tass--2020-10-12--Press review: Karabkah prisoner swap likely and Moscow’s mediation calms Kyrgyz unrest

Izvestia : Prisoner swap in Nagorno-Karabakh may begin on October 12 Both sides of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict reported ceasefire violations on the second day of the truce , with Azerbaijan informing that the city of Ganja was bombed , according to Izvestia .
Meanwhile , Nagorno-Karabakh informed of a night attack on Stepanakert .
Nevertheless , both Baku and Yerevan stress their commitment to the agreement signed in Moscow .
A prisoner swap is set to begin this week , Presidential Adviser of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic David Babayan told Izvestia .
It would have been impossible to reach a ceasefire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Armenian parliament notes .
Experts quizzed by Izvestia point out that the ceasefire agreement is just the first step to resolving the conflict , albeit an important one .
Conflict resolution will depend on the upcoming talks between Baku and Yerevan .
`` We hope that the swap will start this week .
There are some technical considerations , however , there are no political obstacles from our side .
The swap should be held with the participation of the international Red Cross , as is always done , '' Babayan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not the final solution of the issue , this is just the first step that will help the sides reach a compromise without bloodshed , Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee for CIS Affairs , Eurasian integration and Relations with Compatriots Viktor Vodolatsky told the newspaper .
`` A great advantage of the ceasefire is that there will be no casualties from either side .
The ongoing shelling and provocations only show that the local elites both in Armenia and Azerbaijan do not fully understand the meaning of the decisions reached , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is hard to believe that Armenia will fully agree with the initiatives proposed by Azerbaijan , namely the with the return of seven districts around Nagorno-Karabakh that , according to Baku , were seized during the 1992-1994 conflict , political analyst Denis Denisov told the paper .
`` However , there is some hope that an outside factor can play an important role .
Some partners of Armenia and Azerbaijan can accomplish through its own efforts that the parties sign a real political agreement on Nagorno-Karabakh .
First and foremost , these are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko aims to stop the nationwide protests or at least make them less noticeable to the rest of the world by any means necessary .
On Saturday , he showed weakness and readiness for dialogue during a meeting with the opposition , however , on Sunday , he cracked down on protesters on the streets of Minsk once again , with violent detentions of demonstrators reported , Nezavisimaya Gazeta said .
It is hard to estimate the exact number of people who took to the streets in Minsk on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gathering of people moving around the city , each consisting of tens of thousands of people .
Observers do not rule out that the overall number of protesters may have reached 100,000 .
Observers point out that Belarusian law enforcement behaved the way they did during the first days of protests , cracking down on the demonstrators violently , which is especially strange after Lukashenko ’ s attempt to establish dialogue with the protesters on Saturday .
On October 10 , Lukashenko unexpectedly met with 12 political prisoners at a detention facility , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours .
Political analyst Valery Karbalevich told the paper that there is a link between Sunday ’ s violence and Saturday ’ s attempt at dialogue .
`` The very fact that Lukashenko established dialogue with representatives of the opposition has created the impression of his weakness , his loss , and today [ on Sunday ] , he was forced to demonstrate his power to his supporters , in this way compensating for the impression of any weakness , the impression that he has given up and is ready to negotiate .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a strong politician , and secondly , it may send a bad signal , '' the expert pointed out .
The commentator also does not rule out that Lukashenko expected his meeting with the opposition to soothe the protests and to keep people off the streets .
However , this did not happen , and on Sunday , the rallies resumed .
As a result of the clashes with the law enforcement , about 200 people were detained .
Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov , who received a guarantee of immunity , promised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country enters the legal framework , declaring a state of emergency in the country ’ s capital of Bishkek .
Some data suggests that he is under the protection of Russian law enforcement .
Bishkek is confident that Russia ’ s participation has made it possible to avoid another `` color revolution '' and a split between the north and the south , Nezavisimaya Gazeta reports .
The creation of an interim government headed by Sadyr Zhaparov , a politician who was released from jail before the end of his sentence , has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mediation .
Meanwhile , ex-President Almazbek Atambayev went back to prison once again .
During a session of parliament , Zhaparov ’ s program outlining the country ’ s exit from the current crisis was approved .
The new program does not differ much from Jeenbekov ’ s policy , with local MPs pointing out that the interim PM is Jeenbekov ’ s protege , the paper points out .
Legal experts are concerned over Jeenbekov ’ s potential resignation .
In this case , Zhaparov will become acting head of state , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within three months after the president ’ s resignation .
However , experts note that holding a new election would not be appropriate due to the lack of budget funding and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic .
Political analyst Mars Sariyev told Nezavisimaya Gazeta that Zhaparov is purely an interim PM , and he has no right to vie for the presidency or to even run for a seat in parliament .
`` If he managed to return the country to its legal framework , he will be lauded as the winner , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Kyrgyzstan as the politician who managed to avoid a rift and a civil war in the country .
Moreover , he won ’ t have to return to prison and serve the rest of his sentence , which is eight years , '' Sariyev pointed out .
Rossiyskaya Gazeta : Oil and gas to stay relevant for at least 30 years , Russian energy chief says Oil and gas will continue to occupy a large share in the global energy balance in 2050 , despite the rise in demand for renewable energy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in an interview held within the framework of the World Energy Week , Rossiyskaya Gazeta reports .
`` Perhaps , it will be different in Europe , '' Novak said .
`` However , there is Africa , the Asia-Pacific Region , and Latin America .
Here , the energy balance will be in favor of hydrocarbons , '' Novak insisted .
`` We need to understand today what the conditions will be like to ensure the corresponding energy sources to supply energy to the entire world , '' the energy chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a similar prediction in the World Oil Outlook report .
For some countries , the age of oil is coming to an end .
According to the experts , the recovery of oil demand will reach the pre-crisis level after the pandemic in 2020 , and later , demand will grow in developing countries .
The situation with gas is slightly different .
Due to the development of LNG technologies , its consumption will rise across the world .
Novak pointed out that gas has huge prospects as an ecological source of energy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whose share in the world energy balance is set to reach 7-25 % .
`` Hydrogen is a very current and popular topic right now : its production , storage and use as an energy source or as an energy accumulator .
Russia is paying a lot of attention to this topic .
Active research and development of corresponding technologies are underway in this area , '' the Russian minister stressed .
He also noted that Russia continues to support the move to clean technologies .
However , sun and wind sources can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with about 2 billion people living in countries that lack modern energy sources , Novak stated .
Russian banks are above the global average regarding digitalization in five stages out of six , a new international report on the digitalization of commercial banks compiled by the Deloitte international network , notes .
Using the data provided by customers of 318 banks in 39 countries across the world , Deloitte experts and analysts have found out that Russian banks are among the global leaders in digitalization .
At the information search stage , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % , while in Russia , it is reported at 51 % .
Russia is 7 percentage points ahead of the global average when it comes to opening and account and communicating with clients , and 8 percentage points ahead on the use of bank services .
`` Russian banks have improved their performance when it comes to opening an account , adapting new clients , managing payments , carrying out transfers , using bank cards , and also in the area of cross selling , '' Yekaterina Trofimova , who heads the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia and the CIS at Deloitte , told Vedomosti .
She noted a trend in the popularity of mobile banking apps in Russia compared to online banking .
However , the expert pointed out that the overall amount of digitalization in the Russian banking system remains uneven , and Russia ’ s position in the top-10 ranking is due to the efforts of major players .
Dmitry Ferapontov , a senior lecturer at the Banking Department of the Moscow University for Industry and Finance `` Synergy '' pointed out that the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to look for alternative ways of interacting with their banks , as the majority of offices were shuttered or working on a restricted schedule .
However , Ferapontov listed the development of technologies and the possibility of reducing funding spent on hiring people to work at bank branches as the main driving forces behind Russia ’ s digitalization .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews

