tass--2020-01-10--Russian defense chief orders armed forces to monitor deployment of US missiles

`` We need to carry out a profound analysis of potential military threats and outline the measures on improving the armed forces .
The results of these efforts will be taken into account when drafting the country ’ s defense plan for the years 2021-2025 , '' he said on Friday , opening a teleconference on the main spheres of activity of the Russian Defense Ministry for the year 2020 .
MOSCOW , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has tasked the Russian military with monitoring the deployment of intermediate- and shorter-range missiles by the US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ territory may become nuclear targets — Russian senator '' We need to monitor the deployment of intermediate- and shorter-range missiles by the United States of America , '' Shoigu stressed when outlining the year ’ s goals .
He also noted that the Russian Strategic Missile Forces must carry out steady re-equipment with the Avangard and Yars missiles , while the nuclear navy forces must begin deployment of the Borei-A strategic missiles .
The minister added that the key objectives for the upcoming period had been determined by Russian President , Supreme Commander-in-Chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` In December , during the expanded session of the Defense Ministry top brass , we summed up the armed forces ’ performance in 2019 .
The commander-in-chief commended the development of the army and fleet , outlining the key objectives for the upcoming period , '' the minister said .

The minister noted that the Russian Strategic Missile Forces must carry out re-equipment with the Avangard and Yars missiles, while the nuclear navy forces must begin deployment of the Borei-A strategic missiles
MOSCOW, January 10. /TASS/. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has tasked the Russian military with monitoring the deployment of intermediate- and shorter-range missiles by the US. "We need to carry out a profound analysis of potential military threats and outline the measures on improving the armed forces. The results of these efforts will be taken into account when drafting the country’s defense plan for the years 2021-2025," he said on Friday, opening a teleconference on the main spheres of activity of the Russian Defense Ministry for the year 2020.
Read also Countries with US missiles on their territory may become nuclear targets — Russian senator
"We need to monitor the deployment of intermediate- and shorter-range missiles by the United States of America," Shoigu stressed when outlining the year’s goals. He also noted that the Russian Strategic Missile Forces must carry out steady re-equipment with the Avangard and Yars missiles, while the nuclear navy forces must begin deployment of the Borei-A strategic missiles. The minister added that the key objectives for the upcoming period had been determined by Russian President, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces Vladimir Putin. "In December, during the expanded session of the Defense Ministry top brass, we summed up the armed forces’ performance in 2019. The commander-in-chief commended the development of the army and fleet, outlining the key objectives for the upcoming period," the minister said. Increasing the share of advanced weaponry to 70% The Russian Armed Forces face the task of increasing the share of advanced weaponry to 70% by the end of the year and steadily maintaining it in the future, according to Sergei Shoigu.


tass--2020-01-10--Press review: Iran-US conflict may morph into proxy war and EU eyes revising Russia ties

The confrontation between Tehran and the United States is entering into a ‘ Cold War ’ phase .
Experts interviewed by Izvestia are confident that Iran won ’ t leave General Qasem Soleimani ’ s assassination unpunished and the conflict will eventually turn into a proxy war in third countries , like Iraq and Lebanon in particular .
Head of the Iraqi Advisory Council and a former presidential adviser Farhad Alaaldin told the newspaper that both Iran and the US have mechanisms to influence Baghdad .
Tehran has weapons deployed to Iraq and is capable of opposing any political force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Besides , pro-Iranian forces have high-ranking positions in the Iraqi government .
Lebanon may become another battlefield in the conflict between Iran and the US , Senior Researcher at the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ Institute of Oriental Studies Boris Dolgov said .
The pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement has been active in Lebanon since the mid-1980s , the expert pointed out , adding that Saudi Arabia ’ s positions in the country were strong , and a thing to note is that Riyadh is Washington ’ s main regional ally .
The assassination @ @ @ @ @ @ @ culmination of the conflict between the US and Iran , Senior Researcher at the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ Institute of Oriental Studies Vladimir Sazhin told Nezavisimaya Gazeta .
`` However , both Washington and Tehran came to the conclusion that an escalation of tensions may have very serious consequences , so they have stepped back .
A lull has set in , but it is temporary , '' the expert added .
It is impossible to find a long-term solution to the flare-up between Iran and the US without negotiations , particularly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nuclear deal goes , Sazhin emphasized .
`` The activities of the countries that are interested in reducing tensions between Tehran and Washington are important in this situation .
They need to persuade [ US President Donald ] Trump and [ Iran ’ s ] Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to try to reach compromises on the entire range of issues between the two countries , '' the expert said .
Kommersant : EU may revise strategy for relations with Russia Russia ’ s Permanent Envoy to the European Union Vladimir Chizhov in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out that following the recent top-level reshuffle , the EU might revise its course with Moscow , adopted in 2016 .
`` As far as relations with Russia are concerned , the European Union ’ s current course is based on a document adopted in March 2016 , known as ‘ Mogherini ’ s five guiding principles.
’ But the five principles are now becoming an obstacle preventing progress in our relations , which is why I don ’ t rule out that the EU will soon start working to revise the strategy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to him , it is up to the EU `` to find a way out of the dead end in relations with Russia , where it has cornered itself . ''
`` It would be naive to expect that the ship named the European Union will make a U-turn under the stewardship of the newly selected officials .
In fact , its member states are the ones that determine the EU ’ s development strategy and its foreign relations .
There are different countries with different priorities and different governments , so relations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smooth , which affects their common positions , '' the Russian envoy explained .
Chizhov went on to say that France , whose President Emmanuel Macron had called for reviewing relations with Russia , was not the only country that supported the idea of an improved relationship .
`` There is more than one such voice .
And the number of those who share this sentiment is more than the number of those who raise their voices because not everyone is ready to express their views in public like the French president does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noted that the EU ’ s policy of extending sanctions against Russia would change sooner or later , when `` at least one country with a firm stance comes forward . ''
As of now , in Chizhov ’ s words , `` there is still not enough political willpower to steer the European Union in the right direction . ''
Surging tensions in the Middle East may negatively affect the OPEC+ oil cut agreement , Rossiyskaya Gazeta notes .
The conflict between Washington and Iran is unlikely to break up the OPEC+ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the operation of the oil output cut deal and intensify discord within the organization of oil-producing countries .
Iran ’ s attacks on US military targets in Iraq have exacerbated the situation in the region , making Brent Crude prices exceed the $ 70 per barrel mark .
However , after President Trump stated that Washington ’ s response would be limited to tightening economic restrictions , oil prices went back to $ 65-66 per barrel .
The markets figured that it meant the risk of further military engagements was subsiding , Stock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noted .
Accordingly , the threat of disruptions in oil supplies from the Persian Gulf diminished , which impacted oil prices .
`` The US Energy Information Administration ’ s recent report was another reason for the drop in oil prices , as it showed that oil reserves had risen by 1.2 mln barrels in the week ending on January 3 , '' said AMarkets Analytics Department Chief Artem Deyev .
As far as OPEC+ members are concerned , the ups and downs in oil prices undermine efforts to reduce oil production , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cuts , prices are still more dependent on political factors rather than market ones .
In addition , instability in the Middle East raises tensions within OPEC .
Relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia have never been good , but as OPEC members , the two countries were capable of finding common ground .
However , now they may lose all ability to reach any compromises .
As a result , Saudi Arabia — the main driver behind the oil production cut — may find itself isolated , as most countries will find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for political and economic reasons .
Russia ’ s government has adopted a national plan to adjust to climate change .
The document outlines measures expected to be taken in the coming three years , Rossiyskaya Gazeta writes .
According to the policy , Russia ’ s `` climate safety passport '' will be developed by the end of 2020 , based on the analysis of current and future climate trends .
The country ’ s Economic Development Ministry will start putting together specific projects by the end of 2022 .
Head of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia Alexey Kokorin believes that one of the reasons for drawing up such a plan `` was the increasing number of dangerous weather phenomena in the country , which doubled in the past 15 to 20 years , as well as recent research indicating that the climate change issue is here to stay . ''
`` It seems , the country ’ s authorities have finally addressed this complicated and pressing issue because last year , unprecedented forest fires swept through Siberia , a flood that hit the Irkutsk region led to tragic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temperatures in December , '' Georgy Safonov of Higher School of Economics pointed out .
Among the anticipated negative effects of climate change , the proposal lists rising health risks for the population , a spike in the intensity and duration of droughts and floods , as well as increasing wildfire risks .
On the other hand , positive effects particularly include saving energy during heating seasons and the expansion of zones suitable for crop production .
`` The negative impacts are already here , though it will require effort to take advantage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , climate-driven forest expansion should not be lost to wildfires and environmentally erroneous deforestation activities , '' Kokorin emphasized .
Russia ’ s ruble continues to gain strength against the dollar and the euro despite the fact that the holiday season usually tends to generate negative trends .
Moreover , the Russian currency could benefit the most from key global developments , which include the situation around Iran and a new stage in the trade war between the United States and China , Rossiyskaya Gazeta wrote .
Since the beginning of the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase among the currencies of developing countries , strengthening 1.2 % against the dollar and 2.2 % against the euro .
This is a direct result of an easing in tensions , because Washington has opted not to provide a military response to Iran ’ s missile strike on US targets in Iraq .
This caused a spike in demand for risky assets and strengthened the currencies of developing markets , Sberbank CIB analysts said .
Apparently , there won ’ t be another round of the conflict , so the outcome of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will now prove to be crucial for the ruble , Nordea Bank analysts Tatyana Yevdokimova and Grigory Zhirnov pointed out .
The two countries seem to have come close to signing the first part of a trade deal .
The markets ’ reaction will depend on the deal ’ s details , of which little is known at the moment , the experts said .
The ruble has good chances to maintain its current strong position at least until the deal is signed , Yevdokimova and Zhirnov added .
The current strengthening of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that has been following the 2019 trend , Senior Analyst at BCS Premier Sergei Suverov noted .
A rise in oil prices and the continued capital inflow into Russian assets have been strengthening the ruble , he specified .
The expert did not exclude that the Russian currency could reach 60.5 rubles per dollar level by the end of January .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews .

