tass--2020-03-15--Russia, Turkey to start joint patrolling in Idlib

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Russia and Turkey will start joint patrolling in Syria ’ s Idlib on the basis of a document signed by Russian and Turkish military specialists in conclusion of talks in Ankara .
Negotiations were meaningful and their outcomes will make possible to implement all the agreements on the de-escalation zone in Idlib reached by Presidents of Turkey and Russia Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Vladimir Putin , the Russian Defense Ministry says .
The first joint Russian-Turkish patrolling of the M-4 highway connecting Al-Hasakah and Aleppo Governorates in Northern Syria will take place on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begun operating in Syria to control the ceasefire and conduct joint patrols , Oleg Zhuravlev , the chief of the Russian Center for Reconciliation of Opposing Parties in Syria , said this Saturday .
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan approved a ceasefire in Syria ’ s Idlib province and other measures aimed to regulate the situation in the region during the talks in Moscow on March 5 .
All hostilities in Idlib must be stopped on the entire line of contact starting March 6 , the declaration signed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Moscow and Ankara have confirmed their commitment to maintaining Syria ’ s sovereignty , agreeing to continue the decisive fight against terrorism .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Russia and Turkey will start joint patrolling in Syria’s Idlib on the basis of a document signed by Russian and Turkish military specialists in conclusion of talks in Ankara.
Negotiations were meaningful and their outcomes will make possible to implement all the agreements on the de-escalation zone in Idlib reached by Presidents of Turkey and Russia Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Vladimir Putin, the Russian Defense Ministry says.
The first joint Russian-Turkish patrolling of the M-4 highway connecting Al-Hasakah and Aleppo Governorates in Northern Syria will take place on Sunday.
A Russian-Turkish coordinating center has begun operating in Syria to control the ceasefire and conduct joint patrols, Oleg Zhuravlev, the chief of the Russian Center for Reconciliation of Opposing Parties in Syria, said this Saturday.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan approved a ceasefire in Syria’s Idlib province and other measures aimed to regulate the situation in the region during the talks in Moscow on March 5. All hostilities in Idlib must be stopped on the entire line of contact starting March 6, the declaration signed on the outcomes of the meeting informs. Moscow and Ankara have confirmed their commitment to maintaining Syria’s sovereignty, agreeing to continue the decisive fight against terrorism.


tass--2020-03-15--Coronavirus found in three more countries

TASS , March 15 .
Authorities of St. Lucia and Antigua and Barbuda confirmed new coronavirus cases on their territories @ @ @ @ @ .
Two women with the coronavirus arrived at island states from the United Kingdom last @ @ @ @ @ currently undergo quarantine and their health status is out of danger .
The first case @ @ @ @ @ also registered in the Republic of Congo , Reuters reported , citing the statement of @ @ @ @ @ to the news agency , a 50 years ’ old that returned from a trip @ @ @ @ @ The health condition of the patient is currently stable .

TASS, March 15. Authorities of St. Lucia and Antigua and Barbuda confirmed new coronavirus cases on their territories, EFE news agency reported.
Two women with the coronavirus arrived at island states from the United Kingdom last week without symptoms. They currently undergo quarantine and their health status is out of danger.
The first case of the new coronavirus was also registered in the Republic of Congo, Reuters reported, citing the statement of the national government.
According to the news agency, a 50 years’ old that returned from a trip to Paris was infected. The health condition of the patient is currently stable.


tass--2020-03-15--Renault increased car prices in Russia by 1.14%

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Renault increased car prices in Russia by 1.14 % in average on the @ @ @ @ @ and fluctuated ruble rate , an official spokesperson of the company told TASS .
`` @ @ @ @ @ [ +1.14 % - TASS ] on the basis of the evolved economic situation , @ @ @ @ @ Some automakers have already announced possible revision of car prices in view of the national @ @ @ @ @ particular , Renault and Avtovaz noted their exposure to prices of raw materials and products @ @ @ @ @ euro or dollars .
The others , such as UAZ , PSA and Nissan said @ @ @ @ @ position until stabilization of the ruble rate .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Renault increased car prices in Russia by 1.14% in average on the back of falling oil prices and fluctuated ruble rate, an official spokesperson of the company told TASS.
"Yes, prices were adjusted [+1.14% - TASS] on the basis of the evolved economic situation," the spokesperson said.
Some automakers have already announced possible revision of car prices in view of the national currency rate drop. In particular, Renault and Avtovaz noted their exposure to prices of raw materials and products of certain sub-suppliers denominated in euro or dollars. The others, such as UAZ, PSA and Nissan said they are in a waiting position until stabilization of the ruble rate.


tass--2020-03-15--Several Space Research Institute employees quarantined after trip to Europe

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Several employees of the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences @ @ @ @ @ countries , press service of the Institute told TASS .
`` Several Institute employees are @ @ @ @ @ European countries , '' the press service said .
Team leaders were familiarized with the @ @ @ @ @ and operating procedure in case of suspected coronavirus infection , '' the Institute said .
@ @ @ @ @ no visits of foreign delegations have been canceled by now , the press service added @ @ @ @ @ Roscosmos told TASS earlier about limiting overseas business trips of their staff due to the @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Several employees of the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences were quarantined after visiting European countries, press service of the Institute told TASS.
"Several Institute employees are quarantined after the return from European countries," the press service said.
Team leaders were familiarized with the directive "on preventive work and operating procedure in case of suspected coronavirus infection," the Institute said. At the same time, no visits of foreign delegations have been canceled by now, the press service added.
The state space corporation Roscosmos told TASS earlier about limiting overseas business trips of their staff due to the coronavirus spread.


tass--2020-03-15--Test systems for coronavirus available in all Russian regions

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Test systems for identification of the new coronavirus are available in each Russian region in sufficient quantities , press service of the Russian consumer rights and health control watchdog Rospotrebnadzor said .
`` Test systems for coronavirus identification are currently available in all constituencies of the Russian Federation .
Everyone that traveled to countries where the disease is registered , everyone being in contact with those having the developed illness and everyone with pneumonia symptoms even if they did not visit foreign states are screened for the coronavirus infection , '' the regulator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the agency in Russia have required equipment in sufficient numbers and specialists for use of developed diagnostic tools , Rospotrebnadzor said .
The coronavirus outbreak occurred in late 2019 in Central China has spread to over 120 countries and territories and was recognized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization ( WHO ) on March 11 .
According to WHO , over 140,000 individuals worldwide got infected and over 5,000 died .
59 infection cases were registered in Russia .
The national coordination council to combat virus spread was set up on @ @

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Test systems for identification of the new coronavirus are available in each Russian region in sufficient quantities, press service of the Russian consumer rights and health control watchdog Rospotrebnadzor said.
"Test systems for coronavirus identification are currently available in all constituencies of the Russian Federation. Everyone that traveled to countries where the disease is registered, everyone being in contact with those having the developed illness and everyone with pneumonia symptoms even if they did not visit foreign states are screened for the coronavirus infection," the regulator said.
All the diagnostic laboratories of the agency in Russia have required equipment in sufficient numbers and specialists for use of developed diagnostic tools, Rospotrebnadzor said.
The coronavirus outbreak occurred in late 2019 in Central China has spread to over 120 countries and territories and was recognized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11. According to WHO, over 140,000 individuals worldwide got infected and over 5,000 died. 59 infection cases were registered in Russia. The national coordination council to combat virus spread was set up on Saturday.


tass--2020-03-15--Key rate increase can be avoided if coronavirus spread is stopped before summer - VTB CEO