Izvestia: Prisoner swap in Nagorno-Karabakh may begin on October 12
Both sides of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict reported ceasefire violations on the second day of the truce, with Azerbaijan informing that the city of Ganja was bombed, according to Izvestia. Meanwhile, Nagorno-Karabakh informed of a night attack on Stepanakert. Nevertheless, both Baku and Yerevan stress their commitment to the agreement signed in Moscow. A prisoner swap is set to begin this week, Presidential Adviser of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic David Babayan told Izvestia. It would have been impossible to reach a ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh without Russia’s mediation, the Armenian parliament notes. Experts quizzed by Izvestia point out that the ceasefire agreement is just the first step to resolving the conflict, albeit an important one. Conflict resolution will depend on the upcoming talks between Baku and Yerevan.
"We hope that the swap will start this week. There are some technical considerations, however, there are no political obstacles from our side. The swap should be held with the participation of the international Red Cross, as is always done," Babayan stressed.
The truce reached earlier is not the final solution of the issue, this is just the first step that will help the sides reach a compromise without bloodshed, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee for CIS Affairs, Eurasian integration and Relations with Compatriots Viktor Vodolatsky told the newspaper. "A great advantage of the ceasefire is that there will be no casualties from either side. The ongoing shelling and provocations only show that the local elites both in Armenia and Azerbaijan do not fully understand the meaning of the decisions reached," the lawmaker pointed out.
It is hard to believe that Armenia will fully agree with the initiatives proposed by Azerbaijan, namely the with the return of seven districts around Nagorno-Karabakh that, according to Baku, were seized during the 1992-1994 conflict, political analyst Denis Denisov told the paper.
"However, there is some hope that an outside factor can play an important role. Some partners of Armenia and Azerbaijan can accomplish through its own efforts that the parties sign a real political agreement on Nagorno-Karabakh. First and foremost, these are Russia and Turkey," Denisov said.
Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Lukashenko cracks down on weekend demonstrations
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko aims to stop the nationwide protests or at least make them less noticeable to the rest of the world by any means necessary. On Saturday, he showed weakness and readiness for dialogue during a meeting with the opposition, however, on Sunday, he cracked down on protesters on the streets of Minsk once again, with violent detentions of demonstrators reported, Nezavisimaya Gazeta said.
It is hard to estimate the exact number of people who took to the streets in Minsk on Sunday, with at least three mass gathering of people moving around the city, each consisting of tens of thousands of people. Observers do not rule out that the overall number of protesters may have reached 100,000.
Observers point out that Belarusian law enforcement behaved the way they did during the first days of protests, cracking down on the demonstrators violently, which is especially strange after Lukashenko’s attempt to establish dialogue with the protesters on Saturday. On October 10, Lukashenko unexpectedly met with 12 political prisoners at a detention facility, where they held talks for over four hours.
Political analyst Valery Karbalevich told the paper that there is a link between Sunday’s violence and Saturday’s attempt at dialogue. "The very fact that Lukashenko established dialogue with representatives of the opposition has created the impression of his weakness, his loss, and today [on Sunday], he was forced to demonstrate his power to his supporters, in this way compensating for the impression of any weakness, the impression that he has given up and is ready to negotiate. Firstly, looking weak contradicts his image of a strong politician, and secondly, it may send a bad signal," the expert pointed out.
The commentator also does not rule out that Lukashenko expected his meeting with the opposition to soothe the protests and to keep people off the streets. However, this did not happen, and on Sunday, the rallies resumed. As a result of the clashes with the law enforcement, about 200 people were detained.
Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Moscow manages to avoid a ‘color revolution’ in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who received a guarantee of immunity, promised to resign within three days after the country enters the legal framework, declaring a state of emergency in the country’s capital of Bishkek. Some data suggests that he is under the protection of Russian law enforcement.
Bishkek is confident that Russia’s participation has made it possible to avoid another "color revolution" and a split between the north and the south, Nezavisimaya Gazeta reports. The creation of an interim government headed by Sadyr Zhaparov, a politician who was released from jail before the end of his sentence, has also become possible with Moscow’s mediation. Meanwhile, ex-President Almazbek Atambayev went back to prison once again.
During a session of parliament, Zhaparov’s program outlining the country’s exit from the current crisis was approved. The new program does not differ much from Jeenbekov’s policy, with local MPs pointing out that the interim PM is Jeenbekov’s protege, the paper points out.
Legal experts are concerned over Jeenbekov’s potential resignation. In this case, Zhaparov will become acting head of state, and a presidential election must be held within three months after the president’s resignation. However, experts note that holding a new election would not be appropriate due to the lack of budget funding and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Political analyst Mars Sariyev told Nezavisimaya Gazeta that Zhaparov is purely an interim PM, and he has no right to vie for the presidency or to even run for a seat in parliament. "If he managed to return the country to its legal framework, he will be lauded as the winner, and he will go down in the history of Kyrgyzstan as the politician who managed to avoid a rift and a civil war in the country. Moreover, he won’t have to return to prison and serve the rest of his sentence, which is eight years," Sariyev pointed out.
Rossiyskaya Gazeta: Oil and gas to stay relevant for at least 30 years, Russian energy chief says
Oil and gas will continue to occupy a large share in the global energy balance in 2050, despite the rise in demand for renewable energy sources, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said in an interview held within the framework of the World Energy Week, Rossiyskaya Gazeta reports.
"Perhaps, it will be different in Europe," Novak said. "However, there is Africa, the Asia-Pacific Region, and Latin America. Here, the energy balance will be in favor of hydrocarbons," Novak insisted. "We need to understand today what the conditions will be like to ensure the corresponding energy sources to supply energy to the entire world," the energy chief said.
Earlier, OPEC experts made a similar prediction in the World Oil Outlook report. For some countries, the age of oil is coming to an end. According to the experts, the recovery of oil demand will reach the pre-crisis level after the pandemic in 2020, and later, demand will grow in developing countries.
The situation with gas is slightly different. Due to the development of LNG technologies, its consumption will rise across the world. Novak pointed out that gas has huge prospects as an ecological source of energy and as a source of hydrogen, whose share in the world energy balance is set to reach 7-25%.
"Hydrogen is a very current and popular topic right now: its production, storage and use as an energy source or as an energy accumulator. Russia is paying a lot of attention to this topic. Active research and development of corresponding technologies are underway in this area," the Russian minister stressed.
He also noted that Russia continues to support the move to clean technologies. However, sun and wind sources cannot supply energy to the entire world, with about 2 billion people living in countries that lack modern energy sources, Novak stated.
Vedomosti: Russia reaches top-10 in bank digitalization
Russian banks are above the global average regarding digitalization in five stages out of six, a new international report on the digitalization of commercial banks compiled by the Deloitte international network, notes. Using the data provided by customers of 318 banks in 39 countries across the world, Deloitte experts and analysts have found out that Russian banks are among the global leaders in digitalization.
At the information search stage, the average global digitalization index reaches 45%, while in Russia, it is reported at 51%. Russia is 7 percentage points ahead of the global average when it comes to opening and account and communicating with clients, and 8 percentage points ahead on the use of bank services.
"Russian banks have improved their performance when it comes to opening an account, adapting new clients, managing payments, carrying out transfers, using bank cards, and also in the area of cross selling," Yekaterina Trofimova, who heads the rating advisory and corporate governance practice in Russia and the CIS at Deloitte, told Vedomosti. She noted a trend in the popularity of mobile banking apps in Russia compared to online banking. However, the expert pointed out that the overall amount of digitalization in the Russian banking system remains uneven, and Russia’s position in the top-10 ranking is due to the efforts of major players.
Dmitry Ferapontov, a senior lecturer at the Banking Department of the Moscow University for Industry and Finance "Synergy" pointed out that the coronavirus pandemic had served as an incentive for clients to look for alternative ways of interacting with their banks, as the majority of offices were shuttered or working on a restricted schedule. However, Ferapontov listed the development of technologies and the possibility of reducing funding spent on hiring people to work at bank branches as the main driving forces behind Russia’s digitalization.
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews


tass--2020-10-12--Moscow reports 14.8% increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations in past week

It noted that another 4,395 COVID-19 cases had been confirmed in Moscow .
MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus hospitalizations in Moscow grew by 14.8 % over the past week , the city ’ s anti-coronavirus crisis center reported on Monday .
`` Hospitalizations grew by 14.8 % over the past week compared to the previous one .
Currently , 275 patients are hooked to ventilators in Moscow ’ s hospitals .
A total of 917 people were taken to the hospitals in the past 24 hours , '' the report said .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those infected are children , 45.1 % are people aged between 18 and 45 , 30.5 % are patients aged between 46 and 65 and 10 % are people aged between 66 and 79 .
Also , 4 % of infected individuals are aged 80 and over .
All patients as well as all those who had close contacts with them are already under medical supervision .
The crisis center highlighted the need for self-isolation for citizens over 65 years of age and Moscow residents with chronic diseases and the importance of wearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and observing social distancing .

It noted that another 4,395 COVID-19 cases had been confirmed in Moscow.
MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus hospitalizations in Moscow grew by 14.8% over the past week, the city’s anti-coronavirus crisis center reported on Monday.
"Hospitalizations grew by 14.8% over the past week compared to the previous one. Currently, 275 patients are hooked to ventilators in Moscow’s hospitals. A total of 917 people were taken to the hospitals in the past 24 hours," the report said.
According to the crisis center, 10.4% of those infected are children, 45.1% are people aged between 18 and 45, 30.5% are patients aged between 46 and 65 and 10% are people aged between 66 and 79. Also, 4% of infected individuals are aged 80 and over.
All patients as well as all those who had close contacts with them are already under medical supervision.
The crisis center highlighted the need for self-isolation for citizens over 65 years of age and Moscow residents with chronic diseases and the importance of wearing face masks and gloves in public places and observing social distancing.


tass--2020-10-12--Azerbaijani armed forces trying to take over Hadrut, says Armenian info center

`` Large-scale military activity in the Hadrut area is ongoing .
The enemy is attempting to take over the city by concentrating the bulk of its forces in this direction , '' the information center notes .
YEREVAN , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Large-scale military activity continues in the Hadrut area , the Azerbaijani forces are trying to take over the city , the Armenian government ’ s information center informed on Monday .
For his part , Armenian Defense Ministry Representative Artsrun Hovhannisyan informed that the defense forces of the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh republic keep the situation fully under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Azerbaijani forces repelled on the line of contact .
At the talks held at Russia ’ s initiative in Moscow , Baku and Yerevan agreed a ceasefire , which came into effect at 12:00 local time on October 10 for humanitarian reasons in order to exchange detainees and the bodies of those killed in the fighting .
Shortly after noon the sides traded blame for violating the ceasefire agreement .
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27 , with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the summer of 2014 , in April 2016 and this past July .
Azerbaijan and Armenia have imposed martial law and launched mobilization efforts .
Both parties to the conflict have reported casualties , among them civilians .
The conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh , a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up , but primarily populated by ethnic Armenians , 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the enclave and seven adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them .
Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been ongoing since 1992 under the OSCE Minsk Group , led by its three co-chairs - Russia , France and the United States .