Media: Iran-US conflict may turn into proxy war
The confrontation between Tehran and the United States is entering into a ‘Cold War’ phase. Experts interviewed by Izvestia are confident that Iran won’t leave General Qasem Soleimani’s assassination unpunished and the conflict will eventually turn into a proxy war in third countries, like Iraq and Lebanon in particular. Head of the Iraqi Advisory Council and a former presidential adviser Farhad Alaaldin told the newspaper that both Iran and the US have mechanisms to influence Baghdad. Tehran has weapons deployed to Iraq and is capable of opposing any political force or leader supported by the other side. Besides, pro-Iranian forces have high-ranking positions in the Iraqi government. Lebanon may become another battlefield in the conflict between Iran and the US, Senior Researcher at the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Oriental Studies Boris Dolgov said. The pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement has been active in Lebanon since the mid-1980s, the expert pointed out, adding that Saudi Arabia’s positions in the country were strong, and a thing to note is that Riyadh is Washington’s main regional ally. The assassination of Soleimani and further developments marked the culmination of the conflict between the US and Iran, Senior Researcher at the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Oriental Studies Vladimir Sazhin told Nezavisimaya Gazeta. "However, both Washington and Tehran came to the conclusion that an escalation of tensions may have very serious consequences, so they have stepped back. A lull has set in, but it is temporary," the expert added. It is impossible to find a long-term solution to the flare-up between Iran and the US without negotiations, particularly as far as the future of the nuclear deal goes, Sazhin emphasized. "The activities of the countries that are interested in reducing tensions between Tehran and Washington are important in this situation. They need to persuade [US President Donald] Trump and [Iran’s] Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to try to reach compromises on the entire range of issues between the two countries," the expert said. Kommersant: EU may revise strategy for relations with Russia Russia’s Permanent Envoy to the European Union Vladimir Chizhov in an interview with Kommersant did not rule out that following the recent top-level reshuffle, the EU might revise its course with Moscow, adopted in 2016.
"As far as relations with Russia are concerned, the European Union’s current course is based on a document adopted in March 2016, known as ‘Mogherini’s five guiding principles.’ But the five principles are now becoming an obstacle preventing progress in our relations, which is why I don’t rule out that the EU will soon start working to revise the strategy," Chizhov pointed out. According to him, it is up to the EU "to find a way out of the dead end in relations with Russia, where it has cornered itself." "It would be naive to expect that the ship named the European Union will make a U-turn under the stewardship of the newly selected officials. In fact, its member states are the ones that determine the EU’s development strategy and its foreign relations. There are different countries with different priorities and different governments, so relations between them are not always serene and smooth, which affects their common positions," the Russian envoy explained. Chizhov went on to say that France, whose President Emmanuel Macron had called for reviewing relations with Russia, was not the only country that supported the idea of an improved relationship. "There is more than one such voice. And the number of those who share this sentiment is more than the number of those who raise their voices because not everyone is ready to express their views in public like the French president does," the envoy stressed. He noted that the EU’s policy of extending sanctions against Russia would change sooner or later, when "at least one country with a firm stance comes forward." As of now, in Chizhov’s words, "there is still not enough political willpower to steer the European Union in the right direction." Rossiyskaya Gazeta: Iran flare-up puts OPEC+ under mounting political pressure
Surging tensions in the Middle East may negatively affect the OPEC+ oil cut agreement, Rossiyskaya Gazeta notes. The conflict between Washington and Iran is unlikely to break up the OPEC+ group, but it definitely can sway the operation of the oil output cut deal and intensify discord within the organization of oil-producing countries. Iran’s attacks on US military targets in Iraq have exacerbated the situation in the region, making Brent Crude prices exceed the $70 per barrel mark. However, after President Trump stated that Washington’s response would be limited to tightening economic restrictions, oil prices went back to $65-66 per barrel. The markets figured that it meant the risk of further military engagements was subsiding, Stock Market Expert at BCS Broker Igor Galaktionov noted. Accordingly, the threat of disruptions in oil supplies from the Persian Gulf diminished, which impacted oil prices. "The US Energy Information Administration’s recent report was another reason for the drop in oil prices, as it showed that oil reserves had risen by 1.2 mln barrels in the week ending on January 3," said AMarkets Analytics Department Chief Artem Deyev. As far as OPEC+ members are concerned, the ups and downs in oil prices undermine efforts to reduce oil production, making it clear that despite increasing oil cuts, prices are still more dependent on political factors rather than market ones. In addition, instability in the Middle East raises tensions within OPEC. Relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia have never been good, but as OPEC members, the two countries were capable of finding common ground. However, now they may lose all ability to reach any compromises. As a result, Saudi Arabia — the main driver behind the oil production cut — may find itself isolated, as most countries will find the deal to be unprofitable and ineffective for political and economic reasons. Kommersant: Russia gearing up to counter climate threats
Read also Siberian scientists plan to resume air studies of Arctic climate
Russia’s government has adopted a national plan to adjust to climate change. The document outlines measures expected to be taken in the coming three years, Rossiyskaya Gazeta writes. According to the policy, Russia’s "climate safety passport" will be developed by the end of 2020, based on the analysis of current and future climate trends. The country’s Economic Development Ministry will start putting together specific projects by the end of 2022. Head of the Climate and Energy Program at WWF Russia Alexey Kokorin believes that one of the reasons for drawing up such a plan "was the increasing number of dangerous weather phenomena in the country, which doubled in the past 15 to 20 years, as well as recent research indicating that the climate change issue is here to stay." "It seems, the country’s authorities have finally addressed this complicated and pressing issue because last year, unprecedented forest fires swept through Siberia, a flood that hit the Irkutsk region led to tragic consequences and Moscow saw some record high temperatures in December," Georgy Safonov of Higher School of Economics pointed out. Among the anticipated negative effects of climate change, the proposal lists rising health risks for the population, a spike in the intensity and duration of droughts and floods, as well as increasing wildfire risks. On the other hand, positive effects particularly include saving energy during heating seasons and the expansion of zones suitable for crop production. "The negative impacts are already here, though it will require effort to take advantage of the positive ones. For instance, climate-driven forest expansion should not be lost to wildfires and environmentally erroneous deforestation activities," Kokorin emphasized. Rossiyskaya Gazeta: Russian currency continues to strengthen


tass--2020-01-10--Over 30 Caspian Flotilla warships kick off drills in North Caucasus

`` The crews of ships , boats and support vessels have launched operations on the territory of the bases of the Caspian Flotilla ’ s naval taskforces to accomplish the elements of the K-1 course task — a series of assignments for the ship ’ s vital activity and functioning in its independent sole deployment to the sea , '' the press office said in a statement .
ROSTOV-ON-DON , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
The crews of over 30 ships and vessels from the Caspian Flotilla have started preparations for their deployment to the sea in the new training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Southern Military District reported on Friday .
The drills `` involve over 30 ships and support vessels of the Caspian Flotilla , including the missile ships Dagestan and Tatarstan .
The small missile and artillery ships Grad Sviyazhsk , Uglich , Veliky Ustyug , Volgodonsk , Makhachkala and Astrakhan are also taking part in the exercise , the statement says .
The drills are running in the Astrakhan Region in southern Russia and in the North Caucasus ' Republic of Dagestan .
During the drills , the crews will practice preparing ships for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control measures and air and anti-saboteur defense in their anchorage at their base , according to the press office .
The Caspian Flotilla personnel will also practice providing for the crews ’ everyday life , services and rest and fulfilling assignments within the required time limits for the maintenance of the ships ’ armament and mechanisms and preparing for replenishing the ammunition load at sea and at their bases , the statement adds .

"The crews of ships, boats and support vessels have launched operations on the territory of the bases of the Caspian Flotilla’s naval taskforces to accomplish the elements of the K-1 course task — a series of assignments for the ship’s vital activity and functioning in its independent sole deployment to the sea," the press office said in a statement.
ROSTOV-ON-DON, January 10. /TASS/. The crews of over 30 ships and vessels from the Caspian Flotilla have started preparations for their deployment to the sea in the new training year, the press office of the Southern Military District reported on Friday.
The drills "involve over 30 ships and support vessels of the Caspian Flotilla, including the missile ships Dagestan and Tatarstan. The small missile and artillery ships Grad Sviyazhsk, Uglich, Veliky Ustyug, Volgodonsk, Makhachkala and Astrakhan are also taking part in the exercise," the statement says.
The drills are running in the Astrakhan Region in southern Russia and in the North Caucasus' Republic of Dagestan.
During the drills, the crews will practice preparing ships for a battle, carrying out ship damage control measures and air and anti-saboteur defense in their anchorage at their base, according to the press office.
The Caspian Flotilla personnel will also practice providing for the crews’ everyday life, services and rest and fulfilling assignments within the required time limits for the maintenance of the ships’ armament and mechanisms and preparing for replenishing the ammunition load at sea and at their bases, the statement adds.


tass--2020-01-10--Date to sign deal with US expected soon, says Taliban

MOSCOW , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
The Taliban movement ( outlawed in Russia ) expects that a date to @ @ @ @ @ the United States will be fixed in the near future , Spokesman for the Taliban @ @ @ @ @ Sohail Shaheen told TASS on Friday .
`` A date to sign the agreement has @ @ @ @ @ expect to fix it soon , '' he said in response to a question .
@ @ @ @ @ Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov said earlier in an interview with TASS that the United States and @ @ @ @ @ Russia and several other countries would witness the signing of the agreement .

