tass--2020-12-23--Founder says will not sell Telegram but plans monetization

MOSCOW , December 23 .
/TASS/ .
The founder of Telegram messenger , Pavel Durov , said he is not going to sell the company , but plans monetization .
`` We are not going to sell the company like the founders of Whatsapp .
The world needs Telegram to stay independent as a place where users are respected and high-quality service is ensured .
Telegram must continue to serve the world as an example of a tech company that strives for perfection and integrity .
And , as the sad examples of our predecessors show , that is impossible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Durov wrote in his Telegram channel .
At the same time , Durov said that Telegram will introduce monetization starting next year , but the service will remain free for ordinary users .
`` Telegram will begin to generate revenue , starting next year .
We will do it in accordance with our values and the pledges we have made over the last 7 years .
Thanks to our current scale , we will be able to do it in a non-intrusive way .
Most users will hardly notice any change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Durov , `` All the features that are currently free will stay free .
We will add some new features for business teams or power users .
Some of these features will require more resources and will be paid for by these premium users .
Regular users will be able to keep enjoying Telegram - for free , forever . ''

MOSCOW, December 23. /TASS/. The founder of Telegram messenger, Pavel Durov, said he is not going to sell the company, but plans monetization.
"We are not going to sell the company like the founders of Whatsapp. The world needs Telegram to stay independent as a place where users are respected and high-quality service is ensured. Telegram must continue to serve the world as an example of a tech company that strives for perfection and integrity. And, as the sad examples of our predecessors show, that is impossible if you become part of a corporation," Durov wrote in his Telegram channel.
At the same time, Durov said that Telegram will introduce monetization starting next year, but the service will remain free for ordinary users.
"Telegram will begin to generate revenue, starting next year. We will do it in accordance with our values and the pledges we have made over the last 7 years. Thanks to our current scale, we will be able to do it in a non-intrusive way. Most users will hardly notice any change," the statement reads.
According to Durov, "All the features that are currently free will stay free. We will add some new features for business teams or power users. Some of these features will require more resources and will be paid for by these premium users. Regular users will be able to keep enjoying Telegram - for free, forever."


tass--2020-12-23--State Duma prohibits foreign funding of public events

MOSCOW , December 22 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s State Duma on Wednesday adopted in the third reading a bill prohibiting foreign financing of public events .
The bill proposed by State Duma member Dmitry Vyatkin determines the rules of raising funds for preparing and holding public events and spending donations received for this purpose .
In the application for permission to hold a public event the organizer is obliged to disclose the bank account to which donations will be entered , the bill says .
It prohibits the funding of public events by foreign countries , organizations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as NGO ’ s registered as foreign agents , Russians aged under 16 , anonymous givers and legal entities registered less than one year before the day of donating cash or other assets .
As the bill was edited before the second reading , the list was complemented by unregistered non-governmental organizations and individuals having the status of foreign agents .
In the second reading the bill incorporated an amendment demanding the organizers should present an account of spending the funds raised only if the number of participants in the given event exceeds @ @

MOSCOW, December 22. /TASS/. Russia’s State Duma on Wednesday adopted in the third reading a bill prohibiting foreign financing of public events.
The bill proposed by State Duma member Dmitry Vyatkin determines the rules of raising funds for preparing and holding public events and spending donations received for this purpose.
In the application for permission to hold a public event the organizer is obliged to disclose the bank account to which donations will be entered, the bill says. It prohibits the funding of public events by foreign countries, organizations and citizens and stateless persons, as well as NGO’s registered as foreign agents, Russians aged under 16, anonymous givers and legal entities registered less than one year before the day of donating cash or other assets.
As the bill was edited before the second reading, the list was complemented by unregistered non-governmental organizations and individuals having the status of foreign agents.
In the second reading the bill incorporated an amendment demanding the organizers should present an account of spending the funds raised only if the number of participants in the given event exceeds 500.


tass--2020-12-23--Troops defend military base with Iskander missile systems from spy drones in Urals drills

MOSCOW , December 23 .
/TASS/ .
The troops of Russia ’ s Central Military District disabled a notional enemy ’ s drones that attempted to reconnoiter the military base of Iskander-M tactical missile systems during drills in the Orenburg Region , the District ’ s press office reported on Wednesday .
`` Under the drills ’ scenario , the missile units received a signal that small-size aircraft were approaching the base .
The electronic warfare squads carried out measures to detect and suppress radio communications in various frequency bands , thus disrupting the drones ’ control channels , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The troops employed a Zhitel automated jamming station , Orlan-10 drones based on the mobile Leer-3 jammer and other equipment , the statement says .
During the drills , the troops also practiced the skills of creating distorted navigation fields , suppressing remote-controlled explosives , finding the direction of the sources of radio-electronic emissions and jamming the notional enemy ’ s communications systems , according to the statement .
`` As a result , all the eight drones were disabled , '' the press office said .
The drills involved more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military hardware , it said .
The Iskander-M tactical missile system is designated to strike adversary low-sized and site targets to a range of up to 500 km : missile launchers , multiple launch rocket systems , long-range artillery , aircraft and helicopters at aerodromes , command posts and communications centers .
Russia ’ s Central Military District is based on the territory of the Volga , Urals and Siberian integrated federal districts and 29 Russian regions .
Structurally , the Central Military District also includes some overseas facilities : the 201st military @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military base in Kyrgyzstan and units stationed on the territory of Kazakhstan .

MOSCOW, December 23. /TASS/. The troops of Russia’s Central Military District disabled a notional enemy’s drones that attempted to reconnoiter the military base of Iskander-M tactical missile systems during drills in the Orenburg Region, the District’s press office reported on Wednesday.
"Under the drills’ scenario, the missile units received a signal that small-size aircraft were approaching the base. The electronic warfare squads carried out measures to detect and suppress radio communications in various frequency bands, thus disrupting the drones’ control channels," the press office said in a statement.
The troops employed a Zhitel automated jamming station, Orlan-10 drones based on the mobile Leer-3 jammer and other equipment, the statement says.
During the drills, the troops also practiced the skills of creating distorted navigation fields, suppressing remote-controlled explosives, finding the direction of the sources of radio-electronic emissions and jamming the notional enemy’s communications systems, according to the statement.
"As a result, all the eight drones were disabled," the press office said.
The drills involved more than 500 personnel and over 40 items of military hardware, it said.
The Iskander-M tactical missile system is designated to strike adversary low-sized and site targets to a range of up to 500 km: missile launchers, multiple launch rocket systems, long-range artillery, aircraft and helicopters at aerodromes, command posts and communications centers.
Russia’s Central Military District is based on the territory of the Volga, Urals and Siberian integrated federal districts and 29 Russian regions. Structurally, the Central Military District also includes some overseas facilities: the 201st military base in Tajikistan, the Kant integrated military base in Kyrgyzstan and units stationed on the territory of Kazakhstan.


tass--2020-12-23--Putin doesn’t think it will get tougher for Russia after Biden’s inauguration

NOVO-OGARYOVO , December 23 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin does not think that Russia will face more problems @ @ @ @ @ in the US , he commented on the remarks by Russia ’ s Communist Party @ @ @ @ @ joint meeting of the State Council and the Council for Strategic Development and National Projects @ @ @ @ @ to understand perfectly clearly that our situation will worsen after Biden enters the office .
@ @ @ @ @ declared us enemy number one , we should do everything possible to unite the society @ @ @ @ @ '' Zyuganov particularly said during his speech .