"Large-scale military activity in the Hadrut area is ongoing. The enemy is attempting to take over the city by concentrating the bulk of its forces in this direction," the information center notes.
YEREVAN, October 12. /TASS/. Large-scale military activity continues in the Hadrut area, the Azerbaijani forces are trying to take over the city, the Armenian government’s information center informed on Monday.
For his part, Armenian Defense Ministry Representative Artsrun Hovhannisyan informed that the defense forces of the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh republic keep the situation fully under control, with all the attacks of the Azerbaijani forces repelled on the line of contact.
At the talks held at Russia’s initiative in Moscow, Baku and Yerevan agreed a ceasefire, which came into effect at 12:00 local time on October 10 for humanitarian reasons in order to exchange detainees and the bodies of those killed in the fighting. Shortly after noon the sides traded blame for violating the ceasefire agreement.
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27, with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. The area experienced flare-ups of violence in the summer of 2014, in April 2016 and this past July. Azerbaijan and Armenia have imposed martial law and launched mobilization efforts. Both parties to the conflict have reported casualties, among them civilians.
The conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up, but primarily populated by ethnic Armenians, 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. Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been ongoing since 1992 under the OSCE Minsk Group, led by its three co-chairs - Russia, France and the United States.


tass--2020-10-12--Number of detained protesters in Belarus tops 580

The updated list published on the human rights center ’ s website now includes 585 names .
Among those detained is architect Nikita Domrachev , brother of Darya Domracheva , Belarusian biathlete and a four-time Olympic champion .
Besides , over 40 journalists covering the protests were apprehended on Sunday and most of them have been released shortly .
The protests took place in Berezovka , Brest , Bobruysk , Vitebsk , Gomel , Grodno , Zhlobin , Kobrin , Mogilev , Molodechno , Pruzhany and Soligorsk .
The opposition also attempted to hold a `` Pride March '' in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a large-scale event .
Nationwide demonstrations have engulfed Belarus following the August 9 presidential election .
According to the Central Election Commission ’ s official results , incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide , garnering 80.10 % of the vote .
His closest rival in the race , Svetlana Tikhanovskaya , came in second , with 10.12 % of the ballot .
However , she refused to recognize the election ’ s outcome , and left Belarus for Lithuania .
After the results of the exit polls were announced late on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities .
During the early post-election period , the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police .
The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition ’ s Coordination Council , which has been beating the drum for more protests .
In response , the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped .

The updated list published on the human rights center’s website now includes 585 names. Among those detained is architect Nikita Domrachev, brother of Darya Domracheva, Belarusian biathlete and a four-time Olympic champion. Besides, over 40 journalists covering the protests were apprehended on Sunday and most of them have been released shortly.
The protests took place in Berezovka, Brest, Bobruysk, Vitebsk, Gomel, Grodno, Zhlobin, Kobrin, Mogilev, Molodechno, Pruzhany and Soligorsk. The opposition also attempted to hold a "Pride March" in Minsk, but the security forces thwarted a large-scale event.
Nationwide demonstrations have engulfed Belarus following the August 9 presidential election. According to the Central Election Commission’s official results, incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide, garnering 80.10% of the vote. His closest rival in the race, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, came in second, with 10.12% of the ballot. However, she refused to recognize the election’s outcome, and left Belarus for Lithuania. After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9, mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities. During the early post-election period, the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police. The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition’s Coordination Council, which has been beating the drum for more protests. In response, the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped.


tass--2020-10-12--Another 3,793 COVID-19 patients recover in Russia in 24 hours

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s coronavirus recoveries grew by 3,793 in the past 24 hours @ @ @ @ @ patients have recovered by now , the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Monday According @ @ @ @ @ recoveries dropped to 78 % of the total number of infected individuals .
This figure @ @ @ @ @ day earlier .
Another 1,131 patients were discharged in Moscow , 269 in St. Petersburg @ @ @ @ @ Region , 141 in the Sverdlovsk Region and 117 in the Altai Region .
Meanwhile @ @ @ @ @ by 126 in the past 24 hours compared to 149 fatalities reported the day before @ @ @ @ @ people have died since the start of the epidemic .
The conditional mortality rate dropped @ @ @ @ @ to the crisis center .
Another 34 patients died in Moscow in the past 24 @ @ @ @ @ Rostov Region , six in the Kemerovo Region , six in the Omsk Region and @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. Russia’s coronavirus recoveries grew by 3,793 in the past 24 hours, a total of 1,024,235 patients have recovered by now, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Monday
According to the crisis center, recoveries dropped to 78% of the total number of infected individuals. This figure was almost 79% a day earlier.
Another 1,131 patients were discharged in Moscow, 269 in St. Petersburg, 201 in the Moscow Region, 141 in the Sverdlovsk Region and 117 in the Altai Region.
Meanwhile, Russia COVID-19 deaths grew by 126 in the past 24 hours compared to 149 fatalities reported the day before. A total of 22,722 people have died since the start of the epidemic.
The conditional mortality rate dropped to 1.73%, according to the crisis center.
Another 34 patients died in Moscow in the past 24 hours, nine in the Rostov Region, six in the Kemerovo Region, six in the Omsk Region and five in the Moscow Region.


tass--2020-10-12--Clé De Peau Beauté Reaffirms Their Commitment to Furthering Girls' Education

TOKYO , October 12 .
/PRNewswire/ .
As the world adapts to a new normal , education stands at a crossroads .
With global lockdowns and school closures impacting education opportunities for children around the world , Clé de Peau Beauté , the luxury skincare and makeup brand , is reaffirming its commitment to advocating for girls ' education through the 2020 'Power of Radiance Awards ' , honoring inspirational women who have made extraordinary contributions to bettering the lives of girls through education .
Launched in March 2019 , the 'Power of Radiance Awards ' is part of Clé @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to advocating for girls ' education and empowerment .
This year , the brand recognizes the remarkable achievements of Binita Shrestha and Pratiksha Pandey , two outstanding individuals from Nepal who have made extraordinary contributions to promoting Science , Technology , Engineering and Math ( STEM ) education for girls in Nepal through their organization , Women in STEM Nepal ( WiSTEM Nepal ) .
At the peak of the pandemic , over 90 % of the world 's student population experienced disruptions to their education* .
The educational needs of vulnerable communities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ marginalized due to limited access and knowledge of technology .
In order to build a more equitable future for all girls and drive a positive long-term impact on their lives and their communities , STEM education needs to be seen as a priority .
STEM education can empower girls to access skills that help secure jobs of the future , which in turn improves financial agency and self-sufficiency .
At a time when the world is socially distanced , Clé de Peau Beauté recognizes the need to connect people and ideas that transcend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Radiance Awards ' , Clé de Peau Beauté seeks to remove education barriers brought about by the pandemic , which have negatively impacted learning continuity , in order to make education a right for every child .
In line with global social distancing measures , the second annual 'Power of Radiance Awards ' was held virtually this year .
The event celebrated the incredible achievements of Ms. Shrestha , Ms. Pandey and other exceptional women from around the world who continue to champion for girls ' education during these challenging times .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ importance of ensuring education continuity in the new normal .
Ms. Shrestha and Ms. Pandey were joined by Humanitarian , Model and Actress Toni Garrn ; Entrepreneur and Digital Content Creator Chriselle Lim ; Model , Beauty Pageant Titleholder , NASA Datanaut and Director of Space Apps DC Fionnghuala O'Reilly ; as well as TV Personality and Actress Chiaki Horan .
The virtual program also featured a panel discussion between the six women , which focused on the importance of developing meaningful solutions to inspiring the next generation of girls through education and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event , videos of young girls sharing their dreams and aspirations for the future were also broadcasted to leave a legacy of hope for generations to come .
`` I believe that STEM education is a required skillset of the 21st century , '' said Ms. Shrestha .
`` Through STEM subjects , girls can access endless possibilities for employment , establish greater independence , and forge better connections with their communities and the world around them .
Thanks to Clé de Peau Beauté 's 'Power of Radiance Awards ' , we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change in the education system in Nepal and shattering STEM gender stereotypes . ''
`` Clé de Peau Beauté 's 'Power of Radiance Awards ' has provided us with an amazing opportunity to continue our pursuit of empowering girls and women in Nepal , '' said Ms. Pandey .
`` When we first started WiSTEM Nepal , we had limited access , outreach and financial means .
The Award grant has been instrumental in supporting our initiatives to provide STEM education for underprivileged and rural girls in Nepal . ''
`` At Clé @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the key to a better world is to unlock the potential of girls through education .
The 'Power of Radiance Awards ' celebrates the power of individuals who have taken action to drive positive change in their communities through education .
By shining the light on the radiance of Binita Shrestha and Pratiksha Pandey , we hope to inspire others to join us in empowering future generations of girls through STEM education , so that they too can pave the way for a more radiant society that is equal and fair , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Officer of Clé de Peau Beauté .
The 'Power of Radiance Awards ' program grant will be funded from global sales Clé de Peau Beauté 's The Serum .
For more details , please visit : https : //www.cledepeau-beaute.com/int/powerofradiance-2020.html .
Clé de Peau Beauté , the global luxury brand from Shiseido Cosmetics , was founded in 1982 as the ultimate expression of elegance and science .
Clé de Peau Beauté means the key to skin 's beauty .
The philosophy of the brand is to unlock the power of a woman 's radiance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from around the world .
Forever guided by an exquisite aesthetic sensibility and intelligence , Clé de Peau Beauté has instilled its products with modernity , enchantment , and dynamism to emerge as an industry leader in delivering radiance so remarkable , it emanates from within .
Available in 20 countries and regions worldwide .
Binita Shrestha is an IT Engineer , an Educator , and a Social Entrepreneur .
For the past 5 years , she and the team have been pioneering the momentum of breaking existing stereotypes of the society about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Arts and Mathematics ) and computing careers for adolescent girls in Nepal by leading various STEAM literacy programs to reduce the noticeable gender gap .
Inclining with the cause , she has overseen several successful tech philanthropic ventures , including a partnership between WiSTEM Nepal , UNICEF , and the Nepal Telecommunication Authority .
Pratiksha Pandey is an electronics and communication engineer .
She has devoted her career to shattering gender stereotypes and encouraging women to sit at the front of the classroom and proudly pursue their passions for learning and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ms. Pandey conducts coding , electronics and design workshops that help inspire the next generation of girls to pursue STEM careers .
She is also working as a mentor for the 1000 girls,1000 futures program by The New York Academy of Sciences .
An international model , humanitarian , and a well-recognized face with Clé de Peau Beauté , Toni Garrn is also the ambassador for Plan International 's global `` Girls Get Equal '' campaign , an international movement that aims to promote the rights of girls .
Chriselle Lim is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ content creators and digital mega-stars .
Creator of the Chriselle Factor , she is an inspirational role model for women everywhere juggling busy lives .
Founder of BÜMO , a digital and physical community , created to make the lives of busy parents a bit easier , her incredible work ethic , personal drive and talent epitomize the endless possibilities for girls everywhere .
Fionnghuala O'Reilly is a woman who captures the essence of the power of STEM education , and the endless possibilities it can offer to women .
She is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Engineer .
Working in the largely male-dominated engineering industry , she has made it her mission to demonstrate , through her achievements , how women can break through glass ceilings .
Just last year , she launched # ReachForTheStars , a hugely successful social media campaign that spotlights women and diversity in Science , Technology , Engineering , and Math .
Tokyo-born and raised Chiaki Horan has become an important figure of Japanese media , being both a TV personality and actress .
Her international upbringing , being born from an Irish father @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to develop an interest in western culture , leading her to study English Literature at the well-known Aoyama-Gakuin University , in Tokyo where she was prized for her diligent studies .
An outspoken media figure , she has become a regular on the commercial television news TBS , ( Tokyo Broadcasting Television ) presenting a variety of topics , from Politics to Cultural events and is an inspiration for young girls to show to develop their critical thinking .