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
A dramatic increase of the key rate by the Bank of Russia can be prevented if the new coronavirus spread is managed to be halted by summer , Chief Executive Officer of VTB Bank Andrei Kostin said on the air with the Channel One .
`` Everything depends on the length of the coronavirus combating process .
If we get over it by summer , we can well avoid the dramatic increase of the key rate , '' the banker said .
The rate increase in the current environment is quite expected but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significantly influence on the national banking system , Kostin said .
`` If major developments continue in the situation , then such measure as the key rate increase by the Central Bank should not be excluded .
Certainly , this will contributes to growth of rates in the market at large , '' he noted .
Risks of the aggravated coronavirus situation in Europe , which is among critical economic partners of Russia , should not be afraid of because China , the no less important partner , can return to the global @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I believe if intensification of crisis in Europe coincides with China ’ s recovery from the coma and with the restoration of production and trading chains with it , then the risk will be counter-balanced , '' Kostin added .
The Russian government will have the power to counter problems occurred due to the current situation with the virus spread , the chief executive said .
`` I expect fairly quick and efficient solutions from the Russian government .
It seems to me we have an appropriate government to cope with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The coronavirus outbreak occurred in late 2019 in Central China has spread to over 120 countries and territories and was recognized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization ( WHO ) on March 11 .
According to WHO , over 140,000 individuals worldwide got infected and over 5,000 died .
59 infection cases were registered in Russia .
The Russian financial system is sufficiently stable to withstand such external shocks as the new coronavirus spread and volatility on markets , Chief Executive Officer of VTB Bank Andrei Kostin said on the air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am highly confident that our financial sector stable .
Much was done for that , a lot of money was spent , including by the Central Bank .
I do not see problems with meeting all the commitments to citizens that we have .
It seems to me that we will cope with coronavirus and that the financial system will stand out , '' Kostin said .
The largest oil producers are not interested in an abrupt and long-term drop of oil prices and moves towards market stabilization , the banker said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ more decline on the Russian financial market '' is not ruled out if the situation with the coronavirus spread does not demonstrate an improvement trend , Kostin noted .
`` Analysts predict at present that the average oil price by the year-end can be about 40-45 [ dollars per barrel - TASS ] .
This is approximately what Russia needs to have a deficit-free budget ; therefore , Russia can hold ground for quite a long period of time .
Oil production and consumption will be affected by the period of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Such industries like transport , hotel business , and tourism will require extra support measures from the government , the banker said .
`` I think all that will be done , '' Kostin said .
`` Even if the ruble fluctuates , the Central Bank has a range of measures .
The ruble , as it was during the economic crisis of 2008 , will gradually restore its positions , '' he added .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. A dramatic increase of the key rate by the Bank of Russia can be prevented if the new coronavirus spread is managed to be halted by summer, Chief Executive Officer of VTB Bank Andrei Kostin said on the air with the Channel One.
"Everything depends on the length of the coronavirus combating process. If we get over it by summer, we can well avoid the dramatic increase of the key rate," the banker said.
The rate increase in the current environment is quite expected but a drastic measure, because it will significantly influence on the national banking system, Kostin said. "If major developments continue in the situation, then such measure as the key rate increase by the Central Bank should not be excluded. Certainly, this will contributes to growth of rates in the market at large," he noted.
Risks of the aggravated coronavirus situation in Europe, which is among critical economic partners of Russia, should not be afraid of because China, the no less important partner, can return to the global market soon, the chief executive said. "I believe if intensification of crisis in Europe coincides with China’s recovery from the coma and with the restoration of production and trading chains with it, then the risk will be counter-balanced," Kostin added.
The Russian government will have the power to counter problems occurred due to the current situation with the virus spread, the chief executive said. "I expect fairly quick and efficient solutions from the Russian government. It seems to me we have an appropriate government to cope with these tasks," he added.
The coronavirus outbreak occurred in late 2019 in Central China has spread to over 120 countries and territories and was recognized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11. According to WHO, over 140,000 individuals worldwide got infected and over 5,000 died. 59 infection cases were registered in Russia.
Financial system
The Russian financial system is sufficiently stable to withstand such external shocks as the new coronavirus spread and volatility on markets, Chief Executive Officer of VTB Bank Andrei Kostin said on the air with the Channel One.
"I am highly confident that our financial sector stable. Much was done for that, a lot of money was spent, including by the Central Bank. I do not see problems with meeting all the commitments to citizens that we have. It seems to me that we will cope with coronavirus and that the financial system will stand out," Kostin said.
The largest oil producers are not interested in an abrupt and long-term drop of oil prices and moves towards market stabilization, the banker said. At the same time, "one more decline on the Russian financial market" is not ruled out if the situation with the coronavirus spread does not demonstrate an improvement trend, Kostin noted.
"Analysts predict at present that the average oil price by the year-end can be about 40-45 [dollars per barrel - TASS]. This is approximately what Russia needs to have a deficit-free budget; therefore, Russia can hold ground for quite a long period of time. Oil production and consumption will be affected by the period of the coronavirus to last," the chief executive said.
Such industries like transport, hotel business, and tourism will require extra support measures from the government, the banker said. "I think all that will be done," Kostin said.
"Even if the ruble fluctuates, the Central Bank has a range of measures. The ruble, as it was during the economic crisis of 2008, will gradually restore its positions," he added.


tass--2020-03-15--Moscow - Berlin trains suspended due to coronavirus

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Trains from Moscow to Berlin are temporarily suspended in connection with the notice @ @ @ @ @ the closure of railway traffic across the country , Russian Railways reports .
Trains with @ @ @ @ @ stop making trips on March 16 .
The train from Moscow to Berlin departed on @ @ @ @ @ the schedule .
Prime Minister of Poland Mateusz Morawiecki said earlier that the country made @ @ @ @ @ borders .
The railway traffic and air passenger traffic were suspended at night from March @ @ @ @ @ train from Moscow to Paris running across the territory of Poland will be canceled on @ @ @ @ @ Moscow to Nice and direct railcars of Moscow-Prague-Moscow route were temporarily suspended earlier .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Trains from Moscow to Berlin are temporarily suspended in connection with the notice from the Polish Railways concerning the closure of railway traffic across the country, Russian Railways reports.
Trains with the destination in Moscow will stop making trips on March 16.
The train from Moscow to Berlin departed on March 14 in accordance with the schedule.
Prime Minister of Poland Mateusz Morawiecki said earlier that the country made the decision to close its borders. The railway traffic and air passenger traffic were suspended at night from March 14 to 15. The train from Moscow to Paris running across the territory of Poland will be canceled on March 17.
Trains from Moscow to Nice and direct railcars of Moscow-Prague-Moscow route were temporarily suspended earlier.


tass--2020-03-15--Russia suspends trains to and from Ukraine, Moldova over coronavirus

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Russia will suspend trains to and from Ukraine and Moldova on March 17 due to the coronavirus outbreak , the Federal Passenger Company - a Russian Railways subsidiary - said in a statement on Sunday .
`` As Ukraine and Moldova have announced decisions to suspend train traffic on March 17 in order to prevent the spread the novel coronavirus infection , passenger trains and through coaches will be suspended until further notice , '' the statement reads .
Russia earlier suspended trains to and from the French city of Nice and Germany @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as through coaches to and from the Czech capital of Prague .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 120 countries , including Russia .
Most cases outside of China have been recorded in South Korea , Iran and Italy .
On March 11 , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As of now , more than 150,000 people have been infected around the world and about 5,400 have died of it .
Russia has so far identified 59 coronavirus cases .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Russia will suspend trains to and from Ukraine and Moldova on March 17 due to the coronavirus outbreak, the Federal Passenger Company - a Russian Railways subsidiary - said in a statement on Sunday.
"As Ukraine and Moldova have announced decisions to suspend train traffic on March 17 in order to prevent the spread the novel coronavirus infection, passenger trains and through coaches will be suspended until further notice," the statement reads.
The company added that restrictions would also apply to trains to and from Latvia. In particular, trains between Moscow and the Latvian capital of Riga would be suspended on March 15 and trains between St. Petersburg and Riga on March 16.
Russia earlier suspended trains to and from the French city of Nice and Germany’s capital of Berlin, as well as through coaches to and from the Czech capital of Prague.
Coronavirus pandemic
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 120 countries, including Russia. Most cases outside of China have been recorded in South Korea, Iran and Italy.
On March 11, the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic. As of now, more than 150,000 people have been infected around the world and about 5,400 have died of it. Russia has so far identified 59 coronavirus cases.


tass--2020-03-15--Militants sought to disrupt Russian-Turkish patrol mission

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
The route of Russian-Turkish patrols in the Syrian province of Idlib has been shortened because of militants ’ plans , which involved using women and children as human shields , the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement .
The ministry pointed out that Russia and Turkey had carried out their first joint patrol mission along the M4 highway in Idlib earlier on Sunday .
`` The patrol ’ s route was shortened in light plans made by radical groups not controlled by Turkey , '' the statement added .
`` Terrorists sought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children , as human shields , '' the ministry added .
Ankara has been given additional time to ensure the safety of troops taking part in joint patrols , the Russian Defense Ministry pointed out .
`` Ankara has been given additional time to take measures aimed at eliminating terrorist groups and ensuring the security of troops participating in joint patrols along the M4 highway , '' the statement said .
Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey agreed at their Moscow talks on March 5 that a ceasefire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 6 and a number of other measures would be taken to improve the situation in the Syrian province .
In addition , Russia and Turkey agreed to launch joint patrols along the M4 highway , where a security corridor has been created .
Besides , Moscow and Ankara reaffirmed their commitment to preserving Syria ’ s sovereignty and agreed to continue a determined fight against terrorism .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. The route of Russian-Turkish patrols in the Syrian province of Idlib has been shortened because of militants’ plans, which involved using women and children as human shields, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement.
The ministry pointed out that Russia and Turkey had carried out their first joint patrol mission along the M4 highway in Idlib earlier on Sunday. "The patrol’s route was shortened in light plans made by radical groups not controlled by Turkey," the statement added.
"Terrorists sought to use civilians, including women and children, as human shields," the ministry added.
Ankara has been given additional time to ensure the safety of troops taking part in joint patrols, the Russian Defense Ministry pointed out.
"Ankara has been given additional time to take measures aimed at eliminating terrorist groups and ensuring the security of troops participating in joint patrols along the M4 highway," the statement said.
Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey agreed at their Moscow talks on March 5 that a ceasefire would be declared in Idlib on March 6 and a number of other measures would be taken to improve the situation in the Syrian province. In addition, Russia and Turkey agreed to launch joint patrols along the M4 highway, where a security corridor has been created. Besides, Moscow and Ankara reaffirmed their commitment to preserving Syria’s sovereignty and agreed to continue a determined fight against terrorism.


tass--2020-03-15--Uzbekistan identifies first coronavirus case

TASS , March 15 .
The first coronavirus case has been identified in Uzbekistan , the Uzbek Health Ministry ’ @ @ @ @ @ Epidemiological Welfare said in a statement on Sunday .
`` Uzbekistan ’ s Institute of @ @ @ @ @ virus in the samples of an Uzbek citizen who recently returned from France , '' @ @ @ @ @ agency added that measures were being taken to prevent the virus from spreading .
In @ @ @ @ @ authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously @ @ @ @ @ of Wuhan , central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - @ @ @ @ @ - have been reported in more than 120 countries , including Russia .
Most cases @ @ @ @ @ recorded in South Korea , Iran and Italy .
On March 11 , the WHO @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
As of now , more than 142,000 people have been infected around the @ @ @ @ @ died of it .
Russia has so far confirmed 59 coronavirus cases .