MOSCOW, January 10. /TASS/. The Taliban movement (outlawed in Russia) expects that a date to sign a peace agreement with the United States will be fixed in the near future, Spokesman for the Taliban’s Qatar office Mohammad Sohail Shaheen told TASS on Friday.
"A date to sign the agreement has not been fixed. We expect to fix it soon," he said in response to a question.
Russian Special Presidential Envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov said earlier in an interview with TASS that the United States and the Taliban had agreed that Russia and several other countries would witness the signing of the agreement.


tass--2020-01-10--Abkhaz opposition says ready for negotiations with president

`` The situation must be stabilized , we must do it through legal channels .
We are facing a political crisis .
< … > The only way , the legal way is to hold a new [ presidential ] election , '' he stressed .
SUKHUM , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
The Abkhaz opposition , which continues to rally in front of the presidential administration building , is ready for negotiations with Abkhaz President Raul Khajimba , opposition leader Aslan Bzhania told TASS on Friday , adding that so far , there has been no corresponding offer from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those who thinks that the presidential run-off did not make the winner clear , '' the opposition leader added , noting that tensions in Abkhazia could have been avoided if another round of elections had been held .
Earlier , the Abkhaz presidential administration told TASS that Khajimba addressed the protesters with an offer to negotiate ; however , he received no response .
Abkhazia ’ s opposition was going to hold a demonstration in Sukhum on Thursday to protest the outcome of last September ’ s presidential election .
Originally , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ front of the court building , where Abkhazia ’ s Supreme Court resumed hearings on a lawsuit filed by the opposition ’ s presidential candidate Alkhas Kvitsiania , from the Amtsakhara party , to protest a lower court ’ s ruling declaring the election valid .
In a parallel development , another crowd consisting of several hundred people gathered in front of the presidential staff building .
They flocked there over a suspect linked to a triple murder in November 2019 , who is allegedly one of the Abkhazian president ’ s bodyguards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Akhra Avidzba , is a relative of one of those killed .
Later in the day , opposition demonstrators moved to the building of the presidential staff .
The crowd demanded the resignation of President Raul Khajimba and forced their way through , storming the premises .
After a session of Abkhazia ’ s Security Council , chaired by Khajimba , the president appealed to the citizens , urging them not to yield to the incitement and provocations , but to stay calm .
He did not rule out , however , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the country amid the developments in the capital city of Sukhum .
The Abkhaz parliament convened for an urgent meeting to adopt an appeal to the president asking him to step down .
Khajimba , in turn , called on the opposition to sit down at the negotiating table and pointed out that the parliament ’ s move could lead to a worsening of the situation .

"The situation must be stabilized, we must do it through legal channels. We are facing a political crisis. <…> The only way, the legal way is to hold a new [presidential] election," he stressed.
SUKHUM, January 10. /TASS/. The Abkhaz opposition, which continues to rally in front of the presidential administration building, is ready for negotiations with Abkhaz President Raul Khajimba, opposition leader Aslan Bzhania told TASS on Friday, adding that so far, there has been no corresponding offer from the president.
"I am one of those who thinks that the presidential run-off did not make the winner clear," the opposition leader added, noting that tensions in Abkhazia could have been avoided if another round of elections had been held.
Earlier, the Abkhaz presidential administration told TASS that Khajimba addressed the protesters with an offer to negotiate; however, he received no response.
Sukhum rally
Abkhazia’s opposition was going to hold a demonstration in Sukhum on Thursday to protest the outcome of last September’s presidential election. Originally, the demonstrators had planned to rally in front of the court building, where Abkhazia’s Supreme Court resumed hearings on a lawsuit filed by the opposition’s presidential candidate Alkhas Kvitsiania, from the Amtsakhara party, to protest a lower court’s ruling declaring the election valid.
In a parallel development, another crowd consisting of several hundred people gathered in front of the presidential staff building. They flocked there over a suspect linked to a triple murder in November 2019, who is allegedly one of the Abkhazian president’s bodyguards. The rally’s organizer, Akhra Avidzba, is a relative of one of those killed. Later in the day, opposition demonstrators moved to the building of the presidential staff. The crowd demanded the resignation of President Raul Khajimba and forced their way through, storming the premises.
After a session of Abkhazia’s Security Council, chaired by Khajimba, the president appealed to the citizens, urging them not to yield to the incitement and provocations, but to stay calm. He did not rule out, however, that a state of emergency could be declared in the country amid the developments in the capital city of Sukhum.
The Abkhaz parliament convened for an urgent meeting to adopt an appeal to the president asking him to step down. Khajimba, in turn, called on the opposition to sit down at the negotiating table and pointed out that the parliament’s move could lead to a worsening of the situation.


tass--2020-01-10--Missile strike on Boeing in Iran not ruled out or confirmed — Ukraine’s leader

KIEV , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
The version stating that a missile downed a Ukrainian Boeing in Iran has @ @ @ @ @ corroborated yet , Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky said on Friday .
`` The missile strike @ @ @ @ @ ruled out but it has not been confirmed as yet either , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ The president underlined that in light of the latest statements of leaders published in media @ @ @ @ @ all its international partners , primarily the United States , Canada and the United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ evidence regarding the tragedy to the commission investigating its causes .

KIEV, January 10. /TASS/. The version stating that a missile downed a Ukrainian Boeing in Iran has neither been ruled out nor corroborated yet, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky said on Friday.
"The missile strike on the plane is not ruled out but it has not been confirmed as yet either," he said via his Telegram channel.
The president underlined that in light of the latest statements of leaders published in media outlets Kiev is calling on all its international partners, primarily the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, to submit data and evidence regarding the tragedy to the commission investigating its causes.


tass--2020-01-10--Merkel to make one-day visit to Moscow on January 11

Kremlin says killing of Soleimani is not reason of Merkel ’ s upcoming visit to Russia MOSCOW , January 10 @ @ @ @ @ Angela Merkel ’ s visit to Moscow , scheduled for January 11 , will be @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson for the German embassy in Russia told TASS on Friday .
`` The chancellor @ @ @ @ @ a one-day visit , '' the spokesperson said in response to a question .
According @ @ @ @ @ Merkel would be accompanied by German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas .
The agenda of the @ @ @ @ @ with Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to cover the developments in Syria , Libya @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine .

Kremlin says killing of Soleimani is not reason of Merkel’s upcoming visit to Russia
MOSCOW, January 10. /TASS/. German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s visit to Moscow, scheduled for January 11, will be a one-day trip, a spokesperson for the German embassy in Russia told TASS on Friday.
"The chancellor will arrive in Moscow for a one-day visit," the spokesperson said in response to a question.
According to the embassy spokesperson, Merkel would be accompanied by German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas. The agenda of the German chancellor’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to cover the developments in Syria, Libya, Iran, Iraq and Ukraine.


tass--2020-01-10--Iran ready to grant all interested parties access to Boeing crash probe

TASS , January 10 .
Iranian authorities are ready to allow all sides concerned to participate in the investigation into @ @ @ @ @ Boeing 737 crash , the IRNA news agency reports , quoting Iranian government spokesperson Ali @ @ @ @ @ Rabii stressed , “ In accordance with international rules , the investigation of the crash @ @ @ @ @ organization of the country where the incident took place , the civil aviation organization of @ @ @ @ @ airworthiness certificate ( Ukraine ) , the plane ’ s owner ( Ukraine ) , @ @ @ @ @ ( Boeing ) and the aircraft engines ’ producer ( France ) .
” Moreover @ @ @ @ @ grant access to representatives of other countries whose citizens died in the crash to take @ @ @ @ @ According to Rabii , a Ukrainian representative is currently in Iran .
By the same @ @ @ @ @ the United Sates “ to abandon disseminating false information about the tragedy , ” IRNA @ @

TASS, January 10. Iranian authorities are ready to allow all sides concerned to participate in the investigation into the causes of the Ukrainian Boeing 737 crash, the IRNA news agency reports, quoting Iranian government spokesperson Ali Rabii as saying.
Ali Rabii stressed, “In accordance with international rules, the investigation of the crash can involve the civil aviation organization of the country where the incident took place, the civil aviation organization of the country that issued the airworthiness certificate (Ukraine), the plane’s owner (Ukraine), the plane’s manufacturer (Boeing) and the aircraft engines’ producer (France).” Moreover, Tehran is willing to grant access to representatives of other countries whose citizens died in the crash to take part in the investigation.
According to Rabii, a Ukrainian representative is currently in Iran. By the same token, the spokesperson advised the United Sates “to abandon disseminating false information about the tragedy,” IRNA notes.


