working visit to Moscow.
"As far as we understood, transport service with Belarus will be resumed within days," his press secretary Alexandra Isayeva quoted him as saying on her Facebook account.
According to the Belarusian prime minister, other topics discussed in Moscow included "terms of supplies of energy resources in the next years." "We agreed that this work will be continued in expert groups. As I have already said, we have settled the issues of supplies in 2020. Now we are discussing future plans," Golovchenko noted.


tass--2020-07-14--Turkey to keep protecting Hagia Sophia as cultural heritage site – Erdogan

ANKARA , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Despite the change in status , Hagia Sophia will still be protected as @ @ @ @ @ Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told a press conference in Ankara Tuesday .
“ Under @ @ @ @ @ who conquered Constantinople – TASS ) Ayasofya ( Hagia Sophia ’ s official name – @ @ @ @ @ a dilapidated state and later transformed into a treasure .
For centuries it has been @ @ @ @ @ Despite the change in status , it will still be protected by Turkey as a @ @ @ @ @ he noted .
According to Erdogan , by the virtue of turning Hagia Sophia into @ @ @ @ @ “ mended a mistake.
” “ We heeded the will of 83 million Turkish citizens @ @ @ @ @ was made a museum .
Now , we are mending this mistake , this is @ @ @ @ @ The Turkish leader underlined .

ANKARA, July 14. /TASS/. Despite the change in status, Hagia Sophia will still be protected as a cultural heritage site, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told a press conference in Ankara Tuesday.
“Under Fatih (Sultan Mehmed II who conquered Constantinople – TASS) Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia’s official name – TASS) was acquired in a dilapidated state and later transformed into a treasure. For centuries it has been looked after and beautified. Despite the change in status, it will still be protected by Turkey as a cultural heritage site,” he noted.
According to Erdogan, by the virtue of turning Hagia Sophia into a mosque, Turkish authorities “mended a mistake.” “We heeded the will of 83 million Turkish citizens. In 1934, it was made a museum. Now, we are mending this mistake, this is our sovereign right,” The Turkish leader underlined.


tass--2020-07-14--Azerbaijan reports new attacks on border settlements by Armenian forces

BAKU , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Attacks on Azerbaijani settlements near the border by units of the Armenian army @ @ @ @ @ Defense Ministry informed on Tuesday .
“ Today at 19:30 ( 18:30 Moscow time ) @ @ @ @ @ have resumed intensive fire on the settlements of the Tovuz district and the positions of @ @ @ @ @ and artillery , ” the message by the ministry says .
The situation on the @ @ @ @ @ , the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry informed of an attempt by the Armenian Armed Forces to @ @ @ @ @ positions in the direction of Tovuz on the border using artillery .
According to the @ @ @ @ @ continued during the night .
Baku informed that eleven Azerbaijani troops had been killed since @ @ @ @

BAKU, July 14. /TASS/. Attacks on Azerbaijani settlements near the border by units of the Armenian army have resumed, The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry informed on Tuesday.
“Today at 19:30 (18:30 Moscow time), the Armenian Armed Forces have resumed intensive fire on the settlements of the Tovuz district and the positions of our units using large-caliber arms and artillery,” the message by the ministry says.
The situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border
On July 12, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry informed of an attempt by the Armenian Armed Forces to attack the republic’s positions in the direction of Tovuz on the border using artillery. According to the ministry, the attacks have continued during the night. Baku informed that eleven Azerbaijani troops had been killed since clashes had begun.


tass--2020-07-14--Belarus, Russia inked agreement on terms of Russian oil supplies

MINSK , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
An agreement on conditions of Russian oil supplies to Belarus was signed in @ @ @ @ @ between prime ministers of the two countries , Prime Minister of Belarus Roman Golovchenko told @ @ @ @ @ documents were signed today .
These are two protocols to the intergovernmental agreement on construction @ @ @ @ @ plant .
A separate agreement governing the condition of energy resources supplies , oil in @ @ @ @ @ of Belarus , ” Golovchenko said , cited in Facebook by press secretary of the @ @ @ @ @ The Belarusian Prime Minister did not detail the agreement on energy resources .
“ This @ @ @ @ @ commercial ones .
This is a technical agreement governing matters of payment for supplies of @ @ @ @ @ said .