TASS, March 15. The first coronavirus case has been identified in Uzbekistan, the Uzbek Health Ministry’s Agency for Sanitary and Epidemiological Welfare said in a statement on Sunday.
"Uzbekistan’s Institute of Virology has identified the COVID-19 virus in the samples of an Uzbek citizen who recently returned from France," the statement reads.
The agency added that measures were being taken to prevent the virus from spreading.
Coronavirus pandemic
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 120 countries, including Russia. Most cases outside of China have been recorded in South Korea, Iran and Italy.
On March 11, the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic. As of now, more than 142,000 people have been infected around the world and about 5,400 have died of it. Russia has so far confirmed 59 coronavirus cases.


tass--2020-03-15--Russian military police heading to meet with Turkish troops for patrol mission in Idlib

SARAQIB /Syria/ , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
A Russian military police unit is heading to meet with Turkish troops @ @ @ @ @ along the M4 highway in the Syrian province of Idlib , a TASS correspondent reported @ @ @ @ @ carried out in accordance with an agreement reached by the presidents of Russia and Turkey @ @ @ @ @ Russian-Turkish coordination center will oversee the first joint patrol mission .
The mission ’ s @ @ @ @ @ ceasefire and the security of civilian movement along the highway .
Presidents Vladimir Putin of @ @ @ @ @ of Turkey agreed at their Moscow talks on March 5 y that a ceasefire would @ @ @ @ @ a number of other measures would be taken to improve the situation in the Syrian @ @ @ @ @ Russia and Turkey agreed to launch joint patrols along the M4 highway , where a @ @ @ @ @ .
Besides , Moscow and Ankara reaffirmed their commitment to preserving Syria ’ s sovereignty @ @ @ @ @ determined fight against terrorism .

SARAQIB /Syria/, March 15. /TASS/. A Russian military police unit is heading to meet with Turkish troops for a joint patrol mission along the M4 highway in the Syrian province of Idlib, a TASS correspondent reported.
The mission will be carried out in accordance with an agreement reached by the presidents of Russia and Turkey on March 5.
The Russian-Turkish coordination center will oversee the first joint patrol mission.
The mission’s goal is to ensure the ceasefire and the security of civilian movement along the highway.
Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey agreed at their Moscow talks on March 5 y that a ceasefire would be declared in Idlib and a number of other measures would be taken to improve the situation in the Syrian province. In addition, Russia and Turkey agreed to launch joint patrols along the M4 highway, where a security corridor has been created. Besides, Moscow and Ankara reaffirmed their commitment to preserving Syria’s sovereignty and agreed to continue a determined fight against terrorism.


tass--2020-03-16--Two-week quarantinue declared in Czech Republic over coronavirus outbreak

PRAGUE , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
The Czech Republic 's government has decided to impose a two-week quarantine in @ @ @ @ @ time on March 24 , Prime Minister Andrej Babis told reporters on Sunday .
`` @ @ @ @ @ to limit the free movement of people in order to prevent the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ Republic ] , '' Babis said .
Elections to the Czech Republic 's Senate ( @ @ @ @ @ will be postponed due to the novel coronavirus outbreak and quarantine .
The Chinese authorities @ @ @ @ @ novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) in the city of Wuhan .
Cases of novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ 100 countries and territories , including in Russia .
On March 11 , the World @ @ @ @ @ declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
Outside of China , most cases of the @ @ @ @ @ South Korea , Iran and Italy .
According to the latest reports , over 153,000 @ @ @ @ @ have been confirmed in the world , and the death toll surpassed 5,700 .

PRAGUE, March 16. /TASS/. The Czech Republic's government has decided to impose a two-week quarantine in the country until 6am local time on March 24, Prime Minister Andrej Babis told reporters on Sunday.
"We have made a decision to limit the free movement of people in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus [in the Czech Republic]," Babis said.
Elections to the Czech Republic's Senate (upper house of parliament) will be postponed due to the novel coronavirus outbreak and quarantine.
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the city of Wuhan. Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories, including in Russia. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. Outside of China, most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea, Iran and Italy.
According to the latest reports, over 153,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in the world, and the death toll surpassed 5,700.


tass--2020-03-16--Seven Venezuelan states quarantined over novel coronavirus outbreak

CARACAS , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
Seven Venezuelan states , including capital Caracas , will be quarantined starting early Monday over the novel coronavirus outbreak , Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Sunday .
`` A public quarantine enters into force in seven states at 5:00am [ local time ] on Monday , '' Maduro said in a speech broadcast on Twitter .
The quarantine will be imposed in Caracas , Miranda , Cojedes , Zulia , Apure , Tachira and La Guaira .
`` We do not rule out that other states will be quarantined as well , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states , people would have to stay at home and not go to work .
Law enforcement agencies , police and `` the sphere responsible for food provision '' will continue operating .
The Venezuelan authorities earlier announced temporary closure of all schools starting from Monday .
The first cases of the novel coronavirus in Venezuela were reported on March 13 .
The total number of cofirmed coronavirus cases has now reached 17 .
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) in the city of Wuhan .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 100 countries and territories , including in Russia .
On March 11 , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
Outside of China , most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea , Iran and Italy .
According to the latest reports , over 153,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in the world , and the death toll surpassed 5,700 .

CARACAS, March 16. /TASS/. Seven Venezuelan states, including capital Caracas, will be quarantined starting early Monday over the novel coronavirus outbreak, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Sunday.
"A public quarantine enters into force in seven states at 5:00am [local time] on Monday," Maduro said in a speech broadcast on Twitter.
The quarantine will be imposed in Caracas, Miranda, Cojedes, Zulia, Apure, Tachira and La Guaira. "We do not rule out that other states will be quarantined as well," Maduro noted.
In the quarantinued states, people would have to stay at home and not go to work. Law enforcement agencies, police and "the sphere responsible for food provision" will continue operating. The Venezuelan authorities earlier announced temporary closure of all schools starting from Monday.
The first cases of the novel coronavirus in Venezuela were reported on March 13. The total number of cofirmed coronavirus cases has now reached 17.
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the city of Wuhan. Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories, including in Russia. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. Outside of China, most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea, Iran and Italy.
According to the latest reports, over 153,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in the world, and the death toll surpassed 5,700.


tass--2020-03-16--First novel coronavirus case confirmed in Bahamas — authorities

Number of coronavirus cases outside China exceeds that in that country HAVANA , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
The first @ @ @ @ @ ( COVID-19 ) has been confirmed in the Bahamas , Acting Minister of Health Jeff @ @ @ @ @ The Nissau Guardian newspaper quoted officials as saying that `` the patient , a 61-year-old @ @ @ @ @ tested positive at Princess Margaret Hospital ( PMH ) at midnight . ''
Lloyd noted @ @ @ @ @ recent travel history .
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus ( @ @ @ @ @ of Wuhan .
Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and @ @ @ @ @ .
On March 11 , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) declared the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ of China , most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea , @ @ @ @ @ to the latest reports , over 153,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed @ @ @ @ @ the death toll surpassed 5,700 .

HAVANA, March 16. /TASS/. The first case of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been confirmed in the Bahamas, Acting Minister of Health Jeff Lloyd said on Sunday.
The Nissau Guardian newspaper quoted officials as saying that "the patient, a 61-year-old resident of New Providence, tested positive at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) at midnight." Lloyd noted that the woman has no recent travel history.
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the city of Wuhan. Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories, including in Russia. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. Outside of China, most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea, Iran and Italy.
According to the latest reports, over 153,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in the world, and the death toll surpassed 5,700.


tass--2020-03-16--US sanctions limit Iran's capacities to fight coronavirus — ambassador

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
US sanctions against Iran limit Tehran 's capacities of fighting against the novel coronavirus , Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali wrote on his official Twitter account on Sunday .
`` At my recent talks with Russian officials , I said that the international community should understand and put an end to cynical , illegal and cruel US sanctions which represent a crime against humanity .
Sanctions limit Iran 's financial sources and capacities of fighting against the coronavirus , '' Jalali said .
He added that the fight against the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community .
The first cases of the novel coronavirus were reported in Iran on February 19 .
Since then , a total of 13,939 cases have been confirmed , and 724 people died from the novel coronavirus in Iran .
On Thursday , Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif told UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres that the United Nations should lift all sanctions from Tehran because they hamper the fight against the novel coronavirus .
In response , Guterres called on all countries to provide support to Iran in the fight against the coronavirus @

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. US sanctions against Iran limit Tehran's capacities of fighting against the novel coronavirus, Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali wrote on his official Twitter account on Sunday.
"At my recent talks with Russian officials, I said that the international community should understand and put an end to cynical, illegal and cruel US sanctions which represent a crime against humanity. Sanctions limit Iran's financial sources and capacities of fighting against the coronavirus," Jalali said.
He added that the fight against the novel coronavirus requires joint measures from the whole international community.
The first cases of the novel coronavirus were reported in Iran on February 19. Since then, a total of 13,939 cases have been confirmed, and 724 people died from the novel coronavirus in Iran.
On Thursday, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif told UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres that the United Nations should lift all sanctions from Tehran because they hamper the fight against the novel coronavirus. In response, Guterres called on all countries to provide support to Iran in the fight against the coronavirus.