NOVO-OGARYOVO, December 23. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin does not think that Russia will face more problems after Joe Biden assumes presidency in the US, he commented on the remarks by Russia’s Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov during the joint meeting of the State Council and the Council for Strategic Development and National Projects Wednesday.
"We need to understand perfectly clearly that our situation will worsen after Biden enters the office. He is a neoglobalist who declared us enemy number one, we should do everything possible to unite the society as much as possible," Zyuganov particularly said during his speech.


tass--2020-12-23--Spanish court apprehends Russian national over fraud charges

MADRID , December 23 .
/TASS/ .
A Spanish court arrested a Russian citizen , apprehended on the Canary Islands @ @ @ @ @ warrant issued in Russia , the National Judicial College of Spain told TASS Wednesday .
@ @ @ @ @ the suspect faced court on December 17 .
`` The investigative judge number 4 temporarily @ @ @ @ @ , '' the College said .
Previously , the Spanish police disclosed that the 56-year @ @ @ @ @ Tenerife Island .
According to the law enforcement , the suspect was wanted over suspicion @ @ @ @ @ 900,000 euro .
The crimes were possibly committed when the suspect was a state business @ @ @ @ @ Russian embassy in Madrid said it is aware of the situation and expects official notification @ @ @ @ @

MADRID, December 23. /TASS/. A Spanish court arrested a Russian citizen, apprehended on the Canary Islands, over the international arrest warrant issued in Russia, the National Judicial College of Spain told TASS Wednesday.
According to the College, the suspect faced court on December 17.
"The investigative judge number 4 temporarily imprisoned the suspect without bail," the College said.
Previously, the Spanish police disclosed that the 56-year old Russian was apprehended on Tenerife Island. According to the law enforcement, the suspect was wanted over suspicion of fraud and theft of 900,000 euro. The crimes were possibly committed when the suspect was a state business CEO back home.
The Russian embassy in Madrid said it is aware of the situation and expects official notification from the Spanish authorities.


tass--2020-12-23--Putin supports idea to make December 31 non-working day

NOVO OGARYOVO , December 23 .
/TASS/ .
President Vladimir Putin recommended all regions of Russia to make December 31 @ @ @ @ @ day .
`` The work on the [ December ] 31st is , indeed , @ @ @ @ @ mildly , so , of course , we should probably support this initiative , '' @ @ @ @ @ , commenting on the United Russia Duma faction head Sergey Neverov ’ s idea to @ @ @ @ @ the year a non-working one .
Putin explained that it would be impossible to make @ @ @ @ @ level this year .
`` I would like to attract attention to Sergei Ivanovich ’ @ @ @ @ @ those regions who have not done this already to do so , and starting next @ @ @ @ @ able to make such decision in order to organize this holiday on the federal level @ @ @ @ @ the President said .
Previously , several regions of Russia declared December 31st a holiday @ @ @ @ @ a non-working day for state and municipal officials .

NOVO OGARYOVO, December 23. /TASS/. President Vladimir Putin recommended all regions of Russia to make December 31, 2020, a non-working day.
"The work on the [December] 31st is, indeed, peculiar, to put it mildly, so, of course, we should probably support this initiative," the head of state said, commenting on the United Russia Duma faction head Sergey Neverov’s idea to make the last day of the year a non-working one.
Putin explained that it would be impossible to make such decision at the federal level this year.
"I would like to attract attention to Sergei Ivanovich’s proposal and I recommend those regions who have not done this already to do so, and starting next year, we would be able to make such decision in order to organize this holiday on the federal level for the future," the President said.
Previously, several regions of Russia declared December 31st a holiday. Several regions made it a non-working day for state and municipal officials.


tass--2020-12-23--Prosecutor General’s Office declares French NGO undesirable in Russia

MOSCOW , December 22 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Prosecutor General ’ s Office ( PGO ) has declared as @ @ @ @ @ French non-governmental organization Association of Schools of Political Studies of the Council of Europe .
@ @ @ @ @ materials submitted to the Prosecutor General ’ s Office a decision has been made to @ @ @ @ @ foreign organization Association of Schools of Political Studies of the Council of Europe undesirable in @ @ @ @ @ said in a news release .
The PGO stressed that the activity of that organization @ @ @ @ @ basics of Russia ’ s constitutional system and security .
The decision has been handed @ @ @ @ @ Justice for including the organization in the list of foreign and international NGOs undesirable in @ @ @ @ @ the 31st NGO on this list .

MOSCOW, December 22. /TASS/. The Russian Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) has declared as undesirable the activity of the French non-governmental organization Association of Schools of Political Studies of the Council of Europe.
"After studying the related materials submitted to the Prosecutor General’s Office a decision has been made to declare the activity of the foreign organization Association of Schools of Political Studies of the Council of Europe undesirable in Russia," the PGO said in a news release.
The PGO stressed that the activity of that organization posed a threat to the basics of Russia’s constitutional system and security.
The decision has been handed over to the Ministry of Justice for including the organization in the list of foreign and international NGOs undesirable in Russia. It will be the 31st NGO on this list.


tass--2020-12-23--Russia needs to change economic model in 3-4 coming years, says First Deputy PM

NOVO-OGAREVO , December 23 .
/TASS/ .
Russia will need to update the economic model and find new growth drivers @ @ @ @ @ Andrei Belousov says on Wednesday .
`` The task is to update the economic model @ @ @ @ @ its structural drawbacks and form new internal growth drivers , '' Belousov said .
It @ @ @ @ @ economy ’ s growth rates of at least 3 % per year , the official @ @ @ @ @ is fairly ambitious by nature .
We have never managed to achieve such growth rates @ @ @ @ @ , since 2013 .
The highest growth over that period totaled 2.5 % in 2018 @ @ @ @ @ even net of the decline in 2015 , is just 1.4 % , that is @ @ @ @ @ noted target level , '' Belousov said .
The government is going `` to engage @ @ @ @ @ acceleration .
In the first instance , this refers to investments , small and medium @ @ @ @ @ labor productivity , '' he added .