tass--2020-01-10--Protesters rally again near Abkhaz president’s office

The demonstrators told TASS that around 300 people are now inside the administration ’ s office , while approximately the same number of people have gathered outside .
Interior Ministry officers and state guards are also on standby , yet they do not seem to be carrying weapons .
According to earlier reports , around 100 people spent the night on the site .
SUKHUM , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
Protesters are gathering near the office of the Abkhaz president , keeping the rally that started in Sukhum on Thursday going , TASS reports .
Abkhazia ’ s Interior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to avoid clashes between those who back the president and opposition supporters , Deputy Minister Igor Dzhenia informed TASS .
`` To prevent the sides < … > from clashing , we ’ ve sent reinforcements .
The majority of officers are here , in the center of Sukhum , '' he said .
The official clarified that both camps have their supporters in the square now .
He hoped that the issue would be `` resolved politically . ''
Meanwhile , another Deputy Minister , Levan Kvaratskhelia , told TASS that around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around government buildings .
Some protesters believe that they are not planning to storm the president ’ s administration .
At the same time , Kvaratskhelia denied reports that stations were reinforced .
Abkhazia ’ s opposition was going to hold a demonstration in Sukhum on Thursday to protest last September ’ s presidential election .
Originally , the demonstrators had planned to rally in front of the court building , where Abkhazia ’ s Supreme Court resumed hearings on a lawsuit filed by the opposition ’ s presidential candidate Alkhas Kvitsiania , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lower court ’ s ruling declaring the election valid .
In a parallel development , another crowd consisting of several hundred people gathered in front of the presidential staff building .
They flocked there over a suspect linked to a triple murder in November 2019 , who is allegedly one of the Abkhazian president ’ s bodyguards .
The rally ’ s organizer , Akhra Avidzba , is a relative of one of those killed .
Later in the day , opposition demonstrators moved to the building of the presidential staff .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raul Khajimba and forced their way through , storming the premises .
After a session of Abkhazia ’ s Security Council , chaired by Khajimba , the president appealed to the citizens , urging them not to yield to the incitement and provocations , but to stay calm .
He did not rule out , however , that a state of emergency could be declared in the country amid the developments in the capital city of Sukhum .
The Abkhaz parliament convened for an urgent meeting to adopt an appeal to the president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in turn , called on the opposition to sit down at the negotiating table and pointed out that the parliament ’ s move could lead to a worsening of the situation .

The demonstrators told TASS that around 300 people are now inside the administration’s office, while approximately the same number of people have gathered outside.
Interior Ministry officers and state guards are also on standby, yet they do not seem to be carrying weapons. According to earlier reports, around 100 people spent the night on the site.
SUKHUM, January 10. /TASS/. Protesters are gathering near the office of the Abkhaz president, keeping the rally that started in Sukhum on Thursday going, TASS reports.
Abkhazia’s Interior Ministry reinforced police stations in downtown Sukhum to avoid clashes between those who back the president and opposition supporters, Deputy Minister Igor Dzhenia informed TASS.
"To prevent the sides <…> from clashing, we’ve sent reinforcements. The majority of officers are here, in the center of Sukhum," he said.
The official clarified that both camps have their supporters in the square now. He hoped that the issue would be "resolved politically."
Meanwhile, another Deputy Minister, Levan Kvaratskhelia, told TASS that around 500 police officers are maintaining public order around government buildings. Some protesters believe that they are not planning to storm the president’s administration. At the same time, Kvaratskhelia denied reports that stations were reinforced.
Sukhum rally
Abkhazia’s opposition was going to hold a demonstration in Sukhum on Thursday to protest last September’s presidential election. Originally, the demonstrators had planned to rally in front of the court building, where Abkhazia’s Supreme Court resumed hearings on a lawsuit filed by the opposition’s presidential candidate Alkhas Kvitsiania, from the Amtsakhara party, to protest a lower court’s ruling declaring the election valid.
In a parallel development, another crowd consisting of several hundred people gathered in front of the presidential staff building. They flocked there over a suspect linked to a triple murder in November 2019, who is allegedly one of the Abkhazian president’s bodyguards. The rally’s organizer, Akhra Avidzba, is a relative of one of those killed. Later in the day, opposition demonstrators moved to the building of the presidential staff. The crowd demanded the resignation of President Raul Khajimba and forced their way through, storming the premises.
After a session of Abkhazia’s Security Council, chaired by Khajimba, the president appealed to the citizens, urging them not to yield to the incitement and provocations, but to stay calm. He did not rule out, however, that a state of emergency could be declared in the country amid the developments in the capital city of Sukhum.
The Abkhaz parliament convened for an urgent meeting to adopt an appeal to the president asking him to step down. Khajimba, in turn, called on the opposition to sit down at the negotiating table and pointed out that the parliament’s move could lead to a worsening of the situation.


tass--2020-01-10--Pompeo discusses Iran and Libya with EU top official

Pompeo vows US will do 'whatever it takes ' to protect Americans and Iraqis WASHINGTON , January 10 .
/TASS/ @ @ @ @ @ Michael Pompeo has held talks with EU High Representative and Vice President Josep Borrell on @ @ @ @ @ said in a statement .
`` Secretary Pompeo and High Representative Borrell discussed ongoing security @ @ @ @ @ , including Iran 's destablizing role and the importance of maintaining the gains and future @ @ @ @ @ to Defeat ISIS [ Islamic State terrorist organization banned in Russia ] , '' Ortagus @ @ @ @ @ discussed the need for a sustained ceasefire and for a political solution in Libya , @ @ @ @

Pompeo vows US will do 'whatever it takes' to protect Americans and Iraqis
WASHINGTON, January 10. /TASS/. US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has held talks with EU High Representative and Vice President Josep Borrell on Thursday, Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.
"Secretary Pompeo and High Representative Borrell discussed ongoing security challenges in the Middle East, including Iran's destablizing role and the importance of maintaining the gains and future progress of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS [Islamic State terrorist organization banned in Russia]," Ortagus said. "They also discussed the need for a sustained ceasefire and for a political solution in Libya," she added.


tass--2020-01-10--Hesai Raises $173M in Series C Led by Bosch and Lightspeed

SHANGHAI , Jan. 9 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On January 7th , the International Consumer Electronics Show ( CES 2020 @ @ @ @ @ .
Hesai , a global leader in LiDAR technology , announced the closing of its @ @ @ @ @ Million USD .
Led by Robert Bosch GmBH and Lightspeed , this round is the @ @ @ @ @ in the global LiDAR industry .
Co-investors include , among others , ON Semiconductor , @ @ @ @ @ Capital Partners , and Axiom Asia Private Capital .

SHANGHAI, Jan. 9, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On January 7th, the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2020) opened in Las Vegas. Hesai, a global leader in LiDAR technology, announced the closing of its series C funding totaling 173 Million USD.
Led by Robert Bosch GmBH and Lightspeed, this round is the largest single investment ever made in the global LiDAR industry. Co-investors include, among others, ON Semiconductor, Qiming Venture Partners, DT Capital Partners, and Axiom Asia Private Capital.
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CONTACT: Lei Zhao, +86-159-9561-2581, zhaolei@hesaitech.com


tass--2020-01-10--Certent and LucaNet create solutions to simplify financial reporting processes

ROSEVILLE , California , Jan. 9 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Certent , Inc. , a leading provider of software-as-a-service solutions for financial disclosure management and equity compensation , today announced a partnership with LucaNet , a leading provider of Financial Performance Management solutions , headquartered in Berlin , Germany .
LucaNet FPM software covers every process in the finance department with a single system and a single database .
The software handles the complete process of preparing consolidated financial statements , financial planning , and reporting .
Users have access to comprehensive information about data for past periods , figures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial data - ensuring transparency in both internal and external accounting .
Certent 's Disclosure Management platform accesses the financial consolidation and FP & A data within LucaNet and dynamically links it across Microsoft products , providing real-time data integration to management , board reports in Microsoft PowerPoint® and narrative reports produced in Microsoft Word® ensuring compliance with the Securities and Exchange Commission ( SEC ) , the European Securities and Markets Authority ( ESMA ) , and other global regulatory bodies .
A dynamic link from all source data points directly into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to one version of the truth .
David J. Nissen , Managing Partner at PKF Mueller , one of LucaNet 's most important implementation partners in the US , about the cooperation : `` The partnership of LucaNet with Certent will provide customers with a software suite that can reliably complete the full marathon of reporting : from collection , preparation , and presentation to final regulatory submission . ''
`` The Certent and LucaNet combined offering will change the way finance teams across the globe collect data , prepare consolidated financial statements @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said Jorge Martin , CEO of Certent , Inc. `` This natural partnership will allow both companies to deliver additional value to existing customers and bring a comprehensive offering anchored in familiar Microsoft applications to companies across the globe . ''
By integrating the consolidation and reporting process , companies can complete the financial close , consolidate , and report cycle .
Additionally , they can connect to key planning and forecasting data for enhanced management and internal narrative reporting , giving finance teams increased efficiency and reduced risk .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foundation to timely and accurate report production , '' said Dominik Duchon , Executive Board Member and Chief Sales Officer at LucaNet .
`` Combing LucaNet 's consolidation solution with Certent 's global regulatory expertise and multi-lingual reporting solution will fuel LucaNet 's international expansion and deliver even more value to our customers . ''
Certent , Inc. , founded in 2002 , helps customers elevate their business with smart , intuitive solutions for modern finance .
Our advanced solutions for disclosure management , narrative reporting , and equity management help business and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and get more done .
Deploy with confidence over the cloud , backed by our end-to-end support services , deep expertise , and global reach .
Integrate easily with existing systems and data sources .
Certent helps you redefine your approach to governance , risk , and compliance .
The company operates in seven countries and serves over 2,400 public , private , and pre-IPO companies around the world .
LucaNet has been synonymous with intelligent software solutions and professional expertise in consolidated financial statements and controlling since 1999 .
Our goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the help of our Financial Performance Management software .
No matter the size of your company and industry you operate in , we can provide you with a tailored solution .
More than 2,600 customers in over 50 countries are already benefiting from our user-friendly software and professional consulting services .
Discover LucaNet and see for yourself : Consolidation , planning , and reporting can be so simple .