TOKYO, October 12. /PRNewswire/. As the world adapts to a new normal, education stands at a crossroads. With global lockdowns and school closures impacting education opportunities for children around the world, Clé de Peau Beauté, the luxury skincare and makeup brand, is reaffirming its commitment to advocating for girls' education through the 2020 'Power of Radiance Awards', honoring inspirational women who have made extraordinary contributions to bettering the lives of girls through education. Launched in March 2019, the 'Power of Radiance Awards' is part of Clé de Peau Beauté's long-term philanthropic commitment to advocating for girls' education and empowerment. This year, the brand recognizes the remarkable achievements of Binita Shrestha and Pratiksha Pandey, two outstanding individuals from Nepal who have made extraordinary contributions to promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education for girls in Nepal through their organization, Women in STEM Nepal (WiSTEM Nepal).
At the peak of the pandemic, over 90% of the world's student population experienced disruptions to their education*. The educational needs of vulnerable communities, such as girls, were further marginalized due to limited access and knowledge of technology. In order to build a more equitable future for all girls and drive a positive long-term impact on their lives and their communities, STEM education needs to be seen as a priority. STEM education can empower girls to access skills that help secure jobs of the future, which in turn improves financial agency and self-sufficiency.
At a time when the world is socially distanced, Clé de Peau Beauté recognizes the need to connect people and ideas that transcend culture and geographies. Through the 'Power of Radiance Awards', Clé de Peau Beauté seeks to remove education barriers brought about by the pandemic, which have negatively impacted learning continuity, in order to make education a right for every child. In line with global social distancing measures, the second annual 'Power of Radiance Awards' was held virtually this year. The event celebrated the incredible achievements of Ms. Shrestha, Ms. Pandey and other exceptional women from around the world who continue to champion for girls' education during these challenging times. It also featured their perspectives on the importance of ensuring education continuity in the new normal. Ms. Shrestha and Ms. Pandey were joined by Humanitarian, Model and Actress Toni Garrn; Entrepreneur and Digital Content Creator Chriselle Lim; Model, Beauty Pageant Titleholder, NASA Datanaut and Director of Space Apps DC Fionnghuala O'Reilly; as well as TV Personality and Actress Chiaki Horan. The virtual program also featured a panel discussion between the six women, which focused on the importance of developing meaningful solutions to inspiring the next generation of girls through education and STEM subjects. To conclude the virtual event, videos of young girls sharing their dreams and aspirations for the future were also broadcasted to leave a legacy of hope for generations to come.
"I believe that STEM education is a required skillset of the 21st century," said Ms. Shrestha. "Through STEM subjects, girls can access endless possibilities for employment, establish greater independence, and forge better connections with their communities and the world around them. Thanks to Clé de Peau Beauté's 'Power of Radiance Awards', we are now one step closer to bringing about change in the education system in Nepal and shattering STEM gender stereotypes."
"Clé de Peau Beauté's 'Power of Radiance Awards' has provided us with an amazing opportunity to continue our pursuit of empowering girls and women in Nepal," said Ms. Pandey. "When we first started WiSTEM Nepal, we had limited access, outreach and financial means. The Award grant has been instrumental in supporting our initiatives to provide STEM education for underprivileged and rural girls in Nepal."
"At Clé de Peau Beauté, we believe that the key to a better world is to unlock the potential of girls through education. The 'Power of Radiance Awards' celebrates the power of individuals who have taken action to drive positive change in their communities through education. By shining the light on the radiance of Binita Shrestha and Pratiksha Pandey, we hope to inspire others to join us in empowering future generations of girls through STEM education, so that they too can pave the way for a more radiant society that is equal and fair," said Ms. Yukari Suzuki, Chief Brand Officer of Clé de Peau Beauté.
The 'Power of Radiance Awards' program grant will be funded from global sales Clé de Peau Beauté's The Serum.
For more details, please visit: https://www.cledepeau-beaute.com/int/powerofradiance-2020.html.
*Information source: UNESCO
( https://en.unesco.org/covid19/educationresponse/globalcoalition )
About Clé de Peau Beauté
Clé de Peau Beauté, the global luxury brand from Shiseido Cosmetics, was founded in 1982 as the ultimate expression of elegance and science. Clé de Peau Beauté means the key to skin's beauty. The philosophy of the brand is to unlock the power of a woman's radiance by harnessing makeup technologies and advanced skincare from around the world. Forever guided by an exquisite aesthetic sensibility and intelligence, Clé de Peau Beauté has instilled its products with modernity, enchantment, and dynamism to emerge as an industry leader in delivering radiance so remarkable, it emanates from within. Available in 20 countries and regions worldwide.
Clé de Peau Beauté Official Website: www.cledepeau-beaute.com
Clé de Peau Beauté Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cledepeaubeaute/
NOTES TO EDITORS:
About Binita Shrestha
Binita Shrestha is an IT Engineer, an Educator, and a Social Entrepreneur. For the past 5 years, she and the team have been pioneering the momentum of breaking existing stereotypes of the society about STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics) and computing careers for adolescent girls in Nepal by leading various STEAM literacy programs to reduce the noticeable gender gap. Inclining with the cause, she has overseen several successful tech philanthropic ventures, including a partnership between WiSTEM Nepal, UNICEF, and the Nepal Telecommunication Authority.
About Pratiksha Pandey
Pratiksha Pandey is an electronics and communication engineer. She has devoted her career to shattering gender stereotypes and encouraging women to sit at the front of the classroom and proudly pursue their passions for learning and knowledge. As Director of WiSTEM Nepal, Ms. Pandey conducts coding, electronics and design workshops that help inspire the next generation of girls to pursue STEM careers. She is also working as a mentor for the 1000 girls,1000 futures program by The New York Academy of Sciences.
About Toni Garrn
An international model, humanitarian, and a well-recognized face with Clé de Peau Beauté, Toni Garrn is also the ambassador for Plan International's global "Girls Get Equal" campaign, an international movement that aims to promote the rights of girls.
About Chriselle Lim
Chriselle Lim is one of the world's most successful content creators and digital mega-stars. Creator of the Chriselle Factor, she is an inspirational role model for women everywhere juggling busy lives. Founder of BÜMO, a digital and physical community, created to make the lives of busy parents a bit easier, her incredible work ethic, personal drive and talent epitomize the endless possibilities for girls everywhere.
About Fionnghuala O'Reilly
Fionnghuala O'Reilly is a woman who captures the essence of the power of STEM education, and the endless possibilities it can offer to women. She is a graduate of George Washington University and an Engineer. Working in the largely male-dominated engineering industry, she has made it her mission to demonstrate, through her achievements, how women can break through glass ceilings. Just last year, she launched #ReachForTheStars, a hugely successful social media campaign that spotlights women and diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
About Chiaki Horan
Tokyo-born and raised Chiaki Horan has become an important figure of Japanese media, being both a TV personality and actress. Her international upbringing, being born from an Irish father and Japanese mother, has led her to develop an interest in western culture, leading her to study English Literature at the well-known Aoyama-Gakuin University, in Tokyo where she was prized for her diligent studies. An outspoken media figure, she has become a regular on the commercial television news TBS, (Tokyo Broadcasting Television) presenting a variety of topics, from Politics to Cultural events and is an inspiration for young girls to show to develop their critical thinking.
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1283521/2020_Power_of_Radiance_Awards.jpg
Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1283638/Logo_Logo.jpg
CONTACT: Sabrina Poh, +65-6825-8042, cpbpor@webershandwick.com


