tass--2020-12-17--Volume of land transactions in Hainan's Sanya increased by 10% over the year

HAIKOU , December 17 .
/TASS/ .
The volume of commercial transactions with land for business projects in Hainan 's Sanya has grown by about 10 % since the beginning of 2020 to 13.7 billion yuan ( about $ 2 billion at the current exchange rate ) , reported the city administration for natural resources and planning .
According to the authorities , in November alone , the Sanya administration organized the sale of land with an area of 217,100 square meters .
This territory was occupied by strategically important companies , thanks to which , according to the official @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its position as one of the key development centers of Hainan 's free trade port .
Investors are showing growing interest in Sanya 's Central Business District .
Thus , just over the past month , five spots located there with a total area of 73,900 square meters intended for sale , were put up for auction with the subsequent registration of commercial projects .
Buyers estimated their value at more than 2.16 billion yuan ( $ 330 million ) .
Commercial buildings will appear on this territory , which will be equipped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ companies .
One of the main tasks is to turn this part of Hainan into a developed financial and economic cluster , where modern commercial services will be provided , which are in demand both in the countries of the Asia-Pacific region and around the world .
Local experts highlight a noticeable increase in foreign business interest in Sanya , which is gradually playing an increasingly important role in the development of Southeast Asia .
`` Hainan 's free trade port is attracting more and more foreign investors , many of them opening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said a spokesman for the Municipal Natural Resources Administration .
According to the official , this year there has been a real `` investment boom '' , which , as the authorities expect , will soon lead to an economic boom through the development of several priority sectors .

HAIKOU, December 17. /TASS/. The volume of commercial transactions with land for business projects in Hainan's Sanya has grown by about 10% since the beginning of 2020 to 13.7 billion yuan (about $ 2 billion at the current exchange rate), reported the city administration for natural resources and planning.
According to the authorities, in November alone, the Sanya administration organized the sale of land with an area of 217,100 square meters. This territory was occupied by strategically important companies, thanks to which, according to the official plan, the city will sharply enhance its position as one of the key development centers of Hainan's free trade port.
Investors are showing growing interest in Sanya's Central Business District. Thus, just over the past month, five spots located there with a total area of 73,900 square meters intended for sale, were put up for auction with the subsequent registration of commercial projects. Buyers estimated their value at more than 2.16 billion yuan ($ 330 million). Commercial buildings will appear on this territory, which will be equipped with prestigious apartments and offices of big companies.
One of the main tasks is to turn this part of Hainan into a developed financial and economic cluster, where modern commercial services will be provided, which are in demand both in the countries of the Asia-Pacific region and around the world. Local experts highlight a noticeable increase in foreign business interest in Sanya, which is gradually playing an increasingly important role in the development of Southeast Asia.
"Hainan's free trade port is attracting more and more foreign investors, many of them opening offices in the Sanya Central Business District," said a spokesman for the Municipal Natural Resources Administration. According to the official, this year there has been a real "investment boom", which, as the authorities expect, will soon lead to an economic boom through the development of several priority sectors.


tass--2020-12-17--Russia working on ‘antidote’ against other countries’ future hypersonic weapons — Putin

MOSCOW , December 17 .
/TASS/ .
Russia is currently working on systems of countering hypersonic weapons , which other countries still do not have , Russian President Vladimir Putin said at his annual press conference on Thursday .
The Russian president recalled that the United States had worked on the concept of a quick disarming strike by precision weapons on command posts .
`` Precision weapons are available but there are no hypersonic weapons yet .
They will create them , of course .
This is absolutely obvious and , as I have already said , we are preparing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about what we are working on .
We are working , among other things , on the ‘ antidote ’ against future hypersonic weapons in other countries , in the world ’ s other leading armies .
I am confident that we will do that and we are on the right way , '' Putin said .
Chief of Russia ’ s Air Defense Forces Lieutenant-General Alexander Leonov earlier said that the S-300 surface-to-air missile system had proven its capability of destroying hypersonic targets during military-technical experiments .
The latest S-500 air defense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also be capable of striking hypersonic targets .
The work on the S-500 is set to be completed in 2021 .
The S-500 is currently undergoing state trials .

MOSCOW, December 17. /TASS/. Russia is currently working on systems of countering hypersonic weapons, which other countries still do not have, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at his annual press conference on Thursday.
The Russian president recalled that the United States had worked on the concept of a quick disarming strike by precision weapons on command posts.
"Precision weapons are available but there are no hypersonic weapons yet. They will create them, of course. This is absolutely obvious and, as I have already said, we are preparing for this. You have now asked about what we are working on. We are working, among other things, on the ‘antidote’ against future hypersonic weapons in other countries, in the world’s other leading armies. I am confident that we will do that and we are on the right way," Putin said.
Chief of Russia’s Air Defense Forces Lieutenant-General Alexander Leonov earlier said that the S-300 surface-to-air missile system had proven its capability of destroying hypersonic targets during military-technical experiments.
The latest S-500 air defense system currently being developed in Russia will also be capable of striking hypersonic targets. The work on the S-500 is set to be completed in 2021. The S-500 is currently undergoing state trials.


tass--2020-12-17--No conspiracy in Ivan Safronov case, particularly against Roscosmos head, Putin assures

MOSCOW , December 17 .
/TASS/ .
There is no conspiracy theory , particularly against head of Roscosmos ( Russian space agency ) Dmitry Rogozin , in the case of his advisor Ivan Safronov , Russian President Vladimir Putin told reporters following his annual press conference .
`` This is utter nonsense .
Why pressure Rogozin ?
He is an official and is working well today , let him continue .
If he doesn ’ t want to work or is working badly , we will change him .
There is nothing significant here .
There is no conspiracy theory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it out of your head , '' Putin noted .
At the same time , the Russian leader believes that the Roscosmos chief works well .
`` By the way , he is gaining momentum as the head of Roscosmos , '' Putin pointed out .
The president added that he understands many know Safronov personally .
`` However , if he consciously collected and consciously handed over [ confidential information ] , being aware what and to whom he hands over , then , sorry , but he should answer .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Putin stressed , adding that Safronov should receive an apology if they fail to do so .

MOSCOW, December 17. /TASS/. There is no conspiracy theory, particularly against head of Roscosmos (Russian space agency) Dmitry Rogozin, in the case of his advisor Ivan Safronov, Russian President Vladimir Putin told reporters following his annual press conference.
"This is utter nonsense. Why pressure Rogozin? He is an official and is working well today, let him continue. If he doesn’t want to work or is working badly, we will change him. There is nothing significant here. There is no conspiracy theory, it is complete nonsense. Get it out of your head," Putin noted.
At the same time, the Russian leader believes that the Roscosmos chief works well. "By the way, he is gaining momentum as the head of Roscosmos," Putin pointed out.
The president added that he understands many know Safronov personally. "However, if he consciously collected and consciously handed over [confidential information], being aware what and to whom he hands over, then, sorry, but he should answer. The investigation and security services should prove it," Putin stressed, adding that Safronov should receive an apology if they fail to do so.


tass--2020-12-17--No coronavirus lockdowns planned in Russia - Putin

MOSCOW , December 17 .
/TASS/ .
No total coronavirus lockdowns will be imposed in Russia if people abide by @ @ @ @ @ Vladimir Putin said on Thursday .
`` This is not planned [ to impose lockdowns @ @ @ @ @ say there is no need for that .
< … > If we abide by @ @ @ @ @ the sanitary doctor , we won ’ t need any lockdowns , '' he told @ @ @ @ @ conference .
The president noted that although coronavirus incidence rates in Russia are still high @ @ @ @ @ , they have reached the plateau .
`` That is , we are aren ’ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .

MOSCOW, December 17. /TASS/. No total coronavirus lockdowns will be imposed in Russia if people abide by sanitary requirements, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.
"This is not planned [to impose lockdowns], and I can say there is no need for that. <…> If we abide by the rules and recommendations of the sanitary doctor, we won’t need any lockdowns," he told journalists after his annual news conference.
The president noted that although coronavirus incidence rates in Russia are still high, but according to experts, they have reached the plateau. "That is, we are aren’t seeing any dramatic growth," he said.


tass--2020-12-17--Trump not going to abandon US politics, Putin thinks

MOSCOW , December 17 .
/TASS/ .
Incumbent US President Donald Trump enjoys wide support in his country and , as far as Moscow understands , is not going to leave politics , Russian President Vladimir Putin said at his annual press conference on Thursday .
In response to a question which post the American leader can now count on with the Russian support , Putin noted that `` there is no necessity '' for Trump to get employed .
`` Almost 50 % of the population voted for him if one counts the number of voters , not electors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` He has a rather large base of support inside the United States and , as far as I understand , he is not going to leave the political life of his country , '' he added .
On December 14 , the US Electoral College convened and confirmed Biden ’ s election victory .
The Democrat received 306 votes , while incumbent President Donald Trump secured 232 votes .
With 538 electors , a candidate needs to get 270 votes to be elected to the office of President of the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has still not conceded , said that he would leave the White House only if the Electoral College voted for Biden .
In light of this remark , the procedure which is normally considered a formality drew enormous media spotlight .