NOVO-OGAREVO, December 23. /TASS/. Russia will need to update the economic model and find new growth drivers, First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov says on Wednesday.
"The task is to update the economic model over 3-4 years, overcome its structural drawbacks and form new internal growth drivers," Belousov said.
It is planned to achieve domestic economy’s growth rates of at least 3% per year, the official said.
"This task is fairly ambitious by nature. We have never managed to achieve such growth rates over the last eight years, since 2013. The highest growth over that period totaled 2.5% in 2018 while the average rate, even net of the decline in 2015, is just 1.4%, that is, twice lower than the noted target level," Belousov said.
The government is going "to engage factors having significant reserves for acceleration. In the first instance, this refers to investments, small and medium business, non-resource export and labor productivity," he added.


tass--2020-12-23--McDonald's opens first chain restaurants in Khabarovsk

KHABAROVSK , December 23 .
/ TASS / .
Popular fast food chain McDonald ’ s opened its first two restaurants in Khabarovsk on Wednesday , the company said in a statement .
This week McDonald ’ s opened the chain ’ s first restaurant in the Far East in Vladivostok , then two more establishments were opened there as well .
Overall , in Primorye and Khabarovsk Region , five network establishments opened in a span of a week .
In 2021 , in the Far Eastern Federal District ( DFO ) , there are plans to open MakAvto @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McDonald 's Delivery ) outlets .
`` This month we opened five network enterprises : two in Khabarovsk and three in Vladivostok , '' said Marc Carena , General Director of McDonald ’ s in Russia , at the opening ceremony in Khabarovsk .
He specified that in the future , up to 500 jobs will be created in Khabarovsk .
The chain restaurants were opened in the shopping centers Na Pushkina and Brosko Mall .
They are designed for 221 and 132 customers , respectively .
According to the company , service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enterprises in Khabarovsk , such as a standard kitchen with the Made for You system , which allows you to prepare fresh meals directly to order for delivery , to take away or to be consumed at a table in the sales area .
The menus of all enterprises in the Far East include classic burgers and French fries , milk shakes and desserts .
`` Over the next five years , McDonald ’ s plans to invest more than 2 bln rubles in the development of the region .
At the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 500 mln rubles in the economy and development of the Far Eastern Federal District , '' Carena added .

KHABAROVSK, December 23. / TASS /. Popular fast food chain McDonald’s opened its first two restaurants in Khabarovsk on Wednesday, the company said in a statement.
This week McDonald’s opened the chain’s first restaurant in the Far East in Vladivostok, then two more establishments were opened there as well.
Overall, in Primorye and Khabarovsk Region, five network establishments opened in a span of a week. In 2021, in the Far Eastern Federal District (DFO), there are plans to open MakAvto (Drive Through) and MakDostavki (McDonald's Delivery) outlets. "This month we opened five network enterprises: two in Khabarovsk and three in Vladivostok," said Marc Carena, General Director of McDonald’s in Russia, at the opening ceremony in Khabarovsk. He specified that in the future, up to 500 jobs will be created in Khabarovsk.
The chain restaurants were opened in the shopping centers Na Pushkina and Brosko Mall. They are designed for 221 and 132 customers, respectively. According to the company, service and production systems will be introduced at enterprises in Khabarovsk, such as a standard kitchen with the Made for You system, which allows you to prepare fresh meals directly to order for delivery, to take away or to be consumed at a table in the sales area. The menus of all enterprises in the Far East include classic burgers and French fries, milk shakes and desserts. "Over the next five years, McDonald’s plans to invest more than 2 bln rubles in the development of the region. At the first stage, the company has already invested more than 500 mln rubles in the economy and development of the Far Eastern Federal District," Carena added.


tass--2020-12-23--Scientists point to high self-cleaning abilities of rivers near Norilsk

TASS , December 23 .
Results of the tests to analyze bacteria and microorganisms in rivers , affected by the fuel spill near Norilsk in May , show high self-cleaning abilities of the water environment , the Great Norilsk Expedition , organized by the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ Siberian Branch , said in its final report .
“ We can confirm a generally high ability of the examined microbiological system for self-cleaning from organic contaminations , ” the report reads .
“ The research showed reduction of organic load between the site where the fuel leaked into the water @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to physical , chemical and biological processes associated with the water ’ s self-cleaning.
” Experts say that in the examined areas downstream of the accident site , in the Daldykan and Ambarnaya Rivers , the oil contamination had affected the phytoplankton .
Contrastingly , in Lake Pyasino and the Pyasina River they discovered the species that used to live there before the accident , which proves that there was no damage from the oil products to the water bodies ' ecosystem .
“ In Lake Pyasino and adjacent rivers there was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those recorded in some reservoirs after oil spills .
At the same time , in the Pyasina River the scientists registered minimal quantities and biomasses of the bacterial plankton , ” the researchers said .
“ The microflora in the studied waters has adapted to oil products and is able to participate in their decomposition.
” According to the experts , microorganisms are most sensitive indicators of changes in the environment .
They quickly respond to oil contamination – by changing quantities and structures .
Some of them may participate in decomposition of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its products .
Those microorganisms have been found in all the samples from surface waters .
“ The test results show that quantities of oil-oxidizing bacteria vary between 120 and 36,080 cells per milliliter , with the highest quantities having been found in Nadezhdinsky Brook and the Daldykan River , ” the report reads .
“ Further down the stream , towards the Ambarnaya River , the quantity of this group ’ s bacteria was decreasing , while in the Pyasina River it was growing again.
” The Siberian Branch of the Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over recent years has sent to the Taimyr Peninsula , at the invitation of Nornickel , a big scientific expedition to conduct a large-scale survey of the area .
Scientists will use the expedition ’ s results to present nature-friendly solutions and suggestions for industrial companies working in the Arctic .
The expedition ’ s key points were watersheds of the Rivers Pyasina , Norilka and Ambarnaya and Lake Pyasino .
In August , experts from 14 research institutes of the Academy of Sciences ’ Siberian Branch collected samples of soils , plants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the institutes ’ labs .

