tass--2020-07-02--The 127th Canton Fair Concludes, Establishing A New Trade Mechanism Online

GUANGZHOU , China , July 2 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The 10-day 127th China Import and Export Fair ( Canton Fair ) concluded with fruitful results and helped promote the development of international trade as well as further opening up of trade amid the COVID-19 pandemic .
The event attracted registered buyers from a record-breaking 217 countries and regions .
`` The first virtual Canton Fair broke the limit of time and space for Chinese and international companies to conduct trade cooperation and made great contribution to stabilizing the global supply chain , '' said Xu Bing , spokesperson for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China Foreign Trade Centre .
Creating a new form of online exhibition , the 127th Canton Fair has established an intelligent and efficient trade negotiation mechanism using digital technology .
The more than 25,000 exhibitors leveraged a wide array of display options , including graphics , video and 3D , to showcase their wares , in tandem with the presentation of a number of global debuts and smart products .
Buyers from around the world , after visiting the exhibition hall , started conversations with sellers on the spot about potential orders or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The live stream showroom launched at the fair provided exhibitors with additional opportunities to engage in enhanced interactive experiences with business partners .
Exhibitors have applied customized live stream solutions to present and highlight their competitiveness , for example , creating a virtual reality showroom or displaying a factory 's automated production line .
Exhibitors had the option of scheduling their live stream based on the client 's time zone , allowing for the optimization of the experience no matter whether the client originated from the Americas , Europe , Asia Pacific , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 127th Canton Fair also provided support to exhibitors in their search for win-win business opportunities through 24 promotional events and 64 new product launch events .
In one of the highlights of the fair , several leading Chinese e-commerce companies co-hosted a sourcing briefing seminar that helped establish a connection with more buyers by providing more detail .
In addition , the Canton Fair Product Design and Trade Promotion Centre ( PDC ) hosted 13 themed cloud seminars and organized 20 cloud catwalks at which 33 fashion brands showcased their latest offerings .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and connected world by launching its 128th edition from mid to late October , helping promote multilateral economic exchanges and trade cooperation .

GUANGZHOU, China, July 2, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The 10-day 127th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) concluded with fruitful results and helped promote the development of international trade as well as further opening up of trade amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The event attracted registered buyers from a record-breaking 217 countries and regions.
Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here.
"The first virtual Canton Fair broke the limit of time and space for Chinese and international companies to conduct trade cooperation and made great contribution to stabilizing the global supply chain," said Xu Bing, spokesperson for Canton Fair and Deputy Director General of China Foreign Trade Centre.
Creating a new form of online exhibition, the 127th Canton Fair has established an intelligent and efficient trade negotiation mechanism using digital technology.
The more than 25,000 exhibitors leveraged a wide array of display options, including graphics, video and 3D, to showcase their wares, in tandem with the presentation of a number of global debuts and smart products. Buyers from around the world, after visiting the exhibition hall, started conversations with sellers on the spot about potential orders or booked appointments to initiate a negotiation.
The live stream showroom launched at the fair provided exhibitors with additional opportunities to engage in enhanced interactive experiences with business partners. Exhibitors have applied customized live stream solutions to present and highlight their competitiveness, for example, creating a virtual reality showroom or displaying a factory's automated production line. Exhibitors had the option of scheduling their live stream based on the client's time zone, allowing for the optimization of the experience no matter whether the client originated from the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East or Africa.
The 127th Canton Fair also provided support to exhibitors in their search for win-win business opportunities through 24 promotional events and 64 new product launch events. In one of the highlights of the fair, several leading Chinese e-commerce companies co-hosted a sourcing briefing seminar that helped establish a connection with more buyers by providing more detail.
In addition, the Canton Fair Product Design and Trade Promotion Centre (PDC) hosted 13 themed cloud seminars and organized 20 cloud catwalks at which 33 fashion brands showcased their latest offerings.
Canton Fair will embrace a more diverse and connected world by launching its 128th edition from mid to late October, helping promote multilateral economic exchanges and trade cooperation.
CONTACT: Ms. Chloe Cai, Tel: +86-20-8913 8622, Email: info@cantonfair.org.cn


tass--2020-07-02--Russia, India have no limits in developing cooperation, says senior diplomat

`` There is an expression < … > “ the sky is the limit.
” Yet if we are talking about Russian-Indian relationship , then for Russia and India the sky is not the limit , the perspective of the development of our relationship is not restricted by anything , ” the diplomat said .
MOSCOW , July 2 .
/TASS/ .
Russia and India do not set any limits to the development of the bilateral cooperation , Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov said on Thursday in an open interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ addition to traditional spheres of cooperation , lately the two sides activated the interaction in new directions — on high technologies , space , healthcare , pharmaceuticals .
The senior diplomat pointed out that Russian-Indian relations remain stable and friendly over decades , regardless of the changes in the global political situation .
`` Over the years , our countries developed very strong ties , established cooperation mechanisms in very different spheres between governments , as well as along the lines of private entrepreneurship and civic societies .
We have a very active @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very active top parliamentary exchanges , connections between regions , ” he added .
The existing problems in the Indian-Chinese relations including the border dispute do not interfere with the trilateral cooperation between Moscow , New Delhi and Beijing , Igor Morgulov said in his interview for TASS .
Morgulov noted the significance and emblematic nature of the fact that just a week after the skirmishes at the control line between India and China , the three foreign ministers had a successful meeting in the Russia-India-China ( RIC ) format .
`` India @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the development of cooperation within other formats that unite our countries such as BRICS [ Brazil , Russia , India , China and South Africa — TASS ] and the SCO [ Shanghai Cooperation Organization — TASS ] .
So , these problems , which undeniably exist in the Indian-Chinese ties , do not get in the way of advancing cooperation with New Delhi and Beijing in multilateral frameworks , '' he said .
At the same time , the deputy foreign minister underscored that India and China are capable of finding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without any mediation from third parties .
`` It is often asked whether Russia should interfere as a friend to both India and China to act as a kind of mediator in settling these differences .
I think that any intervention , even the one with good intentions , in such a delicate matter as border disputes is not just inexpedient but can also seriously hurt the efforts Beijing and New Delhi are independently making to find a way out of this situation , '' Morgulov said .
Overnight between June 15 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ladakh near the Galwan River , some skirmishes occurred between Indian and Chinese servicemen .
According to New Delhi , at least 20 Indian soldiers died , while 76 were wounded as a result of this conflict .
The Indian authorities claim that about 45 Chinese soldiers were killed or wounded .

"There is an expression <…> “the sky is the limit.” Yet if we are talking about Russian-Indian relationship, then for Russia and India the sky is not the limit, the perspective of the development of our relationship is not restricted by anything,” the diplomat said.
MOSCOW, July 2. /TASS/. Russia and India do not set any limits to the development of the bilateral cooperation, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov said on Thursday in an open interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman.
The deputy foreign minister noted that in addition to traditional spheres of cooperation, lately the two sides activated the interaction in new directions — on high technologies, space, healthcare, pharmaceuticals. The senior diplomat pointed out that Russian-Indian relations remain stable and friendly over decades, regardless of the changes in the global political situation.
"Over the years, our countries developed very strong ties, established cooperation mechanisms in very different spheres between governments, as well as along the lines of private entrepreneurship and civic societies. We have a very active dialogue on the political level, including very active top parliamentary exchanges, connections between regions,” he added.
US-China stand-off
The existing problems in the Indian-Chinese relations including the border dispute do not interfere with the trilateral cooperation between Moscow, New Delhi and Beijing, Igor Morgulov said in his interview for TASS.
Morgulov noted the significance and emblematic nature of the fact that just a week after the skirmishes at the control line between India and China, the three foreign ministers had a successful meeting in the Russia-India-China (RIC) format. "India and China also continue to constructively contribute to the development of cooperation within other formats that unite our countries such as BRICS [Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — TASS] and the SCO [Shanghai Cooperation Organization — TASS]. So, these problems, which undeniably exist in the Indian-Chinese ties, do not get in the way of advancing cooperation with New Delhi and Beijing in multilateral frameworks," he said.
At the same time, the deputy foreign minister underscored that India and China are capable of finding solutions to whatever problems arise between them without any mediation from third parties. "It is often asked whether Russia should interfere as a friend to both India and China to act as a kind of mediator in settling these differences. I think that any intervention, even the one with good intentions, in such a delicate matter as border disputes is not just inexpedient but can also seriously hurt the efforts Beijing and New Delhi are independently making to find a way out of this situation," Morgulov said.
Overnight between June 15 and 16, on the union territory of Ladakh near the Galwan River, some skirmishes occurred between Indian and Chinese servicemen. According to New Delhi, at least 20 Indian soldiers died, while 76 were wounded as a result of this conflict. The Indian authorities claim that about 45 Chinese soldiers were killed or wounded.


tass--2020-07-02--Roscosmos says US Crew Dragon spacecraft’s safety raises ‘some questions’

MOSCOW , July 2 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s federal space agency Roscosmos will agree to the delivery of @ @ @ @ @ Space Station ( ISS ) aboard a US Crew Dragon spacecraft only after it is @ @ @ @ @ Head for the Orbital Grouping Development and Priority Projects Yuri Urlichich said on Thursday .
@ @ @ @ @ passed its certification and the Americans are offering us to make swaps as was the @ @ @ @ @ their shuttles made flights : our cosmonauts flew in their shuttles and their astronauts on @ @ @ @ @ agree to that but only inasmuch as their spaceship is certified , '' Urlichich said @ @ @ @ @ Russia ’ s parliament .
As the Roscosmos official pointed out , `` there are @ @ @ @ @ '' `` And there has not been any successful return with astronauts so far , @ @ @ @ @ Crew Dragon was successfully launched atop a Falcon 9 carrier rocket from the spaceport at @ @ @ @ @ USA ) in late May .