MOSCOW, December 17. /TASS/. Incumbent US President Donald Trump enjoys wide support in his country and, as far as Moscow understands, is not going to leave politics, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at his annual press conference on Thursday.
In response to a question which post the American leader can now count on with the Russian support, Putin noted that "there is no necessity" for Trump to get employed. "Almost 50% of the population voted for him if one counts the number of voters, not electors," the Russian president reiterated. "He has a rather large base of support inside the United States and, as far as I understand, he is not going to leave the political life of his country," he added.
On December 14, the US Electoral College convened and confirmed Biden’s election victory. The Democrat received 306 votes, while incumbent President Donald Trump secured 232 votes. With 538 electors, a candidate needs to get 270 votes to be elected to the office of President of the United States.
In late November, Trump, who has still not conceded, said that he would leave the White House only if the Electoral College voted for Biden. In light of this remark, the procedure which is normally considered a formality drew enormous media spotlight.


tass--2020-12-17--Putin says Russian hypersonic weapons’ existence impacts global situation

MOSCOW , December 17 .
/TASS/ .
The existence of Russia ’ s hypersonic missile systems influences the situation in the world and changes it , Russian President Vladimir Putin said at his annual press conference on Thursday .
Russia is developing the most advanced weapons , including the Avangard hypersonic missile system whose speed exceeds Mach 20 and the Tsirkon long-range hypersonic anti-ship cruise missile flying at over eight times the speed of sound , Putin said .
`` Moreover , it [ the Tsirkon missile ] can be placed both on stationary carriers and on surface and subsurface @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
In neutral waters .
So , you can calculate the range and the speed and everything will become clear .
Does this change and influence the situation somehow ?
Of course , it changes and influences it , '' the Russian president said .
Putin said that the work on the Tsirkon hypersonic missile had been largely completed .
The Avangard boost-glide vehicle is capable of flying at a hypersonic speed of up to Mach 27 ( about 32,000 km/h ) in the dense layers of the atmosphere , maneuvering by its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any anti-missile defense .
The first missile regiment armed with Avangard hypersonic weapons assumed combat duty in the Yasnenskaya missile division in the Orenburg Region in late 2019 .
In his State-of-the-Nation Address to the Federal Assembly in February 2019 , Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the Tsirkon was capable of developing a speed of about Mach 9 and its striking range capability could exceed 1,000 km .
The Russian leader also said that the Tsirkon could strike both naval and ground targets .

MOSCOW, December 17. /TASS/. The existence of Russia’s hypersonic missile systems influences the situation in the world and changes it, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at his annual press conference on Thursday.
Russia is developing the most advanced weapons, including the Avangard hypersonic missile system whose speed exceeds Mach 20 and the Tsirkon long-range hypersonic anti-ship cruise missile flying at over eight times the speed of sound, Putin said.
"Moreover, it [the Tsirkon missile] can be placed both on stationary carriers and on surface and subsurface ships. Where can it be placed? In neutral waters. So, you can calculate the range and the speed and everything will become clear. Does this change and influence the situation somehow? Of course, it changes and influences it," the Russian president said.
Putin said that the work on the Tsirkon hypersonic missile had been largely completed.
The Avangard boost-glide vehicle is capable of flying at a hypersonic speed of up to Mach 27 (about 32,000 km/h) in the dense layers of the atmosphere, maneuvering by its flight path and its altitude and breaching any anti-missile defense. The first missile regiment armed with Avangard hypersonic weapons assumed combat duty in the Yasny missile division in the Orenburg Region in late 2019.
In his State-of-the-Nation Address to the Federal Assembly in February 2019, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the Tsirkon was capable of developing a speed of about Mach 9 and its striking range capability could exceed 1,000 km. The Russian leader also said that the Tsirkon could strike both naval and ground targets.


tass--2020-12-17--Russia must stay self-sufficient in order to prevent rewriting of history, says Putin

MOSCOW , December 17 .
/TASS/ .
Russia must remain strong and self-sufficient - including in the economy - in order to prevent rewriting of history by foreign partners , Russian President Vladimir Putin said during the annual press conference Thursday .
One participant of the press conference noted that Russia ’ s foreign partners seek to review the events of the World War II and their meaning .
The journalist asked the president , what Russia can and will do in order to prevent the rewriting of history and to preserve the historic memory .
`` In order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rewriting at all , we must be self-sufficient , strong in every regard , and in economy above all things , '' Putin said .
According to the president , Russia must develop its internal political system and build relations with foreign partners , taking interest of all sides into account .
`` And , of course , [ Russia must not ] forget about the feat that our ancestors saturated our history with - not only during the World War II period , but during the preceding centuries , '' Putin added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proud of . ''
The President pointed out that , in order to preserve the truth about the World War II , Russia opens archives , publishes archived materials and established `` certain structures that will work on this on a regular basis .
`` .

MOSCOW, December 17. /TASS/. Russia must remain strong and self-sufficient - including in the economy - in order to prevent rewriting of history by foreign partners, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during the annual press conference Thursday.
One participant of the press conference noted that Russia’s foreign partners seek to review the events of the World War II and their meaning. The journalist asked the president, what Russia can and will do in order to prevent the rewriting of history and to preserve the historic memory.
"In order to prevent the rewriting of history and any rewriting at all, we must be self-sufficient, strong in every regard, and in economy above all things," Putin said.
According to the president, Russia must develop its internal political system and build relations with foreign partners, taking interest of all sides into account.
"And, of course, [Russia must not] forget about the feat that our ancestors saturated our history with - not only during the World War II period, but during the preceding centuries," Putin added. "We have things to be proud of."
The President pointed out that, in order to preserve the truth about the World War II, Russia opens archives, publishes archived materials and established "certain structures that will work on this on a regular basis.".


tass--2020-12-17--Putin holds annual year-end press conference

Russian President Vladimir Putin holds his customary year-end news conference on Thursday , December 17 .
This time , amid the coronavirus pandemic restrictions , the event is being held online .
Also , it incorporates some features of the question-and-answer program called Direct Line with Vladimir Putin , in which the head of state is asked questions from audiences across the nation .
Russia ’ s main TV channels have reserved three hours of airtime on their schedules , but the real duration of the news conference is impossible to forecast .
Putin ’ s tradition of holding year-end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there was a four-year hiatus May 2008 to May 2012 , when he held the prime minister ’ s seat .
After Putin ’ s election to a six year-term in 2012 , this annual event was resumed .
Putin ’ s first news conference in 2001 was also the shortest one ( one hour and 35 minutes ) , while the longest so far ( four hours and 40 minutes ) took place in 2008 .
Starting from 2004 all of Putin ’ s news conferences at the end of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours .
In 2019 , Putin spent 4 hours and 18 minutes on the podium in front of the audience to answer questions from 57 mass media outlets .

@ TASS/Ruptly
Russian President Vladimir Putin holds his customary year-end news conference on Thursday, December 17. This time, amid the coronavirus pandemic restrictions, the event is being held online. Also, it incorporates some features of the question-and-answer program called Direct Line with Vladimir Putin, in which the head of state is asked questions from audiences across the nation.
Russia’s main TV channels have reserved three hours of airtime on their schedules, but the real duration of the news conference is impossible to forecast.
Putin’s tradition of holding year-end news conferences started in 2001. However, there was a four-year hiatus May 2008 to May 2012, when he held the prime minister’s seat. After Putin’s election to a six year-term in 2012, this annual event was resumed.
Putin’s first news conference in 2001 was also the shortest one (one hour and 35 minutes), while the longest so far (four hours and 40 minutes) took place in 2008. Starting from 2004 all of Putin’s news conferences at the end of the year lasted for no less than three hours. In 2019, Putin spent 4 hours and 18 minutes on the podium in front of the audience to answer questions from 57 mass media outlets.


tass--2020-12-18--Putin’s comments caution ‘foreign circles’ aiming to derail Karabakh deal, says Aliyev

BAKU , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin ’ s remarks about Nagorno-Karabakh are an important signal to those forces that seek to prevent the implementation of the trilateral statement signed by the Russian , Azerbaijani and Armenian leaders , Azerbaijan ’ s President Ilham Aliyev said on Friday at an online meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council .
`` In an interview with the media yesterday , Vladimir Vladimirovich [ Putin ] once again pointed out that Nagorno-Karabakh is part of Azerbaijan .
This is not the first statement of this kind .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It is important for those revanchist forces in Armenia , which are trying to revise the conditions of the statement of November 10 [ November 9 Moscow time - TASS ] .
Unfortunately , there are such forces , and this is a very important signal to those who are trying to prevent the implementation of that statement .
We saw such attempts both during the war and after the statement was signed , '' Aliyev emphasized .
According to the Azerbaijani president , some `` foreign circles '' that are dissatisfied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ceasefire would similarly like to revise the terms of the deal .
`` We saw attempts by certain foreign circles , which were dissatisfied with the fact that they stayed on the sidelines , dissatisfied with the fact that Russia was instrumental in achieving the ceasefire .
They tried to muddy the waters in every possible way , and , unfortunately , they are pushing ahead with their attempts .
This is especially true of the situation in Armenia .
[ They are seeking ] to use certain levers , various infrastructure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the Soros infrastructure , in order to incite unrest in Armenian society and essentially to derail that statement , '' he said .
`` I would like to once again thank Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin for such active participation and [ his ] enormous contribution to the resolution of this conflict , '' he concluded .
On Thursday , Putin said at his annual news conference that , from the viewpoint of international law , Nagorno-Karabakh is part of Azerbaijan .
He noted that Russia adhered to that position within the OSCE Minsk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ status of the region , Putin noted that it should be unchanged now , while the issue of its definition should be solved in the future .
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27 , with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh .
Baku and Yerevan have disputed sovereignty over Nagorno-Karabakh since February 1988 , when the region announced its secession from the Azerbaijani Soviet Socialist Republic .
In the armed conflict of 1992-1994 , Azerbaijan lost control of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjoining districts .
On November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Russian President Vladimir Putin , Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10 .
Under the document , the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides stopped at the positions that they had held , and Russian peacekeepers were deployed to the region .
Later on , some districts were handed over to Azerbaijan ’ s control .
After the document was made public , opposition protests erupted in Armenia .
Opposition supporters believe that this statement essentially spells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold Pashinyan responsible for the country ’ s economic and social woes .
Opposition marches are being held in Armenia ’ s capital of Yerevan practically on a daily basis .
Given these events , Armenian President Armen Sarkissian has called for holding early parliamentary elections and transferring power to the government of national accord until then .