tass--2020-03-16--No shelling attacks by Turkey-controlled groups reported from Syria’s Idlib

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
No shelling attacks by Turkey-controlled armed groups were reported in Syria ’ s Idlib de-escalation zone in the past day while militants staged six shelling attacks , Oleg Zhuravlev , chief of the Russian Center for reconciliation of the conflicting sides in Syria , told reporters on Sunday .
`` No shelling attacks by Turkey-controlled illegal armed groups were reported throughout the day , '' he said , adding that six shelling attacks by Jabhat al-Nusra ( a terrorist organization outlawed in Russia ) militants were reported from the Idlib and Latakia governorates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian military police and Turkish servicemen conducted the first joint patrol mission along the M4 highway in Idlib .
The route however was shortened due to provocations with the use of women and children as a human shield hatched by militants not controlled by Turkey .
`` The Turkish side was given extra time to take measures to neutralize terrorist groups and ensure security of the joint patrol missions along the M4 highway , '' Zhuravlev stressed .
Russian and Turkish Presidents , Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan , held talks in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a ceasefire and a number of other measures to settle the situation in Syria ’ s Idlib governorate .
Under the agreements , hostilities are to be stopped along the entire contact line along with the enforcement of a ceasefire on March 6 .
Russia and Turkey will begin joint patrolling along the M4 highway from March 15 to ensure a security corridor .
Moscow and Ankara reiterated commitment to Syria ’ s sovereignty and agreed to continue fight against terrorism .
The Russian reconciliation center continues to fulfill assigned tasks after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The center ’ s officers regularly travel around the country 's liberated areas to assess the humanitarian situation .
The main efforts of the Russian military are now focused on assistance to the refugees returning to their homes and evacuation of civilians from de-escalation zones .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. No shelling attacks by Turkey-controlled armed groups were reported in Syria’s Idlib de-escalation zone in the past day while militants staged six shelling attacks, Oleg Zhuravlev, chief of the Russian Center for reconciliation of the conflicting sides in Syria, told reporters on Sunday.
"No shelling attacks by Turkey-controlled illegal armed groups were reported throughout the day," he said, adding that six shelling attacks by Jabhat al-Nusra (a terrorist organization outlawed in Russia) militants were reported from the Idlib and Latakia governorates.
According to earlier reports, the Russian military police and Turkish servicemen conducted the first joint patrol mission along the M4 highway in Idlib. The route however was shortened due to provocations with the use of women and children as a human shield hatched by militants not controlled by Turkey.
"The Turkish side was given extra time to take measures to neutralize terrorist groups and ensure security of the joint patrol missions along the M4 highway," Zhuravlev stressed.
Russian and Turkish Presidents, Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan, held talks in Moscow on March 5 to agree on a ceasefire and a number of other measures to settle the situation in Syria’s Idlib governorate. Under the agreements, hostilities are to be stopped along the entire contact line along with the enforcement of a ceasefire on March 6. Russia and Turkey will begin joint patrolling along the M4 highway from March 15 to ensure a security corridor. Moscow and Ankara reiterated commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and agreed to continue fight against terrorism.
The Russian reconciliation center continues to fulfill assigned tasks after the completion of the military campaign in Syria. The center’s officers regularly travel around the country's liberated areas to assess the humanitarian situation. The main efforts of the Russian military are now focused on assistance to the refugees returning to their homes and evacuation of civilians from de-escalation zones.


tass--2020-03-16--Serbia declares state of emergency over coronavirus outbreak

BELGRADE , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has declared a state of emergency in the country over the outbreak of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) .
`` Starting from today , Serbia is fighting against an invisible enemy — a virus , and our country should win , '' Vucic told an emergency press conference on Sunday .
`` On the basis of the Constitution , the defense minister 's letter , my letter and the prime minister 's letter , we have made a decision to declare a state of emergency , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported 48 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in the country .
The only country in Europe that has not registered any cases of the novel coronavirus on its territory is Montenegro .
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) in the city of Wuhan .
Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories , including in Russia .
On March 11 , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
Outside of China , most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in South Korea , Iran and Italy .
According to the latest reports , over 153,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in the world , and the death toll surpassed 5,700 .

BELGRADE, March 15. /TASS/. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has declared a state of emergency in the country over the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
"Starting from today, Serbia is fighting against an invisible enemy — a virus, and our country should win," Vucic told an emergency press conference on Sunday. "On the basis of the Constitution, the defense minister's letter, my letter and the prime minister's letter, we have made a decision to declare a state of emergency," he added.
Serbia's health ministry earlier reported 48 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in the country. The only country in Europe that has not registered any cases of the novel coronavirus on its territory is Montenegro.
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the city of Wuhan. Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories, including in Russia. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. Outside of China, most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea, Iran and Italy.
According to the latest reports, over 153,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in the world, and the death toll surpassed 5,700.


tass--2020-03-16--Death toll from novel coronavirus in France grows to 120

Death toll from novel coronavirus in Italy grows by 368 in past day PARIS , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
@ @ @ @ @ novel coronavirus in France has reached 120 , the country 's health authorities said on @ @ @ @ @ fatalities increased by 29 in the past day .
The number of confirmed cases grew @ @ @ @ @ 5,400 in the past 24 hours .
Around 400 people remain in the critical condition @ @ @ @ @ an outbreak of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) in the city of Wuhan .
@ @ @ @ @ confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories , including in Russia .
On March @ @ @ @ @ Organization ( WHO ) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
Outside of China , @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus were reported in South Korea , Iran and Italy .
According to the latest @ @ @ @ @ of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in the world , and the death toll @ @ @

PARIS, March 15. /TASS/. The death toll from the novel coronavirus in France has reached 120, the country's health authorities said on Sunday.
The number of fatalities increased by 29 in the past day. The number of confirmed cases grew from around 4,500 to nearly 5,400 in the past 24 hours. Around 400 people remain in the critical condition.
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the city of Wuhan. Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories, including in Russia. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. Outside of China, most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea, Iran and Italy.
According to the latest reports, over 153,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in the world, and the death toll surpassed 5,700.


tass--2020-03-16--Death toll from novel coronavirus in Italy grows by 368 in past day

ROME , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
The death toll from the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) in Italy has reached 368 in the last 24 hours , bringing the total number of fatalities in the country to 1,809 , Italy 's Head of Civil Protection Angelo Borrelli said on Sunday .
The total number of confirmed cases in Italy increased by 2,853 in the past day and reached 20,603 .
`` We have 369 more recoveries , and the total number of recoveries across Italy is 2,335 .
Around half of those infected are staying at home , around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intensive therapy units , '' Borrelli said .
The total number of cases since the start of the outbreak is 24,747 .
Officials from the northern region of Lombardy said earlier that 250 people died from the novel coronavirus in the region in the past day .
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) in the city of Wuhan .
Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories , including in Russia .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) declared the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China , most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea , Iran and Italy .

ROME, March 15. /TASS/. The death toll from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Italy has reached 368 in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of fatalities in the country to 1,809, Italy's Head of Civil Protection Angelo Borrelli said on Sunday.
The total number of confirmed cases in Italy increased by 2,853 in the past day and reached 20,603.
"We have 369 more recoveries, and the total number of recoveries across Italy is 2,335. Around half of those infected are staying at home, around 10% of those infected remain in intensive therapy units," Borrelli said. The total number of cases since the start of the outbreak is 24,747.
Officials from the northern region of Lombardy said earlier that 250 people died from the novel coronavirus in the region in the past day.
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the city of Wuhan. Cases of novel coronavirus were confirmed in more than 100 countries and territories, including in Russia. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. Outside of China, most cases of the new coronavirus were reported in South Korea, Iran and Italy.


tass--2020-03-15--Putin sets up coronavirus response working group under Russian State Council

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree establishing a working group under @ @ @ @ @ address the novel coronavirus spread threats , the Kremlin press service said on Sunday .
@ @ @ @ @ will be chaired by Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin .
Other members are First Deputy Prime @ @ @ @ @ Prime Ministers Tatiana Golikova and Dmitry Chernyshenko , a number of ministers and other officials @ @ @ @ @ on the governors of the regions , which have coronavirus cases , to take part @ @ @ @ @ activities .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree establishing a working group under the Russian State Council to address the novel coronavirus spread threats, the Kremlin press service said on Sunday.
The group of 19 members will be chaired by Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. Other members are First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov, Deputy Prime Ministers Tatiana Golikova and Dmitry Chernyshenko, a number of ministers and other officials.
The president also called on the governors of the regions, which have coronavirus cases, to take part in the group’s activities.


tass--2020-03-15--Number of coronavirus cases outside China exceeds that in that country