MOSCOW, July 2. /TASS/. Russia’s federal space agency Roscosmos will agree to the delivery of its cosmonauts to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a US Crew Dragon spacecraft only after it is certified, Roscosmos First Deputy Head for the Orbital Grouping Development and Priority Projects Yuri Urlichich said on Thursday.
"The spaceship has not passed its certification and the Americans are offering us to make swaps as was the case during the period when their shuttles made flights: our cosmonauts flew in their shuttles and their astronauts on our Soyuz spacecraft. We agree to that but only inasmuch as their spaceship is certified," Urlichich said in the upper house of Russia’s parliament.
As the Roscosmos official pointed out, "there are still some questions there." "And there has not been any successful return with astronauts so far," he stressed.
The Crew Dragon was successfully launched atop a Falcon 9 carrier rocket from the spaceport at Cape Canaveral (Florida, USA) in late May.


tass--2020-07-02--Russia needs stability at its current stage of progress, says Putin

NOVO-OGARYOVO , July 2./TASS/ .
Russia is still going through a crucial stage in its development process , and that is why the country needs stability , President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday .
`` Not much time has passed by historical standards since the collapse and disintegration of the Soviet Union , and certainly modern Russia is still undergoing the development and formation stage , '' the president stated in his opening remarks at a meeting of the Pobeda ( Victory ) organizing committee .
According to him , `` this concerns all aspects of life - both in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` We are still very vulnerable in many respects , and much , as regular folks say , has been hastily strung together , we need internal stability , time to strengthen the country , and all its institutions , '' the Russian leader stressed .
Putin is certain that the authorities need to meet the expectations of citizens who backed the constitutional amendments .
`` The outcome of the nationwide vote shows that the overwhelming majority of Russian citizens believe that we can work better , and the so-called expanded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , must do everything to meet people ’ s expectations , '' the head of state said opening a meeting of the Pobeda ( Victory ) Organizing Committee .

NOVO-OGARYOVO, July 2./TASS/. Russia is still going through a crucial stage in its development process, and that is why the country needs stability, President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.
"Not much time has passed by historical standards since the collapse and disintegration of the Soviet Union, and certainly modern Russia is still undergoing the development and formation stage," the president stated in his opening remarks at a meeting of the Pobeda (Victory) organizing committee. According to him, "this concerns all aspects of life - both in the political system and in the economy". "We are still very vulnerable in many respects, and much, as regular folks say, has been hastily strung together, we need internal stability, time to strengthen the country, and all its institutions," the Russian leader stressed.
Putin is certain that the authorities need to meet the expectations of citizens who backed the constitutional amendments.
"The outcome of the nationwide vote shows that the overwhelming majority of Russian citizens believe that we can work better, and the so-called expanded government, from municipalities to the president, must do everything to meet people’s expectations," the head of state said opening a meeting of the Pobeda (Victory) Organizing Committee.


tass--2020-07-02--China was the first victim of COVID-19, senior Russian diplomat stresses

MOSCOW , July 2 .
/TASS/ .
China should be seen as the first country hit by the coronavirus pandemic rather than the one that spread the disease , Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov said on Thursday in an interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman .
`` We believe that we can all benefit from the experience of China , which was the first victim of COVID-19 rather than the country that spread it , which was able to overcome that epidemic , at least stopped its spread on its soil , '' he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ this approach and works closely with China on the whole range of issues related to combating the pandemic and preventing new outbreaks .
`` Frankly speaking , I find it difficult to understand the logic of the Americans who , instead of looking for an opportunity to pool efforts in the face of a common threat , began to look for someone to blame , almost seeking compensation from Beijing and putting forward similar demands .
Of course , no one has anything against tracing the origin of the coronavirus , we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order to blame someone for that , but to understand how to fight that infection in the best possible way and prevent similar pandemics in the future , '' he added .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 10,820,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 519,000 deaths have been reported .

MOSCOW, July 2. /TASS/. China should be seen as the first country hit by the coronavirus pandemic rather than the one that spread the disease, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov said on Thursday in an interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman.
"We believe that we can all benefit from the experience of China, which was the first victim of COVID-19 rather than the country that spread it, which was able to overcome that epidemic, at least stopped its spread on its soil," he said. According to Morgulov, Russia adheres to this approach and works closely with China on the whole range of issues related to combating the pandemic and preventing new outbreaks.
"Frankly speaking, I find it difficult to understand the logic of the Americans who, instead of looking for an opportunity to pool efforts in the face of a common threat, began to look for someone to blame, almost seeking compensation from Beijing and putting forward similar demands. Of course, no one has anything against tracing the origin of the coronavirus, we have nothing against it, but not in order to blame someone for that, but to understand how to fight that infection in the best possible way and prevent similar pandemics in the future," he added.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia. On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 10,820,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 519,000 deaths have been reported.


tass--2020-07-02--Afghanistan ‘bounties’ hoax may be aimed at undermining Russia-US ties — senior diplomat

MOSCOW , July 2 .
/TASS/ .
The authors of a hoax about Russia offering money to Afghan militants for killing US military personnel may have tried to disrupt effective interaction between Moscow and Washington , Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov said on Thursday in an open interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman .
The diplomat pointed out the complete unsoundness of the information that Russia allegedly could have offered to Taliban ( outlawed in Russia ) militants money to kill US soldiers .
`` It is difficult not to wonder : who needs this and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
And why now , precisely at this moment , this provocative bit of fake news emerges ? ''
the deputy minister noted .
`` A possible explanation is that some part of anti-Russian-minded Washington ’ s political establishment may not be happy with the quite effective interaction we ’ ve got on the Afghan issue , I mean , here [ at the Russian Foreign Ministry ] with our colleagues from the US State Department , '' the diplomat suggested .
He explained that Russian-American cooperation in that direction was successfully implemented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the tripartite Russia-US-China mechanism involving other countries of the region .
He also noted that the accusations towards Russia regarding the alleged Afghan affair appeared on the eve of the US presidential race which , possibly , gave rise to the emergence of such allegations on the subject sensitive to voters .
Morgulov added that the current White House ’ s occupant Donald Trump had promised to end the longest military campaign in the US history but those efforts are met with the internal confrontation of those who are still profiting from it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this cheap provocation , really , attracted the attention of world media outlets undeservingly , '' the high-ranking diplomat pointed out .
On June 26 , The New York Times ran a story claiming that an unidentified unit of the Russian military intelligence allegedly offered bounties to Taliban ( outlawed in Russia ) militants to kill US soldiers and other coalition troops in Afghanistan .
On June 29 , Dmitry Peskov , the Kremlin spokesman , castigated these reports as fabrications and an `` elaborate hoax . ''
On June 27 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ publication on this issue as intentionally false .
Trump , representing the Republican party , on June 28 commented on Twitter that US intelligence did not find this information credible .
On February 14 , 2003 , the Russian Supreme Court declared the Taliban a terrorist organization .
The extremist organization ’ s activities are outlawed in Russia .

MOSCOW, July 2. /TASS/. The authors of a hoax about Russia offering money to Afghan militants for killing US military personnel may have tried to disrupt effective interaction between Moscow and Washington, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov said on Thursday in an open interview with TASS First Deputy Director General Mikhail Gusman.
The diplomat pointed out the complete unsoundness of the information that Russia allegedly could have offered to Taliban (outlawed in Russia) militants money to kill US soldiers. "It is difficult not to wonder: who needs this and why all of this is going on? And why now, precisely at this moment, this provocative bit of fake news emerges?" the deputy minister noted.
"A possible explanation is that some part of anti-Russian-minded Washington’s political establishment may not be happy with the quite effective interaction we’ve got on the Afghan issue, I mean, here [at the Russian Foreign Ministry] with our colleagues from the US State Department," the diplomat suggested. He explained that Russian-American cooperation in that direction was successfully implemented both in the bilateral format and within the tripartite Russia-US-China mechanism involving other countries of the region.
He also noted that the accusations towards Russia regarding the alleged Afghan affair appeared on the eve of the US presidential race which, possibly, gave rise to the emergence of such allegations on the subject sensitive to voters. Morgulov added that the current White House’s occupant Donald Trump had promised to end the longest military campaign in the US history but those efforts are met with the internal confrontation of those who are still profiting from it.
"In general, I think that this cheap provocation, really, attracted the attention of world media outlets undeservingly," the high-ranking diplomat pointed out.
An "elaborate hoax"
On June 26, The New York Times ran a story claiming that an unidentified unit of the Russian military intelligence allegedly offered bounties to Taliban (outlawed in Russia) militants to kill US soldiers and other coalition troops in Afghanistan. On June 29, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, castigated these reports as fabrications and an "elaborate hoax." On June 27, the Russian Foreign Ministry labeled the initial publication on this issue as intentionally false.
Trump, representing the Republican party, on June 28 commented on Twitter that US intelligence did not find this information credible.
On February 14, 2003, the Russian Supreme Court declared the Taliban a terrorist organization. The extremist organization’s activities are outlawed in Russia.


tass--2020-07-02--Hainan conducts large-scale campaign to boost consumption

HAIKOU , July 2 .
/TASS/ .
The Hainan authorities conducted a large-scale online campaign on June 1-18 to boost consumption .
According to the Hainan Daily , total sales these days exceeded 1.4 billion yuan ( about $ 197.8 million ) .
According to the newspaper , the promotion was held to match the festival of discounts dubbed `` 618 '' , which is held annually on June 18 .
It was attended by more than 80 Hainan manufacturers and companies .
For 18 days , they advertised their products ( mainly food ) live on social media .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 million users watched the broadcasts , in total over 1.2 million units of goods were sold .
Owners of online stores on e-commerce platforms TMall , Taobao and others joined the campaign .
According to the publication , over 2.5 weeks the total volume of online sales exceeded 1.4 billion yuan ( about $ 198.6 million ) .
The `` 618 '' promotion was first held in China in 2013 at the initiative of the Chinese e-commerce company JD.com .
The date of the total sale was chosen randomly : the festival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — on June 18 .
A big sale is also held in China on November 11 , the promotion is also known as Bachelor ’ s Day .
It was first held in 2009 at the initiative of China 's e-commerce giant Alibaba .