BAKU, December 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s remarks about Nagorno-Karabakh are an important signal to those forces that seek to prevent the implementation of the trilateral statement signed by the Russian, Azerbaijani and Armenian leaders, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev said on Friday at an online meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council.
"In an interview with the media yesterday, Vladimir Vladimirovich [Putin] once again pointed out that Nagorno-Karabakh is part of Azerbaijan. This is not the first statement of this kind. I believe this is a very important statement. It is important for those revanchist forces in Armenia, which are trying to revise the conditions of the statement of November 10 [November 9 Moscow time - TASS]. Unfortunately, there are such forces, and this is a very important signal to those who are trying to prevent the implementation of that statement. We saw such attempts both during the war and after the statement was signed," Aliyev emphasized.
According to the Azerbaijani president, some "foreign circles" that are dissatisfied with Russia’s leading role in the ceasefire would similarly like to revise the terms of the deal. "We saw attempts by certain foreign circles, which were dissatisfied with the fact that they stayed on the sidelines, dissatisfied with the fact that Russia was instrumental in achieving the ceasefire. They tried to muddy the waters in every possible way, and, unfortunately, they are pushing ahead with their attempts. This is especially true of the situation in Armenia. [They are seeking] to use certain levers, various infrastructure that has been created in Armenia, including the Soros infrastructure, in order to incite unrest in Armenian society and essentially to derail that statement," he said.
"I would like to once again thank Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin for such active participation and [his] enormous contribution to the resolution of this conflict," he concluded.
On Thursday, Putin said at his annual news conference that, from the viewpoint of international law, Nagorno-Karabakh is part of Azerbaijan. He noted that Russia adhered to that position within the OSCE Minsk Group on Nagorno-Karabakh. Referring to the status of the region, Putin noted that it should be unchanged now, while the issue of its definition should be solved in the future.
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27, with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Baku and Yerevan have disputed sovereignty over Nagorno-Karabakh since February 1988, when the region announced its secession from the Azerbaijani Soviet Socialist Republic. In the armed conflict of 1992-1994, Azerbaijan lost control of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjoining districts.
On November 9 (November 10 Baku time), Russian President Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10. Under the document, the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides stopped at the positions that they had held, and Russian peacekeepers were deployed to the region. Later on, some districts were handed over to Azerbaijan’s control.
After the document was made public, opposition protests erupted in Armenia. Opposition supporters believe that this statement essentially spells Armenia’s surrender, and they hold Pashinyan responsible for the country’s economic and social woes. Opposition marches are being held in Armenia’s capital of Yerevan practically on a daily basis. Given these events, Armenian President Armen Sarkissian has called for holding early parliamentary elections and transferring power to the government of national accord until then.


tass--2020-12-18--Bulgaria declares Russian diplomat persona non grata

SOFIA , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Bulgarian authorities have declared a Russian diplomat persona non grata , Russian @ @ @ @ @ told TASS on Friday .
`` We have received the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry ’ s @ @ @ @ @ We were told that he had to leave the country in 72 hours .
The @ @ @ @ @ reserves the right to take retaliatory action , '' Makarov said .
The Bulgarian Foreign @ @ @ @ @ country ’ s prosecution had accused the Russian diplomat of espionage and he had been @ @ @ @ @

SOFIA, December 18. /TASS/. The Bulgarian authorities have declared a Russian diplomat persona non grata, Russian Ambassador to Sofia Anatoly Makarov told TASS on Friday.
"We have received the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry’s note without further comments. We were told that he had to leave the country in 72 hours. The situation looks absurd. Russia reserves the right to take retaliatory action," Makarov said.
The Bulgarian Foreign Ministry said earlier that the country’s prosecution had accused the Russian diplomat of espionage and he had been declared persona non grata.


tass--2020-12-18--Peskov admits has no details on investigation of Boris Nemtsov’s assassination

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he can not share the details of the assassination of politician Boris Nemtsov .
The spokesman believes that this topic could be raised again during upcoming Vladimir Putin ’ s events .
During his December 10 meeting with the Human Rights Council , the president mentioned that the investigation of Nemtsov ’ s assassination could be expanded .
At the same time , the president noted that everything is clear about this crime , that both the assassins and the instigators have been found .
On Friday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what exactly Putin had in mind .
`` Unfortunately , I can not answer this question , I simply do not have this information , '' the spokesman confessed .
`` The president will have contacts with journalists , the media , public figures , human rights activists .
They would be able to refresh this issue , '' Peskov believes .
Boris Nemtsov , co-chairman of the Parnas political party was shot on February 27 , 2015 near Moscow Kremlin .
On July 13 , 2017 , the Moscow District military court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anzor and Shadid Gubashev , Temirlan Eskerkhanov and Khamzat Bakhayev - to between 11 and 20 years in prison .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he cannot share the details of the assassination of politician Boris Nemtsov. The spokesman believes that this topic could be raised again during upcoming Vladimir Putin’s events.
During his December 10 meeting with the Human Rights Council, the president mentioned that the investigation of Nemtsov’s assassination could be expanded. At the same time, the president noted that everything is clear about this crime, that both the assassins and the instigators have been found.
On Friday, the journalists asked Peskov to elaborate on what exactly Putin had in mind.
"Unfortunately, I cannot answer this question, I simply do not have this information," the spokesman confessed.
"The president will have contacts with journalists, the media, public figures, human rights activists. They would be able to refresh this issue," Peskov believes.
Boris Nemtsov, co-chairman of the Parnas political party was shot on February 27, 2015 near Moscow Kremlin. On July 13, 2017, the Moscow District military court sentenced the assassins - Zaur Dadayev, Anzor and Shadid Gubashev, Temirlan Eskerkhanov and Khamzat Bakhayev - to between 11 and 20 years in prison.


tass--2020-12-18--Vladimir Putin still does not use smartphone, spokesman says

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin still does not use a smartphone , although he does use the Internet from time to time , Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station .
Not possible to work there : Kremlin says Putin ‘ too vigorous to hunker down in any bunker ’ While Putin does occasionally use the Internet , the head of state does not have too much time , Peskov said , answering a question whether Putin was able to read numerous online publications about himself and his surroundings .
Kremlin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few days , Putin was preparing for the press conference , dealt with the pressing state issues , including food prices .
Speaking about the recent publications regarding blogger Alexey Navalny , Peskov noted that , should he have tried to `` take this nonsense to the president , '' Putin `` would have said everything that is supposed to be said at moments like this . ''
When asked , what is supposed to be said at moments like this , Peskov noted that this is not to be said on air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be behind fake news about Putin ’ s personal life , Peskov noted that some recently published materials `` have some foreign intelligence agencies all over them , '' but refrained from naming those foreign countries .
On Thursday , Putin named US State Department and US intelligence agencies as authors of fake news about him and his family .
`` The goal of these publications is clear .
Their goal is revenge .
And an attempt to sway the public opinion in our country in order to meddle , of course , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president said .
`` They [ fake news ] were always there , it is a form of informational standoff that is going on , '' he underscored .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin still does not use a smartphone, although he does use the Internet from time to time, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station.
Not possible to work there: Kremlin says Putin ‘too vigorous to hunker down in any bunker’
While Putin does occasionally use the Internet, the head of state does not have too much time, Peskov said, answering a question whether Putin was able to read numerous online publications about himself and his surroundings.
Kremlin spokesman reminded that, during the last few days, Putin was preparing for the press conference, dealt with the pressing state issues, including food prices. Speaking about the recent publications regarding blogger Alexey Navalny, Peskov noted that, should he have tried to "take this nonsense to the president," Putin "would have said everything that is supposed to be said at moments like this."
When asked, what is supposed to be said at moments like this, Peskov noted that this is not to be said on air.
Answering a question regarding who may be behind fake news about Putin’s personal life, Peskov noted that some recently published materials "have some foreign intelligence agencies all over them," but refrained from naming those foreign countries.
On Thursday, Putin named US State Department and US intelligence agencies as authors of fake news about him and his family.
"The goal of these publications is clear. Their goal is revenge. And an attempt to sway the public opinion in our country in order to meddle, of course, in our internal political life," the president said.
"They [fake news] were always there, it is a form of informational standoff that is going on," he underscored.


tass--2020-12-18--Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Belarus exceeds 169,000

MINSK , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
As many as 1,917 more novel coronavirus cases were confirmed in Belarus in the past day , with the overall number of such cases exceeding 169,000 , the health ministry reported on Friday .
`` As many as 169,648 people , or 1.8 % of the country ’ s population , have tested positive for COVID-19 , '' it said , adding that the daily tally was 1,917 .
`` A total of 1,308 coronavirus patients with a number of chronic diseases have died since the epidemic outbreak , '' it said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the past day .
According to the latest update , as many as 147,316 coronavirus patients have recovered from the disease , including 1,919 during the day .
A total of 3,718,238 tests for the novel coronavirus have been conducted in the country since the epidemic outbreak , including 30,059 during the past day .
Belarus did not impose any coronavirus lockdowns , with mass gathering not being banned .
The authorities pledge that the country ’ s public health system is prepared for the second wave of the epidemic .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks in public places .
A vaccination campaign as part of post-registration tests of the Russian Sputnik V anti-coronavirus vaccine kicked off in Belarus from October 1 .