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
The overall number of the new coronavirus cases outside China has exceeded that @ @ @ @ @ pandemic originated from in late December 2019 , according to data from TASS correspondents and @ @ @ @ @ 120 world nations .
Thus , by now as many as 81,028 coronavirus cases have @ @ @ @ @ and 81,321 such cases - from other countries .
The mortality rate in China is @ @ @ @ @ the rest of the world - 3.95 % against 3.79 % However , this index @ @ @ @ @ until the pandemic is over and all those infected recover .
The most serious situation @ @ @ @ @ than 1,000 coronavirus cases is in Italy , where the mortality rate is 7.31 % @ @ @ @ @ , coronavirus cases were reported from 129 countries , including China .
The biggest foci @ @ @ @ @ South Korea , Spain , Germany , France , Switzerland , Japan , the United @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus cases have been registered in all European nations , but for Montengero .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. The overall number of the new coronavirus cases outside China has exceeded that in China, where the pandemic originated from in late December 2019, according to data from TASS correspondents and expert estimates in more than 120 world nations.
Thus, by now as many as 81,028 coronavirus cases have been reported from China, and 81,321 such cases - from other countries. The mortality rate in China is so far higher than in the rest of the world - 3.95% against 3.79% However, this index cannot be calculated precisely until the pandemic is over and all those infected recover.
The most serious situation among the countries with more than 1,000 coronavirus cases is in Italy, where the mortality rate is 7.31%.
As of Sunday evening, coronavirus cases were reported from 129 countries, including China. The biggest foci are Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, France, Switzerland, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Norway.
Coronavirus cases have been registered in all European nations, but for Montengero.


tass--2020-03-15--Aeroflot suspends flights to 16 more destinations

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s flagship air carrier Aeroflot said on Sunday it suspends flights to 16 more destinations in Europe and Central Asia from March 15 until late April in a bid to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection .
Thus , it will suspend flights to Prague , Frankfurt , Munich , Thessaloniki , Barcelona , Zurich , Copenhagen , Oslo , Chisinau , Vilnius , Warsaw , Tallinn , Vienna , Tashkent , Bukhara and Samarkand .
However , it will continue to make flights from Prague , Munich , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Vilnius , Warsaw , Tallinn , and Vienna to bring home Russian nationals .
Aeroflot nevertheless will continue to fly to Brussels ( Belgium ) , Budapest ( Hungary ) , Sofia ( Bulgaria ) , London ( UK ) , Berlin ( Germany ) , Athens ( Greece ) , Dublin ( Ireland ) , Madrid ( Spain ) , Rome ( Italy ) , Riga ( Latvia ) , Amsterdam ( the Netherlands ) , Lisbon ( Portugal ) , Bucharest ( Romania ) , Belgrade ( Serbia ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Finland ) , Zagreb ( Croatia ) , Tivat ( Montenegro ) , Geneva ( Switzerland ) , Stockholm ( Sweden ) , Paris ( France ) , and Larnaca ( Cyprus ) .
It also continues to operate routes to a number of the CIS countries , the United States , the United Arab Emirates , Iran , Egypt , Thailand , Vietnam , India , and a number of other countries .
Another restriction over the coronavirus situation comes into effect from March 16 .
Air companies will fly only to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to London , Geneva , and Oslo from Sheremetyevo ’ s Terminal F. Russia ’ s Air Transport Agency has already notified air companies about this restriction .
Air companies will be allowed only to perform charter flights from European cities to bring home their nationals .
Amid the new coronavirus spread in the past month and a half , restrictions have been imposed on flights to China , South Korea , and Iran .
Air carriers are reducing the number of flights to certain destinations due to the slumping demand or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Israel has done .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously known as 2019-nCoV ) was reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan , a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million , in late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 120 countries and territories , including Russia , which has 63 coronavirus cases .
Outside China , the worst affected countries are Italy , South Korea and Iran .
The World Health Organization says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ globe have exceeded 142,000 , with about 5,400 deaths .
The WHO has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Russia’s flagship air carrier Aeroflot said on Sunday it suspends flights to 16 more destinations in Europe and Central Asia from March 15 until late April in a bid to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection.
Thus, it will suspend flights to Prague, Frankfurt, Munich, Thessaloniki, Barcelona, Zurich, Copenhagen, Oslo, Chisinau, Vilnius, Warsaw, Tallinn, Vienna, Tashkent, Bukhara and Samarkand.
However, it will continue to make flights from Prague, Munich, Zurich, Copenhagen, Oslo, Chisinau, Vilnius, Warsaw, Tallinn, and Vienna to bring home Russian nationals.
Aeroflot nevertheless will continue to fly to Brussels (Belgium), Budapest (Hungary), Sofia (Bulgaria), London (UK), Berlin (Germany), Athens (Greece), Dublin (Ireland), Madrid (Spain), Rome (Italy), Riga (Latvia), Amsterdam (the Netherlands), Lisbon (Portugal), Bucharest (Romania), Belgrade (Serbia), Ljubljana (Slovenia), Helsinki (Finland), Zagreb (Croatia), Tivat (Montenegro), Geneva (Switzerland), Stockholm (Sweden), Paris (France), and Larnaca (Cyprus). It also continues to operate routes to a number of the CIS countries, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Egypt, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and a number of other countries.
Another restriction over the coronavirus situation comes into effect from March 16. Air companies will fly only to EU member nations’ capital cities, to London, Geneva, and Oslo from Sheremetyevo’s Terminal F. Russia’s Air Transport Agency has already notified air companies about this restriction. Air companies will be allowed only to perform charter flights from European cities to bring home their nationals.
Amid the new coronavirus spread in the past month and a half, restrictions have been imposed on flights to China, South Korea, and Iran. Air carriers are reducing the number of flights to certain destinations due to the slumping demand or the authorities’ decision to ban entry, as Israel has done.
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in China’s city of Wuhan, a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million, in late December 2019. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 120 countries and territories, including Russia, which has 63 coronavirus cases. Outside China, the worst affected countries are Italy, South Korea and Iran.
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 142,000, with about 5,400 deaths. The WHO has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-15--First coronavirus-associated death reported in Hungary

VIENNA , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
The first coronavirus-associate death has been reported in Hungary , the country ’ @ @ @ @ @ .
As of today , the country has 32 confirmed coronavirus cases .
One patient @ @ @ @ @ of emergency was declared in Hungary , with all mass gatherings and events being banned @ @ @ @ @ Hungary banned entry for tourists from Iran , Italy , China , and South Korea @ @ @ @ @ returning home .

VIENNA, March 15. /TASS/. The first coronavirus-associate death has been reported in Hungary, the country’s government said on Sunday.
As of today, the country has 32 confirmed coronavirus cases. One patient has recovered. A state of emergency was declared in Hungary, with all mass gatherings and events being banned. Apart from that, Hungary banned entry for tourists from Iran, Italy, China, and South Korea, but for Hungarian nationals returning home.


tass--2020-03-15--Trains to Kaliningrad to make no stops in Lithuania

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Passenger trains from Moscow and other Russian cities bound to Russia ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Lithuanian will make no stops in that country , Russian Railways said on Sunday .
@ @ @ @ @ a measure to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection and will come into @ @ @ @ @ Earlier , Russian Railways announced temporary limitation of railway service with France , Germany , @ @ @ @ @ , Poland , and Mongolia , and suspended service with Latvia from March 17 .
@ @ @ @ @ cancelled passenger trains to China and North Korea .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Passenger trains from Moscow and other Russian cities bound to Russia’s westernmost city of Kaliningrad via Lithuanian will make no stops in that country, Russian Railways said on Sunday.
The decision was taken as a measure to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection and will come into effect from March 16.
Earlier, Russian Railways announced temporary limitation of railway service with France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Moldova, Poland, and Mongolia, and suspended service with Latvia from March 17. Apart from that, it cancelled passenger trains to China and North Korea.


tass--2020-03-15--Russian Finance Ministry to continue currency regulation liberalization in 2020

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s Finance Ministry plans to continue liberalization of the country ’ s foreign exchange regulation in 2020 , according to the report on results of the ministry ’ s operations in 2019 and the targets of financial bodies for 2020 .
`` Further liberalization of currency regulation norms regarding foreign exchange transactions by legal entities - residents and citizens - remains to be an area of focus of the Russian Finance Ministry in 2020 , '' the report said .
The ministry considers making amendments to Russia ’ s legislation for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ one-stop-shop approach ’ information system to organize cooperation of participants of international economic activities and global trade with public authorities , particularly with supervising bodies and other organizations through electronic communication , among other tasks , its priority in the foreign exchange field .
Moreover , it is planned to liberalize currency regulation norms through establishing additional allowed cases of making foreign exchange transactions between residents on accounts opened in banks located outside the Russian Federation .
It is also suggested that restrictions on payments in foreign currency between import factoring agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for sale of jewelry display samples by residents for cash at international fairs outside the Russian territory will be reduced .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Russia’s Finance Ministry plans to continue liberalization of the country’s foreign exchange regulation in 2020, according to the report on results of the ministry’s operations in 2019 and the targets of financial bodies for 2020.
"Further liberalization of currency regulation norms regarding foreign exchange transactions by legal entities - residents and citizens - remains to be an area of focus of the Russian Finance Ministry in 2020," the report said.
The ministry considers making amendments to Russia’s legislation for ensuring the functioning of the federal state ‘one-stop-shop approach’ information system to organize cooperation of participants of international economic activities and global trade with public authorities, particularly with supervising bodies and other organizations through electronic communication, among other tasks, its priority in the foreign exchange field.
Moreover, it is planned to liberalize currency regulation norms through establishing additional allowed cases of making foreign exchange transactions between residents on accounts opened in banks located outside the Russian Federation.
It is also suggested that restrictions on payments in foreign currency between import factoring agreement residents will be removed and administrative barriers for sale of jewelry display samples by residents for cash at international fairs outside the Russian territory will be reduced.