HAIKOU, July 2. /TASS/. The Hainan authorities conducted a large-scale online campaign on June 1-18 to boost consumption. According to the Hainan Daily, total sales these days exceeded 1.4 billion yuan (about $ 197.8 million).
According to the newspaper, the promotion was held to match the festival of discounts dubbed "618", which is held annually on June 18. It was attended by more than 80 Hainan manufacturers and companies. For 18 days, they advertised their products (mainly food) live on social media. According to the newspaper, more than 4 million users watched the broadcasts, in total over 1.2 million units of goods were sold.
Owners of online stores on e-commerce platforms TMall, Taobao and others joined the campaign. According to the publication, over 2.5 weeks the total volume of online sales exceeded 1.4 billion yuan (about $ 198.6 million).
The "618" promotion was first held in China in 2013 at the initiative of the Chinese e-commerce company JD.com. The date of the total sale was chosen randomly: the festival is held on the company's birthday — on June 18.
A big sale is also held in China on November 11, the promotion is also known as Bachelor’s Day. It was first held in 2009 at the initiative of China's e-commerce giant Alibaba.


tass--2020-07-03--Russian Black Sea Fleet conventional sub fires Kalibr cruise missiles in drills

SEVASTOPOL , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
The crew of the diesel-electric submarine Kolpino practiced delivering missile strikes with the Kalibr-PL precision system from the submerged position during drills in the Black Sea , the Fleet ’ s press office reported on Friday .
`` In order to deliver a notional missile strike with the Kalibr-PL precision system from the submerged position , the crew carried out its urgent submergence and conducted missile firings against a naval target by electronic launches , '' the press office said in a statement .
The crew also practiced preparing for its deployment to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ providing for the vessel ’ s defense and protection during its anchorage at a mooring berth , the statement says .
`` The submariners practiced the algorithms of measures to operate the submarine upon its surfacing and submergence in the normal and emergency modes and upon the employment of the sub ’ s missile armament , '' the press office said .
The Admiralty Shipyard in St. Petersburg has built a series of six Project 636.3 diesel-electric submarines for the Black Sea Fleet .
The three of them , the Veliky Novgorod , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivered strikes with Kalibr-PL cruise missiles against terrorist targets in Syria .
Project 636.3 submarines are referred to the third generation of diesel-electric subs .
These submarines are considered among the world ’ s most noiseless vessels .
They develop a speed of up to 20 knots , can dive to a depth of about 300 meters and their sea endurance is 45 days .
The sub has a crew of 52 men and displaces about 4,000 tonnes .
Project 636 submarines are considered to be the most noiseless among Russian conventional subs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black Hole ’ for their unique quietness .
They are also furnished with modern radar and communications systems , sonars and 533mm torpedoes .

SEVASTOPOL, July 3. /TASS/. The crew of the diesel-electric submarine Kolpino practiced delivering missile strikes with the Kalibr-PL precision system from the submerged position during drills in the Black Sea, the Fleet’s press office reported on Friday.
"In order to deliver a notional missile strike with the Kalibr-PL precision system from the submerged position, the crew carried out its urgent submergence and conducted missile firings against a naval target by electronic launches," the press office said in a statement.
The crew also practiced preparing for its deployment to the sea, loading the ammunition and providing for the vessel’s defense and protection during its anchorage at a mooring berth, the statement says.
"The submariners practiced the algorithms of measures to operate the submarine upon its surfacing and submergence in the normal and emergency modes and upon the employment of the sub’s missile armament," the press office said.
The Admiralty Shipyard in St. Petersburg has built a series of six Project 636.3 diesel-electric submarines for the Black Sea Fleet. The three of them, the Veliky Novgorod, the Kolpino and the Rostov-on-Don, numerously delivered strikes with Kalibr-PL cruise missiles against terrorist targets in Syria.
Project 636.3 submarines are referred to the third generation of diesel-electric subs. These submarines are considered among the world’s most noiseless vessels. They develop a speed of up to 20 knots, can dive to a depth of about 300 meters and their sea endurance is 45 days. The sub has a crew of 52 men and displaces about 4,000 tonnes.
Project 636 submarines are considered to be the most noiseless among Russian conventional subs. They have been dubbed the ‘Black Hole’ for their unique quietness. They are also furnished with modern radar and communications systems, sonars and 533mm torpedoes.


tass--2020-07-03--Turkish air forces strike north Iraq, reports say

TASS , July 3 .
The Turkish air forces have launched a series of strikes on northern Iraq , Sky @ @ @ @ @ , citing Kurdish sources .
According to the sources , the province of Duhok ( @ @ @ @ @ Kurdistan Region ) was attacked .
It is not specified what damage or casualties were @ @ @ @ @ that Ankara is going ahead with the land operation , as Turkish forces currently constructed @ @ @ @ @ Iraq .
On June 15 , Turkey launched an air operation dubbed Pence-Kartal , destroying @ @ @ @ @ Kurdistan Workers ’ Party banned in Turkey , including covers and hideouts .
On June @ @ @ @ @ to Baghdad Fatih Yildiz was summoned to the Iraqi foreign minister and was handed a @ @ @ @ @ , starting with June 17 , Turkish commandos were deployed in northern Iraq .
The @ @ @ @ @ was named Pence-Kaplan .
On June 18 , the Turkish ambassador was summoned once again @ @ @ @ @ protest in light of the operation .

TASS, July 3. The Turkish air forces have launched a series of strikes on northern Iraq, Sky News Arabia TV reported Friday, citing Kurdish sources.
According to the sources, the province of Duhok (part of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region) was attacked. It is not specified what damage or casualties were dealt.
The channel specified that Ankara is going ahead with the land operation, as Turkish forces currently constructed 24 military bases in north Iraq.
On June 15, Turkey launched an air operation dubbed Pence-Kartal, destroying 81 facilities belonging to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party banned in Turkey, including covers and hideouts.
On June 16, the Turkish envoy to Baghdad Fatih Yildiz was summoned to the Iraqi foreign minister and was handed a note of protest. However, starting with June 17, Turkish commandos were deployed in northern Iraq. The land phase of the operation was named Pence-Kaplan. On June 18, the Turkish ambassador was summoned once again to receive another note of protest in light of the operation.


tass--2020-07-03--Russia’s MMA Coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov passes away

MAKHACHKALA , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s prominent mixed martial arts ( MMA ) coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov @ @ @ @ @ coach and father of UFC Reigning Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov , has passed away , @ @ @ @ @ of the Russian republic of Chechnya , announced on Friday .
`` My friends , @ @ @ @ @ today that Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov passed away , '' Kadyrov wrote on Telegram .
`` On @ @ @ @ @ Chechnya , I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Abdulmanap Magomedovich [ Nurmagomedov @ @ @ @ @ parted with us having left behind his good name and having brought up a decent @ @ @ @ @ leader added .
Khabib Nurmagomedov said on June 22 that his father Abdulmanap remained in @ @ @ @ @ emergency ward of a hospital in Moscow .
Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was hospitalized earlier in the @ @ @ @ @ diagnosed with the novel coronavirus .
He was taken to hospital with pneumonia but later @ @ @ @ @ a week on life support .

MAKHACHKALA, July 3. /TASS/. Russia’s prominent mixed martial arts (MMA) coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who is also a coach and father of UFC Reigning Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, has passed away at the age of 57, Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of the Russian republic of Chechnya, announced on Friday.
"My friends, I have learnt sad news today that Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov passed away," Kadyrov wrote on his Twitter account. "On behalf of all people of Chechnya, I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Abdulmanap Magomedovich [Nurmagomedov]."
"He parted with us having left behind his good name and having brought up a decent generation," the Chechen leader added.
Khabib Nurmagomedov said on June 22 that his father Abdulmanap remained in a critical condition in an emergency ward of a hospital in Moscow.
Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was hospitalized earlier in the year after he had been diagnosed with the novel coronavirus. He was initially taken to a hospital in the Russian capital with a case of a severe pneumonia and after being diagnosed with a case of the novel coronavirus he suffered a stroke and then spent a week on the life support systems.
Russian Sports Minister Oleg Matytsin also expressed his condolences shortly after the news about Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s death broke out.
"On behalf of the Russian Sports Ministry and myself personally, I express my deepest condolences to the family and relatives of Abdulmanap Magomedovich Nurmagomedov," the Russian Sports Ministry’s press service quoted Matytsin as saying in a statement.
"A prominent coach and a wise mentor, who brought up numerous champions in combat sambo and in wrestling, has passed away," Matytsin stated. "Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov devoted all of his his life to training high-class athletes and the popularization of the sports of the martial arts, which helped his son Khabib Nurmagomedov to achieve great success in the sphere of the mixed martial arts."
Magomed Magomedov, the sports minister of the Russian republic of Dagestan, said that Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s death was a great loss not only for the republic of Dagestan, but on the nationwide level as well.
"Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov is the master of sports in sambo, freestyle wrestling; and he was also in charge of the Sambo Federation in Dagestan," Magomedov said. "It’s a great loss not only for the republic of Dagestan but the country of Russia on the whole."
"He was one of the most generous, clever, educated specialist as one of the most merited ones," the sports chief of Dagestan said adding that Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov raised a generation of new Russian athletes, including his son Khabib Nurmagomedov.
UFC Reigning Champ Khabib Nurmagomedov
In early September last year, Khabib Nurmagomedov defended his UFC champion’s belt for the second time in a title unification bout in Abu Dhabi against Dustin Poirier of the United States. The Russian defeated his US opponent with a choke in Round 3.
The 31-year-old Russian fighter, nicknamed ‘The Eagle,’ currently holds an unblemished record of 28 wins in all of his mixed martial arts fights (8 by KOs, 10 by submission and 10 by decision).
Khabib Nurmagomedov, hailing from Russia’s North Caucasus Region of Dagestan, was the first Russian to win the UFC champion title during the fight against his US opponent Al Iaquinta in the spring of 2018.
On April 8, 2018, Nurmagomedov defeated Al Iaquinta in a five-round fight for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight belt in New York.
At the UFC 229 tournament in Las Vegas in October 2018, Nurmagomedov defended his champion’s title in the fight against Conor McGregor, a renowned Irish professional mixed martial arts fighter and boxer.