MINSK, December 18. /TASS/. As many as 1,917 more novel coronavirus cases were confirmed in Belarus in the past day, with the overall number of such cases exceeding 169,000, the health ministry reported on Friday.
"As many as 169,648 people, or 1.8% of the country’s population, have tested positive for COVID-19," it said, adding that the daily tally was 1,917.
"A total of 1,308 coronavirus patients with a number of chronic diseases have died since the epidemic outbreak," it said, adding that ten such deaths were reported during the past day. According to the latest update, as many as 147,316 coronavirus patients have recovered from the disease, including 1,919 during the day. A total of 3,718,238 tests for the novel coronavirus have been conducted in the country since the epidemic outbreak, including 30,059 during the past day.
Belarus did not impose any coronavirus lockdowns, with mass gathering not being banned. The authorities pledge that the country’s public health system is prepared for the second wave of the epidemic. However, people are requested to wear face masks in public places. A vaccination campaign as part of post-registration tests of the Russian Sputnik V anti-coronavirus vaccine kicked off in Belarus from October 1.


tass--2020-12-18--Video format did not change the essence of Putin’s work — Kremlin

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Video conferences changed the format of Russian President Vladimir Putin ’ s work , but not its essence , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station .
`` This is a slightly different format , but it ’ s just a form of communication , essentially , it doesn ’ t change anything , '' he said when asked about the video conference format .
`` This doesn ’ t change the essence and the contents of President Putin ’ s work : the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the style and the nature of the president ’ s work remain the same and they can not be changed . ''
When asked whether it was difficult for Putin to switch to the video conference format that became commonplace during the pandemic , Peskov noted : `` We are all getting used to the format of video conferences and long-distance communication .
I think at first it was difficult for everyone , including the president , to get the communication skills needed to avoid interrupting each other and to let everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noted that he and other Russian officials communicate with Putin in the same way , through video conferences or by phone .
Peskov pointed out that everyone has to live in these new conditions dictated by the COVID-19 pandemic for months to come .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Video conferences changed the format of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s work, but not its essence, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station.
"This is a slightly different format, but it’s just a form of communication, essentially, it doesn’t change anything," he said when asked about the video conference format. "This doesn’t change the essence and the contents of President Putin’s work: the form is different, but the essence, the style and the nature of the president’s work remain the same and they cannot be changed."
When asked whether it was difficult for Putin to switch to the video conference format that became commonplace during the pandemic, Peskov noted: "We are all getting used to the format of video conferences and long-distance communication. I think at first it was difficult for everyone, including the president, to get the communication skills needed to avoid interrupting each other and to let everyone finish their statements."
The spokesman noted that he and other Russian officials communicate with Putin in the same way, through video conferences or by phone. Peskov pointed out that everyone will have to live in these new conditions dictated by the COVID-19 pandemic for months to come.


tass--2020-12-18--Genetic characteristics of coronavirus point to its natural origin, scientist says

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
A natural origin of the novel coronavirus is more likely than an artificial one , since the degree of genetic affinity of SARS-CoV-2 with natural viruses surpasses 90 % , Director of the Mechnikov Research Institute of Vaccines and Sera Oksana Svitich said at a general meeting of professors of the Russian Academy of Sciences on Friday .
`` If we are to evaluate from the point of view of genetic data how homologous ( of the same origin - TASS ) they are with the natural viruses , then there the degree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
The scientist noted that to date , there have been no data indicating that the structure of the virus has signs of being artificially created .
Had the virus `` possessed any alien inclusions , the information on this would have appeared a long time ago , '' she added .
`` Since there is no direct proof , I am more inclined [ to think ] that this is the natural variant , '' she concluded .
According to the latest global statistics , about 75 mln people have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths have been reported .
To date , 2,791,220 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 2,228,633 patients having recovered from the disease .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 49,762 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. A natural origin of the novel coronavirus is more likely than an artificial one, since the degree of genetic affinity of SARS-CoV-2 with natural viruses surpasses 90%, Director of the Mechnikov Research Institute of Vaccines and Sera Oksana Svitich said at a general meeting of professors of the Russian Academy of Sciences on Friday.
"If we are to evaluate from the point of view of genetic data how homologous (of the same origin - TASS) they are with the natural viruses, then there the degree of homology surpasses 90%," she said.
The scientist noted that to date, there have been no data indicating that the structure of the virus has signs of being artificially created. Had the virus "possessed any alien inclusions, the information on this would have appeared a long time ago," she added.
"Since there is no direct proof, I am more inclined [to think] that this is the natural variant," she concluded.
According to the latest global statistics, about 75 mln people have been infected worldwide and over 1.6 mln deaths have been reported. To date, 2,791,220 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 2,228,633 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 49,762 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-12-18--Kremlin spokesman calls for being prudent as pandemic won't vanish after New Year chimes

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
The coronavirus pandemic will not be miraculously over after bells chime in the New Year , so I would be wise to continues to be cautious and prudent , Russian president ’ s press secretary Dmitry Peskov said on Friday .
`` It is a big utopia to think that after the bells ring at midnight and this year is gone , we will shake ourselves free from this dust and will continue to live as we used to .
No , it will not happen , '' he said in an interview @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We should not lose the feeling of mobilization and each one of us must take care of him-or herself , about his or her near and dear .
And it will mean taking care about our country . ''
Recalling the most remarkable events of the outgoing year , the Kremlin spokesman noted that it `` was a difficult year for the country , for the entire world , for each person and each family . ''
`` This year , all of us were driven out of our comfort bubbles , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean remote learning , and in terms of our families , our elder - I mean self-isolation , and in terms of everyday-life details - I mean the time when we had to register each of our trips in Moscow .
Of course , it was a kind of challenge we all had to face , '' Peskov said , adding that he and his family had had the coronavirus infection .
`` But , on the other hand , I could spend more time with the family , and it is good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , although partial , for those weeks and months when we saw each other literally several minutes a day .
I had more time to speak with the children , to learn about their mindset , their thoughts and ideas , '' Peskov recalled .
`` I had time to read more books , watch more interesting films . ''
`` Every cloud has its silver lining , but I ’ d prefer not to have much it , '' he added .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. The coronavirus pandemic will not be miraculously over after bells chime in the New Year, so I would be wise to continues to be cautious and prudent, Russian president’s press secretary Dmitry Peskov said on Friday.
"It is a big utopia to think that after the bells ring at midnight and this year is gone, we will shake ourselves free from this dust and will continue to live as we used to. No, it will not happen," he said in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station. "We should not lose the feeling of mobilization and each one of us must take care of him-or herself, about his or her near and dear. And it will mean taking care about our country."
Recalling the most remarkable events of the outgoing year, the Kremlin spokesman noted that it "was a difficult year for the country, for the entire world, for each person and each family." "This year, all of us were driven out of our comfort bubbles, both in terms of education - I mean remote learning, and in terms of our families, our elder - I mean self-isolation, and in terms of everyday-life details - I mean the time when we had to register each of our trips in Moscow. Of course, it was a kind of challenge we all had to face," Peskov said, adding that he and his family had had the coronavirus infection.
"But, on the other hand, I could spend more time with the family, and it is good. It was a kind of compensation, although partial, for those weeks and months when we saw each other literally several minutes a day. I had more time to speak with the children, to learn about their mindset, their thoughts and ideas," Peskov recalled. "I had time to read more books, watch more interesting films."
"Every cloud has its silver lining, but I’d prefer not to have much it," he added.


tass--2020-12-18--Putin upbeat about results of recent annual press conference — Kremlin