MINSK, July 14. /TASS/. An agreement on conditions of Russian oil supplies to Belarus was signed in Moscow on Tuesday after negotiations between prime ministers of the two countries, Prime Minister of Belarus Roman Golovchenko told reporters.
"Three international documents were signed today. These are two protocols to the intergovernmental agreement on construction of the Belarusian nuclear power plant. A separate agreement governing the condition of energy resources supplies, oil in particular, to the Republic of Belarus,” Golovchenko said, cited in Facebook by press secretary of the prime minister Alexandra Isaeva.
The Belarusian Prime Minister did not detail the agreement on energy resources. “This issue is more related to commercial ones. This is a technical agreement governing matters of payment for supplies of energy resources,” he said.


tass--2020-07-14--Herd immunity to COVID to be developed in Russia in autumn if vaccine is mass used

MOSCOW , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Herd immunity to the coronavirus infection may be developed in Russia in the @ @ @ @ @ of a vaccine is organized swiftly , Mikhail Shchelkanov , head of the international research @ @ @ @ @ ’ s sanitary oversight authority , said on Tuesday .
`` Naturally , Russia ’ @ @ @ @ @ herd immunity , '' he said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 television channel .
@ @ @ @ @ % but if we speak about efficient herd immunity , we should have 70 % @ @ @ @ @ Generally speaking , we can reach this level in the spring if we organize mass @ @ @ @ @ ''

MOSCOW, July 14. /TASS/. Herd immunity to the coronavirus infection may be developed in Russia in the coming autumn if mass production of a vaccine is organized swiftly, Mikhail Shchelkanov, head of the international research and education center of Russia’s sanitary oversight authority, said on Tuesday.
"Naturally, Russia’s population does have certain herd immunity," he said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 television channel. "It is about 10-15-20% but if we speak about efficient herd immunity, we should have 70%, or better 80% Generally speaking, we can reach this level in the spring if we organize mass production of a vaccine."


tass--2020-07-14--Spotify launches in Russia July 15

Spotify launches in Russia July 15

MOSCOW , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Sweden ’ s music streaming service Spotify is officially launching in Russia on July 15 .
Russian users will be able to download more than 50 million songs starting with Wednesday , the company said in a statement .
Simultaneously , Spotify is expanding its geography of operation to 12 more countries apart from Russia : Ukraine , Moldova , Kazakhstan , Belarus , Albania , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Croatia , Kosovo , Montenegro , Serbia , Slovenia and North Macedonia .
Overall , the service will now be accessible in 92 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spotify Vice President for Markets and Subscriber Growth Gustav Gyllenhammar , 250 million people will now have access to the service after its latest expansion , while around 286 million people use it now .
Spotify can either be accessed for free in Russia or via a monthly subscription ranging from 169 rubles ( $ 2.38 ) to 269 rubles ( $ 3.78 ) depending on the type .
Russian Spotify users will also be able to play music on various devices and integrate them with Instagram , Facebook , Discord , Samsung @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple CarPlay , Tinder , Google Maps , Nike Run Club and Xbox .
Spotify was founded in 2006 in Sweden , the service was first launched in 2008 .
In 2018 , the company went public at NYSE in 2018 , the IPO was hailed as a huge success .
Spotify ’ s current market cap tops $ 48 billion .
According to J'son & Partners Consulting , the Russian streaming market is growing by 60 % yearly and can hit 18.6 billion rubles ( $ 261.5 million ) by 2021 .
@

MOSCOW, July 14. /TASS/. Sweden’s music streaming service Spotify is officially launching in Russia on July 15. Russian users will be able to download more than 50 million songs starting with Wednesday, the company said in a statement.
Simultaneously, Spotify is expanding its geography of operation to 12 more countries apart from Russia: Ukraine, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovenia and North Macedonia. Overall, the service will now be accessible in 92 countries around the world.
According to Spotify Vice President for Markets and Subscriber Growth Gustav Gyllenhammar, 250 million people will now have access to the service after its latest expansion, while around 286 million people use it now.
Spotify can either be accessed for free in Russia or via a monthly subscription ranging from 169 rubles ($2.38) to 269 rubles ($3.78) depending on the type.
Russian Spotify users will also be able to play music on various devices and integrate them with Instagram, Facebook, Discord, Samsung, Android TV, Android Car, Apple CarPlay, Tinder, Google Maps, Nike Run Club and Xbox.
Spotify
Spotify was founded in 2006 in Sweden, the service was first launched in 2008. In 2018, the company went public at NYSE in 2018, the IPO was hailed as a huge success. Spotify’s current market cap tops $48 billion.
According to J'son & Partners Consulting, the Russian streaming market is growing by 60% yearly and can hit 18.6 billion rubles ($261.5 million) by 2021. -0-aba


tass--2020-07-14--Return of Miroslav Gospel page to strengthen Russia-Serbia religious ties, says cabinet