TASS, December 23. Results of the tests to analyze bacteria and microorganisms in rivers, affected by the fuel spill near Norilsk in May, show high self-cleaning abilities of the water environment, the Great Norilsk Expedition, organized by the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Siberian Branch, said in its final report.
“We can confirm a generally high ability of the examined microbiological system for self-cleaning from organic contaminations,” the report reads. “The research showed reduction of organic load between the site where the fuel leaked into the water and the source of the Pyasina River due to physical, chemical and biological processes associated with the water’s self-cleaning.”
Experts say that in the examined areas downstream of the accident site, in the Daldykan and Ambarnaya Rivers, the oil contamination had affected the phytoplankton. Contrastingly, in Lake Pyasino and the Pyasina River they discovered the species that used to live there before the accident, which proves that there was no damage from the oil products to the water bodies' ecosystem.
“In Lake Pyasino and adjacent rivers there was no upsurge of bacteria, similar to those recorded in some reservoirs after oil spills. At the same time, in the Pyasina River the scientists registered minimal quantities and biomasses of the bacterial plankton,” the researchers said. “The microflora in the studied waters has adapted to oil products and is able to participate in their decomposition.”
According to the experts, microorganisms are most sensitive indicators of changes in the environment. They quickly respond to oil contamination – by changing quantities and structures. Some of them may participate in decomposition of complex organic substances and consume oil and its products. Those microorganisms have been found in all the samples from surface waters.
“The test results show that quantities of oil-oxidizing bacteria vary between 120 and 36,080 cells per milliliter, with the highest quantities having been found in Nadezhdinsky Brook and the Daldykan River,” the report reads. “Further down the stream, towards the Ambarnaya River, the quantity of this group’s bacteria was decreasing, while in the Pyasina River it was growing again.”
Expedition to Taimyr
The Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences for the first time over recent years has sent to the Taimyr Peninsula, at the invitation of Nornickel, a big scientific expedition to conduct a large-scale survey of the area. Scientists will use the expedition’s results to present nature-friendly solutions and suggestions for industrial companies working in the Arctic.
The expedition’s key points were watersheds of the Rivers Pyasina, Norilka and Ambarnaya and Lake Pyasino. In August, experts from 14 research institutes of the Academy of Sciences’ Siberian Branch collected samples of soils, plants and sediments and later began tests at the institutes’ labs.


tass--2020-12-23--GAC MOTOR 2020 Review: Contrarian Upswing, Promising Future

GUANGZHOU , China , Dec. 23 .
/PRNewswire/ .
In 2020 , GAC MOTOR expanded enthusiastically into the international automobiles market .
Looking back at this year , GAC MOTOR 's international business has grown steadily and sales grew against the trend , delivering eye-catching annual reports .
There are several sets of indicators that show the significant progress GAC MOTOR has made this year : • Sales channels continue to be optimized through opening 30 brand-new showrooms in this year ; • Explored new channels such as online global live broadcasts , breathing life into the market with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Breakthroughs in 6 important markets , annual sales are expected to achieve 22 % year-on-year growth , ranking at the forefront of the industry growth rate .
How does GAC MOTOR keep advancing successfully in a market with such adverse and tough conditions ?
In the path to global development , GAC MOTOR continues to make strategic decisions based on the needs of the market and consumers .
Customized products and services for them , addressing their pain points , so that GAC can stand out in the fierce competition in the automotive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top technology research and resources , GAC MOTOR continues to conduct its excellent product matrix , leading the way in the market for all kinds of models .
It has introduced a number of new vehicles to markets , such as Saudi Arabia , Kuwait , Bahrain , Russia , Chile and Nigeria .
The innovative use of online global live broadcast and other new forms , breaking space restrictions to achieve more and effective interaction , through multimedia all-round presentation of the new car advantages , bringing an unprecedented sense of participation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expansion path has been measured and practical – based on strict adherence to quality standards , strategic investments in core markets , and built on the development of a strong brand reputation .
With many owners ' positive reviews , GAC MOTOR has received a lot of attention from local media .
Many authoritative media reported on GAC MOTOR , including design innovation , feature enhancements , supply chain system , to analyze the brand 's success .
GAC MOTOR insists on consumer-oriented innovation and research , and builds high-quality products with craftsmanship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognized by car owners and the industry worldwide .
With the wonderful results of 2020 , GAC MOTOR will continue its path of high quality development to create an enjoyable automotive experience for customers all over the world .

GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 23. /PRNewswire/. In 2020, GAC MOTOR expanded enthusiastically into the international automobiles market. Looking back at this year, GAC MOTOR's international business has grown steadily and sales grew against the trend, delivering eye-catching annual reports.
There are several sets of indicators that show the significant progress GAC MOTOR has made this year:
Sales channels continue to be optimized through opening 30 brand-new showrooms in this year;
Explored new channels such as online global live broadcasts, breathing life into the market with the introduction of new blockbuster models;
Breakthroughs in 6 important markets, annual sales are expected to achieve 22% year-on-year growth, ranking at the forefront of the industry growth rate.
How does GAC MOTOR keep advancing successfully in a market with such adverse and tough conditions? In the path to global development, GAC MOTOR continues to make strategic decisions based on the needs of the market and consumers. Customized products and services for them, addressing their pain points, so that GAC can stand out in the fierce competition in the automotive market.
Supported by the world's top technology research and resources, GAC MOTOR continues to conduct its excellent product matrix, leading the way in the market for all kinds of models. It has introduced a number of new vehicles to markets, such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Russia, Chile and Nigeria. The innovative use of online global live broadcast and other new forms, breaking space restrictions to achieve more and effective interaction, through multimedia all-round presentation of the new car advantages, bringing an unprecedented sense of participation and experience.
GAC MOTOR's global expansion path has been measured and practical – based on strict adherence to quality standards, strategic investments in core markets, and built on the development of a strong brand reputation.
With many owners' positive reviews, GAC MOTOR has received a lot of attention from local media. Many authoritative media reported on GAC MOTOR, including design innovation, feature enhancements, supply chain system, to analyze the brand's success.
GAC MOTOR insists on consumer-oriented innovation and research, and builds high-quality products with craftsmanship, so it has been supported and recognized by car owners and the industry worldwide. With the wonderful results of 2020, GAC MOTOR will continue its path of high quality development to create an enjoyable automotive experience for customers all over the world.
CONTACT: Yuqi Hu, +86-13502273642


tass--2020-12-24--Rise in COVID-19 incidence in Russia related to pre-holiday activity, expert says

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
A rise in incidence of the coronavirus infection observed in Russia recently is related to increased activity of residents before winter holidays , Deputy Director for Research of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing Alexander Gorelov told journalists .
On Thursday , the anti-coronavirus crisis center reported that 29,935 infections were detected in Russia , a record high since the beginning of the pandemic .
`` Over the past days we observe an increased social activity before the New Year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they need to exercise caution as well as to observe a number of restrictive measures .
All of this , of course , affected the epidemic situation , '' he said .
The expert noted that at the same time it is possible to `` cautiously talk '' about a trend toward stabilization of the epidemic process .
According to him , wave-like fluctuations in daily incidence are natural and predictable due to the large territory of the country and non-uniformity of the spread of the infection in regions .
`` If we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resurgence of cases after the New Year holidays , it is necessary to spend these holidays in the calmest and the most secluded way .
Try to avoid crowded places , limit the number of guests and refrain from visiting others yourselves .
Instead of staying indoors where the risk of infection increases significantly it is better to go to a park , an ice slide or a skating rink , '' he emphasized .
At the same time , one shouldn ’ t forget about social distancing and wearing a mask at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport .