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has positively evaluated his annual press conference held on @ @ @ @ @ questions he received from its participants , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview @ @ @ @ @ station on Friday .
`` [ He evaluates it ] rather positively .
Positively from @ @ @ @ @ the volume of questions that he [ Vladimir Putin ] managed to hear , that @ @ @ @ @ '' the spokesman said in response to a corresponding question .
The Kremlin representative added @ @ @ @ @ scope of the subjects discussed , the press conference was very informative .
According to @ @ @ @ @ more effective for the president thanks to its unique format since the press conference included @ @ @ @ @ but also elements of a direct line with Russian residents .
During Putin ’ s @ @ @ @ @ for four hours and 29 minutes , he answered over 50 questions by journalists as @ @ @ @ @ center received from residents .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has positively evaluated his annual press conference held on Thursday regarding the volume of questions he received from its participants, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station on Friday.
"[He evaluates it] rather positively. Positively from the point of view of the volume of questions that he [Vladimir Putin] managed to hear, that journalists managed to ask," the spokesman said in response to a corresponding question.
The Kremlin representative added that, judging by the scope of the subjects discussed, the press conference was very informative. According to him, the event was more effective for the president thanks to its unique format since the press conference included not only questions by journalists but also elements of a direct line with Russian residents.
The president has studied the bulk of questions from Russian citizens in the run-up to the annual news conference himself, Dmitry Peskov informed. "Putin got acquainted with the bulk of it [questions by citizens] himself," he said, adding that he addressed some hand-picked issues during the conference.
When asked what Putin wished to discuss during the conference that reporters omitted, Peskov mentioned the issue of gasification. He noted that Putin expected a question on this matter, but then decided to take the initiative and mention it himself.
The spokesman pointed out that while the virtual format of the press conference this year was "somewhat visibly uncomfortable" for the reporters, this did not affect the content of the event. "The content is the most important thing, not the format, and the content was at a great level," Peskov commented.
The spokesman said that all questions were interesting and informative. He noted that he decided to give an opportunity to ask Putin a question to famous Russian singer Sergei Shnurov, member of the Leningrad rock band, who came to the conference as a reporter. "It was really unusual to see him in this role," he stated. Peskov noted that Shnurov is "a decent and a smart person" whose decision to master a new profession should only be applauded.
During Putin’s marathon press conference that lasted for four hours and 29 minutes, he answered over 50 questions by journalists as well as those the call center received from residents.


tass--2020-12-18--Kremlin spokesman on when Putin can be tough

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin is a man of poise but he can be quite tough when needed , his press secretary Dmitry Peskov said on Friday .
`` Poise is one thing .
Indeed , the president is a self-possessed man but when it comes to work matters , he has plenty of toughness , '' he said in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station .
He recalled last week ’ s footage of the president ’ s meeting with the government on problems of food price hikes .
The video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be , '' Peskov noted .
`` It ’ s not about him criticizing someone in the government .
In difficult situations , he can be equally tough with both his administration employees , with the government and with other agencies . ''
When asked why in that case Putin had not resorted to other measures such as resignation , Peskov noted that it `` is journalists ’ favorite question . ''
In his words , each time anything happens journalists rush to ask when resignations would follow .
`` Putin has repeatedly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fire a person , '' he said .
`` It is necessary to organize the working process so that it can be done swiftly and in the most professional way .
And this is much more difficult . ''

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin is a man of poise but he can be quite tough when needed, his press secretary Dmitry Peskov said on Friday.
"Poise is one thing. Indeed, the president is a self-possessed man but when it comes to work matters, he has plenty of toughness," he said in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station.
He recalled last week’s footage of the president’s meeting with the government on problems of food price hikes. The video demonstrates "how tough the president can be," Peskov noted. "It’s not about him criticizing someone in the government. In difficult situations, he can be equally tough with both his administration employees, with the government and with other agencies."
When asked why in that case Putin had not resorted to other measures such as resignation, Peskov noted that it "is journalists’ favorite question." In his words, each time anything happens journalists rush to ask when resignations would follow. "Putin has repeatedly said that it is the easiest thing to fire a person," he said. "It is necessary to organize the working process so that it can be done swiftly and in the most professional way. And this is much more difficult."


tass--2020-12-18--Russia ready for dialogue on Syria with all interested countries

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow is ready to cooperate on Syria with all interested countries , including the United States , Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement , commenting on US Envoy for Syria Joel Rayburn ’ s allegation that Moscow and Damascus sought to complicate the fight against terrorism .
`` We confirm our willingness to cooperate on Syria with all interested countries , including the US , particularly in the fight against terrorism .
We are open to any initiatives aimed at building contacts between the relevant agencies .
It would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out .
`` We strongly urge our international and regional partners to boost joint efforts on Syria in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 instead of sabotaging these efforts , making groundless accusations and empty political chants , '' she added .
According to the Russian diplomat , `` this is not the first time that the Russian and Syrian military are facing such allegations as part of a campaign led by the US and its allies , which is aimed at spreading fake news . ''
`` Meanwhile , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in delivering a crushing blow to international terrorism in Syria , '' Zakharova stressed .
She also noted that the ceasefire was holding in most of Syria .
`` Government troops , supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces , respond to all armed provocations that militants from illegal armed groups stage along the Idlib de-escalation zone , '' Zakharova said .
`` Members of the IS [ the Islamic State terror group outlawed in Russia - TASS ] holed up there keep carrying out raids against Russian troops .
The fight against terrorists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are eliminated , '' the diplomat concluded .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Moscow is ready to cooperate on Syria with all interested countries, including the United States, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement, commenting on US Envoy for Syria Joel Rayburn’s allegation that Moscow and Damascus sought to complicate the fight against terrorism.
"We confirm our willingness to cooperate on Syria with all interested countries, including the US, particularly in the fight against terrorism. We are open to any initiatives aimed at building contacts between the relevant agencies. It would be really helpful," Zakharova pointed out. "We strongly urge our international and regional partners to boost joint efforts on Syria in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 instead of sabotaging these efforts, making groundless accusations and empty political chants," she added.
According to the Russian diplomat, "this is not the first time that the Russian and Syrian military are facing such allegations as part of a campaign led by the US and its allies, which is aimed at spreading fake news." "Meanwhile, it was Russia that played a key role in delivering a crushing blow to international terrorism in Syria," Zakharova stressed.
She also noted that the ceasefire was holding in most of Syria. "Government troops, supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces, respond to all armed provocations that militants from illegal armed groups stage along the Idlib de-escalation zone," Zakharova said. "Members of the IS [the Islamic State terror group outlawed in Russia - TASS] holed up there keep carrying out raids against Russian troops. The fight against terrorists on Syrian soil will on on until they are eliminated," the diplomat concluded.


tass--2020-12-18--Soyuz 2.1b carrier rocket with OneWeb satellites launched from Vostochny spaceport

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
A Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket with a Fregat booster and 36 OneWeb British communications satellites has been launched from the Vostochny spaceport , a TASS correspondent reported from the site on Friday .
The booster with the satellites separated from the rocket ’ s third stage and it will take about four hours to put the satellites in orbit .
The satellites will be separating in nine stages , four at a time .
It is the first launch of OneWeb satellites from the Vostochny spaceport and the first purely commercial launch from this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ satellites were launched by a Soyuz-ST carrier rocket from the Kourou space center in French Guiana on February 28 , 2019 and put in orbit on the same day .
Two more launches were carried out this year from the Baikonur space center : 34 satellites were lifted into orbit on February 7 , and 34 more satellites on March 21 .
In all , the company plans to deploy about 600 satellites .
The first launch of OneWeb satellites from the Vostochny spaceport was initially scheduled for April but the British company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ petition in the United States in March when it had failed to receive about two billion US dollars from investors .
In July , the British government passed a decision to invest in its authorized capital to have control over OneWeb .
The company acquisition was over in November .
Under the updated agreement with Arianespace , a French operator , 16 Russian Soyuz carrier rockets are to be launched from Kourou , Vostochny and Baikonur in 2020-2022 to put in orbit from 34 to 36 satellites at a time .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. A Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket with a Fregat booster and 36 OneWeb British communications satellites has been launched from the Vostochny spaceport, a TASS correspondent reported from the site on Friday.
The booster with the satellites separated from the rocket’s third stage and it will take about four hours to put the satellites in orbit. The satellites will be separating in nine stages, four at a time.
It is the first launch of OneWeb satellites from the Vostochny spaceport and the first purely commercial launch from this space center.
The first six OneWeb satellites were launched by a Soyuz-ST carrier rocket from the Kourou space center in French Guiana on February 28, 2019 and put in orbit on the same day. Two more launches were carried out this year from the Baikonur space center: 34 satellites were lifted into orbit on February 7, and 34 more satellites on March 21. In all, the company plans to deploy about 600 satellites.
The first launch of OneWeb satellites from the Vostochny spaceport was initially scheduled for April but the British company had to lodge a bankruptcy and reorganization petition in the United States in March when it had failed to receive about two billion US dollars from investors. In July, the British government passed a decision to invest in its authorized capital to have control over OneWeb. The company acquisition was over in November.
Under the updated agreement with Arianespace, a French operator, 16 Russian Soyuz carrier rockets are to be launched from Kourou, Vostochny and Baikonur in 2020-2022 to put in orbit from 34 to 36 satellites at a time.


tass--2020-12-18--Rural governance in Chongzhou, Sichuan: "reduced" problems, and "increased" revitalization