tass--2020-03-15--WTO suspends all meetings till late April over coronavirus situation

GENEVA , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
The World Trade Organization ( WTO ) said on Sunday it suspends all meetings until the end of April because of the coronavirus situation and asks the staff of the Geneva-based secretariat to work from home until the end of March .
`` Director-General Roberto Azev·do has informed WTO members and staff that access to the organization ’ s premises will be restricted as of 16 March , '' it said in a press statement .
`` All WTO meetings are suspended until the end of April and Secretariat staff have been requested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of March . ''
According to Azevedo , the decision was taken `` in light of developments related to the COVID-19 virus . ''
`` This decision will be reviewed as appropriate , '' he said quoted as saying .
`` The WTO is reviewing alternatives for arranging virtual meetings to enable members to participate remotely . ''
Initially , WTO suspended its meetings for a period from March 11 to 20 after one of its staff members had been diagnosed with the novel coronavirus .
According to Switzerland ’ s public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases have been confirmed in the country by now .
More than 600 patients with suspected coronavirus are to undergo repeated tests .
Thirteen patients have died .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously known as 2019-nCoV ) was reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan , a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million , in late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 120 countries and territories , including Russia , which has 59 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worst affected countries are Italy , South Korea and Iran .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 142,000 , with about 5,400 deaths .
The WHO has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

GENEVA, March 15. /TASS/. The World Trade Organization (WTO) said on Sunday it suspends all meetings until the end of April because of the coronavirus situation and asks the staff of the Geneva-based secretariat to work from home until the end of March.
"Director-General Roberto Azev·do has informed WTO members and staff that access to the organization’s premises will be restricted as of 16 March," it said in a press statement. "All WTO meetings are suspended until the end of April and Secretariat staff have been requested to work from home until the end of March."
According to Azevedo, the decision was taken "in light of developments related to the COVID-19 virus." "This decision will be reviewed as appropriate," he said quoted as saying. "The WTO is reviewing alternatives for arranging virtual meetings to enable members to participate remotely."
Initially, WTO suspended its meetings for a period from March 11 to 20 after one of its staff members had been diagnosed with the novel coronavirus.
According to Switzerland’s public health authorities, as many as 1,563 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the country by now. More than 600 patients with suspected coronavirus are to undergo repeated tests. Thirteen patients have died.
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in China’s city of Wuhan, a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million, in late December 2019. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 120 countries and territories, including Russia, which has 59 coronavirus cases. Outside China, the worst affected countries are Italy, South Korea and Iran.
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 142,000, with about 5,400 deaths. The WHO has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-15--Number of coronavirus cases in Russia up from 59 to 63 in past day

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus cases throughout Russia has increased from 50 to 63 in the past day .
All the four new patients have visited coronavirus-affected countries in the recent two weeks , the coronavirus response headquarters said on Sunday .
`` Four new coronavirus cases have been registered in Russia over the past day , including three in the Moscow region , and one in the Tyumen region .
The epidemiological probe has revealed that these people visited coronavirus-affected countries in the past two weeks , '' it said , adding that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spain and Switzerland .
According to the headquarters , the new patients ’ contacts have been traced .
`` These people are being placed under medical supervision and undergoing laboratory tests , '' it added .
Sixty out of the 63 coronavirus patients in Russia are Russian nationals , two are Chinese citizens and one is Italian .
The Two Chinese nationals one Russian have recovered , as have the Russian patients from the Diamond Princess cruise ship who were evacuated from Japan .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan , a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million , in late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 120 countries and territories , including Russia .
Outside China , the worst affected countries are Italy , South Korea and Iran .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 142,000 , with about 5,400 deaths .
The WHO has officially described the situation with the @ @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus cases throughout Russia has increased from 50 to 63 in the past day. All the four new patients have visited coronavirus-affected countries in the recent two weeks, the coronavirus response headquarters said on Sunday.
"Four new coronavirus cases have been registered in Russia over the past day, including three in the Moscow region, and one in the Tyumen region. The epidemiological probe has revealed that these people visited coronavirus-affected countries in the past two weeks," it said, adding that these people had visited Italy, France, Spain and Switzerland.
According to the headquarters, the new patients’ contacts have been traced. "These people are being placed under medical supervision and undergoing laboratory tests," it added.
Sixty out of the 63 coronavirus patients in Russia are Russian nationals, two are Chinese citizens and one is Italian. The Two Chinese nationals one Russian have recovered, as have the Russian patients from the Diamond Princess cruise ship who were evacuated from Japan.
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in China’s city of Wuhan, a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million, in late December 2019. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 120 countries and territories, including Russia. Outside China, the worst affected countries are Italy, South Korea and Iran.
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 142,000, with about 5,400 deaths. The WHO has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic.


tass--2020-03-15--Seventeen coronavirus patients remain in Moscow’s Kommunarka hospital

MOSCOW , March 15 .
/TASS/ .
Seventeen coronavirus patients are being treated at a hospital in Moscow ’ s Kommunarka district , the hospital ’ s Head Physician Denis Protsenko told reporters on Sunday .
`` A total of 312 patients are being treated at the hospital at the moment , 17 of them have tested positive for the coronavirus .
None of the patients are in critical condition , '' he pointed out .
On Saturday , 14 coronavirus cases were identified in the country , including nine in Moscow , two in the Kemerovo region , one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ St. Petersburg and another one in the Kaliningrad region .
A total of 59 cases have been reported in Russia so far .
Two Chinese patients and four Russians have recovered and been discharged from hospitals .
The watchdog pointed out that as of Wednesday , more than 104,800 people arriving from coronavirus-hit countries had been tested .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , central China .
Since then , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 120 countries , including Russia .
Most cases outside of China have been recorded in South Korea , Iran and Italy .
On March 11 , the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic .
As of now , more than 150,000 people have been infected around the world and about 5,400 have died of it .

MOSCOW, March 15. /TASS/. Seventeen coronavirus patients are being treated at a hospital in Moscow’s Kommunarka district, the hospital’s Head Physician Denis Protsenko told reporters on Sunday.
"A total of 312 patients are being treated at the hospital at the moment, 17 of them have tested positive for the coronavirus. None of the patients are in critical condition," he pointed out.
On Saturday, 14 coronavirus cases were identified in the country, including nine in Moscow, two in the Kemerovo region, one in the Moscow region, one in St. Petersburg and another one in the Kaliningrad region.
A total of 59 cases have been reported in Russia so far. Two Chinese patients and four Russians have recovered and been discharged from hospitals.
The watchdog pointed out that as of Wednesday, more than 104,800 people arriving from coronavirus-hit countries had been tested.
Coronavirus pandemic
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 120 countries, including Russia. Most cases outside of China have been recorded in South Korea, Iran and Italy.
On March 11, the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic. As of now, more than 150,000 people have been infected around the world and about 5,400 have died of it.


tass--2020-03-16--Russia's Aeroflot receives thousands of requests to refund airfare

At the same time , rebooking is under way for the urgent return of citizens from the countries where air @ @ @ @ @ `` Currently , the company is processing several thousands of requests to refund canceled flights @ @ @ @ @ made , however , at the same time , the contact center and offices are @ @ @ @ @ return of citizens from the countries with which regular flight connection has been suspended , @ @ @ @ @ recalled that for these purposes Aeroflot would organize special flights over the coming days to @ @ @ @ @ Changing the date and time of departure is made without a passenger ’ s request @ @ @ @ @ .
We ask passengers to independently check the booking status , '' Demin added .

The company is also rebooking flights for the urgent return of citizens to their homeland, he said.
"Currently, the company is processing several thousands of requests to refund canceled flights. We are making immediate return of funds. At the same time, our contact center and offices are busy rebooking tickets for urgent return of citizens from the countries with which regular flight connection has been suspended," Demin said.
He recalled that in coming days Aeroflot will arrange special flights for the return of people to their homeland.
"Changing the date and time of departure is made without a passenger’s request and is sent by e-mail. We ask passengers to check their booking status by themselves," Demin added.
On March 16, another ruling to limit air traffic came into force amid the spread of coronavirus. Airlines will be able to operate flights only to the capitals of the EU member states, as well as to London, Geneva and Oslo from terminal F of the Sheremetyevo airport. Airlines can only carry out charter flights from European cities for the return of passengers to their homeland.
Over the past 45 days, the number of flights to China, South Korea and Iran has been limited due to the spread of coronavirus. Airlines also reduce flights to some destinations due to reduced demand or the decision of the authorities of several countries to close the entrance.


tass--2020-03-16--Latest Msta-S artillery systems arrive for troops in Russia’s south

MOSCOW , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
The latest artillery systems arrived for the Southern Military District ’ s 49th @ @ @ @ @ ’ s press office reported on Monday .
`` Two artillery batteries have been reamed @ @ @ @ @ Msta-S self-propelled artillery guns capable of firing Krasnopol precision guided munitions , '' the press @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The Msta-S artillery system has considerable design differences from the previous modification , @ @ @ @ @ .
Specifically , the upgraded howitzers feature a new automated fire control system , a @ @ @ @ @ the possibility to use digital electronic maps to accelerate finding positions on the terrain .
@ @ @ @ @ also `` fire high-explosive fragmentation and rocket-assisted projectiles — jammers , '' the press office @ @