ROSEVILLE, California, Jan. 9, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Certent, Inc., a leading provider of software-as-a-service solutions for financial disclosure management and equity compensation, today announced a partnership with LucaNet, a leading provider of Financial Performance Management solutions, headquartered in Berlin, Germany.
LucaNet FPM software covers every process in the finance department with a single system and a single database. The software handles the complete process of preparing consolidated financial statements, financial planning, and reporting. Users have access to comprehensive information about data for past periods, figures in real-time, as well as forecasted financial data - ensuring transparency in both internal and external accounting.
Certent's Disclosure Management platform accesses the financial consolidation and FP&A data within LucaNet and dynamically links it across Microsoft products, providing real-time data integration to management, board reports in Microsoft PowerPoint® and narrative reports produced in Microsoft Word® ensuring compliance with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), and other global regulatory bodies. A dynamic link from all source data points directly into reports means customers benefit from real-time updates to one version of the truth.
David J. Nissen, Managing Partner at PKF Mueller, one of LucaNet's most important implementation partners in the US, about the cooperation: "The partnership of LucaNet with Certent will provide customers with a software suite that can reliably complete the full marathon of reporting: from collection, preparation, and presentation to final regulatory submission."
"The Certent and LucaNet combined offering will change the way finance teams across the globe collect data, prepare consolidated financial statements, and produce internal and external reports," said Jorge Martin, CEO of Certent, Inc. "This natural partnership will allow both companies to deliver additional value to existing customers and bring a comprehensive offering anchored in familiar Microsoft applications to companies across the globe."
By integrating the consolidation and reporting process, companies can complete the financial close, consolidate, and report cycle. Additionally, they can connect to key planning and forecasting data for enhanced management and internal narrative reporting, giving finance teams increased efficiency and reduced risk.
"Collecting and consolidating accurate data is the foundation to timely and accurate report production," said Dominik Duchon, Executive Board Member and Chief Sales Officer at LucaNet. "Combing LucaNet's consolidation solution with Certent's global regulatory expertise and multi-lingual reporting solution will fuel LucaNet's international expansion and deliver even more value to our customers."
About Certent
Certent, Inc., founded in 2002, helps customers elevate their business with smart, intuitive solutions for modern finance. Our advanced solutions for disclosure management, narrative reporting, and equity management help business and finance leaders improve accuracy, save time, and get more done. Deploy with confidence over the cloud, backed by our end-to-end support services, deep expertise, and global reach. Integrate easily with existing systems and data sources. Certent helps you redefine your approach to governance, risk, and compliance. The company operates in seven countries and serves over 2,400 public, private, and pre-IPO companies around the world.
About LucaNet
LucaNet has been synonymous with intelligent software solutions and professional expertise in consolidated financial statements and controlling since 1999. Our goal is to simplify your day-to-day processes with the help of our Financial Performance Management software. No matter the size of your company and industry you operate in, we can provide you with a tailored solution. More than 2,600 customers in over 50 countries are already benefiting from our user-friendly software and professional consulting services. Discover LucaNet and see for yourself: Consolidation, planning, and reporting can be so simple.
Contact: Judy Ash, judy.ash@certent.com
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tass--2020-01-10--Pompeo discusses Middle East developments with NATO secretary general

WASHINGTON , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has held telephone talks with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday , Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement .
`` Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg regarding the Iranian regime 's dangerous attacks against Ayn al-Asad and Erbil Air Bases , and the continued threat Iran poses to the region , '' Ortagus said .
`` Secretary Pompeo reiterated President Trump 's call for NATO to become more involved in the Middle East , and the two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security and the fight against international terrorism , '' she added .
`` The Secretary and the Secretary General jointly condemned Iran 's destabilizing violence and remain committed to countering international terrorism , including through NATO 's participation in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS [ Islamic State terrorist organization banned in Russia ] and training missions in Iraq and Afghanistan , '' he noted .
The situation in the Middle East escalated on January 3 , when the United States delivered air strikes at the area near the Baghdad airport , killing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ General Qasem Soleimani .
In response , Tehran delivered air strikes at two facilities in Iraq used by US forces — Ayn al Asad air base and airport in Erbil .

WASHINGTON, January 10. /TASS/. US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has held telephone talks with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday, Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg regarding the Iranian regime's dangerous attacks against Ayn al-Asad and Erbil Air Bases, and the continued threat Iran poses to the region," Ortagus said. "Secretary Pompeo reiterated President Trump's call for NATO to become more involved in the Middle East, and the two agreed NATO could contribute more to regional security and the fight against international terrorism," she added.
"The Secretary and the Secretary General jointly condemned Iran's destabilizing violence and remain committed to countering international terrorism, including through NATO's participation in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS [Islamic State terrorist organization banned in Russia] and training missions in Iraq and Afghanistan," he noted.
The situation in the Middle East escalated on January 3, when the United States delivered air strikes at the area near the Baghdad airport, killing commander of Iran's Quds Force Major General Qasem Soleimani. In response, Tehran delivered air strikes at two facilities in Iraq used by US forces — Ayn al Asad air base and airport in Erbil.


tass--2020-01-10--Pompeo discusses Middle East developments with UN secretary general

WASHINGTON , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has held telephone talks with UN Secretary-General @ @ @ @ @ Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement .
`` They discussed ongoing developments in the @ @ @ @ @ as the enduring importance of the UN Charter , which was the topic of a @ @ @ @ @ UN Security Council today , '' Ortgaus said .
The situation in the Middle East @ @ @ @ @ when the United States delivered air strikes at the area near the Baghdad airport , @ @ @ @ @ Quds Force Major General Qasem Soleimani .
In response , Tehran delivered air strikes at @ @ @ @ @ by US forces — Ayn al Asad air base and airport in Erbil .

WASHINGTON, January 10. /TASS/. US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has held telephone talks with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday, Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.
"They discussed ongoing developments in the Middle East, as well as the enduring importance of the UN Charter, which was the topic of a high-level open debate at the UN Security Council today," Ortgaus said.
The situation in the Middle East escalated on January 3, when the United States delivered air strikes at the area near the Baghdad airport, killing commander of Iran's Quds Force Major General Qasem Soleimani. In response, Tehran delivered air strikes at two facilities in Iraq used by US forces — Ayn al Asad air base and airport in Erbil.


tass--2020-01-10--Tehran refutes allegations that Ukrainian plane was downed by Iranian missile

MOSCOW , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
Tehran condemns the statements made by the United States and other countries that the Ukraine International Airlines plane was allegedly downed by an Iranian missile , Iranian government spokesperson Ali Rabii was quoted by Press TV as saying .
`` It is unfortunate but the psychological manipulations by the US government and those who consciously or unconsciously supports them , only adds more grief for the people who lost their loved ones , '' Rabiei said .
He added that by promoting their own explanation of the events , the US is pursuing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head of Iran 's Civil Aviation Organization Ali Abedzadeh also refuted allegations that the Ukrainian plane may have been downed by an Iranian missile .
On January 8 , the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport .
According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko , there were 176 people on board , and no one survived .
Among them were citizens of Afghanistan , Germany , Iran , Canada , Ukraine , the United Kingdom and Sweden @

MOSCOW, January 10. /TASS/. Tehran condemns the statements made by the United States and other countries that the Ukraine International Airlines plane was allegedly downed by an Iranian missile, Iranian government spokesperson Ali Rabii was quoted by Press TV as saying.
"It is unfortunate but the psychological manipulations by the US government and those who consciously or unconsciously supports them, only add more grief for the people who lost their loved ones," Rabiei said. He added that by promoting their own explanation of the events, the US is pursuing its own goals.
On Thursday, head of Iran's Civil Aviation Organization Ali Abedzadeh also refuted allegations that the Ukrainian plane may have been downed by an Iranian missile.
On January 8, the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko, there were 176 people on board, and no one survived. Among them were citizens of Afghanistan, Germany, Iran, Canada, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and Sweden.


tass--2020-01-10--Canada's Transportation Safety Board will visit Ukrainian plane crash site in Iran

MOSCOW , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
/TASS/ .
Canada 's Transportation Safety Board ( TSB ) has accepted Iran @ @ @ @ @ site of the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash .
`` The TSB has been invited @ @ @ @ @ Bureau of the Islamic Republic of Iran to attend the accident site , '' the @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We have accepted this invitation and we are making arrangements to travel to @ @ @ @ @ will be working with other groups and organizations already on site , '' the board @ @ @ @ @ , the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed @ @ @ @ @ Imam Khomeini International Airport .
According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko , there were @ @ @ @ @ and no one survived .
Among them were citizens of Afghanistan , Germany , Iran @ @ @ @ @ the United Kingdom and Sweden .