tass--2020-10-12--Russia reports over 13,500 new coronavirus cases

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s coronavirus cases rose by 13,592 in the past day , @ @ @ @ @ in the country to 1,312,310 , the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ from 1.1 % to 1 % , according to the crisis center .
The lowest @ @ @ @ @ day was registered in the Chechen Republic ( 0.3 % ) and the Chuvash Republic @ @ @ @ @ Some new 4,395 coronavirus cases were confirmed in Moscow , 538 in St. Petersburg , @ @ @ @ @ , 274 in the Rostov Region and 271 in the Nizhny Novgorod Region .
Currently @ @ @ @ @ treatment for the coronavirus in Russia .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. Russia’s coronavirus cases rose by 13,592 in the past day, taking the total case tally in the country to 1,312,310, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Monday.
The average growth rate dropped from 1.1% to 1%, according to the crisis center.
The lowest growth rate in the past day was registered in the Chechen Republic (0.3%) and the Chuvash Republic (0.4%).
Some new 4,395 coronavirus cases were confirmed in Moscow, 538 in St. Petersburg, 440 in the Moscow Region, 274 in the Rostov Region and 271 in the Nizhny Novgorod Region.
Currently, 265,353 people are undergoing treatment for the coronavirus in Russia.


tass--2020-10-12--Russian airlines’ passenger transportation down 32.5% in September

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Russian air carriers lowered transportation by 32.5 % year-on-year to 8.65 mln passengers @ @ @ @ @ Air Transport Agency says on its website on Monday .
Recovery of tourism industry to @ @ @ @ @ , says expert The overall passenger turnover of airlines fell 44.9 % to 17.62 bln @ @ @ @ @ list in terms of passenger traffic with 1.43 mln passengers carried in September ( +4.8 @ @ @ @ @ second with 1.32 mln passengers , down 60 % .
Pobeda airline is third with @ @ @ @ @ 17.8 % ) .
In January - September 2020 , Russian airlines carried 52.56 mln @ @ @ @ @ in annual terms .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. Russian air carriers lowered transportation by 32.5% year-on-year to 8.65 mln passengers in August, the Federal Air Transport Agency says on its website on Monday.
Recovery of tourism industry to require two years at least, says expert
The overall passenger turnover of airlines fell 44.9% to 17.62 bln passenger-km.
S7 tops the list in terms of passenger traffic with 1.43 mln passengers carried in September (+4.8%). Aeroflot ranks second with 1.32 mln passengers, down 60%. Pobeda airline is third with 1.14 mln passengers (up 17.8%).
In January - September 2020, Russian airlines carried 52.56 mln passengers, down 47% in annual terms.


tass--2020-10-12--Over 266,000 people in Russia remain under medical supervision due to COVID-19

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
More than 266,100 people in Russia remain under medical supervision over the suspected @ @ @ @ @ Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing told reporters on Monday @ @ @ @ @ of ] 266,125 people remain under medical supervision in Russia , '' its press service @ @ @ @ @ watchdog , more than 51.1 million coronavirus tests have been conducted by now , with @ @ @ @ @ past 24 hours .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. More than 266,100 people in Russia remain under medical supervision over the suspected coronavirus disease, the Russian Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing told reporters on Monday.
"[A total of] 266,125 people remain under medical supervision in Russia," its press service said.
According to the watchdog, more than 51.1 million coronavirus tests have been conducted by now, with 409,000 tests made in the past 24 hours.


tass--2020-10-12--Meet Zent2U at Virtual CPhi Festival of Pharma 2020

PRAGUE , October 12 .
/PRNewswire/ .
The B2B Zent2U platform , powered by Zentiva , attends the online CPhI Festival of Pharma .
The team will showcase its R & D pipeline assets for strategic partnerships through Zent2u .
During this virtual congress , Zent2U representatives will meet with strategic stakeholders to discuss future collaboration leading to partnerships for success .
`` Building win-win partnerships is at the heart of our growth story .
Our strategic Zent2U platform , powered by Zentiva , is a leader in the field of Urology , Cardio , Pain , and Oncology .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( eyedrops , ampoules , vials , ointments ) and pellet , making us a strong player '' said Thomas Koene , Head of Strategic Growth Partnerships , Zentiva .
`` Our company also offers Value Added Medicines in Oncology for co-development and strategic out-licensing .
Besides , two of them are in an advanced stage of development and are ready to be further propelled '' .
Zentiva is a producer of high-quality affordable medicines serving patients in Europe and beyond .
With a dedicated team of more than 4,500 people and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sites in Prague and Bucharest - Zentiva strives to be the champion of branded generic medicines and OTC products in Europe to better support people 's daily healthcare needs .
At Zentiva it is our aspiration that healthcare should be a right and not a privilege .
More than ever , people need better access to high-quality affordable medicines and healthcare .
We work in partnership with physicians , pharmacists , wholesalers , regulators , and governments to provide the everyday solutions that we all depend on .
Learn more at www.Zent2u.com .

PRAGUE, October 12. /PRNewswire/. The B2B Zent2U platform, powered by Zentiva, attends the online CPhI Festival of Pharma. The team will showcase its R&D pipeline assets for strategic partnerships through Zent2u. During this virtual congress, Zent2U representatives will meet with strategic stakeholders to discuss future collaboration leading to partnerships for success.
"Building win-win partnerships is at the heart of our growth story. Our strategic Zent2U platform, powered by Zentiva, is a leader in the field of Urology, Cardio, Pain, and Oncology. Our technologies specialize in hormones, sterile (eyedrops, ampoules, vials, ointments) and pellet, making us a strong player" said Thomas Koene, Head of Strategic Growth Partnerships, Zentiva. "Our company also offers Value Added Medicines in Oncology for co-development and strategic out-licensing. Besides, two of them are in an advanced stage of development and are ready to be further propelled".
About Zentiva
Zentiva is a producer of high-quality affordable medicines serving patients in Europe and beyond. With a dedicated team of more than 4,500 people and a network of production sites - including flagship sites in Prague and Bucharest - Zentiva strives to be the champion of branded generic medicines and OTC products in Europe to better support people's daily healthcare needs.
At Zentiva it is our aspiration that healthcare should be a right and not a privilege. More than ever, people need better access to high-quality affordable medicines and healthcare. We work in partnership with physicians, pharmacists, wholesalers, regulators, and governments to provide the everyday solutions that we all depend on. Learn more at www.Zent2u.com.
Meet the Zent2U Team:
Thomas Koene – Head of Strategic Growth Partnerships
Email: Thomas.koene@zentiva.com
Katerina Mala – Pharma Sales Manager
Mobile: +420775155771 / Email: katerina.mala@zentiva.com
Theo Zainea - Key Account Manager B2B
Mobile: +40737717843 / Email: theodorian.zainea@zentiva.com
Tomas Pilarcik - Key Account Manager B2B
Mobile: +420724909254 / Email: tomas.pilarcik@zentiva.com
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/788903/Zentiva_Logo.jpg
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1310370/Zent2U_Logo.jpg
Media Contact:
Mounira Lemoui
Head of Communications
ZENTIVA GROUP, a.s.
U kabelovny 529/16, Dolní Měcholupy, 102 00 Prague 10
Cell: (+420) 727 873 159
E-mail: mounira.lemoui@zentiva.com


tass--2020-10-12--Rahmon wins over 90% of vote in Tajikistan’s presidential election

DUSHANBE , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Emomali Rahmon won 90.92 % of the vote in Tajikistan ’ s presidential @ @ @ @ @ Central Commission on Elections and Referenda Bakhtiyor Khudoyorzoda said on Monday .
`` Emomali Rahmon @ @ @ @ @ the vote ] , '' Khudoyorzoda said .
According to the election authority , the @ @ @ @ @ .
According to the election authority , the voter turnout reached 85.39 % .
The @ @ @ @ @ held on October 11 .
Five candidates ran in the polls - incumbent President Emomali @ @ @ @ @ Federation of Independent Trade Union , the Union of the Youth and the People ’ @ @ @ @ @ ) , Rustam Latifzoda of the Agrarian Party , Abduhalim Ghafforzoda of the Socialist Party @ @ @ @ @ Party of Economic Reform and Miroj Abdulloyev of the Communist Party .
The winner is @ @ @ @ @ 50 % of the vote .