tass--2020-07-03--Russia’s constitutional amendments enter into force July 4

Deadlines for Nord Stream 2 completion to be reviewed after new US sanctions The gas pipeline is 93 % complete @ @ @ @ @ official data

In the same order, Putin instructed relevant authorities to officially publish the Russian constitution with the approved amendments. According to the law on amendments signed by the president earlier, the official publication should take place "immediately after the official announcement of the results of the Russia-wide vote."
The nationwide vote on amendments to the Russian constitution was completed across the whole country on Wednesday. Even though the official vote day was set for July 1 by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s order, citizens could take part in it throughout the seven-day period between June 25 and July 1 due to coronavirus precautions meant to eliminate the risk of transmission. All votes cast throughout the voting period were tallied. According to the law, the absolute majority of voters who cast their ballots should back the amendments for them to enter into force, a minimal turnout level was not set. According to the Russian Central Election Commission, the changes were supported by 77.92% of the voters at polling stations, while 21.27% opposed them after 100% of voting protocols were processed. The official turnout was 67.97%.


tass--2020-07-03--Putin laboring relentlessly to strengthen Russia, says Kremlin

MOSCOW , July 3./TASS/ .
The years that have passed since the disintegration of the Soviet Union are not enough for cementing the foundations of the Russian state , but the process is underway with President Vladimir Putin keeping it at the center of his focus , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday commenting on the Russian leader ’ s statement that the country was still going through a crucial state in its development process .
Addressing the Russian people on Thursday , the president said : `` Not much time has passed by historical standards since the collapse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and certainly modern Russia is still undergoing the development and formation stage . ''
`` We are still very vulnerable in many respects , and much , as regular folks say , has been hastily strung together , we need internal stability , time to strengthen the country , and all its institutions , '' the Russian leader stressed .
`` The president himself said that after the Soviet Union had ceased to exist , after this unprecedented collapse in history , not much time passed as far as historical context goes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ little time for a full-fledged formation , strengthening and cementing of the foundations of any state , including the Russian Federation , '' he said .
That is why , `` many legal foundations , many regulatory practices have been hastily strung together , '' Peskov added .
`` We can see that the process of improvement is consistently ongoing , the cementing process necessary for the full and irreversible strengthening of the state , and a very important and significant step in this direction was indeed the finalized process of amending the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vladimir Putin is working on it persistently , this [ strengthening of the state ] is among the priorities of his work , '' he pledged .
`` Twenty years ago we lived in a state whose condition left much to be desired , the state was on the brink of a collapse , it was living amid existential threats — threats from the inside and outside , '' Peskov reiterated .
`` Now , we don ’ t live like that anymore , we live very differently , but a host of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoke about , '' he added .
When asked if there was an indicator showing that the legacy of the 1990s had been surmounted , Peskov said that `` certainly , a number of figures can be used as a reference . ''
`` And the main indicator testifying to stability of the state system is what the president spoke about , '' he added .

MOSCOW, July 3./TASS/. The years that have passed since the disintegration of the Soviet Union are not enough for cementing the foundations of the Russian state, but the process is underway with President Vladimir Putin keeping it at the center of his focus, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday commenting on the Russian leader’s statement that the country was still going through a crucial state in its development process.
Addressing the Russian people on Thursday, the president said: "Not much time has passed by historical standards since the collapse and disintegration of the Soviet Union, and certainly modern Russia is still undergoing the development and formation stage."
"We are still very vulnerable in many respects, and much, as regular folks say, has been hastily strung together, we need internal stability, time to strengthen the country, and all its institutions," the Russian leader stressed.
"The president himself said that after the Soviet Union had ceased to exist, after this unprecedented collapse in history, not much time passed as far as historical context goes. And of course, this is very little time for a full-fledged formation, strengthening and cementing of the foundations of any state, including the Russian Federation," he said. That is why, "many legal foundations, many regulatory practices have been hastily strung together," Peskov added.
"We can see that the process of improvement is consistently ongoing, the cementing process necessary for the full and irreversible strengthening of the state, and a very important and significant step in this direction was indeed the finalized process of amending the constitution," Peskov emphasized.
"Vladimir Putin is working on it persistently, this [strengthening of the state] is among the priorities of his work," he pledged. "Twenty years ago we lived in a state whose condition left much to be desired, the state was on the brink of a collapse, it was living amid existential threats — threats from the inside and outside," Peskov reiterated. "Now, we don’t live like that anymore, we live very differently, but a host of endeavors still lies ahead that the president spoke about," he added.
When asked if there was an indicator showing that the legacy of the 1990s had been surmounted, Peskov said that "certainly, a number of figures can be used as a reference." "And the main indicator testifying to stability of the state system is what the president spoke about," he added.


tass--2020-07-03--Russian Navy to arm combat ships with ground forces’ latest Koalitsiya-SV howitzer

MOSCOW , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
The operational characteristics of the combat module of the Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery gun allow arming both Russian ground forces and naval ships with this system , Head of the Research and Design Center at the Burevestnik Central Research Institute ( the howitzer ’ s developer ) Pavel Kovalev told TASS on Friday .
`` Burevestnik specialists highly evaluate the potential of the Koalitsiya gun : the 152mm artillery standardized module that has been made can eventually be used not only as the basis for developing combat vehicles on various chassis for the needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forces , but also for mounting it on naval ships , '' he said .
The R & D work carried out back in the early 2000s substantiated the expediency of developing artillery guns as systems for multiservice forces when a full-function artillery module becomes a standardized platform for developing a whole series of combat vehicles , he explained .
`` Probably , this explains the name of Koalitsiya ( Coalition ) , which the Russian Defense Ministry ’ s Main Missile and Artillery Department has given to this advanced system , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ howitzer is designated to destroy a potential enemy ’ s command posts , communications centers , artillery and mortar batteries , the armor , including tanks , anti-tank weapons , air and ballistic missile defense systems and manpower .
The Koalitsiya-SV is armed with a 152mm gun with a rate of fire of over 10 rounds per minute , which is higher than the speed of other artillery systems .
This rate of fire is ensured by the special design of the gun-loading mechanism .
The howitzer ’ s weapon suite also includes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As the press office of the Uralvagonzavod defense manufacturer earlier told TASS , the trials of the latest Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery system will be completed in 2022 .

MOSCOW, July 3. /TASS/. The operational characteristics of the combat module of the Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery gun allow arming both Russian ground forces and naval ships with this system, Head of the Research and Design Center at the Burevestnik Central Research Institute (the howitzer’s developer) Pavel Kovalev told TASS on Friday.
"Burevestnik specialists highly evaluate the potential of the Koalitsiya gun: the 152mm artillery standardized module that has been made can eventually be used not only as the basis for developing combat vehicles on various chassis for the needs of the land troops and coastal defense forces, but also for mounting it on naval ships," he said.
The R&D work carried out back in the early 2000s substantiated the expediency of developing artillery guns as systems for multiservice forces when a full-function artillery module becomes a standardized platform for developing a whole series of combat vehicles, he explained.
"Probably, this explains the name of Koalitsiya (Coalition), which the Russian Defense Ministry’s Main Missile and Artillery Department has given to this advanced system," Kovalev noted.
The 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled howitzer is designated to destroy a potential enemy’s command posts, communications centers, artillery and mortar batteries, the armor, including tanks, anti-tank weapons, air and ballistic missile defense systems and manpower.
The Koalitsiya-SV is armed with a 152mm gun with a rate of fire of over 10 rounds per minute, which is higher than the speed of other artillery systems. This rate of fire is ensured by the special design of the gun-loading mechanism. The howitzer’s weapon suite also includes a remotely-controlled station with a Kord machine-gun.
As the press office of the Uralvagonzavod defense manufacturer earlier told TASS, the trials of the latest Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery system will be completed in 2022.


tass--2020-07-03--Russia welcomes moves to re-establish Libya’s diplomatic presence in Damascus, says Lavrov

MOSCOW , July 3./TASS/ .
Russia welcomes moves towards re-establishing Libya ’ s diplomatic presence in Damascus , Foreign Minister @ @ @ @ @ with Speaker of the Libyan House of Representatives Aguila Saleh Issa on Friday .
Lavrov @ @ @ @ @ of Arab states to Damascus would advance the Syrian settlement .
`` This process has @ @ @ @ @ that you are planning moves in this direction too , and we welcome this , @ @ @ @ @ .
Syria ’ s membership in the Arab League was suspended in November 2011 .
@ @ @ @ @ ambassadors from the Syrian capital and joined the economic boycott of Syria .