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. A rise in incidence of the coronavirus infection observed in Russia recently is related to increased activity of residents before winter holidays, Deputy Director for Research of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing Alexander Gorelov told journalists.
On Thursday, the anti-coronavirus crisis center reported that 29,935 infections were detected in Russia, a record high since the beginning of the pandemic.
"Over the past days we observe an increased social activity before the New Year holidays. Unfortunately, people forgot that they need to exercise caution as well as to observe a number of restrictive measures. All of this, of course, affected the epidemic situation," he said.
The expert noted that at the same time it is possible to "cautiously talk" about a trend toward stabilization of the epidemic process. According to him, wave-like fluctuations in daily incidence are natural and predictable due to the large territory of the country and non-uniformity of the spread of the infection in regions.
"If we don’t want to get a resurgence of cases after the New Year holidays, it is necessary to spend these holidays in the calmest and the most secluded way. Try to avoid crowded places, limit the number of guests and refrain from visiting others yourselves. Instead of staying indoors where the risk of infection increases significantly it is better to go to a park, an ice slide or a skating rink," he emphasized. At the same time, one shouldn’t forget about social distancing and wearing a mask at skating rinks, shopping centers and on transport.


tass--2020-12-24--Business sector to pour $2.6 bln into Russian tourism projects in coming 2-3 years

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
Business is ready to invest around 200 bln rubles ( $ 2.6 bln @ @ @ @ @ ’ s tourism and hospitality industry in coming 2-3 years , Head of the Federal @ @ @ @ @ said in an interview with TASS .
`` Meanwhile we understand that the pool of @ @ @ @ @ this year , is worth around 200 bln rubles , which means that already now @ @ @ @ @ , business is ready to invest around 200 bln rubles in tourism and development of @ @ @ @ @ we speak about tourist multipliers that are at least one to three , the issue @ @ @ @ @ rubles worth of investment in the economy , '' she said .
The current task @ @ @ @ @ Tourism is to create such conditions both regarding taxes , cheap loans , co-financing of @ @ @ @ @ joint efforts of regions and businesses that will ensure development of all that , Doguzova @ @

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. Business is ready to invest around 200 bln rubles ($2.6 bln) in development of Russia’s tourism and hospitality industry in coming 2-3 years, Head of the Federal Agency for Tourism Zarina Doguzova said in an interview with TASS.
"Meanwhile we understand that the pool of investment projects that was formed this year, is worth around 200 bln rubles, which means that already now, in coming 2-3 years, business is ready to invest around 200 bln rubles in tourism and development of hospitality industry. Whereas if we speak about tourist multipliers that are at least one to three, the issue is about almost 600 bln rubles worth of investment in the economy," she said.
The current task of the Federal Agency for Tourism is to create such conditions both regarding taxes, cheap loans, co-financing of various events, and regarding joint efforts of regions and businesses that will ensure development of all that, Doguzova added.


tass--2020-12-24--Trump administration harms relations with Russia accusing it of cyberattacks — diplomat

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
The Trump administration only harms bilateral relations with Russia by making statements about @ @ @ @ @ cyberattacks , preventing new White House occupant Joe Biden from establishing cooperation with Moscow , @ @ @ @ @ Zakharova told reporters at a press briefing on Thursday .
`` One can not rule @ @ @ @ @ the real purpose of new accusations against us is an attempt to prevent [ US @ @ @ @ @ establishing cooperation with Moscow , including on international information security issues .
We are convinced @ @ @ @ @ Russian nor American national interests , '' she stressed .
Moscow reaffirms its willingness to @ @ @ @ @ dialogue on international information security issues with any US president , Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman @ @ @ @ @ a press briefing on Thursday .
`` For our part , we are ready for @ @ @ @ @ pragmatic dialogue on international informational security issues with any leader of the United States of @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. The Trump administration only harms bilateral relations with Russia by making statements about Moscow’s involvement in cyberattacks, preventing new White House occupant Joe Biden from establishing cooperation with Moscow, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters at a press briefing on Thursday.
"One cannot rule out, however, that the real purpose of new accusations against us is an attempt to prevent [US] President-elect Joe Biden from establishing cooperation with Moscow, including on international information security issues. We are convinced that this scenario meets neither Russian nor American national interests," she stressed.
As an example, Zakharova cited a statement made by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who earlier accused Russia of involvement in a cyberattack on government agencies in Washington. "Michael Pompeo’s speech did not add anything new to the traditional array of accusations of cyberattacks. Unfounded accusations against Russia are heard from across the pond all the time. In that speech, unsubstantiated accusations of Russia's irresponsible behavior in cyberspace could be heard once again," the diplomat noted.
Moscow reaffirms its willingness to conduct a pragmatic and constructive dialogue on international information security issues with any US president, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman stressed. "For our part, we are ready for a constructive, professional and pragmatic dialogue on international informational security issues with any leader of the United States of America," she noted.
The Office of the US Director of National Intelligence, the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said in a joint statement last week that they had become aware of an attack on the federal government’s computer networks. On December 18, Pompeo claimed that Russia was involved in it. Meanwhile, Trump said a day later that the media had exaggerated the scale of the incident. He disagreed with suggestions that a group of hackers working for Moscow could be behind the cyberattack but admitted that China could be complicit.
Destructive nature of sanctions


tass--2020-12-24--Moscow to invite foreign military to Russian-Belarusian Zapad 2021 drills

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Defense Ministry will send invitations to foreign military to attend the @ @ @ @ @ the Russian and Belarussian armed forces dubbed Zapad 2021 , chief of the General Staff @ @ @ @ @ forces , First Deputy Defense Minister Valery Gerasimov told a news briefing for foreign military @ @ @ @ @ Zapad 2021 joint strategic exercises of the Russian and Belarussian armed forces will become the @ @ @ @ @ armed forces .
Military contingents of foreign states will be traditionally invited to attend it @ @ @ @ @ He recalled that the Kavkaz 2020 drills were the main training exercises in 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ of foreign states participated in it .
`` The drills did not include any actions @ @ @ @ @ exercise scenario was purely defensive , '' he stressed .