MOSCOW, January 10. /TASS/. /TASS/. Canada's Transportation Safety Board (TSB) has accepted Iran's invitation to attend the site of the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash.
"The TSB has been invited by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau of the Islamic Republic of Iran to attend the accident site," the board said in a statement. "We have accepted this invitation and we are making arrangements to travel to the site. The TSB will be working with other groups and organizations already on site," the board added.
On January 8, the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko, there were 176 people on board, and no one survived. Among them were citizens of Afghanistan, Germany, Iran, Canada, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and Sweden.


tass--2020-01-10--Boeing ready to assist US authorities in investigating Ukrainian plane crash in Iran

NEW YORK , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
The Boeing corporation has expressed readiness to assist the US National Transportation Safety Board ( NTSB ) in the investigation of the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash in Tehran , Communications Director at Boeing Charles Bickers told TASS on Thursday .
Bickers said that Boeing is ready to assist the NTSB in accordance with Annex 13 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation that stipulates that `` the States of registry , operator , design and manufacture have the right to appoint an Accredited Representative to the investigation . ''
The New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Iran has offered the NTSB through the International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO ) to participate in the investigation of the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash in Tehran .
On January 8 , the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport .
According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko , there were 176 people on board , and no one survived .
Among them were citizens of Afghanistan , Germany , Iran , Canada , Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ @

NEW YORK, January 10. /TASS/. The Boeing corporation has expressed readiness to assist the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the investigation of the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash in Tehran, Communications Director at Boeing Charles Bickers told TASS on Thursday.
Bickers said that Boeing is ready to assist the NTSB in accordance with Annex 13 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation that stipulates that "the States of registry, operator, design and manufacture have the right to appoint an Accredited Representative to the investigation."
The New York Times reported on Thursday citing sources that Iran has offered the NTSB through the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to participate in the investigation of the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash in Tehran.
On January 8, the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko, there were 176 people on board, and no one survived. Among them were citizens of Afghanistan, Germany, Iran, Canada, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and Sweden.


tass--2020-01-10--US House passes measure that would limit Trump's military action against Iran

Current stage of standoff between US , Iran not over yet , Japanese expert warns WASHINGTON , January 10 .
@ @ @ @ @ of Representatives has adopted a war powers resolution on Thursday that would limit President Donald @ @ @ @ @ Iran .
The session was broadcast on the official website of the House .
A @ @ @ @ @ for the resolution , and 194 voted against it .
Three Republicans supported the document @ @ @ @ @ against it .
The resolution obliges the president to seek approval from the US Congress @ @ @ @ @ action against Iran .
The situation in the Middle East escalated on January 3 , @ @ @ @ @ air strikes at the area near the Baghdad airport , killing commander of Iran 's @ @ @ @ @ Soleimani .
In response , Tehran delivered air strikes at two facilities in Iraq used @ @ @ @ @ al Asad air base and airport in Erbil .

Current stage of standoff between US, Iran not over yet, Japanese expert warns
WASHINGTON, January 10. /TASS/. The US House of Representatives has adopted a war powers resolution on Thursday that would limit President Donald Trump's military actions against Iran. The session was broadcast on the official website of the House.
A total of 224 Congressmen voted for the resolution, and 194 voted against it. Three Republicans supported the document, while eight Democrats voted against it.
The resolution obliges the president to seek approval from the US Congress before taking any further military action against Iran.
The situation in the Middle East escalated on January 3, when the United States delivered air strikes at the area near the Baghdad airport, killing commander of Iran's Quds Force Major General Qasem Soleimani. In response, Tehran delivered air strikes at two facilities in Iraq used by US forces — Ayn al Asad air base and airport in Erbil.


tass--2020-01-10--Iran sends to ICAO preliminary report on Ukrainian plane crash

OTTAWA , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
Iran has sent to the International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO ) an @ @ @ @ @ accident report on the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash in Tehran on January 8 , @ @ @ @ @ released on Thursday .
`` The International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO ) has received @ @ @ @ @ accident report from the Islamic Republic of Iran surrounding the loss of Ukraine International Airlines @ @ @ @ @ '' ICAO said in a statement .
`` ICAO continues to call for diminished speculation @ @ @ @ @ the accident until the Annex 13 investigation is permitted to be concluded and its official @ @ @ @ @ ICAO added .
On January 8 , the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en @ @ @ @ @ crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport .
According to Ukrainian Foreign @ @ @ @ @ were 176 people on board , and no one survived .
Among them were citizens @ @ @ @ @ Iran , Canada , Ukraine , the United Kingdom and Sweden .

OTTAWA, January 10. /TASS/. Iran has sent to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) an official notification and a preliminary accident report on the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash in Tehran on January 8, ICAO said in a statement released on Thursday.
"The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has received official notification and a preliminary accident report from the Islamic Republic of Iran surrounding the loss of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS-752 near Tehran," ICAO said in a statement.
"ICAO continues to call for diminished speculation on the possible causes of the accident until the Annex 13 investigation is permitted to be concluded and its official results are confirmed," ICAO added.
On January 8, the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko, there were 176 people on board, and no one survived. Among them were citizens of Afghanistan, Germany, Iran, Canada, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and Sweden.


tass--2020-01-10--Pompeo vows US will do 'whatever it takes' to protect Americans and Iraqis

WASHINGTON , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has held a telephone conversation with Iraq @ @ @ @ @ on Thursday , Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statemenet .
`` Secretary Pompeo reiterated @ @ @ @ @ of the Iranian regime 's January 7 launch of ballistic missiles into two sites in @ @ @ @ @ American and Coalition forces working together to defeat ISIS [ Islamic State terrorist organization banned @ @ @ @ @ Ortagus said .
`` The Secretary underscored that , as President Trump has said , @ @ @ @ @ whatever it takes to protect the American and Iraqi people and defend our collective interests @ @ @ @ @ The situation in the Middle East escalated on January 3 , when the United States @ @ @ @ @ area near the Baghdad airport , killing commander of Iran 's Quds Force Major General @ @ @ @ @ , Tehran delivered air strikes at two facilities in Iraq used by US forces — @ @ @ @ @ and airport in Erbil .

WASHINGTON, January 10. /TASS/. US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has held a telephone conversation with Iraq's Prime Minister Adil Abdel-Mahdi on Thursday, Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statemenet.
"Secretary Pompeo reiterated the United States' condemnation of the Iranian regime's January 7 launch of ballistic missiles into two sites in Iraq that host Iraqi, American and Coalition forces working together to defeat ISIS [Islamic State terrorist organization banned in Russia]," Ortagus said. "The Secretary underscored that, as President Trump has said, the United States will do whatever it takes to protect the American and Iraqi people and defend our collective interests," he added.
The situation in the Middle East escalated on January 3, when the United States delivered air strikes at the area near the Baghdad airport, killing commander of Iran's Quds Force Major General Qasem Soleimani. In response, Tehran delivered air strikes at two facilities in Iraq used by US forces — Ayn al Asad air base and airport in Erbil.


tass--2020-01-10--Thorough and credible investigation into Ukrainian plane crash needed — Trudeau

OTTAWA , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
A thorough and credible investigation is needed to determine the causes of the crash of the Ukraine International Airlines plane in Tehran , Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told a press conference on Thursday .
`` Canada is working with its allies to ensure that a thorough and credible investigation is conducted to determine the causes of this fatal crash .
As I said yesterday , Canadians have questions , and they deserve answers , '' Trudeau said .
`` We have highlighted that it is extremely important that there be a thorough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crash with international partners .
The Iranians have indicated that they understand that .
With the conclusions that we have been able to draw , or the preliminary conclusions we have been able to draw , based on intelligence and evidence today are clear enough , '' he added .
`` We have intelligence from multiple sources , including our allies and our own intelligence .
The evidence indicates that the plane was shot down by an Iranian surface-to-air missile , '' Trudeau said .
`` This may well have been unintentional .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a thourough investigation into this matter , '' he added .
On January 8 , the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport .
According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko , there were 176 people on board , and no one survived .
Among them were citizens of Afghanistan , Germany , Iran , Canada , Ukraine , the United Kingdom and Sweden .

OTTAWA, January 10. /TASS/. A thorough and credible investigation is needed to determine the causes of the crash of the Ukraine International Airlines plane in Tehran, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told a press conference on Thursday.
"Canada is working with its allies to ensure that a thorough and credible investigation is conducted to determine the causes of this fatal crash. As I said yesterday, Canadians have questions, and they deserve answers," Trudeau said.
"We have highlighted that it is extremely important that there be a thorough and credible investigation on site of the crash with international partners. The Iranians have indicated that they understand that. With the conclusions that we have been able to draw, or the preliminary conclusions we have been able to draw, based on intelligence and evidence today are clear enough," he added.
"We have intelligence from multiple sources, including our allies and our own intelligence. The evidence indicates that the plane was shot down by an Iranian surface-to-air missile," Trudeau said. "This may well have been unintentional. This new information reinforces the need for a thourough investigation into this matter," he added.
On January 8, the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane en route from Tehran to Kiev crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko, there were 176 people on board, and no one survived. Among them were citizens of Afghanistan, Germany, Iran, Canada, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and Sweden.


tass--2020-01-10--Ukraine and Germany agree to cooperate in plane crash investigation — minister

KIEV , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
Kiev and Berlin have agreed to cooperate in the investigation of the Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ Iran , Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko said on Thursday after talks with his German @ @ @ @ @ Thanked Heiko Maas for German support and sympathy after PS752 tragedy , '' Pristayko wrote @ @ @ @ @ .
`` During the phone call we agreed to cooperate for independent and transparent investigation @ @ @ @ @ `` We discussed also 'Minsk settlement ' .
Waiting for news after the meeting between @ @ @ @ @ Merkel and [ Russian President Vladimir ] Putin on 11 January , '' Pristayko said @ @ @ @ @ the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko , 176 people on board died .
Among them were @ @ @ @ @ , Iran , Canada , Ukraine , the United Kingdom and Sweden .