`` Miroslav Gospel is the most precious monument of the Serbian history and literature .
Reinstating its integrity after 150 years will become an event of national importance .
Serbia views the return of the missing page of Miroslav Gospel as confirmation of the deep Serbian-Russian religious ties and also as an affirmation of the personal respect for Serbia of [ Russian ] President Vladimir Putin and his sincere and friendly relations with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic , '' Juric said in a statement received in TASS .
BELGRADE , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
The return of Miroslav Gospel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the integrity of this ancient Serbian manuscript will become an event of historic significance for the country and will strengthen religious ties between the Russian and Serbian nations , Director of the Serbian Government ’ s Office for Kosovo and Metohija and President Aleksandar Vucic ’ s deputy in the ruling Serbian Progressive Party Marko Juric said in a comment for TASS Tuesday .
`` On the other hand , Nicholas Roerich and his artistry are immensely important for the Russian culture .
Return of these cultural artifacts back home will be an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reaffirmation of the cultural and religious proximity .
Serbia and Russia will always be on the righteous side of the history , while our religious ties will be the firmest guarantee of our strong and constant international relations , '' the official added .
On July 13 , Putin signed the law to ratify the agreement with Serbia to exchange Miroslav Gospel page 166 for seven paintings by Nicholas Roerich .
The agreement to exchange these treasures was reached by Belgrade and Moscow during Russian President Vladimir Putin ’ s visit to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement itself to hand a page of the medieval Cyrillic manuscript back to Belgrade was inked during Russian then Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev ’ s Belgrade visit in October .
The document also states that Serbia will hand over seven early Roerich paintings to Russia .
Before the recent developments , the issue of returning the page from the ancient Cyrillic manuscript to Belgrade had been discussed for decades .
As for Roerich ’ s paintings , they simply vanished between 1941 and March 2017 when a TASS correspondent discovered the masterpieces in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gospel was written in approximately 1180 .
It is Serbia ’ s oldest manuscript written in Cyrillic , which is housed at the National Museum of Serbia in Belgrade .
In 2005 , Miroslav Gospel was added to the UNESCO Memory of the World list .
Lately , a new tradition emerged when Serbian presidents swear on the gospel ’ s copy to take the oath of the office when inaugurated .
Written by deacon Gregory , the manuscript was commissioned by Prince Miroslav Zavidovic , a brother of Stefan Nemanja , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Gospel was named after Prince Miroslav .
In about 1845 , Archimandrite Porphyrius ( Uspensky ) discovered the manuscript at the Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos .
He extracted one page from it and brought it to Russia .
The fate of the paintings by Nicholas Roerich in question , discovered in the collection of the National Museum of Serbia by TASS , remained unknown since the moment Nazi Germany attacked Yugoslavia in April 1941 .
The seven paintings on the list are Berendej Village ( 1921 ) , Holy Guests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1919 ) , Burgustan on Caucasus , St. Sergius of Radonezh ( 1922 ) , and two costume sketches for Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov ’ s opera Snow Maiden ( 1921 ) .
One of the paintings on the list was reportedly Roerich ’ s gift to the Belgrade Museum .
The others had been brought there for a personal exhibition .
World War II prevented the exhibits ’ return to Russia .