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. The Russian Defense Ministry will send invitations to foreign military to attend the joint strategic military drills of the Russian and Belarussian armed forces dubbed Zapad 2021, chief of the General Staff of Russia’s armed forces, First Deputy Defense Minister Valery Gerasimov told a news briefing for foreign military attaches Thursday.
"The Zapad 2021 joint strategic exercises of the Russian and Belarussian armed forces will become the key event for training the armed forces. Military contingents of foreign states will be traditionally invited to attend it," Gerasimov noted.
He recalled that the Kavkaz 2020 drills were the main training exercises in 2020, underlining that five military contingents of foreign states participated in it. "The drills did not include any actions against any countries, the exercise scenario was purely defensive," he stressed.


tass--2020-12-24--Operation in Syria’s Idlib puts end to attacks on Hmeymim base — Russian General Staff

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
The operation to liberate the southeastern part of Syria ’ s Idlib province from radical militants , carried out in early 2020 , put an end to shelling attacks on the Hmeymim air base , First Deputy Defense Minister and Chief of the Russian General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov said at a briefing for foreign military attaches on Thursday .
`` In response to regular shelling attacks on civilian settlements , the positions of Syrian government troops and Russian military facilities , the Syrian army , supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to liberate the southeastern part of the Idlib province from radical militants at the beginning of the year .
As a result , the government regained control of large territories and conditions were created to prevent shelling attacks on the Hmeymim air base and the city of Aleppo , '' Gerasimov pointed out .
He added that Damascus had also regained control of the M-5 highway , one of the country ’ s major thoroughfares .
`` All in all , the situation in Syria is stabilizing , '' the chief of the @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. The operation to liberate the southeastern part of Syria’s Idlib province from radical militants, carried out in early 2020, put an end to shelling attacks on the Hmeymim air base, First Deputy Defense Minister and Chief of the Russian General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov said at a briefing for foreign military attaches on Thursday.
"In response to regular shelling attacks on civilian settlements, the positions of Syrian government troops and Russian military facilities, the Syrian army, supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces, had to carry out an operation to liberate the southeastern part of the Idlib province from radical militants at the beginning of the year. As a result, the government regained control of large territories and conditions were created to prevent shelling attacks on the Hmeymim air base and the city of Aleppo," Gerasimov pointed out.
He added that Damascus had also regained control of the M-5 highway, one of the country’s major thoroughfares. "All in all, the situation in Syria is stabilizing," the chief of the Russian General Staff emphasized.


tass--2020-12-24--Kalashnikov begins serial production of new missile for Strela-10M air defense system

`` Onsite testing of the missile at the Donguz test site in the Orenburg Region has been completed successfully .
The missile ’ s batch production has begun under a contract with the Defense Ministry , '' the news release runs .
MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
The concern Kalashnikov ( an affiliate of Rostec ) has launched batch production of a new guided missile 9M333 for the air defense systems of the Strela-10M family , the concern ’ s press service said on Thursday .
Kalashnikov stressed that the newly-developed missile was a fire-and-forget weapon .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a self-homing warhead operating in three modes ( optical contrast , infrared and anti-jamming ) , which is its key advantage over other weapons of the same class , '' the press service said .
The 9M333 missile is capable of hitting low-flying planes and helicopters amid optical jamming as well as drones and cruise missiles .
The air defense systems of the Strela-10M family provide protection for troops on the ground during combat and on the march from air attack and reconnaissance aircraft operating at low and very low altitudes .
Currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used air defense systems in the world .

"Onsite testing of the missile at the Donguz test site in the Orenburg Region has been completed successfully. The missile’s batch production has begun under a contract with the Defense Ministry," the news release runs.
MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. The concern Kalashnikov (an affiliate of Rostec) has launched batch production of a new guided missile 9M333 for the air defense systems of the Strela-10M family, the concern’s press service said on Thursday.
Kalashnikov stressed that the newly-developed missile was a fire-and-forget weapon.
"The missile’s distinguishing feature is a self-homing warhead operating in three modes (optical contrast, infrared and anti-jamming), which is its key advantage over other weapons of the same class," the press service said.
The 9M333 missile is capable of hitting low-flying planes and helicopters amid optical jamming as well as drones and cruise missiles.
The air defense systems of the Strela-10M family provide protection for troops on the ground during combat and on the march from air attack and reconnaissance aircraft operating at low and very low altitudes. Currently it is one of the most widely used air defense systems in the world.


tass--2020-12-24--Russian authorities prevented critical economic contraction, says Putin

NOVO-OGARYOVO , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
Russian authorities managed to prevent a critical economic contraction and protected people during @ @ @ @ @ Putin said at a meeting with the government on Thursday .
`` We prevented a @ @ @ @ @ said , adding that the leading areas were kept as `` certain systemic measures supporting @ @ @ @ @ developed .
`` The main thing is that we managed to solve the issue of @ @ @ @ @ the president noted .

NOVO-OGARYOVO, December 24. /TASS/. Russian authorities managed to prevent a critical economic contraction and protected people during the pandemic, President Vladimir Putin said at a meeting with the government on Thursday.
"We prevented a critical contraction," he said, adding that the leading areas were kept as "certain systemic measures supporting almost all sectors" were developed.
"The main thing is that we managed to solve the issue of protecting people overall," the president noted.


tass--2020-12-24--Russia was able to ensure stability of macroeconomic indicators, says Putin

NOVO-OGARYOVO , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
Thanks to the coordinated work of the authorities , it was possible to @ @ @ @ @ of macroeconomic indicators in 2020 in Russia , Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday @ @ @ @ @ was thanks to teamwork that the authorities were able to do a lot to smooth @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic , to help those who were in especially difficult situation .
`` @ @ @ @ @ stability and sustainability of macroeconomic indicators were ensured , implementation of landmark infrastructure projects continued @ @ @ @ @ .

NOVO-OGARYOVO, December 24. /TASS/. Thanks to the coordinated work of the authorities, it was possible to ensure the stability and sustainability of macroeconomic indicators in 2020 in Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.
He noted that it was thanks to teamwork that the authorities were able to do a lot to smooth out the negative consequences of the coronavirus pandemic, to help those who were in especially difficult situation.
"Despite all the difficulties, stability and sustainability of macroeconomic indicators were ensured, implementation of landmark infrastructure projects continued," the President stressed.


tass--2020-12-24--Moscow’s donations of plasma with COVID-19 antibodies triple since autumn

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
The number of plasma donors with coronavirus antibodies has tripled in Moscow since early autumn , Sklifosovsky Research Institute ’ s Head and the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ professor Sergei Petrikov told TASS .
`` Since early autumn , we have seen a three-fold increase in plasma donors , while the volume of [ plasma ] in liters has grown six-fold compared to the beginning of October .
Now we satisfy all the needs and constantly maintain a two-week supply to all hospitals .
In order to donate plasma , it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 antibodies , '' Petrikov said .
The professor noted that not everyone can become a donor since a lot depends on the course of the disease and the patient ’ s health condition .
All donors are to take a test for coronavirus antibodies .
Not every COVID-19 survivor produces `` necessary '' antibodies needed for an effective treatment , while some people have contraindications to donation .
To date , over 8,000 people in Moscow have donated plasma with coronavirus antibodies , of whom 1,000 underwent the procedure several times and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 30,000 are willing to help .
People aged 18 to 55 who have recovered from COVID-19 can become blood plasma donors , provided they don ’ t have chronic conditions and test negative for HIV and Hepatitis B and C. Besides , coronavirus survivors can become social volunteers and help patients being treated at home .