MOSCOW, March 16. /TASS/. The latest artillery systems arrived for the Southern Military District’s 49th all-arms army, the District’s press office reported on Monday.
"Two artillery batteries have been reamed with the improved 152mm 2S19M2 Msta-S self-propelled artillery guns capable of firing Krasnopol precision guided munitions," the press office said in a statement.
"The Msta-S artillery system has considerable design differences from the previous modification," the press office stressed.
Specifically, the upgraded howitzers feature a new automated fire control system, a higher rate of fire and the possibility to use digital electronic maps to accelerate finding positions on the terrain.
Msta-S self-propelled artillery guns can also "fire high-explosive fragmentation and rocket-assisted projectiles — jammers," the press office said.


tass--2020-03-16--Moscow expects Belarus to understand measures taken over coronavirus

MOSCOW , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow counts on that Belarus will understand measures taken by Russia over the @ @ @ @ @ Dmitry Peskov told journalists Monday .
`` Russia takes measures it considers necessary .
We @ @ @ @ @ partners , especially our closes partner and ally - Belarus - during the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ He noted that `` every nation has a sovereign right to take measures it considers @ @ @ @ @ and to protect the people ’ s health . ''
He underscored that `` undoubtedly @ @ @ @ @ active measures to counteract the spread of this disease . ''
Earlier on Monday , @ @ @ @ @ announced that Russia seals off its border with Belarus over the coronavirus threat .
Belarussian @ @ @ @ @ this decision has got him concerned and that he expects to discuss the situation with @ @ @ @ @ by phone .

MOSCOW, March 16. /TASS/. Moscow counts on that Belarus will understand measures taken by Russia over the coronavirus threat, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists Monday.
"Russia takes measures it considers necessary. We count on understanding of our partners, especially our closes partner and ally - Belarus - during the coronavirus pandemic," Peskov said.
He noted that "every nation has a sovereign right to take measures it considers necessary to counteract coronavirus spread and to protect the people’s health." He underscored that "undoubtedly, all nations must take active measures to counteract the spread of this disease."
Earlier on Monday, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin announced that Russia seals off its border with Belarus over the coronavirus threat. Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko admitted that this decision has got him concerned and that he expects to discuss the situation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin by phone.


tass--2020-03-16--Russia monitors economic measures against coronavirus in other countries — Kremlin

MOSCOW , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
The Kremlin is closely monitoring measures of the United States and other countries @ @ @ @ @ connection with the coronavirus , Russian presidential spokesman , Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday @ @ @ @ @ closely monitoring the developing economic situation globally , the measures that regulators in various countries @ @ @ @ @ of the largest economies in the world — the United States , '' Peskov said @ @ @ @ @ `` Russia ’ s mega-regulator is also closely following the developments . ''
On March @ @ @ @ @ Reserve System , which acts as the country 's Central Bank , lowered the rate @ @ @ @ @ of the fight against risks from coronavirus .
In addition , the Federal Reserve System @ @ @ @ @ so-called quantitative easing policy .

MOSCOW, March 16. /TASS/. The Kremlin is closely monitoring measures of the United States and other countries in the economic sphere in connection with the coronavirus, Russian presidential spokesman, Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday.
"We are very closely monitoring the developing economic situation globally, the measures that regulators in various countries are taking, including one of the largest economies in the world — the United States," Peskov said. According to him, "Russia’s mega-regulator is also closely following the developments."
On March 16, the US Federal Reserve System, which acts as the country's Central Bank, lowered the rate to almost zero as part of the fight against risks from coronavirus. In addition, the Federal Reserve System announced a move to the so-called quantitative easing policy.


tass--2020-03-16--Russia not planning to postpone constitutional amendments vote so far — Kremlin

MOSCOW , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin may sign a decree regarding the date of the public vote on constitutional amendments this week , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Monday , adding that April 22 is the only date considered for the vote so far .
`` There are no alternative dates for the vote currently , there are no objective grounds for it , '' the Kremlin spokesman said .
He reminded that the date of the vote must be formalized in a presidential decree , and that Putin has approved the option of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We will wait for this decree , so far there is no discussion ( of postponing the vote - TASS ) , '' Peskov said .
Peskov noted that the president should sign the decree `` over the next few days . ''
`` It is expected this week , however , there are no strict deadlines , '' he added .
On March 11 , the Russian State Duma ( lower house of parliament ) approved the final reading of the constitutional amendments bill proposed by Russian President Vladimir Putin .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ approved by the Russian Federation Council ( upper house of parliament ) and Russia ’ s regional parliaments .
On March 14 , the Russian Federation Council approved a ruling on the outcomes of the parliament ’ s analysis of the bill , sending it to the president .

MOSCOW, March 16. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin may sign a decree regarding the date of the public vote on constitutional amendments this week, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Monday, adding that April 22 is the only date considered for the vote so far.
"There are no alternative dates for the vote currently, there are no objective grounds for it," the Kremlin spokesman said. He reminded that the date of the vote must be formalized in a presidential decree, and that Putin has approved the option of holding the vote on April 22. "We will wait for this decree, so far there is no discussion (of postponing the vote - TASS)," Peskov said.
Peskov noted that the president should sign the decree "over the next few days." "It is expected this week, however, there are no strict deadlines," he added.
Constitutional amendments
On March 11, the Russian State Duma (lower house of parliament) approved the final reading of the constitutional amendments bill proposed by Russian President Vladimir Putin. On the same day, it was approved by the Russian Federation Council (upper house of parliament) and Russia’s regional parliaments. On March 14, the Russian Federation Council approved a ruling on the outcomes of the parliament’s analysis of the bill, sending it to the president.


tass--2020-03-16--Kremlin sees no grounds to introduce state of emergency over coronavirus in Russia

MOSCOW , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
There are no grounds for introducing a state of emergency in Russia over @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday .
`` There been neither @ @ @ @ @ [ introducing a state of emergency - TASS ] nor decisions , '' Peskov said @ @ @ @ @ disease caused by the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) was registered in central China in @ @ @ @ @ World Health Organization recognized the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic on March @ @ @ @ @ the worst affected countries are Italy , South Korea and Iran .
Overall , more @ @ @ @ @ Russia , have reported confirmed coronavirus cases .
The WHO says that the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ , with more than 6,000 deaths ( over 3,200 in China ) .
According to @ @ @ @ @ 63 coronavirus cases have been registered in Russia .

MOSCOW, March 16. /TASS/. There are no grounds for introducing a state of emergency in Russia over the spread of the novel coronavirus, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday.
"There been neither ideas nor grounds for this [introducing a state of emergency - TASS] nor decisions," Peskov said.
The outbreak of a disease caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was registered in central China in late December 2019. The World Health Organization recognized the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic on March 11. Outside China, the worst affected countries are Italy, South Korea and Iran. Overall, more than 130 countries, including Russia, have reported confirmed coronavirus cases. The WHO says that the novel coronavirus cases globally have exceeded 160,000, with more than 6,000 deaths (over 3,200 in China). According to the emergency operations center, 63 coronavirus cases have been registered in Russia.


tass--2020-03-16--Over 10% of coronavirus patients have recovered in Russia

MOSCOW , March 16 .
/TASS/ .
More than 10 % of people in Russia , who have contracted the @ @ @ @ @ recovered and have been discharged from hospitals , Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko told reporters @ @ @ @ @ , some 10 % of [ patients ] have been discharged [ from hospitals ] @ @ @ @ @ These are those people , who had been hospitalized earlier and who had directly contracted @ @ @ @ @ this morning , we had 66 cases .
Out of them , more than 10 @ @ @ @ @ , '' the minister said .

MOSCOW, March 16. /TASS/. More than 10% of people in Russia, who have contracted the novel coronavirus, have already recovered and have been discharged from hospitals, Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko told reporters on Monday.
"Today, some 10% of [patients] have been discharged [from hospitals], they have recovered. These are those people, who had been hospitalized earlier and who had directly contracted the coronavirus. As of this morning, we had 66 cases. Out of them, more than 10% have been already discharged," the minister said.


tass--2020-03-16--Press review: China praises Moscow’s timely aid to fight COVID-19 and Turkey’s foes unite