MOSCOW, July 3./TASS/. Russia welcomes moves towards re-establishing Libya’s diplomatic presence in Damascus, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said at talks with Speaker of the Libyan House of Representatives Aguila Saleh Issa on Friday.
Lavrov pointed out that the return of Arab states to Damascus would advance the Syrian settlement. "This process has already started. I know that you are planning moves in this direction too, and we welcome this," the top diplomat said.
Syria’s membership in the Arab League was suspended in November 2011. Most Arab states recalled their ambassadors from the Syrian capital and joined the economic boycott of Syria.


tass--2020-07-03--Russia restores operation of embassy in Libya

MOSCOW , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
Russia made a decision to restore operation of its embassy in Libya , @ @ @ @ @ said Friday during his meeting with Speaker of the House of Representatives of Libya Aguila @ @ @ @ @ like to inform you that we made a decision to restore the Russian embassy in @ @ @ @ @ currently led by charge d ’ affaires Dzhamshed Boltaev , '' Lavrov said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ in Tunisia .
But I would like to underscore that his functions include representation of @ @ @ @ @ of Libya . ''
On October 2 , 2013 , the Russian Embassy in Tripoli @ @ @ @ @ managed to storm the embassy premises to be later repelled by the Libyan army .
@ @ @ @ @ was injured during the attack .
Following the incident , Libyan authorities admitted that they @ @ @ @ @ safety of the diplomats .
The embassy was evacuated shortly thereafter .

MOSCOW, July 3. /TASS/. Russia made a decision to restore operation of its embassy in Libya, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Friday during his meeting with Speaker of the House of Representatives of Libya Aguila Saleh.
"I would like to inform you that we made a decision to restore the Russian embassy in Libya, which will be currently led by charge d’affaires Dzhamshed Boltaev," Lavrov said. "He will be temporarily based in Tunisia. But I would like to underscore that his functions include representation of Russia across the entire territory of Libya."
On October 2, 2013, the Russian Embassy in Tripoli was attacked. The attacker managed to storm the embassy premises to be later repelled by the Libyan army. None in the Russian mission was injured during the attack. Following the incident, Libyan authorities admitted that they were unable to guarantee the safety of the diplomats. The embassy was evacuated shortly thereafter.


tass--2020-07-03--French president names Jean Castex as new prime minister

PARIS , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
French President Emmanuel Macron has named Jean Castex , who coordinated the country @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus lockdown , as new prime minister , the Elysee Palace said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ Emmanuel Macron has named Jean Castex as prime minister and asked him to form a @ @ @ @ @ statement reads .
Castex , 55 , earlier served as President of the National Sports @ @ @ @ @ the 2024 Paris Olympic Games .
Castex replaces Edouard Philippe , who stepped down on @ @ @ @ @ three years as French prime minister .
Philippe is expected to take office as mayor @ @ @ @ @ Havre on July 4 .

PARIS, July 3. /TASS/. French President Emmanuel Macron has named Jean Castex, who coordinated the country’s reopening after the coronavirus lockdown, as new prime minister, the Elysee Palace said in a statement on Friday.
"President Emmanuel Macron has named Jean Castex as prime minister and asked him to form a new government," the statement reads.
Castex, 55, earlier served as President of the National Sports Agency and oversaw preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Castex replaces Edouard Philippe, who stepped down on Friday morning after serving for three years as French prime minister. Philippe is expected to take office as mayor of the city of Le Havre on July 4.


tass--2020-07-03--Russia’s latest Koalitsiya-SV artillery system to get new munitions

`` Along with the advanced Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery gun , work is underway to develop a set of munitions of increased firepower .
This effort is being carried out by specialists of the munitions industry as part of separate R & D work , '' he said .
MOSCOW , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
Russian specialists are developing a series of the most advanced munitions with improved characteristics for the latest Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery gun , Head of the Research and Design Center at the Burevestnik Central Research Institute ( the howitzer ’ s developer ) Pavel Kovalev told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the artillery gun and the development of the gun ’ s munitions are interrelated areas , he said .
The latest Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery system outperforms the world ’ s best versions by key parameters , Pavel Kovalev told TASS .
`` The Koalitsiya-SV outperforms the best foreign and domestic versions by 30-70 % in terms of the firing range , by 50-200 % in terms of the accuracy of fire , by 50 % in terms of the rate of fire and by 50-200 % in terms of the time of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
An unmanned robotized combat module makes this weapon unique .
A combat crew of three men operates the self-propelled vehicle in the chassis ’ isolated compartment .
The Koalitsiya-SV also operates an artillery gun with high ballistic properties , which ensures its large firing range .
`` The accuracy of fire has been increased thanks to the onboard automated fire adjustment system based on the results of its own trajectory measurements .
The required firing mode is ensured by the automated operation of the bore cooling system by a coolant injection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled howitzer is designated to destroy a potential enemy ’ s command posts , communications centers , artillery and mortar batteries , the armor , including tanks , anti-tank weapons , air and ballistic missile defense systems and manpower .
The Koalitsiya-SV is armed with a 152mm gun with a rate of fire of over 10 rounds per minute , which is higher than the speed of other artillery systems .
This rate of fire is ensured by the special design of the gun-loading mechanism .
The howitzer ’ s weapon suite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kord machine-gun .
As the press office of the Uralvagonzavod defense manufacturer earlier told TASS , the trials of the latest Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery system will be completed in 2022 .

"Along with the advanced Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery gun, work is underway to develop a set of munitions of increased firepower. This effort is being carried out by specialists of the munitions industry as part of separate R&D work," he said.
MOSCOW, July 3. /TASS/. Russian specialists are developing a series of the most advanced munitions with improved characteristics for the latest Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery gun, Head of the Research and Design Center at the Burevestnik Central Research Institute (the howitzer’s developer) Pavel Kovalev told TASS on Friday.
The design work on the artillery gun and the development of the gun’s munitions are interrelated areas, he said.
Koalitsiya-SV vs. foreign rivals
The latest Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery system outperforms the world’s best versions by key parameters, Pavel Kovalev told TASS.
"The Koalitsiya-SV outperforms the best foreign and domestic versions by 30-70% in terms of the firing range, by 50-200% in terms of the accuracy of fire, by 50% in terms of the rate of fire and by 50-200% in terms of the time of accomplishing a combat task," he said.
An unmanned robotized combat module makes this weapon unique. A combat crew of three men operates the self-propelled vehicle in the chassis’ isolated compartment. The Koalitsiya-SV also operates an artillery gun with high ballistic properties, which ensures its large firing range.
"The accuracy of fire has been increased thanks to the onboard automated fire adjustment system based on the results of its own trajectory measurements. The required firing mode is ensured by the automated operation of the bore cooling system by a coolant injection," he said.
The 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled howitzer is designated to destroy a potential enemy’s command posts, communications centers, artillery and mortar batteries, the armor, including tanks, anti-tank weapons, air and ballistic missile defense systems and manpower.
The Koalitsiya-SV is armed with a 152mm gun with a rate of fire of over 10 rounds per minute, which is higher than the speed of other artillery systems. This rate of fire is ensured by the special design of the gun-loading mechanism. The howitzer’s weapon suite also includes a remotely-controlled station with a Kord machine-gun.
As the press office of the Uralvagonzavod defense manufacturer earlier told TASS, the trials of the latest Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled artillery system will be completed in 2022.


tass--2020-07-03--Russia’s latest air defense system to boost efficiency of repelling massive missile strike

MOSCOW , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
The delivery of the latest S-350 ‘ Vityaz ’ air defense missile system to the Russian troops will boost the efficiency of repelling massive cruise missile strikes four-fold , Russia ’ s Aerospace Force Commander-in-Chief Colonel-General Sergei Surovikin said on Friday .
`` Under the state armament program , further delivery of S-350 surface-to-air missile systems to the Aerospace Force is planned , which will help boost the efficiency of repelling an enemy ’ s massive cruise missile strikes on vital defense facilities four-fold , '' the general said .
The S-350 ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to shield administrative and political centers , the country ’ s major facilities and areas and force groupings against massive aerospace attack weapons , including cruise missiles , tactical and theater ballistic missiles , he explained .
`` As its major specifics , the system features a larger ammunition load of anti-aircraft missiles ( a four-fold increase compared to the S-400 launcher ) and increased firepower through the use of surface-to-air missiles with active homing warheads , '' the Aerospace Force commander-in-chief said .
The S-350 is also characterized by increased survivability as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an air defense battalion , he said .
The first set of S-350 systems was delivered to the Russian troops in late 2019 .
The S-350 ‘ Vityaz ’ mobile multi-channel surface-to-air missile system has been developed by the Almaz-Antey defense manufacturer .
The system is designated to defend state , industrial and military facilities and groupings of forces against the strikes of modern and future air attack weapons .
The system is capable of striking targets within a range of over 120 km and at altitudes of more than 30 km .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ march within five minutes .