CHENGDU /China/ Dec. 18 .
/PRNewswire/ .
A news report by a Xinhua Daily Telegraph reporter : `` Every county is governed well , then the world will be stable and united . ''
Rural governance is the cornerstone of national governance .
Chongzhou City , Sichuan Province , focused on solving the problem of rural governance , and explored and constructed a work system of `` industrial function zones + towns and streets + community workstations + villages '' , which reduced pain points and added revitalization .
In 2019 , Chongzhou was identified as the first batch of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governance system .
Over the past year , Chongzhou has established a new type of rural governance system of `` industrial function zone + towns and streets + community workstations + villages '' in response to problems such as unclear powers and dislocation of functions in rural governance .
`` The final foothold and protective walls of rural governance are in towns , streets , and village communities .
Chongzhou took the lead in establishing agricultural functional areas and industrial functional areas in Chengdu , and stripping , returning to positions and sinking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Committee Standing Committee Member Wang Chenglong introduced , Chongzhou City separates the economic functions of towns , sub-districts , and village communities to the management committees of industrial function zones ; assigns the functions of public service and social management to the towns , streets and village communities ; sinks the administrative examination and approval functions that the departments should have to the management committee , towns , streets and village communities .
`` The management committee is not a 'second government ' , and functional areas are not simple parks . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ resource endowments and business characteristics , industrial development , planning and construction , and investment promotion are carried out to avoid problems such as unreasonable resource allocation caused by the construction of each township .
At the same time , a 15-minute public service circle was created , rural governance was de-administrative , and grassroots governance capabilities were improved .
At present , Chongzhou City has adjusted the original 25 towns ( streets ) to 15,253 villages ( communities ) to 172 , set up 11 community workstations , 15 approval service centers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
175 government service items were sunk .
Wang Yunchen , a professor at the School of Management of Sichuan Agricultural University , believes that Chongzhou 's rural governance experience is a new model of rural governance that not only meets the policy requirements , but also has a practical basis , and is more in line with the people 's desires .
It has broad reference value .

CHENGDU /China/ Dec. 18. /PRNewswire/. A news report by a Xinhua Daily Telegraph reporter: "Every county is governed well, then the world will be stable and united." Rural governance is the cornerstone of national governance. Chongzhou City, Sichuan Province, focused on solving the problem of rural governance, and explored and constructed a work system of "industrial function zones + towns and streets + community workstations + villages", which reduced pain points and added revitalization.
In 2019, Chongzhou was identified as the first batch of pilot counties for the country's rural governance system. Over the past year, Chongzhou has established a new type of rural governance system of "industrial function zone + towns and streets + community workstations + villages" in response to problems such as unclear powers and dislocation of functions in rural governance.
"The final foothold and protective walls of rural governance are in towns, streets, and village communities. Chongzhou took the lead in establishing agricultural functional areas and industrial functional areas in Chengdu, and stripping, returning to positions and sinking around functional areas." Chongzhou Municipal Committee Standing Committee Member Wang Chenglong introduced, Chongzhou City separates the economic functions of towns, sub-districts, and village communities to the management committees of industrial function zones; assigns the functions of public service and social management to the towns, streets and village communities; sinks the administrative examination and approval functions that the departments should have to the management committee, towns, streets and village communities.
"The management committee is not a 'second government', and functional areas are not simple parks." Wang Chenglong said, according to regional resource endowments and business characteristics, industrial development, planning and construction, and investment promotion are carried out to avoid problems such as unreasonable resource allocation caused by the construction of each township. At the same time, a 15-minute public service circle was created, rural governance was de-administrative, and grassroots governance capabilities were improved.
At present, Chongzhou City has adjusted the original 25 towns (streets) to 15,253 villages (communities) to 172, set up 11 community workstations, 15 approval service centers, and 13 comprehensive agricultural service centers. 175 government service items were sunk.
Wang Yunchen, a professor at the School of Management of Sichuan Agricultural University, believes that Chongzhou's rural governance experience is a new model of rural governance that not only meets the policy requirements, but also has a practical basis, and is more in line with the people's desires. It has broad reference value.
CONTACT: Jiao Liu, +86-28-8528-2167


tass--2020-12-18--Intelligence agencies keep an eye on coup instigators — Kremlin

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov elaborated on remarks by Russian President Vladimir Putin , who said earlier that the intelligence services should keep an eye on blogger Alexey Navalny , because he enjoys the support of foreign intelligence .
According to Peskov , intelligence services all around the world keep tabs on people , supported by foreign intelligence and especially those who call for extremist action .
No need to poison Navalny only because he has support of US intelligence agencies - Putin '' Vladimir Putin said that intelligence agencies keep an eye on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states ; one may add that intelligence agencies , of course , monitor those who call for forceful seizure of power and so on .
Things that could be interpreted as violation of law , '' Peskov said , adding that `` such people are being watched by intelligence agencies all over the world . ''
On Thursday , Putin said about Navalny that `` this Berlin clinic ’ s patient enjoys the support of US intelligence agencies . ''
`` If this is so , then it is curious , then intelligence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watching him .
But this does not mean he should be poisoned ; who even cares about him . ''

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov elaborated on remarks by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said earlier that the intelligence services should keep an eye on blogger Alexey Navalny, because he enjoys the support of foreign intelligence. According to Peskov, intelligence services all around the world keep tabs on people, supported by foreign intelligence and especially those who call for extremist action.
No need to poison Navalny only because he has support of US intelligence agencies - Putin
"Vladimir Putin said that intelligence agencies keep an eye on those who contact intelligence services of foreign states; one may add that intelligence agencies, of course, monitor those who call for forceful seizure of power and so on. Things that could be interpreted as violation of law," Peskov said, adding that "such people are being watched by intelligence agencies all over the world."
On Thursday, Putin said about Navalny that "this Berlin clinic’s patient enjoys the support of US intelligence agencies."
"If this is so, then it is curious, then intelligence agencies, of course, should keep watching him. But this does not mean he should be poisoned; who even cares about him."


tass--2020-12-18--Not possible to work there: Kremlin says Putin ‘too vigorous to hunker down in any bunker’

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin would be unable to work from a secret bunker @ @ @ @ @ Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station Friday , adding that there @ @ @ @ @ president ’ s countryside residence .
Putin promises to take COVID-19 vaccine at the earliest @ @ @ @ @ bunkers , '' the spokesman said .
`` No head of state , especially as @ @ @ @ @ be able to hunker down in any bunker . ''
Commenting on rumors that the @ @ @ @ @ of isolation , Peskov called it fiction and a `` complete nonsense . ''
When @ @ @ @ @ resume his trips across the country recently , Peskov noted : '' Time goes on @ @ @ @ @ that makes it possible to extend the contacts area . ''
He also recalled Putin @ @ @ @ @ some people may be quarantined before meeting him , but , in case of emergency @ @ @ @ @ place at a distance of five to six meters .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin would be unable to work from a secret bunker, considering his potency, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station Friday, adding that there is no bunker under the president’s countryside residence.
Putin promises to take COVID-19 vaccine at the earliest opportunity
"There are no bunkers," the spokesman said. "No head of state, especially as vigorous as Putin, would be able to hunker down in any bunker."
Commenting on rumors that the president works from this kind of isolation, Peskov called it fiction and a "complete nonsense."
When asked what allowed Putin to resume his trips across the country recently, Peskov noted:
"Time goes on, certain anti-epidemic experience accumulates that makes it possible to extend the contacts area."
He also recalled Putin’s own comments that some people may be quarantined before meeting him, but, in case of emergency meeting, it can take place at a distance of five to six meters.


tass--2020-12-18--Kremlin says there is no special COVID-19 vaccine for Putin

`` The head of state gets the same vaccines and the same drugs that are made for all Russian citizens , '' Peskov assured .
`` No one would ever develop a separate vaccine for just one person , even it ’ s the head of state . ''
MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin does not have any exclusive vaccines , he is using the drugs available to regular citizens , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station when asked why there is no separate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Putin told an annual news conference that he had not been vaccinated against COVID-19 yet .
`` The specialists say that the vaccines that now enter public consumption are provided for citizens of a certain age area .
And the vaccines have not reached people like me yet .
I reiterate , I am a law-abiding person in this sense , so I have not taken this vaccine yet .
But I will definitely do it , as soon as it becomes possible , '' Putin said .
`` It [ the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special trials are held on certain age groups , '' Peskov said .
`` And so far , there is no exact data on the age group over 60-65 , it ’ s just beginning to come in . ''
Russia registered two coronavirus vaccines : one developed by the Gamaleya Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology and one developed by the State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology `` Vector '' .
The third vaccine , developed by the Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune and Biological Products @ @ @ @ @ @

"The head of state gets the same vaccines and the same drugs that are made for all Russian citizens," Peskov assured. "No one would ever develop a separate vaccine for just one person, even it’s the head of state."
MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin does not have any exclusive vaccines, he is using the drugs available to regular citizens, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday in an interview with the Komsomolskaya Pravda radio station when asked why there is no separate COVID-19 vaccine for Putin.
On Thursday, Putin told an annual news conference that he had not been vaccinated against COVID-19 yet. "The specialists say that the vaccines that now enter public consumption are provided for citizens of a certain age area. And the vaccines have not reached people like me yet. I reiterate, I am a law-abiding person in this sense, so I have not taken this vaccine yet. But I will definitely do it, as soon as it becomes possible," Putin said.
"It [the vaccination] requires big data, so special trials are held on certain age groups," Peskov said. "And so far, there is no exact data on the age group over 60-65, it’s just beginning to come in."
Russia registered two coronavirus vaccines: one developed by the Gamaleya Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology and one developed by the State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology "Vector". The third vaccine, developed by the Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune and Biological Products, could be registered shortly.