The government suggests supporting businesses , regions and state-run companies , but taking care of the population is a top-priority issue .
Plans are also in store to monitor the labor market situation in order to prevent any rise in unemployment .
To stop the spread of the epidemic , government officials propose providing the necessary materials for the production of test systems to detect the infection , the draft anti-crisis plan says .
That ’ s the document ’ s core value , the paper quotes Alexandra Suslina of the Economic Expert Group as saying .
Until a full-scale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures will be inaccurate and will not work to their fullest .
For his part , Professor of the New Economic School Oleg Shibanov described the proposed measures as useful and proportionate .
He noted though that some of these steps , such as tax cuts , investment support measures and regional issues could not solve the problem quickly .
The attempt to help businesses and the public overcome the crisis will not compensate for all the losses , warned BCS Global Markets Chief Economist Vladimir Tikhomirov .
If the situation evolves along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government will have to come up with additional measures and earmark more funds .
It may also have to cut costs to compensate for anti-crisis measures , he added .
Moscow has supplied Beijing with more than 2.2 mln protective medical kits during the novel coronavirus epidemic , Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui told Izvestia .
The diplomat noted that Russia ’ s assistance to China was sincere , timely and comprehensive .
`` First of all , President Vladimir Putin sent Chairman Xi Jinping a telegram expressing sympathy and also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occasions .
The Russian government dispatched a military aircraft to transport medical face masks , gloves , safety glasses and materials with a volume of 23 tonnes , a total of 2,227,000 sets , '' he stressed .
`` Many leading Russian media outlets have repeatedly published articles and reports expressing support for China in the fight against the epidemic .
People from various walks of life recorded videos supporting China and Wuhan .
That was very moving , '' he added .
Measures taken by China to contain the COVID-19 epidemic have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spread of the virus remains a major task for Beijing , the ambassador went on to say .
He assured that the consequences of the novel coronavirus on the country ’ s economy will be short-lived , adding that it brought unexpected advantages to some industries , in particular , online sales , which are booming .
In addition , China is ready , together with all interested countries , to take all necessary preventive measures , and beef up control at checkpoints in order to protect the health and safety of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same time , China is ready to strengthen international anti-epidemic cooperation , '' he stressed .
Egyptian authorities are trying to establish contacts between Damascus and Syrian Kurdish units , Nezavisimaya Gazeta writes citing Arab media reports .
According to the Al-Araby Al-Jadeed newspaper , these mediatory efforts backed by the Persian Gulf ’ s key monarchies - Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates ( UAE ) - who are Turkey ’ s main regional rivals , seek to counter Erdogan ’ s actions in northern Syria .
Egypt plans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democratic Forces ( SDF ) , a multinational alliance based on the Kurdish people ’ s self-defense units , to foster dialogue with Damascus .
Earlier this year , UAE diplomats revved up contacts with Syrian government officials discussing options for rebuilding some of the country ’ s war-torn regions .
Riyadh adheres to a more cautious approach towards Damascus ’ `` rehabilitation , '' but everything seems to suggest that it is not completely brushing the idea aside .
This approach is in line with the policy pursued by the Arab `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Saudi Arabia and Egypt ) with regard to Syria , Kirill Semenov , who heads the Center for Islamic Studies at the Institute for Innovative Development , told Nezavisimaya Gazeta .
`` They would like to turn the SDF into an element of influence on Damascus and continue to use the alliance as a tool to counter Turkey .
Therefore , they will continue to both boost the SDF ’ s military capacity and play the role of a mediator , probably hoping to turn it into an element of the Syrian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That would make it possible for the ‘ trio ’ to counter the expansion of Iran ’ s influence in Syria as well , '' he explained .
Purchasing food online in Russia is gaining momentum against the backdrop of novel coronavirus spread .
Food sales demonstrated the biggest growth in February , by almost 25 % in monetary terms , Head of the Delovaya Rossiya ( Business Russia ) Trade Committee Alexei Fedorov informed Izvestia .
`` Coronavirus has become another impetus for interest in purchasing food online , since many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
For his part , Artem Sokolov , CEO of the Association of Internet Commerce Companies , told the paper that food sales were one of the fastest growing segments .
It enables customers not to show up in crowded places and limit coming in contact with other people , he noted .
The press service of the OZON online shop confirmed to Izvestia that the company had recorded an increase in sales as well .
`` Apparently , many people are trying to limit the number of visits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and supermarkets , which contributes to the popularity of online shopping and order content .
In addition to the soaring demand for personal care products , for example , antiseptic gels , we are also seeing an increase in demand for domestic leisure goods , '' the company said .
The Chinese Communist Party is preparing to declare victory in the battle against the novel coronavirus , Nezavisimaya Gazeta writes .
The number of people who have contracted the disease abroad has exceeded the number of new patients in China for the second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outlets claim that China has been able to cope with the crisis thanks to the advantages of the socialist system and the leading role of the Communist Party .
On the other hand , many people in Wuhan , the city where the epidemic started , believe that the authorities are responsible for the delay in fighting the deadly infection .
Meanwhile , the celebrated level-headedness typical of the Chinese seems to have disappeared , Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian who recently accused the US of spreading the epidemic , tweeting that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brought the coronavirus to China .
The statement was apparently linked to the US army ’ s participation in the Military World Games held in Wuhan last October .
The Chinese Foreign Ministry also said it objected to the expression `` Wuhan coronavirus '' following remarks on the issue from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo .
According to Professor of the Higher School of Economics Alexei Maslov , mobilization management turned out to be much more effective given the current coronavirus situation .
`` China has been able to earmark substantial funds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take other measures .
China ’ s advantage is that it had a very large financial cushion .
It will help it recover within a short period of time , '' he told Nezavisimaya Gazeta .
As for accusations against the US , according to the expert , China is beginning to play the same game that the United States played in January , that is , China has turned the tables and thrown the previous US accusations in the Americans ’ faces , when Washington said that China was hiding true coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rhetoric .
I don ’ t know whether the Chinese accusations are true , but the world is discussing them .
That means that the rhetoric has hit its target , '' Maslov concluded .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews

Vedomosti: Russian government drafts plan to support economy amid coronavirus spread The government will come up with a plan to support Russia’s economy, which is expected to be approved this week, Vedomosti writes citing two federal officials. It provides for the creation of a fund of 300 bln rubles ($4.1 bln), tax breaks for businesses and paid sick leave for quarantined individuals.
Read also Russia’s PM orders to prepare priority actions plan due to coronavirus
The government suggests supporting businesses, regions and state-run companies, but taking care of the population is a top-priority issue. Plans are also in store to monitor the labor market situation in order to prevent any rise in unemployment. To stop the spread of the epidemic, government officials propose providing the necessary materials for the production of test systems to detect the infection, the draft anti-crisis plan says. That’s the document’s core value, the paper quotes Alexandra Suslina of the Economic Expert Group as saying. Until a full-scale epidemiological assessment is carried out, all measures will be inaccurate and will not work to their fullest. For his part, Professor of the New Economic School Oleg Shibanov described the proposed measures as useful and proportionate. He noted though that some of these steps, such as tax cuts, investment support measures and regional issues could not solve the problem quickly. The attempt to help businesses and the public overcome the crisis will not compensate for all the losses, warned BCS Global Markets Chief Economist Vladimir Tikhomirov. If the situation evolves along the lines of a worst-case scenario, the government will have to come up with additional measures and earmark more funds. It may also have to cut costs to compensate for anti-crisis measures, he added. Izvestia: Envoy praises Russia’s timely aid to China amid COVID-19 epidemic Moscow has supplied Beijing with more than 2.2 mln protective medical kits during the novel coronavirus epidemic, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui told Izvestia. The diplomat noted that Russia’s assistance to China was sincere, timely and comprehensive. "First of all, President Vladimir Putin sent Chairman Xi Jinping a telegram expressing sympathy and also expressed public support for China on numerous occasions. The Russian government dispatched a military aircraft to transport medical face masks, gloves, safety glasses and materials with a volume of 23 tonnes, a total of 2,227,000 sets," he stressed.
Read also Number of coronavirus cases outside China exceeds that in that country
"Many leading Russian media outlets have repeatedly published articles and reports expressing support for China in the fight against the epidemic. People from various walks of life recorded videos supporting China and Wuhan. That was very moving," he added. Measures taken by China to contain the COVID-19 epidemic have yielded positive results, and control over the spread of the virus remains a major task for Beijing, the ambassador went on to say. He assured that the consequences of the novel coronavirus on the country’s economy will be short-lived, adding that it brought unexpected advantages to some industries, in particular, online sales, which are booming. In addition, China is ready, together with all interested countries, to take all necessary preventive measures, and beef up control at checkpoints in order to protect the health and safety of peoples in all countries. "At the same time, China is ready to strengthen international anti-epidemic cooperation," he stressed. Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Ankara’s regional foes unite, edge towards Turkish borders Egyptian authorities are trying to establish contacts between Damascus and Syrian Kurdish units, Nezavisimaya Gazeta writes citing Arab media reports. According to the Al-Araby Al-Jadeed newspaper, these mediatory efforts backed by the Persian Gulf’s key monarchies - Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) - who are Turkey’s main regional rivals, seek to counter Erdogan’s actions in northern Syria. Egypt plans to persuade the political arm of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a multinational alliance based on the Kurdish people’s self-defense units, to foster dialogue with Damascus.
Read also Erdogan points to sporadic ceasefire violations in Syria’s Idlib
Earlier this year, UAE diplomats revved up contacts with Syrian government officials discussing options for rebuilding some of the country’s war-torn regions. Riyadh adheres to a more cautious approach towards Damascus’ "rehabilitation," but everything seems to suggest that it is not completely brushing the idea aside. This approach is in line with the policy pursued by the Arab "trio" (the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Egypt) with regard to Syria, Kirill Semenov, who heads the Center for Islamic Studies at the Institute for Innovative Development, told Nezavisimaya Gazeta. "They would like to turn the SDF into an element of influence on Damascus and continue to use the alliance as a tool to counter Turkey. Therefore, they will continue to both boost the SDF’s military capacity and play the role of a mediator, probably hoping to turn it into an element of the Syrian armed forces that would depend on them. That would make it possible for the ‘trio’ to counter the expansion of Iran’s influence in Syria as well," he explained. Izvestia: Online food sales in Russia soar amid coronavirus epidemic Purchasing food online in Russia is gaining momentum against the backdrop of novel coronavirus spread. Food sales demonstrated the biggest growth in February, by almost 25% in monetary terms, Head of the Delovaya Rossiya (Business Russia) Trade Committee Alexei Fedorov informed Izvestia.
Read also St. Petersburg bans all mass events over coronavirus fears