"Miroslav Gospel is the most precious monument of the Serbian history and literature. Reinstating its integrity after 150 years will become an event of national importance. Serbia views the return of the missing page of Miroslav Gospel as confirmation of the deep Serbian-Russian religious ties and also as an affirmation of the personal respect for Serbia of [Russian] President Vladimir Putin and his sincere and friendly relations with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic," Juric said in a statement received in TASS.
BELGRADE, July 14. /TASS/. The return of Miroslav Gospel’s page 166 and restoration of the integrity of this ancient Serbian manuscript will become an event of historic significance for the country and will strengthen religious ties between the Russian and Serbian nations, Director of the Serbian Government’s Office for Kosovo and Metohija and President Aleksandar Vucic’s deputy in the ruling Serbian Progressive Party Marko Juric said in a comment for TASS Tuesday.
"On the other hand, Nicholas Roerich and his artistry are immensely important for the Russian culture. Return of these cultural artifacts back home will be an important event for both our nations and reaffirmation of the cultural and religious proximity. Serbia and Russia will always be on the righteous side of the history, while our religious ties will be the firmest guarantee of our strong and constant international relations," the official added.
Cultural exchange
On July 13, Putin signed the law to ratify the agreement with Serbia to exchange Miroslav Gospel page 166 for seven paintings by Nicholas Roerich.
The agreement to exchange these treasures was reached by Belgrade and Moscow during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to the Serbian capital on January 17. The agreement itself to hand a page of the medieval Cyrillic manuscript back to Belgrade was inked during Russian then Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev’s Belgrade visit in October. The document also states that Serbia will hand over seven early Roerich paintings to Russia.
Before the recent developments, the issue of returning the page from the ancient Cyrillic manuscript to Belgrade had been discussed for decades. As for Roerich’s paintings, they simply vanished between 1941 and March 2017 when a TASS correspondent discovered the masterpieces in Serbia’s National Museum.
Miroslav Gospel
Miroslav Gospel was written in approximately 1180. It is Serbia’s oldest manuscript written in Cyrillic, which is housed at the National Museum of Serbia in Belgrade. In 2005, Miroslav Gospel was added to the UNESCO Memory of the World list. Lately, a new tradition emerged when Serbian presidents swear on the gospel’s copy to take the oath of the office when inaugurated.
Written by deacon Gregory, the manuscript was commissioned by Prince Miroslav Zavidovic, a brother of Stefan Nemanja, the founder of the Nemanjic dynasty. Later, the Gospel was named after Prince Miroslav. In about 1845, Archimandrite Porphyrius (Uspensky) discovered the manuscript at the Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos. He extracted one page from it and brought it to Russia.
Roerich’s paintings
The fate of the paintings by Nicholas Roerich in question, discovered in the collection of the National Museum of Serbia by TASS, remained unknown since the moment Nazi Germany attacked Yugoslavia in April 1941. The seven paintings on the list are Berendej Village (1921), Holy Guests (1923), Church Bells Tolling (1919), Burgustan on Caucasus, St. Sergius of Radonezh (1922), and two costume sketches for Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s opera Snow Maiden (1921). One of the paintings on the list was reportedly Roerich’s gift to the Belgrade Museum. The others had been brought there for a personal exhibition. World War II prevented the exhibits’ return to Russia.


tass--2020-07-14--Russian space agency launches work to develop rocket with methane propellant engine

MOSCOW , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s State Space Corporation Roscosmos is starting work to develop a @ @ @ @ @ methane propellant engine , Roscosmos said in a statement on Tuesday .
`` Simultaneously , @ @ @ @ @ new medium-class commercial rocket with a methane propellant engine , '' Roscosmos said on its @ @ @ @ @ is set to replace the legendary Soyuz-2 family of launch vehicles , the statement says @ @ @ @ @ domestic space industry told TASS in late June that Roscosmos had approved a technical assignment @ @ @ @ @ of a space rocket system with a new carrier rocket using liquefied natural gas ( @ @ @ @ @ as the propellant .
The contract for the design work is expected to be signed @ @ @ @ @ source said .

MOSCOW, July 14. /TASS/. Russia’s State Space Corporation Roscosmos is starting work to develop a medium carrier rocket with a methane propellant engine, Roscosmos said in a statement on Tuesday.
"Simultaneously, work is beginning on a new medium-class commercial rocket with a methane propellant engine," Roscosmos said on its Twitter.
The new rocket is set to replace the legendary Soyuz-2 family of launch vehicles, the statement says.
A source in the domestic space industry told TASS in late June that Roscosmos had approved a technical assignment for developing the conceptual design of a space rocket system with a new carrier rocket using liquefied natural gas (methane) and liquid oxygen as the propellant.
The contract for the design work is expected to be signed in coming months, the source said.


tass--2020-07-14--Two Armenian sergeants killed in Azerbaijani forces’ shelling

YEREVAN , July 14 .
/TASS/ .
Two Armenian army junior sergeants were killed in the Azerbaijani forces ’ shelling @ @ @ @ @ the state border , Armenia ’ s Defense Ministry reported on Tuesday .
`` As @ @ @ @ @ shelling , junior sergeant Smbat Gevorkyan and junior sergeant Grisha Matevosyan were fatally wounded , @ @ @ @ @

YEREVAN, July 14. /TASS/. Two Armenian army junior sergeants were killed in the Azerbaijani forces’ shelling in the northeastern area of the state border, Armenia’s Defense Ministry reported on Tuesday.
"As a result of the enemy shelling, junior sergeant Smbat Gevorkyan and junior sergeant Grisha Matevosyan were fatally wounded," the statement says.