KIEV, January 10. /TASS/. Kiev and Berlin have agreed to cooperate in the investigation of the Ukraine International Airlines plane crash in Iran, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko said on Thursday after talks with his German counterpart Heiko Maas.
"Thanked Heiko Maas for German support and sympathy after PS752 tragedy," Pristayko wrote on his official Twitter account. "During the phone call we agreed to cooperate for independent and transparent investigation," he added.
"We discussed also 'Minsk settlement'. Waiting for news after the meeting between [German Chancellor Angela] Merkel and [Russian President Vladimir] Putin on 11 January," Pristayko said.
On January 8, the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko, 176 people on board died. Among them were citizens of Afghanistan, Germany, Iran, Canada, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and Sweden.


tass--2020-01-10--UNSC to vote on draft resolutions on cross-border aid deliveries to Syria on Friday

THE UNITED NATIONS , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
The UN Security Council will once again vote on two draft resolutions on extending cross-border aid deliveries to Syria on Friday , spokesman for the Russian mission to the United Nations Fyodor Strzhizhovsky told reporters on Thursday .
At the end of December , Moscow and Beijing vetoed the draft resolution proposed by Western countries while Russia submitted its own version of the document which failed to receive enough votes to pass .
The mechanism for extending cross-border humanitarian aid deliveries to Syria expires on January 10 .
This will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council to reach a compromise on this issue .
`` Belgium and Germany , who oversee humanitarian issues at UNSC , submitted a draft resolution on extending the mechanism of cross-border humanitarian aid deliveries to Syria , '' Strzhizhovsky said .
`` In turn , Russia submitted its own draft document , which envisages delivering humanitarian aid to Idlib through Turkish territory and excluding border checkpoints from Iraq and Jordan , '' he added .
`` Voting is scheduled for later afternoon on January 10 , '' the diplomat noted .
Belgium and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through three checkpoints - two on the border with Turkey and one on the border with Iraq .
Moscow insists on excluding the checkpoint on the border with Iraq .
The sides agree that the mechanism for cross-border aid deliveries may only be extended for six months due to a rapidly changing situation on the ground .

THE UNITED NATIONS, January 10. /TASS/. The UN Security Council will once again vote on two draft resolutions on extending cross-border aid deliveries to Syria on Friday, spokesman for the Russian mission to the United Nations Fyodor Strzhizhovsky told reporters on Thursday.
At the end of December, Moscow and Beijing vetoed the draft resolution proposed by Western countries while Russia submitted its own version of the document which failed to receive enough votes to pass. The mechanism for extending cross-border humanitarian aid deliveries to Syria expires on January 10. This will be the last chance for the UN Security Council to reach a compromise on this issue.
"Belgium and Germany, who oversee humanitarian issues at UNSC, submitted a draft resolution on extending the mechanism of cross-border humanitarian aid deliveries to Syria," Strzhizhovsky said. "In turn, Russia submitted its own draft document, which envisages delivering humanitarian aid to Idlib through Turkish territory and excluding border checkpoints from Iraq and Jordan," he added.
"Voting is scheduled for later afternoon on January 10," the diplomat noted.
Belgium and Germany insist on devering aid to Syria through three checkpoints - two on the border with Turkey and one on the border with Iraq. Moscow insists on excluding the checkpoint on the border with Iraq. The sides agree that the mechanism for cross-border aid deliveries may only be extended for six months due to a rapidly changing situation on the ground.


tass--2020-01-10--Fire at oil refinery in Russia's northwest extinguished — emergencies ministry

SYKTYVKAR , January 10 .
/TASS/ .
The fire at Lukoil 's oil refinery in the city of Ukhta in Russia 's northwestern Komi region has been extinguished , the press service of the Russian Emergencies Ministry said on Friday .
`` Four tanks were depressurized as a result of active fire and high temperatures .
Foam attack allowed to lower the temperature and pressure in reservoirs , as well as extinguish the fire .
The fire was extinguished at 12:07 am Moscow time , '' the press service said adding that firefighters continue to work on the site .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ threshold limit value ] is working on the site , no increased exposure [ to toxic substances ] was found , '' the press service noted .
The Russian Emergencies Ministry said that 140 people and 19 units of equipment were involved in extinguishing the fire .
The fire at the oil refinery broke out at 4:55pm Moscow time on Thursday and soon spread to nearly 1,000 square meters .
The press service of Ukhta administration said that the fire broke out as a result of depressurization of a tanker with fuels and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fire and hospitalized .

SYKTYVKAR, January 10. /TASS/. The fire at Lukoil's oil refinery in the city of Ukhta in Russia's northwestern Komi region has been extinguished, the press service of the Russian Emergencies Ministry said on Friday.
"Four tanks were depressurized as a result of active fire and high temperatures. Foam attack allowed to lower the temperature and pressure in reservoirs, as well as extinguish the fire. The fire was extinguished at 12:07 am Moscow time," the press service said adding that firefighters continue to work on the site. "A lab on measuring TLV [threshold limit value] is working on the site, no increased exposure [to toxic substances] was found," the press service noted.
The Russian Emergencies Ministry said that 140 people and 19 units of equipment were involved in extinguishing the fire.
The fire at the oil refinery broke out at 4:55pm Moscow time on Thursday and soon spread to nearly 1,000 square meters. The press service of Ukhta administration said that the fire broke out as a result of depressurization of a tanker with fuels and lubricants. One person was injured in the fire and hospitalized.


tass--2020-01-10--Iran welcomes participation of foreign experts in plane crash investigation — spokesman

Pressure on Iran may soar amid speculations about external causes for plane crash — expert MOSCOW , January 10 .
@ @ @ @ @ welcomes the participation in the Ukrainian Airlines plane crash investigation of those countries whose citizens @ @ @ @ @ , Iranian Foreign Ministry 's spokesman Abbas Musawi said on Thursday .
`` The Islamic @ @ @ @ @ presence of experts from those countries whose citizens died in this tragic crash , '' @ @ @ @ @ Telegram account .
Musawi also asked Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and representatives of other @ @ @ @ @ they have about the crash .
Reuters reported earlier that an Iranian official asked Boeing @ @ @ @ @ take part in the investigation of the crash .
On January 8 , the Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport .
According to Ukrainian Foreign @ @ @ @ @ people on board died .
Among them were citizens of Afghanistan , Germany , Iran @ @ @ @ @ the United Kingdom and Sweden .

Pressure on Iran may soar amid speculations about external causes for plane crash — expert
MOSCOW, January 10. /TASS/. /TASS/. Iran welcomes the participation in the Ukrainian Airlines plane crash investigation of those countries whose citizens were killed in the incident, Iranian Foreign Ministry's spokesman Abbas Musawi said on Thursday.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes the presence of experts from those countries whose citizens died in this tragic crash," the ministry said on its Telegram account.
Musawi also asked Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and representatives of other countries to share information that they have about the crash.
Reuters reported earlier that an Iranian official asked Boeing to send a representative to take part in the investigation of the crash.
On January 8, the Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane crashed shortly after takeoff near Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport. According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko, 176 people on board died. Among them were citizens of Afghanistan, Germany, Iran, Canada, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and Sweden.


tass--2020-01-10--Libyan National Army lauds Russian-Turkish ceasefire initiative — media

CAIRO , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
The Libyan National Army ( LNA ) led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar has endorsed the Russian-Turkish initiative to establish a ceasefire , Libyan Armed Forces spokesperson Ahmed Mismari said , the Al-Arabiya TV channel reports .
`` The commanders of the armed forces welcome the initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin aimed at establishing peace in Libya , which also represents the army 's goal and task , '' Mismari said .
`` However , the armed forces will continue fighting against terrorist groups designated as such by UN Security Council resolutions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is impossible to establish a civil society and achieve stability , security and democracy without destroying the terrorists , '' he noted .
`` Extremists have captured the country 's capital , they receive support from several countries and governments which send them weapons , ammunition and militants for countering the army , '' Mismari said .
Following a meeting in Istanbul , Russian and Turkish Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on all parties in the Libyan conflict to put a hold on all hostilities and introduce a ceasefire starting @ @ @ @ @ @

CAIRO, January 9. /TASS/. The Libyan National Army (LNA) led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar has endorsed the Russian-Turkish initiative to establish a ceasefire, Libyan Armed Forces spokesperson Ahmed Mismari said, the Al-Arabiya TV channel reports.
"The commanders of the armed forces welcome the initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin aimed at establishing peace in Libya, which also represents the army's goal and task," Mismari said. "However, the armed forces will continue fighting against terrorist groups designated as such by UN Security Council resolutions," he added.
"It is impossible to establish a civil society and achieve stability, security and democracy without destroying the terrorists," he noted. "Extremists have captured the country's capital, they receive support from several countries and governments which send them weapons, ammunition and militants for countering the army," Mismari said.
Following a meeting in Istanbul, Russian and Turkish Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on all parties in the Libyan conflict to put a hold on all hostilities and introduce a ceasefire starting at midnight on January 12.


tass--2020-01-09--'Unconditional support' vital in investigating plane crash in Iran — Ukrainian envoy

UNITED NATIONS , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
The details of a Ukrainian passenger plane crash in Iran are yet to be determined , while experts probing the incident should receive `` unconditional support '' in their undertaking , Ukraine ’ s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Sergey Kislitsa said during debates at the UN Security Council on Thursday .
`` On behalf of Canada , Germany , Sweden and Ukraine , I would like to make the following statement , '' Kislitsa said .
`` We thank all those who expressed their condolences in connection with the crash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Airlines near Tehran International Airport .
We are grateful for words of support to the families and loved ones of the victims of the tragic catastrophe .
176 innocent lives have been lost — citizens of Iran , Canada , Ukraine , Sweden , Afghanistan , Germany and the United Kingdom .
The circumstances of this catastrophe are still unclear .
It is now up to the experts to investigate it and to find answers to the questions on what caused the crash .
To do so , our experts must receive unconditional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
On Wednesday , Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 traveling from Tehran to Kiev crashed near the Iranian capital shortly after takeoff from the Imam Khomeini International Airport .
All people onboard , 167 passengers and 9 crewmembers , died in the crash .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko announced on his Twitter page that citizens of Iran , Canada , Ukraine , Sweden , Afghanistan , German and the UK were among those who died in the crash .