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. The number of plasma donors with coronavirus antibodies has tripled in Moscow since early autumn, Sklifosovsky Research Institute’s Head and the Russian Academy of Sciences’ professor Sergei Petrikov told TASS.
"Since early autumn, we have seen a three-fold increase in plasma donors, while the volume of [plasma] in liters has grown six-fold compared to the beginning of October. Now we satisfy all the needs and constantly maintain a two-week supply to all hospitals. In order to donate plasma, it is necessary to confirm a sufficient amount of COVID-19 antibodies," Petrikov said.
The professor noted that not everyone can become a donor since a lot depends on the course of the disease and the patient’s health condition. All donors are to take a test for coronavirus antibodies. Not every COVID-19 survivor produces "necessary" antibodies needed for an effective treatment, while some people have contraindications to donation.
To date, over 8,000 people in Moscow have donated plasma with coronavirus antibodies, of whom 1,000 underwent the procedure several times and two did it 11 times. More than 30,000 are willing to help.
People aged 18 to 55 who have recovered from COVID-19 can become blood plasma donors, provided they don’t have chronic conditions and test negative for HIV and Hepatitis B and C. Besides, coronavirus survivors can become social volunteers and help patients being treated at home.


tass--2020-12-24--Sanctions may complicate construction of Nord Stream 2, Kremlin says

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/ TASS / .
The existing and planned US sanctions against Nord Stream 2 are aimed at making the implementation of the project as difficult as possible and are able to do so , Dmitry Peskov , the press secretary of the Russian president , told reporters on Thursday .
However , Russia and Europe are interested in the implementation of a project that is so necessary to ensure its energy security , he said .
On Wednesday , Reuters , citing senior sources in the administration of President Donald Trump , announced that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ package of sanctions on the Nord Stream 2 project .
In response to the question of whether the American side has real mechanisms capable of stopping the project , Peskov said : `` Of course , the restrictions that the Americans have already accepted , that they have planned in the draft defense budget , are , of course , aimed at complicating the project implementation as much as possible , a project Europe very much needs , in terms of European energy security.
`` `` Of course , this can complicate [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but at the same time , our European partners , and we are interested in the project 's implementation , so that it is finalized in the interests of European consumers and Russian gas suppliers , '' Peskov said .
Talking about whether the Trump administration will have time to stop the project , Peskov said : `` We are not inclined to read coffee grounds here . ''
`` We have our own issues to work out , and we 're working on them , '' he said .
The Nord Stream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pipeline strings with a total capacity of 55 bln cubic meters per year from the coast of Russia through the Baltic Sea to Germany .
To date , 93 % of Nord Stream 2 has been finished .
The construction was suspended at the end of 2019 when the Swiss pipe-laying company Allseas stopped work due to US sanctions .

MOSCOW, December 24. / TASS /. The existing and planned US sanctions against Nord Stream 2 are aimed at making the implementation of the project as difficult as possible and are able to do so, Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary of the Russian president, told reporters on Thursday. However, Russia and Europe are interested in the implementation of a project that is so necessary to ensure its energy security, he said.
On Wednesday, Reuters, citing senior sources in the administration of President Donald Trump, announced that the US administration plans to impose a new package of sanctions on the Nord Stream 2 project. In response to the question of whether the American side has real mechanisms capable of stopping the project, Peskov said: "Of course, the restrictions that the Americans have already accepted, that they have planned in the draft defense budget, are, of course, aimed at complicating the project implementation as much as possible, a project Europe very much needs, in terms of European energy security. " "Of course, this can complicate [the implementation of the project], but at the same time, our European partners, and we are interested in the project's implementation, so that it is finalized in the interests of European consumers and Russian gas suppliers," Peskov said.
Talking about whether the Trump administration will have time to stop the project, Peskov said: "We are not inclined to read coffee grounds here." "We have our own issues to work out, and we're working on them," he said.
The Nord Stream 2 project contemplates the construction of two pipeline strings with a total capacity of 55 bln cubic meters per year from the coast of Russia through the Baltic Sea to Germany. To date, 93% of Nord Stream 2 has been finished. The construction was suspended at the end of 2019 when the Swiss pipe-laying company Allseas stopped work due to US sanctions.


tass--2020-12-24--Russia’s General Staff notes NATO’s growing provocations near Russian borders

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
The General Staff of Russia ’ s armed forces has noted the outspoken anti-Russian nature of NATO ’ s training activities and growing provocations near Russia ’ s borders , the chief of the General Staff of Russia ’ s armed forces , First Deputy Defense Minister Valery Gerasimov told a news briefing for foreign military attaches .
Baltic Fleet to set up new division in response to NATO ’ s build-up near Russian borders '' The training of the alliance ’ s forces is developing an outspokenly anti-Russian bias , with non-NATO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ near Russia ’ s borders are growing , '' Gerasimov said .
He pointed to the considerable growth of NATO countries ’ defense budgets and further buildup of their military potential .
`` The unbridled buildup of the missile defense potential is continuing , which considerably affects the balance of forces and gives one side the edge in using strategic weapons .
The role of non-nuclear means of attack with long range , high accuracy and great destructive potential is increasing , '' Gerasimov said .
He stressed that these weapons were capable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might have been achieved only by means of using nuclear weapons .
Presence of NATO ’ s ships in Black , Baltic and Barents seas Russia finds the growing number of visits by NATO ’ s ships to the Black , Baltic and Barents seas , as well as more frequent flights by US strategic aircraft as worrisome , Valery Gerasimov stated .
`` The major increase in the number of NATO ships ’ visits to the Black , Baltic and Barents seas is alarming .
Also , the number of flights by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gerasimov said .
He recalled that Russia earlier addressed NATO and the US with a call for considering measures that might prevent negative developments .
Gerasimov stressed that the proposals included a resumption of the dialogue by military officials to discuss issues of mutual interest and Russia ’ s and NATO ’ s common concerns .
`` It might be possible to begin consultations at the level of military experts , '' Gerasimov said .
There were proposals for taking measures to ease military activity along the line of Russia-NATO engagement on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia suggested improving a mechanism of preventing dangerous military activity in the air and at sea , in the first place , in the Baltic and Black Sea regions .
`` These proposals have been repeatedly voiced on different platforms , including the Russia-NATO Council , but there has been no reaction to our initiatives to this day , '' Gerasimov said .