MOSCOW, July 3. /TASS/. The delivery of the latest S-350 ‘Vityaz’ air defense missile system to the Russian troops will boost the efficiency of repelling massive cruise missile strikes four-fold, Russia’s Aerospace Force Commander-in-Chief Colonel-General Sergei Surovikin said on Friday.
"Under the state armament program, further delivery of S-350 surface-to-air missile systems to the Aerospace Force is planned, which will help boost the efficiency of repelling an enemy’s massive cruise missile strikes on vital defense facilities four-fold," the general said.
The S-350 ‘Vityaz’ anti-aircraft missile system is designated to shield administrative and political centers, the country’s major facilities and areas and force groupings against massive aerospace attack weapons, including cruise missiles, tactical and theater ballistic missiles, he explained.
"As its major specifics, the system features a larger ammunition load of anti-aircraft missiles (a four-fold increase compared to the S-400 launcher) and increased firepower through the use of surface-to-air missiles with active homing warheads," the Aerospace Force commander-in-chief said.
The S-350 is also characterized by increased survivability as it employs two-three multi-purpose radar stations within an air defense battalion, he said.
The first set of S-350 systems was delivered to the Russian troops in late 2019.
The S-350 ‘Vityaz’ mobile multi-channel surface-to-air missile system has been developed by the Almaz-Antey defense manufacturer. The system is designated to defend state, industrial and military facilities and groupings of forces against the strikes of modern and future air attack weapons. The system is capable of striking targets within a range of over 120 km and at altitudes of more than 30 km. The system can be deployed from a march within five minutes.


tass--2020-07-03--Free trade zone agreement between EAEU, Israel to be concluded in 2020

MOSCOW , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
The free trade zone agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union ( EAEU ) and Israel may be concluded this year , Israel ’ s Charge d'Affaires Yacov Livne said in an interview aired by the Rossiya-24 TV news channel on Friday .
`` One important issue that we are addressing is a free trade zone between Israel and the Eurasian Economic Union .
I think there are all possibilities to finalize the talks this year , sign [ the agreement ] and implement it , '' the Israeli diplomat said .
`` That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our bilateral economic relations , '' he added .
The Eurasian Economic Union entered earlier into free trade zone agreements with Vietnam , Singapore and Serbia .
A temporary agreement with Iran has been signed , leading to creation of a free trade zone .
The talks on entering into free trade zone agreements with Egypt , Israel and Argentina are underway .
Jordan and Thailand have initiated creation of a free trade zone with the Union .
All in all , around 50 proposals have been received from various countries and integrations @ @ @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, July 3. /TASS/. The free trade zone agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Israel may be concluded this year, Israel’s Charge d'Affaires Yacov Livne said in an interview aired by the Rossiya-24 TV news channel on Friday.
"One important issue that we are addressing is a free trade zone between Israel and the Eurasian Economic Union. I think there are all possibilities to finalize the talks this year, sign [the agreement] and implement it," the Israeli diplomat said.
"That will also provide an important impetus to our bilateral economic relations," he added.
The Eurasian Economic Union entered earlier into free trade zone agreements with Vietnam, Singapore and Serbia. A temporary agreement with Iran has been signed, leading to creation of a free trade zone. The talks on entering into free trade zone agreements with Egypt, Israel and Argentina are underway. Jordan and Thailand have initiated creation of a free trade zone with the Union. All in all, around 50 proposals have been received from various countries and integrations on establishing partnership relations with EAEU.


tass--2020-07-03--Russian radiation monitoring system registers no emergencies — Kremlin

`` Russia has a rather advanced monitoring system , and no emergencies were registered , '' Peskov said .
He @ @ @ @ @ increased radiation level was registered at all to specialists .
According to the spokesman , @ @ @ @ @ Kremlin ’ s concern .
Peskov also recalled the International Atomic Energy Agency ( IAEA @ @ @ @ @ the registered level of radiation poses no threat for the population .
On June 26 @ @ @ @ @ the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization announced that , on June 23 , its international monitoring @ @ @ @ @ , cesium-137 and ruthenium-103 isotopes over Northeastern part of Europe .
The IAEA underscored that @ @ @ @ @ particles in the air is very low and poses no danger for human health and @ @ @ @ @ , the IAEA announced that the elevated radiation level may be connected to works at @ @ @ @ @ the source ’ s geographic location is still undetermined .

"Russia has a rather advanced monitoring system, and no emergencies were registered," Peskov said.
He redirected the question of whether increased radiation level was registered at all to specialists. According to the spokesman, nothing happened that could cause Kremlin’s concern. Peskov also recalled the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’s statement that the registered level of radiation poses no threat for the population.
On June 26, the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization announced that, on June 23, its international monitoring system detected exceedance of cesium-134, cesium-137 and ruthenium-103 isotopes over Northeastern part of Europe. The IAEA underscored that the observed concentration of radioactive particles in the air is very low and poses no danger for human health and the environment.
On Thursday, the IAEA announced that the elevated radiation level may be connected to works at a nuclear reactor, but the source’s geographic location is still undetermined.


tass--2020-07-03--Russian envoy to Sweden calls for normalization of relations

STOCKHOLM , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
Sweden needs to normalize relations with Russia , said Viktor Tatarintsev , ambassador to the Scandinavian nation in an interview with the Dagens Nyheter newspaper .
He recalled that Russia repeatedly made attempts to improve relations with Sweden , expressing its readiness to discuss issues of security and easing tensions , adding that he does not understand what prevents such a development .
`` It is difficult to talk about normal security both for Sweden and the entire Europe in absence of normal relations with Russia .
You must talk to us .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ this , this is your problem , not ours , '' he noted .
`` Swedes will not feel like they live in normal conditions until they improve their relations with Russia . ''
`` Olof Palme [ Prime Minister of Sweden , assassinated in 1986 ] , definitely advocated a dialogue ; the same was true for the bourgeois parties .
Of course , there were serious crises , such as the U-137 [ a Soviet submarine that grounded near Karlskrona in 1981 ] .
But there has always been willingness for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ automatically referring to the events in Crimea and Ukraine , '' the Russian diplomat continued .
The diplomat expressed his regret not only regarding the Swedish authorities ’ unwillingness to conduct a dialogue with Moscow , but also about the one-sided negative coverage of Russia in the Swedish media .
`` When adoption of a new Constitution in Russia is being presented as a ‘ constitutional coup , ’ I think Sweden and the Swedish journalists should scrutinize their own conditions .
It was only during the 2018 general election that Sweden invited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which , importantly , happened owing to Russia ’ s steps in the OSCE , '' Tatarintsev said .
He also called the discussion of the `` Russsian misinformation and influence operations , directed against Sweden '' stupid and laughable .
He recalled that ahead of the 2018 elections a lot was said about how Russia would seek to influence them , but later the prime minister acknowledged that no such attempts were made .
`` Then why Swedish politicians and the media draw the attention of the Swedish people to non-existent @ @ @ @ @ @ @

STOCKHOLM, July 3. /TASS/. Sweden needs to normalize relations with Russia, said Viktor Tatarintsev, ambassador to the Scandinavian nation in an interview with the Dagens Nyheter newspaper.
He recalled that Russia repeatedly made attempts to improve relations with Sweden, expressing its readiness to discuss issues of security and easing tensions, adding that he does not understand what prevents such a development.
"It is difficult to talk about normal security both for Sweden and the entire Europe in absence of normal relations with Russia. You must talk to us. And if you don’t understand this, this is your problem, not ours," he noted. "Swedes will not feel like they live in normal conditions until they improve their relations with Russia."
"Olof Palme [Prime Minister of Sweden, assassinated in 1986], definitely advocated a dialogue; the same was true for the bourgeois parties. Of course, there were serious crises, such as the U-137 [a Soviet submarine that grounded near Karlskrona in 1981]. But there has always been willingness for discussion. Today, the politicians keep automatically referring to the events in Crimea and Ukraine," the Russian diplomat continued.
Coverage of Russia in media
The diplomat expressed his regret not only regarding the Swedish authorities’ unwillingness to conduct a dialogue with Moscow, but also about the one-sided negative coverage of Russia in the Swedish media.
"When adoption of a new Constitution in Russia is being presented as a ‘constitutional coup,’ I think Sweden and the Swedish journalists should scrutinize their own conditions. It was only during the 2018 general election that Sweden invited foreign observers for the first time ever, which, importantly, happened owing to Russia’s steps in the OSCE," Tatarintsev said.
He also called the discussion of the "Russsian misinformation and influence operations, directed against Sweden" stupid and laughable. He recalled that ahead of the 2018 elections a lot was said about how Russia would seek to influence them, but later the prime minister acknowledged that no such attempts were made.
"Then why Swedish politicians and the media draw the attention of the Swedish people to non-existent threats?" the envoy questioned.


tass--2020-07-03--Putin, Lukashenko discussed bilateral relations, international issues in Rzhev

MOSCOW , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
Presidents of Russia And Belarus Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko discussed bilateral issues , integration and international affairs during their June 30 meeting in Rzhev , where a memorial to the Soviet Soldier was opened that day , Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists Friday .
`` The Presidents had an chance to exchange their opinions , a short communication di indeed take place : the presidents discussed bilateral relations , issues of integration and generally exchanged their opinions on the international issues , '' the spokesman said .
Earlier , Putin sent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with the Independence Day .
`` I am certain we will be able to together ensure further improvement of Russian-Belarusian ties in all fields , as well as a constructive cooperation within the Union State , the Eurasian Economic Union , the OSCE and the CIS .
This , undoubtedly , is within the basic interest of the brotherly nations of our countries , '' Putin underscored .
He noted that the relations between Russia and Belarus `` develop in the spirit of friendship and alliance , '' that a productive bilateral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a coordination of efforts on defense and foreign policy .
Large-scaled joint projects on trade , humanitarian , scientific and other fields are also underway , the President said .