DUSHANBE, October 12. /TASS/. Emomali Rahmon won 90.92% of the vote in Tajikistan’s presidential election, Chairman of the Central Commission on Elections and Referenda Bakhtiyor Khudoyorzoda said on Monday.
"Emomali Rahmon secured 90.92% [of the vote]," Khudoyorzoda said. According to the election authority, the voter turnout reached 85.39%.
According to the election authority, the voter turnout reached 85.39%.
The presidential election in Tajikistan was held on October 11. Five candidates ran in the polls - incumbent President Emomali Rahmon (designated by the Federation of Independent Trade Union, the Union of the Youth and the People’s Democratic Party of Tajikistan), Rustam Latifzoda of the Agrarian Party, Abduhalim Ghafforzoda of the Socialist Party, Rustam Rahmatzoda of the Party of Economic Reform and Miroj Abdulloyev of the Communist Party. The winner is a candidate who garners over 50% of the vote.


tass--2020-10-12--Shells explode, air raid sirens go off in Nagorno-Karabakh’s Stepanakert

STAPANKERT , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Several bombs exploded in the Nagorno-Karabakh city of Stepanakert , air raid sirens @ @ @ @ @ , according to a TASS reporter on site .
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia @ @ @ @ @ with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh .
The area experienced flare-ups @ @ @ @ @ of 2014 , in April 2016 and this past July .
Azerbaijan and Armenia have @ @ @ @ @ mobilization efforts .
Both parties to the conflict have reported casualties , among them civilians @

STAPANKERT, October 12. /TASS/. Several bombs exploded in the Nagorno-Karabakh city of Stepanakert, air raid sirens went off early Monday morning, according to a TASS reporter on site.
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27, with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. The area experienced flare-ups of violence in the summer of 2014, in April 2016 and this past July. Azerbaijan and Armenia have imposed martial law and launched mobilization efforts. Both parties to the conflict have reported casualties, among them civilians.


tass--2020-10-12--China successfully launches Gaofen-13 remote probing satellite

BEIJING , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
China successfully launched the Gaofen-13 remote probing satellite , which will be used @ @ @ @ @ surveying , China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation announced Sunday .
According to the Corporation @ @ @ @ @ WeChat social network , the launch took place on 00:57 local time via a CZ-3B @ @ @ @ @ Launch Center .
This has become CZ-3B ’ s 349th launch .
The satellite will @ @ @ @ @ upcoming natural disasters and assist in natural disaster relief .
China actively develops its national @ @ @ @ @ meteorological , telecommunication and navigation satellites , as well as Moon colonization technologies .
In @ @ @ @ @ its first Martian research project .
Beijing also looks forward to researching asteroids and mining @ @ @ @ @

BEIJING, October 12. /TASS/. China successfully launched the Gaofen-13 remote probing satellite, which will be used in ecology, agriculture and surveying, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation announced Sunday.
According to the Corporation’s page in the WeChat social network, the launch took place on 00:57 local time via a CZ-3B carrier missile from the Xichang Launch Center. This has become CZ-3B’s 349th launch.
The satellite will also provide early warning for upcoming natural disasters and assist in natural disaster relief.
China actively develops its national space program, by developing meteorological, telecommunication and navigation satellites, as well as Moon colonization technologies. In early August, China launched its first Martian research project. Beijing also looks forward to researching asteroids and mining them for raw materials.


tass--2020-10-12--Russia simplifies citizenship procedure for foreigners with Russian children

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Foreign citizens with adult able-bodied children with Russian passports will be able to @ @ @ @ @ simplified procedure starting October 12 , according to the Russian official legal information website .
@ @ @ @ @ Russian citizenship will undergo compulsory dactiloscopic registration starting Monday .
The new law allows foreigners @ @ @ @ @ a simplified procedure , without a minimum residence time requirement , if they have adult @ @ @ @ @ - in contrast with previous edition that conditioned this option on disabled children only .
@ @ @ @ @ filing inquiries on application for Russian citizenship will be abolished for Russian-speaking foreigners .
Foreign @ @ @ @ @ , applying for Russian passport , will now be required do undergo dactyloscopy .
This @ @ @ @ @ 's national security and prevent people involved in terrorism to infiltrate the Russian territory .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. Foreign citizens with adult able-bodied children with Russian passports will be able to obtain Russain citizenship via a simplified procedure starting October 12, according to the Russian official legal information website. Besides, foreigners applying for Russian citizenship will undergo compulsory dactiloscopic registration starting Monday.
The new law allows foreigners to obtain Russian citizenship via a simplified procedure, without a minimum residence time requirement, if they have adult able-bodied children with Russian passports - in contrast with previous edition that conditioned this option on disabled children only.
Besides, some restrictions on filing inquiries on application for Russian citizenship will be abolished for Russian-speaking foreigners.
Foreign citizens and people without citizenship, applying for Russian passport, will now be required do undergo dactyloscopy. This measure aims to increase Russia's national security and prevent people involved in terrorism to infiltrate the Russian territory.


tass--2020-10-13--Coronavirus infections in Russia may reach peak in few weeks - expert

MOSCOW , October 13 .
/TASS/ .
Coronavirus infections in Russia may reach a peak number in a few weeks @ @ @ @ @ virologist , professor of the Gamaleya Research Institute , told TASS .
`` Considering how @ @ @ @ @ [ the number of infected , it may indicate that ] pretty soon we can @ @ @ @ @ > - [ it may happen ] in a few weeks , '' Alshtein said @ @ @ @ @ lot depends on how Russian citizens comply with all anti-epidemic measures in order to stop @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If they do not comply , it [ the pandemic ] can drag @ @ @ @ @ the expert said .
To date , 1,312,310 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia @ @ @ @ @ recovered from the disease .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 22,722 fatalities nationwide .
@ @ @ @ @ set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, October 13. /TASS/. Coronavirus infections in Russia may reach a peak number in a few weeks, says Anatoly Alshtein, virologist, professor of the Gamaleya Research Institute, told TASS.
"Considering how quickly it started to grow [the number of infected, it may indicate that] pretty soon we can reach peak numbers <...> - [it may happen] in a few weeks," Alshtein said.
He added that a lot depends on how Russian citizens comply with all anti-epidemic measures in order to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
"If they do not comply, it [the pandemic] can drag on and on," the expert said.
To date, 1,312,310 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 1,024,235 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 22,722 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-10-13--Moscow reports 58 deaths due to coronavirus in past 24 hours - headquarters

MOSCOW , October 13 .
/TASS/ .
The number of deaths due to coronavirus in Moscow has increased by 58 @ @ @ @ @ , as reported on Tuesday at the operational headquarters for control and monitoring of the @ @ @ @ @ In Moscow , 58 patients died , all of them were diagnosed with pneumonia and @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus infection was obtained , '' the headquarters said .
In total , 5,687 people @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , died in the capital .
Moscow ranks first in Russia in terms of @ @ @ @ @ with coronavirus , the number of new cases has been growing recently .
In total @ @ @ @ @ were registered in the city , including 4,395 in the past day .
262,750 people @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, October 13. /TASS/. The number of deaths due to coronavirus in Moscow has increased by 58 over the last 24 hours, as reported on Tuesday at the operational headquarters for control and monitoring of the situation with coronavirus.
"In Moscow, 58 patients died, all of them were diagnosed with pneumonia and a positive test result for coronavirus infection was obtained," the headquarters said.
In total, 5,687 people, who had a confirmed coronavirus, died in the capital.
Moscow ranks first in Russia in terms of the number of people infected with coronavirus, the number of new cases has been growing recently. In total, 334,813 cases of infection were registered in the city, including 4,395 in the past day. 262,750 people recovered from the disease.


tass--2020-10-13--Phase III clinical trials of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine approved in UAE

MOSCOW , October 13 .
/TASS/ .
The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention has approved Phase III clinical trials of Russia ’ s Sputnik V vaccine to take place in the UAE , the Russian Direct Investment Fund ( RDIF ) announced in a press release on Monday .
`` The Russian Direct Investment Fund ( RDIF ) , Russia ’ s sovereign wealth fund , is supported by the UAE ’ s leading laboratory provider PureHealth , on the UAE trials of the Sputnik V vaccine , which was developed by the Gamaleya National Research Institute of Epidemiology @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Russian Federation .
The trials will be supervised by the Abu Dhabi Department of Health and the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention , while medical protocols will be handled by Abu Dhabi ’ s public health provider , the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company ( SEHA ) , '' - according to the press release .
RDIF announced that the UAE trials form part of the third phase of the Sputnik V vaccine trial , in line with trials taking place in Russia and Belarus .
`` Conducted in line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the UAE trial will be medically supervised for 90 days after taking the Sputnik V vaccine , '' - RDIF said .
According to head of the RDIF , Kirill Dmitriev , in the coming months , Phase III trials will also be conducted in several other countries .

MOSCOW, October 13. /TASS/. The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention has approved Phase III clinical trials of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine to take place in the UAE, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) announced in a press release on Monday.
"The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, is supported by the UAE’s leading laboratory provider PureHealth, on the UAE trials of the Sputnik V vaccine, which was developed by the Gamaleya National Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. The trials will be supervised by the Abu Dhabi Department of Health and the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, while medical protocols will be handled by Abu Dhabi’s public health provider, the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA)," - according to the press release.
RDIF announced that the UAE trials form part of the third phase of the Sputnik V vaccine trial, in line with trials taking place in Russia and Belarus.
"Conducted in line with the highest international standards, volunteers for the UAE trial will be medically supervised for 90 days after taking the Sputnik V vaccine," - RDIF said.
According to head of the RDIF, Kirill Dmitriev, in the coming months, Phase III trials will also be conducted in several other countries.


tass--2020-10-12--Nizhny Novgorod shooter interested in computer games, weapons - source