tass--2020-12-18--Putin tells CIS colleagues about new Russian COVID-19 vaccines to appear soon

NOVO-OGARYOVO , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that new domestic vaccines against the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ We are ready to assist all countries of the Commonwealth [ of Independent States ] @ @ @ @ @ the use of Russian vaccines , '' he said at a meeting of the Council @ @ @ @ @ of the CIS which is held on Friday in a video conference format .
`` @ @ @ @ @ Sputnik V and EpiVacCorona and soon our other vaccines should appear as well , '' @ @ @

NOVO-OGARYOVO, December 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that new domestic vaccines against the coronavirus should appear soon.
"We are ready to assist all countries of the Commonwealth [of Independent States] in inoculation of residents with the use of Russian vaccines," he said at a meeting of the Council of the Heads of State of the CIS which is held on Friday in a video conference format.
"I am talking about both Sputnik V and EpiVacCorona and soon our other vaccines should appear as well," Putin noted.


tass--2020-12-18--New scientific ecological center is to identify unstable structures near Norilsk

TASS , December 18 .
The first task of the Ecology Science and Research Center , which the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ Siberian Branch established in December following the Great Norilsk Expedition , will be to offer a technology to identify the structures and buildings , which may collapse in the Norilsk Industrial District due to the thawing permafrost , the center ’ s Director Nikolai Yurkevich told TASS .
“ The task is to offer a technology , a computer complex , which could be used to monitor engineering structures in the permafrost areas , ” he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we will provide methods and a team of scientists.
” Initial analysis of 200 key structures in the Norilsk Industrial District may be done by using satellite images .
That work will identify potentially hazardous structures , and later on seismic sensors will provide further details , he added .
“ The ecological center faces a task to use the expedition ’ s knowledge and methods to offer a new technology for the permanent monitoring , which will be available for all potential clients , ” he continued .
“ Those are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Company ) .
We are aware of very big problems , related to stability of engineering structures and collapsing buildings , in Yakutia and the North ’ s other regions.
” One window for sciences and industries The center ’ s general objective is to make a platform for advanced cooperation between sciences and industries , which would be convenient and would feature the so-called ‘ one window ’ format .
The scientific expertise of any research institute is not easily applicable to industries , and the present demand is that the expertise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a technology , and later on commercialized , the expert told TASS .
In reality , this means offering market products , based on scientific research , expertise , training , regulations and metrology .
“ Ecology is not just a beautiful and popular word , not only a science , it is also a part of the national strategy , of the Ecology National Project , which aims at processing of the waste banned for storage , at cleanup of most hazardous sites of accumulated ecology damage , as well as at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” he said .
The center will use the experience of the Great Norilsk Expedition , which was organized to offer new approaches to doing businesses in the Arctic .
The expedition featured 14 institutes of the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ Siberian Branch and more than a hundred scientists .
The large-scale multidisciplinary projects required a new special structure .
“ The expedition has provided scientific groundword and preconditions for development of technologies , while the work on technologies will continue at the Ecology Science and Research Center , ” the scientist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences sent to the Taimyr Peninsula , at the invitation of Nornickel , a big scientific expedition to conduct a large-scale examination of the area .
Scientists will use the expedition ’ s results to present nature-friendly solutions and suggestions for industrial companies , working in the Arctic .
The expedition ’ s key points were watersheds of the Rivers Pyasina , Norilka and Ambarnaya , and Lake Pyasino .
In August , experts from 14 research institutes of the Academy of Sciences ’ Siberian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sediments and later began tests at the institutes ’ labs .

TASS, December 18. The first task of the Ecology Science and Research Center, which the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Siberian Branch established in December following the Great Norilsk Expedition, will be to offer a technology to identify the structures and buildings, which may collapse in the Norilsk Industrial District due to the thawing permafrost, the center’s Director Nikolai Yurkevich told TASS.
“The task is to offer a technology, a computer complex, which could be used to monitor engineering structures in the permafrost areas,” he said. “With an eye to that, we will provide methods and a team of scientists.”
Initial analysis of 200 key structures in the Norilsk Industrial District may be done by using satellite images. That work will identify potentially hazardous structures, and later on seismic sensors will provide further details, he added.
“The ecological center faces a task to use the expedition’s knowledge and methods to offer a new technology for the permanent monitoring, which will be available for all potential clients,” he continued. “Those are not only Nornickel (the Norilsk Nickel Company). We are aware of very big problems, related to stability of engineering structures and collapsing buildings, in Yakutia and the North’s other regions.”
One window for sciences and industries
The center’s general objective is to make a platform for advanced cooperation between sciences and industries, which would be convenient and would feature the so-called ‘one window’ format. The scientific expertise of any research institute is not easily applicable to industries, and the present demand is that the expertise is, at first, developed into a technology, and later on commercialized, the expert told TASS. In reality, this means offering market products, based on scientific research, expertise, training, regulations and metrology.
“Ecology is not just a beautiful and popular word, not only a science, it is also a part of the national strategy, of the Ecology National Project, which aims at processing of the waste banned for storage, at cleanup of most hazardous sites of accumulated ecology damage, as well as at use of the most accessible technologies,” he said.
Expedition to Taimyr
The center will use the experience of the Great Norilsk Expedition, which was organized to offer new approaches to doing businesses in the Arctic. The expedition featured 14 institutes of the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Siberian Branch and more than a hundred scientists. The large-scale multidisciplinary projects required a new special structure.
“The expedition has provided scientific groundword and preconditions for development of technologies, while the work on technologies will continue at the Ecology Science and Research Center,” the scientist said.
In summer 2020, the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences sent to the Taimyr Peninsula, at the invitation of Nornickel, a big scientific expedition to conduct a large-scale examination of the area. Scientists will use the expedition’s results to present nature-friendly solutions and suggestions for industrial companies, working in the Arctic.
The expedition’s key points were watersheds of the Rivers Pyasina, Norilka and Ambarnaya, and Lake Pyasino. In August, experts from 14 research institutes of the Academy of Sciences’ Siberian Branch collected samples of soils, plants and sediments and later began tests at the institutes’ labs.


tass--2020-12-18--Ruble not actually responding to key rate reduction

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
The ruble has not actually responded during the trading session on the Moscow @ @ @ @ @ the Central Bank to keep the key rate .
The dollar was traded at 73.53 @ @ @ @ @ .
The euro gained 1 % to 90.25 rubles .
The Russian stock market is @ @ @ @ @ regulator ’ s decision .
The MOEX Russia Index lost 0.97 % to 3,250.99 points @ @ @ @ @ by 2.24 % to 1,387.46 points .
The Bank of Russia decided to keep the @ @ @ @ @ per annum earlier today .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. The ruble has not actually responded during the trading session on the Moscow Exchange to the decision of the Central Bank to keep the key rate.
The dollar was traded at 73.53 rubles, up 1.12%. The euro gained 1% to 90.25 rubles.
The Russian stock market is in the red after the regulator’s decision. The MOEX Russia Index lost 0.97% to 3,250.99 points. The RTS Index declined by 2.24% to 1,387.46 points.
The Bank of Russia decided to keep the key rate at 4.25% per annum earlier today.


tass--2020-12-18--Scientists create a model to test methods for controlling satellites in Earth sounding

KRASNOYARSK , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
Scientists at Siberian Federal University ( SFU ) have developed a computer program that simulates the navigation system of a cluster constellation of satellites .
The results of the work will improve the accuracy of remote sensing of the Earth , the press service of the university told TASS on Friday .
`` Scientists from Siberian Federal University in cooperation with leading specialists of the military training center of Siberian Federal University and the Reshetnev `` Information Satellite Systems '' have developed a computer model of the onboard navigation system of a small @ @ @ @ @ @ @ navigation of small spacecraft as part of multi-satellite constellation .
Its use will help to improve the accuracy of the data obtained by such devices during Earth remote sensing , '' the message reads .
The use of small spacecraft for Earth sounding helps to clarify the landscape when compiling maps , and also allows to collect data on climate and the ecological state of territories - to track the occurrence of spontaneous dumps and forest fires .
At the same time , the devices themselves can form clusters ( groups similar to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allows them to perform tasks synchronously , following a common goal .
In order to avoid failures in such constellations of satellites , their navigation and settings must be conducted in virtual space .
The authors of the study proposed a new simulation model based on computer modeling technologies in order to do so .
`` Spacecraft need to interact well with each other , without creating mutual obstacles , and exchange information .
The characteristics of cluster vehicles differ significantly from the characteristics of individual ones , and the cluster configuration must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goal .
Computer simulation of the composition and navigation parameters of a cluster group of small spacecraft allows to choose possible options for solving the navigation problem '' , says the head of the basic department of information technology at the radio-electronic production of SFU Denis Kapulin .
Scientists plan to use said simulation results in the development of an onboard navigation system of a small spacecraft for remote sensing of the earth as part of a multi-satellite cluster .
The study was carried out with the support of the Russian Ministry of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the federal program `` Research and Development in Priority Areas of Russia 's Scientific and Technical Complex for 2014-2020 '' .