MOSCOW, July 3. /TASS/. Presidents of Russia And Belarus Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko discussed bilateral issues, integration and international affairs during their June 30 meeting in Rzhev, where a memorial to the Soviet Soldier was opened that day, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists Friday.
"The Presidents had an chance to exchange their opinions, a short communication di indeed take place: the presidents discussed bilateral relations, issues of integration and generally exchanged their opinions on the international issues," the spokesman said.
Earlier, Putin sent a telegram to Lukashenko, congratulating him, with the Independence Day.
"I am certain we will be able to together ensure further improvement of Russian-Belarusian ties in all fields, as well as a constructive cooperation within the Union State, the Eurasian Economic Union, the OSCE and the CIS. This, undoubtedly, is within the basic interest of the brotherly nations of our countries," Putin underscored.
He noted that the relations between Russia and Belarus "develop in the spirit of friendship and alliance," that a productive bilateral cooperation has been established, as well as a coordination of efforts on defense and foreign policy. Large-scaled joint projects on trade, humanitarian, scientific and other fields are also underway, the President said.


tass--2020-07-03--Press review: US may use terror sponsor label against Russia and what about the amendments

Nezavisimaya Gazeta : US seeks to cobble together new sanctions against Russia Donald Trump has ordered the leadership of two key US intelligence agencies — the CIA and the National Security Agency — to disclose the available information to the United States Congress on the alleged collusion of Russia ’ s military intelligence and the Taliban .
Nevertheless , without waiting for a briefing by any intelligence agency , the Democrats demanded sanctions against Russia .
According to Nezavisimaya Gazeta , Washington might brand Russia as a country that sponsors terrorism .
It is easy to assume what kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the newspaper wrote .
In June , the Republican Study Committee ( RSC ) , a caucus of conservative members of the Republican Party in the US House of Representatives , presented a report to the lower house of Congress .
The document states that all the measures that the American authorities took to contain Russia failed to bear any fruit .
Therefore , Republican congressmen consider it necessary to introduce new sanctions — in particular , the report proposes cutting off Russia from SWIFT , imposing sanctions against Russian sovereign debt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the former USSR .
According to chief researcher at the Institute of US and Canada Studies Vladimir Vasiliev , there are a lot of chances for the bill recognizing Russia as a sponsor of terrorism to be adopted early .
This will happen if , of course , American intelligence actually digs up and presents some evidence indicating that Russia was in collusion with the Taliban .
At the moment , Iran , Sudan , Syria , and North Korea are designated as nations that sponsor terrorism in the United States .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of special sanctions on them : for example , banning sales of dual-use goods .
Finally , victims of terrorism may file lawsuits against countries that sponsor terrorism with US courts .
So , relatives of American soldiers who died in Afghanistan will have the right to sue Russia and seize its property and the property of citizens of Russia , which will be in the reach of the American justice system .
Izvestia : Russia to change dozens of laws for new constitutional norms Amendments to the Russian Constitution approved by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roughly 70 laws , a working group on the Constitution told Izvestia .
According to the estimates of the Federation Council , about 90 regulatory legal acts may be changed .
These issues will be discussed at a meeting of the working group with President Vladimir Putin on Friday , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed .
Meanwhile , the Central Election Commission summed up the final results of the nationwide vote , indicating that 77.92 % of Russians supported the amendments .
The adopted amendments require a detailed study of industry-specific laws .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal uncertainty , Co-Chair of the Working Group to Draft Proposals on Amending the Constitution Andrei Klishas told Izvestia .
These and other issues will be discussed at a meeting of the constitutional working group with the participation of the president , member of the working group Yaroslav Nilov told the newspaper .
`` It is obvious that the adopted changes will serve as an impulse for adjusting the legal framework .
In total , it is planned to change about 70 laws , '' Nilov said .
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 .
The final voting results have been counted and the changes were supported by 77.92 % , while 21.27 % voted against , with a total voter turnout of 67.97 % .
This clearly shows that Russians are extremely interested in participating in the political process , Klishas told Izvestia .
The procedures helped spur the activity of the population .
`` Increasing the number of days for voting from one to several is good experience , but that needs to be further studied and summarized , '' Klishas believes .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and distance voting turned out to be very successful , General Director of the Russian Public Opinion Research Center Valery Fedorov told Izvestia .
Not only did a simplified procedure ensure such active participation , but people voted because they found in the package of laws something important for themselves , the expert said .
For example , many people are concerned about social guarantees .
Of course , the pandemic also made its contribution , since the routine of the recent months has spurred some to go to the polls , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiations with Moscow to resolve the territorial issue and sign a peace treaty , Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga announced recently .
Meanwhile , the new amendments to the Russian constitution imply the inviolability of the country 's borders .
Experts told Nezavisimaya Gazeta that a later stipulation included in the amendment allows territorial shifts in connection with the demarcation or delimitation of the border , which could theoretically open up the possibility of an agreement .
Tokyo 's main position on the Kurils remains unchanged .
At the same time , Moscow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the South Kuril ridge is secured and is not subject to revision .
Recent events do not add optimism towards settling the dispute , the newspaper wrote .
`` Currently , the negotiations are in limbo .
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe last met at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September 2019 .
This year , they spoke on the phone .
And since then there have been no contacts between them .
This may be due to the fact that it is not possible to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the South Kuril Islands .
And without consent on this topic , there won ’ t be any progress on the key issues , '' Head of the Center for Japanese Studies at the Institute of the Far East of the Russian Academy of Sciences Valery Kistanov told the newspaper .
According to the expert , this uncertainty is reinforced by the fact that Abe and Putin agreed to resolve this issue themselves .
However , Abe 's term of office will expire in September 2021 , and it is unlikely that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the expert believes .
As for now , however , Japanese Ambassador to Russia Toyohisa Kozuki said that Tokyo is interested in continuing active contacts with Moscow on a peace treaty .
Russia ’ s transportation watchdog has uncovered more than 500 violations of anti-epidemic recommendations at airports and airlines over a period of three weeks in June , Kommersant wrote .
Most often , passengers , as well as airport and airline staff , forget to wear masks and gloves .
In addition , not at all airports check the temperature of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and at times not even when boarding a flight .
Experts consider some of these recommendations , in particular double temperature checks , redundant , but they say that they can not be completely abandoned .
In particular , Pobeda , S7 , Azimut , and Nord Star do not monitor the body temperature of passengers even those with symptoms of infectious diseases .
An inspection at Sheremetyevo Airport revealed border guards and aviation security officers working without masks and gloves .
The Transport Ministry said it does not plan to supplement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sanitary safety during passenger transportation .
The Ministry ’ s requirements in some cases are contradictory , Executive Director of Aviaport Agency Oleg Panteleev told Kommersant .
`` Thoroughly implementing the recommendations leads to delayed procedures , increased boarding times and heightened passenger anxiety .
Temperature checks immediately before boarding create lines and increase the time when passengers are in close proximity to each other , '' he noted .
On the other hand , widespread violations of safety rules reduce the level of confidence in the epidemiological safety of air transport , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some recommendations can be mitigated , for example , double temperature checks , while others should be monitored more strictly .
Vedomosti : Moscow ’ s non-food trade recovers by 70 % in one month In the first month after the coronavirus-related restrictions were lifted , from June 1-29 , the number of visitors to Moscow ’ s shopping centers was -33.6 % when compared with June 2019 , President of the Watcom consulting company Roman Skorokhodov told Vedomosti .
During this time period , the number of visitors did not return to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Moscow and reached 70 % of the previous years , President of the Russian Union of Shopping Centers Dmitry Moskalenko told the newspaper .
In his opinion , this is due to changes in consumer behavior .
Sales of clothes and shoes , inaccessible to buyers in April and May , are witnessing the fastest recovery .
According to Watcom , in June , traffic in clothing and footwear stores recovered by almost 73 % .
Representatives of international and youth fashion brands , sports and children 's goods are experiencing upbeat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interest in shoes , Columbus Mall Commercial Director Maxim Lependin told Vedomosti .
June sales in electronics and home appliances stores also exceeded the figures for 2019 .
The M.video-Eldorado retail group have seen sales rise compared to last year , the company ’ s representative said , in both offline and online stores .
Meanwhile , cosmetics stores are having a hard time .
Traffic and sales are growing slowly and unevenly from region to region , representative of Russian cosmetics brand Natura Siberica and Organic Shop told Vedomosti .
Not all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just 70 % of them across the country .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews .