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
A shooting suspect in the Nizhny Novgorod Region was into computer games , firearms , and extreme industrial tourism , a source in law enforcement told TASS .
`` Preliminary investigation showed that [ Daniil ] Monakhov was interested in firearms , their tactical technical properties , constructional features , and history .
He was also into computer games .
Additionally , among his hobbies < … > was extreme industrial tourism .
He was active on social networks , '' the agency ’ s interlocutor said .
In the evening of October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Bolsheorlovskoe settlement in the Nizhny Novgorod Region and later fled .
Russia ’ s Investigative Committee ’ s regional directorate reported that three people were killed while three more were wounded .
Currently , members of special purpose police units and rapid deployment task force have been dispatched to the crime scene to apprehend the armed criminal .
The source in the law enforcement told TASS that the shooting was initiated by a local 18-year-old resident Daniil Monakhov .
It was caused by a conflict between him and his grandmother whom he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a hospital in serious condition .
The young man also shot and killed his neighbor and then killed two more people at a bus stop .
Additionally , two women were also wounded there .
Later the source told TASS that the grandmother died in the hospital and the number of victims rose to four .
The suspect may be in possession of two smoothbore guns and 40 bullets .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. A shooting suspect in the Nizhny Novgorod Region was into computer games, firearms, and extreme industrial tourism, a source in law enforcement told TASS.
"Preliminary investigation showed that [Daniil] Monakhov was interested in firearms, their tactical technical properties, constructional features, and history. He was also into computer games. Additionally, among his hobbies <…> was extreme industrial tourism. He was active on social networks," the agency’s interlocutor said.
In the evening of October 12, a man opened fire in the Bolsheorlovskoe settlement in the Nizhny Novgorod Region and later fled. Russia’s Investigative Committee’s regional directorate reported that three people were killed while three more were wounded. Currently, members of special purpose police units and rapid deployment task force have been dispatched to the crime scene to apprehend the armed criminal.
The source in the law enforcement told TASS that the shooting was initiated by a local 18-year-old resident Daniil Monakhov. It was caused by a conflict between him and his grandmother whom he wounded. The woman was delivered to a hospital in serious condition. The young man also shot and killed his neighbor and then killed two more people at a bus stop. Additionally, two women were also wounded there.
Later the source told TASS that the grandmother died in the hospital and the number of victims rose to four.
The suspect may be in possession of two smoothbore guns and 40 bullets.


tass--2020-10-12--Senior Russian diplomat, OSCE envoys discuss Nagorno-Karabakh agreements

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko has discussed steps to implement agreements reached in Moscow between Azerbaijan and Armenia to reach a settlement in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh with US co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group Andrew Schofer and Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for Nagorno-Karabakh Andrzej Kasprzyk .
`` The meeting discussed the situation developing in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone .
Possible steps were considered aimed at implementing agreements reached during the meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov , Azeri Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov , and Armenian Foreign Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement .
The parties also confirmed interest in continuing collective efforts aimed at easing tensions considering the provisions of a joint statement of presidents of Russia , the United States and France issued on October 1 .
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27 , with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh .
The area experienced flare-ups of violence in the summer of 2014 , in April 2016 and this past July .
Azerbaijan and Armenia have imposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Both parties to the conflict have reported casualties , among them civilians .
As a result of the Russia-initiated consultations in Moscow Baku and Yerevan agreed to cease fire starting from 12:00 local time of October 10 for humanitarian purposes for exchanging prisoners of war and bodies .
Either side accuses the other of violations .
The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the highland region of Nagorno-Karabakh , a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up , but primarily populated by ethnic Armenians , broke out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been ongoing since 1992 under the OSCE Minsk Group , led by its three co-chairs - Russia , France and the United States .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko has discussed steps to implement agreements reached in Moscow between Azerbaijan and Armenia to reach a settlement in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh with US co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group Andrew Schofer and Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for Nagorno-Karabakh Andrzej Kasprzyk.
"The meeting discussed the situation developing in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone. Possible steps were considered aimed at implementing agreements reached during the meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Azeri Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, and Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan in Moscow on October 10," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
The parties also confirmed interest in continuing collective efforts aimed at easing tensions considering the provisions of a joint statement of presidents of Russia, the United States and France issued on October 1.
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27, with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. The area experienced flare-ups of violence in the summer of 2014, in April 2016 and this past July. Azerbaijan and Armenia have imposed martial law and launched mobilization efforts. Both parties to the conflict have reported casualties, among them civilians.
As a result of the Russia-initiated consultations in Moscow Baku and Yerevan agreed to cease fire starting from 12:00 local time of October 10 for humanitarian purposes for exchanging prisoners of war and bodies. Either side accuses the other of violations.
The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the highland region of Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up, but primarily populated by ethnic Armenians, 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. Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been ongoing since 1992 under the OSCE Minsk Group, led by its three co-chairs - Russia, France and the United States.


tass--2020-10-12--Putin decrees creation of Security Council commission on protection from new infections

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree on formation of an interagency commission of Russia ’ s Security Council on issues of developing a national system of protection against new infections chaired by the deputy chairman of Russia ’ s Security Council .
Currently this position is occupied by Dmitry Medvedev .
The decree was published on Monday on the official web portal of legal information .
`` [ I hereby decree ] to create an interagency commission of Russia ’ s Security Council on issues of development of a national system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the decree said which also approves the provision on the commission and its members .
According to the document , the commission will have the following functions : evaluation of threats related to the spread of contagious diseases , study of mechanisms of emergence of new diseases , monitoring of their spread and estimation of herd immunity of Russian population , evaluation of level of protection of Russian population against new infections , and others .
The commission will be chaired by the deputy chairman of Russia ’ s Security Council .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia ’ s government , Russian Healthcare Minister , Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education , Russian Industry and Trade Minister , President of Russia ’ s Academy of Sciences , head of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing , head of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency , rector of the Lomonosov Moscow State University and others .
In all , the commission will include 23 members .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree on formation of an interagency commission of Russia’s Security Council on issues of developing a national system of protection against new infections chaired by the deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council. Currently this position is occupied by Dmitry Medvedev. The decree was published on Monday on the official web portal of legal information.
"[I hereby decree] to create an interagency commission of Russia’s Security Council on issues of development of a national system of protection from new infections," the decree said which also approves the provision on the commission and its members.
According to the document, the commission will have the following functions: evaluation of threats related to the spread of contagious diseases, study of mechanisms of emergence of new diseases, monitoring of their spread and estimation of herd immunity of Russian population, evaluation of level of protection of Russian population against new infections, and others.
The commission will be chaired by the deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council. It will also include the deputy chairman of Russia’s government, Russian Healthcare Minister, Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education, Russian Industry and Trade Minister, President of Russia’s Academy of Sciences, head of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing, head of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, rector of the Lomonosov Moscow State University and others. In all, the commission will include 23 members.


tass--2020-10-12--Navalny sanctions will tell badly on Russia-EU ties — lawmaker

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
The sanctions that the EU is planning to introduce against Russia for the alleged poisoning of Russian opposition figure and blogger Alexey Navalny will affect relations of Moscow with Berlin , Paris and Brussels , Chair of the Russian State Duma ( lower house of parliament ) Committee for Foreign Affairs Leonid Slutsky told reporters Monday .
`` Undeniably , if imposed , the new restrictions will tell negatively on the relations with Berlin , Paris and Brussels as a whole , '' the lawmaker noted .
According to him , the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inertia and is willing to make political decisions on new sanctions in light of the Navalny incident , as they say , without charge or trial . ''
`` Head of the European diplomacy Josep Borrell calls the alleged poisoning of the blogger [ Navalny ] a fact , which is far from being a fact , '' Slutsky noted .
The lawmaker also emphasized , `` the German authorities consistently refuse to interact on the Navalny case , not answering the Russian side ’ s requests , putting forward unfounded accusations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case , Russia is not obliged to trust the word [ of Berlin ] , make excuses or recognize the dictated interpretation of the events as a fact , '' he concluded .
Earlier , EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said the top EU diplomats had reached an agreement on the sanctions , which will now have to be drafted by the EU technical agencies .
A source in one of the European delegations told TASS that legal issues stand in the way of adopting the sanctions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people involved in the incident .
Alexey Navalny was rushed to a local hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk on August 20 after collapsing on a Moscow-bound flight from Tomsk .
He fell into a coma and was put on a ventilator in an intensive care unit .
On August 22 , he was airlifted to Berlin and admitted to the Charite hospital .
On September 2 , Berlin claimed that having examined Navalny ’ s test samples , German government toxicologists had come to the conclusion that the blogger had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Novichok family .
On October 6 , the OPCW confirmed that biomarkers of the cholinesterase inhibitor found in Navalny ’ s blood and urine samples have similar structural characteristics as the toxic chemicals added to the Chemical Weapons Convention ’ s Annex on Chemicals in November 2019 .
At the same time , this cholinesterase inhibitor is not listed in the Annex on Chemicals to the Convention .
On Friday , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov recalled that neither Germany nor the OPCW had provided any evidence to Russia and , moreover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another for information .
The minister added that Germany had ignored four requests of the Russian Prosecutor General ’ s Office on the case , thus brushing international law aside , and expressed confidence that the `` evidence '' would not be provided by Berlin after all .
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov has repeatedly said that Russia was ready for comprehensive cooperation with Germany .
He pointed out that no poisonous substances had been detected in Navalny ’ s system prior to his transfer to Berlin .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. The sanctions that the EU is planning to introduce against Russia for the alleged poisoning of Russian opposition figure and blogger Alexey Navalny will affect relations of Moscow with Berlin, Paris and Brussels, Chair of the Russian State Duma (lower house of parliament) Committee for Foreign Affairs Leonid Slutsky told reporters Monday.
"Undeniably, if imposed, the new restrictions will tell negatively on the relations with Berlin, Paris and Brussels as a whole," the lawmaker noted.
According to him, the EU "has become a prisoner to anti-Russian inertia and is willing to make political decisions on new sanctions in light of the Navalny incident, as they say, without charge or trial." "Head of the European diplomacy Josep Borrell calls the alleged poisoning of the blogger [Navalny] a fact, which is far from being a fact," Slutsky noted.
The lawmaker also emphasized, "the German authorities consistently refuse to interact on the Navalny case, not answering the Russian side’s requests, putting forward unfounded accusations and demanding explanations." "In this case, Russia is not obliged to trust the word [of Berlin], make excuses or recognize the dictated interpretation of the events as a fact," he concluded.
Earlier, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said the top EU diplomats had reached an agreement on the sanctions, which will now have to be drafted by the EU technical agencies. A source in one of the European delegations told TASS that legal issues stand in the way of adopting the sanctions right away as Brussels cannot identify people involved in the incident.
Navalny case
Alexey Navalny was rushed to a local hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk on August 20 after collapsing on a Moscow-bound flight from Tomsk. He fell into a coma and was put on a ventilator in an intensive care unit. On August 22, he was airlifted to Berlin and admitted to the Charite hospital.
On September 2, Berlin claimed that having examined Navalny’s test samples, German government toxicologists had come to the conclusion that the blogger had been affected by a toxic agent belonging to the Novichok family.
On October 6, the OPCW confirmed that biomarkers of the cholinesterase inhibitor found in Navalny’s blood and urine samples have similar structural characteristics as the toxic chemicals added to the Chemical Weapons Convention’s Annex on Chemicals in November 2019. At the same time, this cholinesterase inhibitor is not listed in the Annex on Chemicals to the Convention.
On Friday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov recalled that neither Germany nor the OPCW had provided any evidence to Russia and, moreover, only keep redirecting Moscow to one another for information. The minister added that Germany had ignored four requests of the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office on the case, thus brushing international law aside, and expressed confidence that the "evidence" would not be provided by Berlin after all. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov has repeatedly said that Russia was ready for comprehensive cooperation with Germany. He pointed out that no poisonous substances had been detected in Navalny’s system prior to his transfer to Berlin.