UNITED NATIONS, January 9. /TASS/. The details of a Ukrainian passenger plane crash in Iran are yet to be determined, while experts probing the incident should receive "unconditional support" in their undertaking, Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Sergey Kislitsa said during debates at the UN Security Council on Thursday.
"On behalf of Canada, Germany, Sweden and Ukraine, I would like to make the following statement," Kislitsa said. "We thank all those who expressed their condolences in connection with the crash of a passenger aircraft of Ukraine International Airlines near Tehran International Airport. We are grateful for words of support to the families and loved ones of the victims of the tragic catastrophe. 176 innocent lives have been lost — citizens of Iran, Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan, Germany and the United Kingdom. The circumstances of this catastrophe are still unclear. It is now up to the experts to investigate it and to find answers to the questions on what caused the crash. To do so, our experts must receive unconditional support for their investigation of the incident."
On Wednesday, Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 traveling from Tehran to Kiev crashed near the Iranian capital shortly after takeoff from the Imam Khomeini International Airport. All people onboard, 167 passengers and 9 crewmembers, died in the crash.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko announced on his Twitter page that citizens of Iran, Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan, German and the UK were among those who died in the crash.


tass--2020-01-09--More than 83 mln tourists visit Hainan in 2019

HAIKOU , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
More than 83 mln Chinese and foreign tourists visited the province of Hainan in 2019 , according to the data provided by the local tourism authorities , Xinhua reported .
The relevant indicator was increased by 9 % compared to 2018 .
A total number of foreign tourists on Hainan increased by 12.4 % in 2019 reaching 1.42 mln .
Last year , Hainan gained 105 billion yuan from tourism ( about $ 15 billion ) .
In April 2018 , President Xi Jinping said that the Chinese authorities intend to actively involve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investors to the island province .
By 2050 , according to the authorities , the island should become a unique international cluster with an advanced economy , developed tourism , top-notch scientific , technical and financial potential , and modern medicine .
The branches of the best universities and offices of the most powerful corporations in the world will be located on the Island of Hainan .
By 2025 , the Chinese government intends to create an `` international center for tourism and consumption '' on Hainan .
In order to do so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their unique natural landscapes , thick rainforests and great climate will establish a developed network of hotels , which blend perfectly with white sandy beaches stretching along the coastline .
The combination of an exotic subtropical nature and a modern eco-friendly infrastructure will boost tourist inflow to the island from the most distant parts of the world .

HAIKOU, January 9. /TASS/. More than 83 mln Chinese and foreign tourists visited the province of Hainan in 2019, according to the data provided by the local tourism authorities, Xinhua reported.
The relevant indicator was increased by 9% compared to 2018. A total number of foreign tourists on Hainan increased by 12.4% in 2019 reaching 1.42 mln. Last year, Hainan gained 105 billion yuan from tourism (about $15 billion).
In April 2018, President Xi Jinping said that the Chinese authorities intend to actively involve Hainan in globalization and to draw foreign investors to the island province. By 2050, according to the authorities, the island should become a unique international cluster with an advanced economy, developed tourism, top-notch scientific, technical and financial potential, and modern medicine. The branches of the best universities and offices of the most powerful corporations in the world will be located on the Island of Hainan.
By 2025, the Chinese government intends to create an "international center for tourism and consumption" on Hainan. In order to do so, the "Eastern Hawaii" with their unique natural landscapes, thick rainforests and great climate will establish a developed network of hotels, which blend perfectly with white sandy beaches stretching along the coastline. The combination of an exotic subtropical nature and a modern eco-friendly infrastructure will boost tourist inflow to the island from the most distant parts of the world.


tass--2020-01-09--More than 500 children from Russia and other countries take part in Hainan Fashion Week

SANYA , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
More than 500 children from China , Russia and other countries took part in the finals of the second International Children 's Fashion Week in China 's Sanya , Konstantin Radyuk , CEO of SemProGroup Hainan , the organizer of the contest , told TASS .
“ On the eve of the event , the organizing committee set up additional model courses for finalists from professional mentors and conducted a large-scale cultural and entertainment program .
In addition to participants from Russia and China , contestants from Belarus , Kazakhstan , Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Republic of Korea , Indonesia , France , Mongolia , as well as other countries , also passed , '' said Radyuk .
The main part of the show was a demonstration of trendy tropical dresses under the slogans “ Sanya is my love ” and “ Sanya — a tropical fairy tale ” , and the parents of many contestants took part in it along with their children .
The jury , which included Russian fashion designer Vyacheslav Zaitsev , decided to award more than 30 young models and designers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Radyuk , about 5,000 people took part in the Fashion Week qualifying rounds .
Russia was represented by Eva Navdujas from Tyumen , Ekaterina Romanova ( Novosibirsk ) , Ksenia Kovaleva ( Yekaterinburg ) , Veronika Safonova ( Omsk ) and Sergey Letovaltsev ( Moscow ) .
In China , qualifications were held not only on Hainan , but also in other regions : in the provinces of Guangdong , Sichuan , Shandong , Henan and Hebei , as well as in Beijing .
The first International Children 's Fashion Week was first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from eight countries : Belarus , Great Britain , Kazakhstan , China , Russia , the USA , Ukraine and the Philippines .

SANYA, January 9. /TASS/. More than 500 children from China, Russia and other countries took part in the finals of the second International Children's Fashion Week in China's Sanya, Konstantin Radyuk, CEO of SemProGroup Hainan, the organizer of the contest, told TASS.
“On the eve of the event, the organizing committee set up additional model courses for finalists from professional mentors and conducted a large-scale cultural and entertainment program. In addition to participants from Russia and China, contestants from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, US, Germany, Liberia, UK, the Republic of Korea, Indonesia, France, Mongolia, as well as other countries, also passed," said Radyuk.
The main part of the show was a demonstration of trendy tropical dresses under the slogans “Sanya is my love” and “Sanya — a tropical fairy tale”, and the parents of many contestants took part in it along with their children. The jury, which included Russian fashion designer Vyacheslav Zaitsev, decided to award more than 30 young models and designers based on the results.
Aсcording to Radyuk, about 5,000 people took part in the Fashion Week qualifying rounds. Russia was represented by Eva Navdujas from Tyumen, Ekaterina Romanova (Novosibirsk), Ksenia Kovaleva (Yekaterinburg), Veronika Safonova (Omsk) and Sergey Letovaltsev (Moscow). In China, qualifications were held not only on Hainan, but also in other regions: in the provinces of Guangdong, Sichuan, Shandong, Henan and Hebei, as well as in Beijing.
The first International Children's Fashion Week was first held in August 2018 and gathered participants from eight countries: Belarus, Great Britain, Kazakhstan, China, Russia, the USA, Ukraine and the Philippines.


tass--2020-01-11--Abkhazia’s election commission to propose date for rerun election within next five days

SUKHUM , January 11 .
/TASS/ .
Abkhazia ’ s Central Election Commission ( CEC ) will propose a date for a new presidential election in the country within the next five days , Givi Gabniya , a member of the Central Election Commission who represented it at the court hearing on the legitimacy of the presidential election , informed TASS .
`` The ruling by the Court of Cassation states that a decision on holding new elections should be made within five days .
The CEC will hold a meeting within the next five days , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Supreme Court reversed the decision by the country 's Central Election Commission ( CEC ) on the outcome of the presidential election and ruled to call rerun elections .
Thus , the court board sustained opposition activist Alkhas Kvitsinia ’ s appeal against the ruling of the trial court that recognized the results of the presidential runoff election as lawful .
The political crisis in Abkhazia erupted on January 9 , when protesters demanding the resignation of President Raul Khajimba forced their way into the building of the presidential staff .
Khajimba @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council to declare that the introduction of a state of emergency was not ruled out .
Abkhazia ’ s parliament met in early session on the same day to vote for a message to the president urging him to step down .
In response , Khajimba invited the opposition to negotiate .

SUKHUM, January 11. /TASS/. Abkhazia’s Central Election Commission (CEC) will propose a date for a new presidential election in the country within the next five days, Givi Gabniya, a member of the Central Election Commission who represented it at the court hearing on the legitimacy of the presidential election, informed TASS.
"The ruling by the Court of Cassation states that a decision on holding new elections should be made within five days. The CEC will hold a meeting within the next five days," he said.
On Friday, the country’s Supreme Court reversed the decision by the country's Central Election Commission (CEC) on the outcome of the presidential election and ruled to call rerun elections. Thus, the court board sustained opposition activist Alkhas Kvitsinia’s appeal against the ruling of the trial court that recognized the results of the presidential runoff election as lawful.
The political crisis in Abkhazia erupted on January 9, when protesters demanding the resignation of President Raul Khajimba forced their way into the building of the presidential staff. Khajimba called an urgent meeting of the Security Council to declare that the introduction of a state of emergency was not ruled out. Abkhazia’s parliament met in early session on the same day to vote for a message to the president urging him to step down. In response, Khajimba invited the opposition to negotiate.