Nezavisimaya Gazeta: US seeks to cobble together new sanctions against Russia
Donald Trump has ordered the leadership of two key US intelligence agencies — the CIA and the National Security Agency — to disclose the available information to the United States Congress on the alleged collusion of Russia’s military intelligence and the Taliban. Nevertheless, without waiting for a briefing by any intelligence agency, the Democrats demanded sanctions against Russia. According to Nezavisimaya Gazeta, Washington might brand Russia as a country that sponsors terrorism. It is easy to assume what kind of sanctions may be rolled out against Russia, the newspaper wrote. In June, the Republican Study Committee (RSC), a caucus of conservative members of the Republican Party in the US House of Representatives, presented a report to the lower house of Congress. The document states that all the measures that the American authorities took to contain Russia failed to bear any fruit. Therefore, Republican congressmen consider it necessary to introduce new sanctions — in particular, the report proposes cutting off Russia from SWIFT, imposing sanctions against Russian sovereign debt, and punishing Russia's allies in the former USSR. According to chief researcher at the Institute of US and Canada Studies Vladimir Vasiliev, there are a lot of chances for the bill recognizing Russia as a sponsor of terrorism to be adopted early. This will happen if, of course, American intelligence actually digs up and presents some evidence indicating that Russia was in collusion with the Taliban. At the moment, Iran, Sudan, Syria, and North Korea are designated as nations that sponsor terrorism in the United States. This status makes it possible to slap a number of special sanctions on them: for example, banning sales of dual-use goods. Finally, victims of terrorism may file lawsuits against countries that sponsor terrorism with US courts. So, relatives of American soldiers who died in Afghanistan will have the right to sue Russia and seize its property and the property of citizens of Russia, which will be in the reach of the American justice system. Izvestia: Russia to change dozens of laws for new constitutional norms
Read also Russia faced unprecedented opposition to constitutional amendment vote, says speaker
Amendments to the Russian Constitution approved by most Russian voters will require changes to roughly 70 laws, a working group on the Constitution told Izvestia. According to the estimates of the Federation Council, about 90 regulatory legal acts may be changed. These issues will be discussed at a meeting of the working group with President Vladimir Putin on Friday, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed. Meanwhile, the Central Election Commission summed up the final results of the nationwide vote, indicating that 77.92% of Russians supported the amendments. The adopted amendments require a detailed study of industry-specific laws. This will help avoid possible conflicts and legal uncertainty, Co-Chair of the Working Group to Draft Proposals on Amending the Constitution Andrei Klishas told Izvestia. These and other issues will be discussed at a meeting of the constitutional working group with the participation of the president, member of the working group Yaroslav Nilov told the newspaper. "It is obvious that the adopted changes will serve as an impulse for adjusting the legal framework. In total, it is planned to change about 70 laws," Nilov said. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the meeting is scheduled for July 3. The final voting results have been counted and the changes were supported by 77.92%, while 21.27% voted against, with a total voter turnout of 67.97%. This clearly shows that Russians are extremely interested in participating in the political process, Klishas told Izvestia. The procedures helped spur the activity of the population. "Increasing the number of days for voting from one to several is good experience, but that needs to be further studied and summarized," Klishas believes. The experiment with the new multi-day ballot system and distance voting turned out to be very successful, General Director of the Russian Public Opinion Research Center Valery Fedorov told Izvestia. Not only did a simplified procedure ensure such active participation, but people voted because they found in the package of laws something important for themselves, the expert said. For example, many people are concerned about social guarantees. Of course, the pandemic also made its contribution, since the routine of the recent months has spurred some to go to the polls, the expert added. Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Japan, Russia doomed to endless negotiations on Kuril Islands
Tokyo wants to continue negotiations with Moscow to resolve the territorial issue and sign a peace treaty, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga announced recently. Meanwhile, the new amendments to the Russian constitution imply the inviolability of the country's borders. Experts told Nezavisimaya Gazeta that a later stipulation included in the amendment allows territorial shifts in connection with the demarcation or delimitation of the border, which could theoretically open up the possibility of an agreement. Tokyo's main position on the Kurils remains unchanged. At the same time, Moscow has declared that Russia's sovereignty over the South Kuril ridge is secured and is not subject to revision. Recent events do not add optimism towards settling the dispute, the newspaper wrote. "Currently, the negotiations are in limbo. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe last met at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September 2019. This year, they spoke on the phone. And since then there have been no contacts between them. This may be due to the fact that it is not possible to reach a compromise on joint economic activities in the South Kuril Islands. And without consent on this topic, there won’t be any progress on the key issues," Head of the Center for Japanese Studies at the Institute of the Far East of the Russian Academy of Sciences Valery Kistanov told the newspaper. According to the expert, this uncertainty is reinforced by the fact that Abe and Putin agreed to resolve this issue themselves. However, Abe's term of office will expire in September 2021, and it is unlikely that anything will be done before that, the expert believes. As for now, however, Japanese Ambassador to Russia Toyohisa Kozuki said that Tokyo is interested in continuing active contacts with Moscow on a peace treaty. Kommersant: Aviation industry struggles with antivirus recommendations
Read also International flights from Russia may start in July


tass--2020-07-03--No decisions on reopening Russian borders as of yet, negotiations underway — Kremlin

MOSCOW , July 3./TASS/ .
Russia is discussing with certain countries reopening of borders closed amid the coronavirus pandemic , but no concrete decisions have been made as of now , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday .
`` This is a question to the response center of the government .
Contacts continue with certain states , but no concrete decisions have been made as of yet , '' Peskov said .
Due to the coronavirus pandemic , Russia was scaling down international flights from February 1 , while on March 27 all flights abroad were stopped with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flights .
The government also issued instructions to restrict from March 30 travel across automobile , railway , pedestrian and other border-crossing points .
In reply to a question about difficulties faced by foreign nationals during border crossing , emerging on Russia ’ s border with its neighbors , for example Kazakhstan , Peskov said , `` Everything that Russia can do in terms of coordinating its activity with the colleagues in respective countries is being done , but the situation is no easy sometimes , we are all well aware of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 10.8 million people have been infected worldwide and about 520,000 deaths have been reported .
To date , 667,883 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 437,893 patients having recovered from the disease .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 9,859 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, July 3./TASS/. Russia is discussing with certain countries reopening of borders closed amid the coronavirus pandemic, but no concrete decisions have been made as of now, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday.
"This is a question to the response center of the government. Contacts continue with certain states, but no concrete decisions have been made as of yet," Peskov said.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Russia was scaling down international flights from February 1, while on March 27 all flights abroad were stopped with the exception of repatriation, cargo and mail flights. The government also issued instructions to restrict from March 30 travel across automobile, railway, pedestrian and other border-crossing points.
In reply to a question about difficulties faced by foreign nationals during border crossing on Russia’s border with its neighbors, for example Kazakhstan, Peskov said, "Everything that Russia can do in terms of coordinating its activity with the colleagues in respective countries is being done, but the situation is no easy sometimes, we are all well aware of this."
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 10.8 million people have been infected worldwide and about 520,000 deaths have been reported.
To date, 667,883 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 437,893 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 9,859 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-07-03--Russia’s Central Election Commission approves results of constitutional vote

According to the document , a total of 77.92 % of voters supported the amendments and 21.27 % voted `` no . ''
Overall voter turnout was 67.97 % .
`` Here is the CEC ’ s draft ruling on the results of the nationwide vote on constitutional amendments .
According to the document , constitutional amendments , envisaged by Article 1 of the law on the amendment to the Russian Constitution and backed by more than half of Russian nationals in the nationwide vote , are considered to be approved , '' CEC Chairperson Ella Pamfilova announced .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pass the ruling .
The CEC chairperson pointed out that a total of 109,190,337 Russians had registered to participate in the vote .
`` As many as 74,215,555 people - 67.97 % - took part in the vote , '' she specified , adding that 57,747,288 voters had supported the amendments .
`` Only two members of election commissions , who represent the Communist Party , refused to sign the final protocols in the Altai and Khanty-Mansiysk regions , '' Pamfilova noted .
`` The CEC received 15 special opinions from members of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filed by the Communist Party .
These don ’ t refer to actual irregularities and did not prevent the commissions ’ members from voting to sign the protocols , '' the CEC chairperson said .
The Russian president 's decree set July 1 as the official voting day , but Russians were provided with the opportunity to cast their ballots on June 25-30 in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus .
According to the law , the amendments will enter into force if over half of those taking part in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimum voter turnout .

According to the document, a total of 77.92% of voters supported the amendments and 21.27% voted "no." Overall voter turnout was 67.97%.
"Here is the CEC’s draft ruling on the results of the nationwide vote on constitutional amendments. According to the document, constitutional amendments, envisaged by Article 1 of the law on the amendment to the Russian Constitution and backed by more than half of Russian nationals in the nationwide vote, are considered to be approved," CEC Chairperson Ella Pamfilova announced.
The commission’s members voted unanimously to pass the ruling.
The CEC chairperson pointed out that a total of 109,190,337 Russians had registered to participate in the vote. "As many as 74,215,555 people - 67.97% - took part in the vote," she specified, adding that 57,747,288 voters had supported the amendments.
"Only two members of election commissions, who represent the Communist Party, refused to sign the final protocols in the Altai and Khanty-Mansiysk regions," Pamfilova noted. "The CEC received 15 special opinions from members of regional commissions, 11 of which were filed by the Communist Party. These don’t refer to actual irregularities and did not prevent the commissions’ members from voting to sign the protocols," the CEC chairperson said.
The Russian president's decree set July 1 as the official voting day, but Russians were provided with the opportunity to cast their ballots on June 25-30 in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. According to the law, the amendments will enter into force if over half of those taking part in the vote support them. There is no minimum voter turnout.


tass--2020-07-03--No plans to take into account other countries’ ‘concerns’ about amendments — Kremlin

MOSCOW , July 3 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow has no plans to take into account other countries ’ so-called concerns about constitutional amendments approved in Russia ’ s nationwide vote , Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Friday .
According to him , Moscow is aware of critical statements that some countries have made in relation to the approved amendments .
`` However , we are not ready to take them into account , '' the Kremlin spokesman said .
He pointed out that `` Russia has definitely been and will remain committed to international law , to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' `` At the same time , Russia has been and will remain committed , first and foremost , to national sovereignty , which is in no way contrary to international law , '' Peskov stressed , adding : `` Moreover , a number of countries pursue similar practices . ''
`` We are not ready to take these so-called concerns into account and will not do it , '' the Russian presidential spokesman emphasized .
According to earlier reports , the European Union believes that the amendment asserting the primacy of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incompatible with Russia ’ s international obligations . ''
The EU ’ s foreign policy spokesman Peter Stano said in a statement : `` We expect Russia , regardless of any amendments to its constitution , to live up to its international obligations . ''

MOSCOW, July 3. /TASS/. Moscow has no plans to take into account other countries’ so-called concerns about constitutional amendments approved in Russia’s nationwide vote, Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Friday.
According to him, Moscow is aware of critical statements that some countries have made in relation to the approved amendments. "However, we are not ready to take them into account," the Kremlin spokesman said. He pointed out that "Russia has definitely been and will remain committed to international law, to the letter and spirit of international law."
"At the same time, Russia has been and will remain committed, first and foremost, to national sovereignty, which is in no way contrary to international law," Peskov stressed, adding: "Moreover, a number of countries pursue similar practices."
"We are not ready to take these so-called concerns into account and will not do it," the Russian presidential spokesman emphasized.
According to earlier reports, the European Union believes that the amendment asserting the primacy of the Russian Constitution over international law is "incompatible with Russia’s international obligations." The EU’s foreign policy spokesman Peter Stano said in a statement: "We expect Russia, regardless of any amendments to its constitution, to live up to its international obligations."