tass--2020-10-12--Not a single case of repeat COVID-19 infection recorded in Russia — expert

MOSCOW , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Only six cases of repeat infection with the novel coronavirus have been registered worldwide and Russia accounted for none of them , Deputy Director of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing Alexander Gorelov reported on Monday .
`` To date , only six cases of the repeat coronavirus infection have been described worldwide , while the Russian Federation accounted for none of them .
Thus , taking into account the scale of the spread of the coronavirus infection in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a one thousandth share , '' he said in an interview with the Russia-24 TV channel on Monday .
He also noted that rumors that people who had COVID-19 in winter don ’ t have immunity to it anymore and may get infected again have not been scientifically proven .
To date , 1,312,310 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 1,024,235 patients having recovered from the disease .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 22,722 fatalities nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW, October 12. /TASS/. Only six cases of repeat infection with the novel coronavirus have been registered worldwide and Russia accounted for none of them, Deputy Director of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing Alexander Gorelov reported on Monday.
"To date, only six cases of the repeat coronavirus infection have been described worldwide, while the Russian Federation accounted for none of them. Thus, taking into account the scale of the spread of the coronavirus infection in the world, six cases make up practically a one thousandth share," he said in an interview with the Russia-24 TV channel on Monday.
He also noted that rumors that people who had COVID-19 in winter don’t have immunity to it anymore and may get infected again have not been scientifically proven.
To date, 1,312,310 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 1,024,235 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 22,722 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-10-12--WHO chief blasts strategy of letting Covid-19 spread to achieve herd immunity

GENEVA , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the strategy when herd immunity to the coronavirus infection is achieved by free circulation of the virus is unacceptable in human society .
During a Monday briefing in Geneva , he emphasized that this variant does not correspond to ethical norms , reiterating that this strategy of protection against a disease has never been used in the history of medicine .
`` Never in the history of public health has herd immunity been used as a strategy for responding to an outbreak , let alone a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problematic , '' the WHO head stated .
`` We don ’ t know enough about immunity to COVID-19 , '' he noted .
Although the majority of the infected develop immunity `` within the first few weeks , '' it is still unknown `` how strong or lasting that immune response is , or how it differs for different people , '' he explained , reiterating that there had been cases when people got infected for the second time .
`` The vast majority of people in most countries remain susceptible to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continued .
He cited the studies according to which `` less than 10 % of the population have been infected with the COVID-19 virus . ''
As the director-general emphasized , uncontrollable circulation of COVID-19 among people would lead to `` unnecessary infections , suffering and death . ''
`` We ’ re only beginning to understand the long-term health impacts among people with COVID-19 , '' he said .
`` Allowing a dangerous virus that we don ’ t fully understand to run free is simply unethical .
It ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

GENEVA, October 12. /TASS/. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the strategy when herd immunity to the coronavirus infection is achieved by free circulation of the virus is unacceptable in human society. During a Monday briefing in Geneva, he emphasized that this variant does not correspond to ethical norms, reiterating that this strategy of protection against a disease has never been used in the history of medicine.
"Never in the history of public health has herd immunity been used as a strategy for responding to an outbreak, let alone a pandemic. It is scientifically and ethically problematic," the WHO head stated.
"We don’t know enough about immunity to COVID-19," he noted. Although the majority of the infected develop immunity "within the first few weeks," it is still unknown "how strong or lasting that immune response is, or how it differs for different people," he explained, reiterating that there had been cases when people got infected for the second time.
"The vast majority of people in most countries remain susceptible to this virus," the WHO head continued. He cited the studies according to which "less than 10% of the population have been infected with the COVID-19 virus." As the director-general emphasized, uncontrollable circulation of COVID-19 among people would lead to "unnecessary infections, suffering and death."
"We’re only beginning to understand the long-term health impacts among people with COVID-19," he said. "Allowing a dangerous virus that we don’t fully understand to run free is simply unethical. It’s not an option," the Director-General concluded.


tass--2020-10-12--Zelensky lost Constitution’s guarantor status by cancelling Donbass elections — opposition

KIEV , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Ukraine ’ s political party Opposition Platform - For Life believes that President @ @ @ @ @ decision to cancel local elections in some territories of Donbass , which means that the @ @ @ @ @ fact lost the right to be considered as the safeguard of the Constitution , the @ @ @ @ @ Boiko has said .
`` It is a crime .
We have already requested an @ @ @ @ @ is behind this .
We know that Zelensky himself masterminded this process .
He has @ @ @ @ @ considered as a safeguard of the Constitution after he stripped half a million people of @ @ @ @ @ in the elections of local authorities , '' Boiko said in a video message uploaded @ @ @ @ @ Today .
Boiko said that if in reality Zelensky had nothing to do with the @ @ @ @ @ , he must intervene and give the people the right to vote .
Otherwise the @ @ @ @ @ political responsibility .

KIEV, October 12. /TASS/. Ukraine’s political party Opposition Platform - For Life believes that President Vladimir Zelensky is behind the decision to cancel local elections in some territories of Donbass, which means that the head of state has in fact lost the right to be considered as the safeguard of the Constitution, the party’s co-leader Yuri Boiko has said.
"It is a crime. We have already requested an investigation. We know who is behind this. We know that Zelensky himself masterminded this process. He has lost the right to be considered as a safeguard of the Constitution after he stripped half a million people of their constitutional right to participate in the elections of local authorities," Boiko said in a video message uploaded to the Youtube channel Donbass Today.
Boiko said that if in reality Zelensky had nothing to do with the decision to cancel the elections, he must intervene and give the people the right to vote. Otherwise the head of state must bear political responsibility.


tass--2020-10-12--Protest rally participants detained in Minsk

MINSK , October 12 .
/TASS/ .
Law enforcement officers are detaining protesters during an unauthorized rally in Minsk , the press service of the Main Internal Affairs Directorate of the Minsk City Executive Committee told TASS .
Authorities say ready to use lethal weapons to uphold order in Minsk '' Measures are undertaken to thwart legal offences on the part of the participants of the unauthorized rally .
Some people have already been detained , '' the Directorate ’ s representative said .
The press service reported that at present the number of detainees is being specified .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Independence Square in downtown Minsk .
It proceeded along Independence Avenue to the National Academy of Sciences , covering about five kilometers .
Over 1,000 people participated in the march .
The retirees were protesting the policies of the current government , some were carrying banners demanding resignation of the country ’ s leaders .
Near the Belarusian National Technical University students joined the procession to support the retirees .
At that moment , detentions of young people began , while the participants in the protest rally were trying to release them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ internet portal , explosions of firecrackers were heard and security forces used tear gas .
During the march , stations of the Minsk subway were temporarily closed .
Currently the subway functions as usual .

MINSK, October 12. /TASS/. Law enforcement officers are detaining protesters during an unauthorized rally in Minsk, the press service of the Main Internal Affairs Directorate of the Minsk City Executive Committee told TASS.
Authorities say ready to use lethal weapons to uphold order in Minsk
"Measures are undertaken to thwart legal offences on the part of the participants of the unauthorized rally. Some people have already been detained," the Directorate’s representative said.
The press service reported that at present the number of detainees is being specified.
The march of the retirees started on Monday on Independence Square in downtown Minsk. It proceeded along Independence Avenue to the National Academy of Sciences, covering about five kilometers. Over 1,000 people participated in the march. The retirees were protesting the policies of the current government, some were carrying banners demanding resignation of the country’s leaders.
Near the Belarusian National Technical University students joined the procession to support the retirees. At that moment, detentions of young people began, while the participants in the protest rally were trying to release them. Then, according to the tut.by internet portal, explosions of firecrackers were heard and security forces used tear gas.
During the march, stations of the Minsk subway were temporarily closed. Currently the subway functions as usual.