KRASNOYARSK, December 18. /TASS/. Scientists at Siberian Federal University (SFU) have developed a computer program that simulates the navigation system of a cluster constellation of satellites. The results of the work will improve the accuracy of remote sensing of the Earth, the press service of the university told TASS on Friday.
"Scientists from Siberian Federal University in cooperation with leading specialists of the military training center of Siberian Federal University and the Reshetnev "Information Satellite Systems" have developed a computer model of the onboard navigation system of a small spacecraft to study methods of mutual accurate navigation of small spacecraft as part of multi-satellite constellation. Its use will help to improve the accuracy of the data obtained by such devices during Earth remote sensing," the message reads.
The use of small spacecraft for Earth sounding helps to clarify the landscape when compiling maps, and also allows to collect data on climate and the ecological state of territories - to track the occurrence of spontaneous dumps and forest fires. At the same time, the devices themselves can form clusters (groups similar to a swarm of bees), which allows them to perform tasks synchronously, following a common goal. In order to avoid failures in such constellations of satellites, their navigation and settings must be conducted in virtual space. The authors of the study proposed a new simulation model based on computer modeling technologies in order to do so.
"Spacecraft need to interact well with each other, without creating mutual obstacles, and exchange information. The characteristics of cluster vehicles differ significantly from the characteristics of individual ones, and the cluster configuration must be changed periodically, depending on the goal. Computer simulation of the composition and navigation parameters of a cluster group of small spacecraft allows to choose possible options for solving the navigation problem", says the head of the basic department of information technology at the radio-electronic production of SFU Denis Kapulin.
Scientists plan to use said simulation results in the development of an onboard navigation system of a small spacecraft for remote sensing of the earth as part of a multi-satellite cluster. The study was carried out with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science within the framework of the federal program "Research and Development in Priority Areas of Russia's Scientific and Technical Complex for 2014-2020".


tass--2020-12-18--Bank of Russia retains key rate at 4.25%

MOSCOW , December 18 .
/TASS/ .
At its last meeting this year , the Bank of Russia decided to once again retain the key rate at 4.25 % per annum , indicating a more significant and lasting impact of one-off pro-inflationary factors and an increase in inflationary expectations , according to the regulator ’ s press release .
`` On December 18 , 2020 , the Bank of Russia Board of Directors decided to keep the key rate at 4.25 % per annum .
Inflation is developing above the Bank of Russia ’ s forecast and is expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of 2020 .
One-off proinflationary factors are exerting more significant and prolonged upward influence on prices amid the growth in households ’ and businesses ’ inflation expectations and supply-side restrictions .
The worsening epidemic situation in Russia and worldwide is constraining economic activity significantly less than in 2020 Q2 , '' the regulator said .
The Bank of Russia has downgraded its inflation outlook for 2020 from 3.9-4.2 % to 4.6-4.9 % .
`` Inflation is developing above the Bank of Russia ’ s forecast and is expected to lie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of 2020 .
This is largely related to the effect of one-off proinflationary factors in certain markets and the continuing pass-through of the ruble ’ s earlier weakening to prices .
However , these factors may exert more prolonged upward influence on prices amid the growth in households ’ and businesses ’ inflation expectations and supply-side restrictions , '' the regulator said .
In November , annual inflation rose to 4.4 % ( against 4 % in October ) , according to the press release .
According to an estimate as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % .
`` According to Bank of Russia estimates , current consumer inflation indicators reflecting the most sustainable price movements also grew in November and were close to 4 % ( annualized ) , the Central Bank noted .
The Bank of Russia noted a pause in the recovery of the Russian economy in the fourth quarter , but at the same time notes that the impact of the pandemic on the economy was significantly less than in the Q2 .
Taking this into account , Russia ’ s GDP decline may reach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` High-frequency indicators of economic activity point to a pause in the economic recovery in 2020 Q4 .
However , the worsening epidemic situation in Russia and worldwide is constraining economic activity significantly less than in 2020 Q2 .
This is related to the targeted nature of restrictive measures and the adaptation of households and businesses to the new conditions .
In view of the above and given higher than expected Q3 data , the 2020 GDP decline may reach around 4 % , '' the regulator said .
At the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s economy to resume growth in the spring of 2021 as the coronavirus situation returns to normal .
`` In spring 2021 , the Russian economy is expected to resume its sustainable growth as the coronavirus situation returns to normal .
The medium-term economic growth path will be largely influenced by further coronavirus pandemic developments in Russia and across the globe , the nature of the recovery of private demand in the context of potential change in consumer and business behavior , as well as by the upcoming budget consolidation , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy will continue to support the economy throughout the next year , the regulator added .

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. At its last meeting this year, the Bank of Russia decided to once again retain the key rate at 4.25% per annum, indicating a more significant and lasting impact of one-off pro-inflationary factors and an increase in inflationary expectations, according to the regulator’s press release.
"On December 18, 2020, the Bank of Russia Board of Directors decided to keep the key rate at 4.25% per annum. Inflation is developing above the Bank of Russia’s forecast and is expected to lie within the range of 4.6-4.9% at the end of 2020. One-off proinflationary factors are exerting more significant and prolonged upward influence on prices amid the growth in households’ and businesses’ inflation expectations and supply-side restrictions. The worsening epidemic situation in Russia and worldwide is constraining economic activity significantly less than in 2020 Q2," the regulator said.
The Bank of Russia has downgraded its inflation outlook for 2020 from 3.9-4.2% to 4.6-4.9%. "Inflation is developing above the Bank of Russia’s forecast and is expected to lie within the range of 4.6-4.9% at the end of 2020. This is largely related to the effect of one-off proinflationary factors in certain markets and the continuing pass-through of the ruble’s earlier weakening to prices. However, these factors may exert more prolonged upward influence on prices amid the growth in households’ and businesses ’inflation expectations and supply-side restrictions," the regulator said.
In November, annual inflation rose to 4.4% (against 4% in October), according to the press release. According to an estimate as of 14 December, it was 4.7%. "According to Bank of Russia estimates, current consumer inflation indicators reflecting the most sustainable price movements also grew in November and were close to 4% (annualized), the Central Bank noted.
The Bank of Russia noted a pause in the recovery of the Russian economy in the fourth quarter, but at the same time notes that the impact of the pandemic on the economy was significantly less than in the Q2. Taking this into account, Russia’s GDP decline may reach around 4%, the regulator said.
"High-frequency indicators of economic activity point to a pause in the economic recovery in 2020 Q4. However, the worsening epidemic situation in Russia and worldwide is constraining economic activity significantly less than in 2020 Q2. This is related to the targeted nature of restrictive measures and the adaptation of households and businesses to the new conditions. In view of the above and given higher than expected Q3 data, the 2020 GDP decline may reach around 4%,"the regulator said.
At the same time, the regulator expects Russia’s economy to resume growth in the spring of 2021 as the coronavirus situation returns to normal. "In spring 2021, the Russian economy is expected to resume its sustainable growth as the coronavirus situation returns to normal. The medium-term economic growth path will be largely influenced by further coronavirus pandemic developments in Russia and across the globe, the nature of the recovery of private demand in the context of potential change in consumer and business behavior, as well as by the upcoming budget consolidation," the Bank of Russia said.
Accommodative monetary policy will continue to support the economy throughout the next year, the regulator added.


tass--2020-12-18--Azerbaijani president calls Russian peacekeeping operation in Karabakh ‘very successful’

`` It [ the peacekeeping operation ] is being conducted very successfully , in constant touch with the relevant organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan , '' he said on Friday at an online meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council .
The president stressed that only one incident had been recorded since the Russian , Azerbaijani and Armenian leaders signed a joint statement on a ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh almost a month and a half ago .
According to Azerbaijan , that incident was provoked by `` groups of so-called militias uncontrolled by the Armenian authorities . ''
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The ceasefire is being observed , and will become stronger every day , '' Aliyev said .
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27 , with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh .
The conflict broke out in February 1988 after the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region announced its withdrawal from the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic .
In 1992-1994 , tensions boiled over and exploded into large-scale military action for control over the enclave and seven adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them .
On November 9 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10 .
Under the document , the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides stopped at the positions that they had held , and Russian peacekeepers were deployed to the region .

"It [the peacekeeping operation] is being conducted very successfully, in constant touch with the relevant organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan," he said on Friday at an online meeting of the CIS Heads of State Council.
The president stressed that only one incident had been recorded since the Russian, Azerbaijani and Armenian leaders signed a joint statement on a ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh almost a month and a half ago. According to Azerbaijan, that incident was provoked by "groups of so-called militias uncontrolled by the Armenian authorities." "The incident was settled within one day. The ceasefire is being observed, and will become stronger every day," Aliyev said.
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27, with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. The conflict broke out in February 1988 after the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region announced its withdrawal from the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1992-1994, tensions boiled over and exploded into large-scale military action for control over the enclave and seven adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them.
On November 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10. Under the document, the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides stopped at the positions that they had held, and Russian peacekeepers were deployed to the region.