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. The General Staff of Russia’s armed forces has noted the outspoken anti-Russian nature of NATO’s training activities and growing provocations near Russia’s borders, the chief of the General Staff of Russia’s armed forces, First Deputy Defense Minister Valery Gerasimov told a news briefing for foreign military attaches.
Baltic Fleet to set up new division in response to NATO’s build-up near Russian borders
"The training of the alliance’s forces is developing an outspokenly anti-Russian bias, with non-NATO countries getting increasingly involved. Provocative activities near Russia’s borders are growing," Gerasimov said.
He pointed to the considerable growth of NATO countries’ defense budgets and further buildup of their military potential.
"The unbridled buildup of the missile defense potential is continuing, which considerably affects the balance of forces and gives one side the edge in using strategic weapons. The role of non-nuclear means of attack with long range, high accuracy and great destructive potential is increasing," Gerasimov said.
He stressed that these weapons were capable of attaining aims that in the past might have been achieved only by means of using nuclear weapons.
Presence of NATO’s ships in Black, Baltic and Barents seas
Russia finds the growing number of visits by NATO’s ships to the Black, Baltic and Barents seas, as well as more frequent flights by US strategic aircraft as worrisome, Valery Gerasimov stated. "The major increase in the number of NATO ships’ visits to the Black, Baltic and Barents seas is alarming. Also, the number of flights by US strategic aircraft has grown," Gerasimov said.
He recalled that Russia earlier addressed NATO and the US with a call for considering measures that might prevent negative developments. Gerasimov stressed that the proposals included a resumption of the dialogue by military officials to discuss issues of mutual interest and Russia’s and NATO’s common concerns. "It might be possible to begin consultations at the level of military experts," Gerasimov said.
There were proposals for taking measures to ease military activity along the line of Russia-NATO engagement on the basis of reciprocity and maximum transparency. Russia suggested improving a mechanism of preventing dangerous military activity in the air and at sea, in the first place, in the Baltic and Black Sea regions.
"These proposals have been repeatedly voiced on different platforms, including the Russia-NATO Council, but there has been no reaction to our initiatives to this day," Gerasimov said.


tass--2020-12-24--Russian Defense Ministry improves airspace reconnaissance in border areas

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Defense Ministry in 2020 reinforced its system of airspace reconnaissance along @ @ @ @ @ and boosted the firepower of the air defense systems , Chief of the General Staff @ @ @ @ @ a news briefing for foreign military attaches on Thursday .
`` The air defense system @ @ @ @ @ and foremost , the system of airspace reconnaissance along our border zones was being reinforced @ @ @ @ @ adding that it enabled a faster response to airspace violations .
`` The firepower capabilities @ @ @ @ @ including those for struggle against cruise missiles were stepped up , '' he said .
@ @ @ @ @ equipment , including armored vehicles , missiles , artillery and other weapons , were provided @ @ @ @ @ the Northern Fleet and the Airborne Force .
`` For maintaining Russia ’ s security @ @ @ @ @ water ships are being built and the infrastructure of naval bases is being improved , @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. The Russian Defense Ministry in 2020 reinforced its system of airspace reconnaissance along the country’s borders and boosted the firepower of the air defense systems, Chief of the General Staff, Valery Gerasimov, told a news briefing for foreign military attaches on Thursday.
"The air defense system was being upgraded. First and foremost, the system of airspace reconnaissance along our border zones was being reinforced," Gerasimov said, adding that it enabled a faster response to airspace violations.
"The firepower capabilities of air defense systems, including those for struggle against cruise missiles were stepped up," he said.
About 1,700 pieces of military equipment, including armored vehicles, missiles, artillery and other weapons, were provided for the military districts, the Northern Fleet and the Airborne Force.
"For maintaining Russia’s security at sea green and blue water ships are being built and the infrastructure of naval bases is being improved," Gerasimov said.


tass--2020-12-24--Kremlin declines to comment on Biden’s determination to blame Russia for cyberattacks

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow has nothing to do with cyberattacks on the US and has no intention to interfere in the situation , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters , commenting on reports that US President-elect Joe Biden wanted incumbent President Donald Trump to blame Moscow for the attacks .
`` I would like to refrain from commenting on the matter because such reports are of low value in terms of credibility , '' Peskov pointed out .
He added that the Kremlin was unaware `` if such reports can be trusted and would prefer not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repeatedly said that we have nothing to do with cyberattacks , '' the Russian presidential spokesman emphasized .
`` I would like to refrain from commenting on the matter because such reports are of low value in terms of credibility , '' Peskov pointed out .
He added that the Kremlin was unaware `` if such reports can be trusted and would prefer not to interfere . ''
`` We have repeatedly said that we have nothing to do with cyberattacks , '' the Russian presidential spokesman emphasized .
On Monday , Peskov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do with cyberattacks on US government agencies and companies .
He added that `` accusations of Russia ’ s involvement are unfounded and should be viewed as a continuation of the blind Russophobia they resort to in case of incidents . ''
The US Office of the Director of National Intelligence , the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said last week that hackers had compromised federal agencies and critical infrastructure .
US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said on Friday that `` it was the Russians that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Trump noted on Saturday that the media had exaggerated the incident .
He added that China might have been behind the hacking attack .

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. Moscow has nothing to do with cyberattacks on the US and has no intention to interfere in the situation, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, commenting on reports that US President-elect Joe Biden wanted incumbent President Donald Trump to blame Moscow for the attacks.
"I would like to refrain from commenting on the matter because such reports are of low value in terms of credibility," Peskov pointed out. He added that the Kremlin was unaware "if such reports can be trusted and would prefer not to interfere." "We have repeatedly said that we have nothing to do with cyberattacks," the Russian presidential spokesman emphasized.
"I would like to refrain from commenting on the matter because such reports are of low value in terms of credibility," Peskov pointed out. He added that the Kremlin was unaware "if such reports can be trusted and would prefer not to interfere." "We have repeatedly said that we have nothing to do with cyberattacks," the Russian presidential spokesman emphasized.
Cyberattacks on US
On Monday, Peskov pointed out that Moscow had nothing to do with cyberattacks on US government agencies and companies. He added that "accusations of Russia’s involvement are unfounded and should be viewed as a continuation of the blind Russophobia they resort to in case of incidents."
The US Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said last week that hackers had compromised federal agencies and critical infrastructure.
US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said on Friday that "it was the Russians that engaged in this activity." Meanwhile, Trump noted on Saturday that the media had exaggerated the incident. He added that China might have been behind the hacking attack.


tass--2020-12-24--Science looking ‘dismal’? Half of Russia’s top scientists downbeat on their field nowadays

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
About 50 % of full members , corresponding members and professors of the Russian Academy of Sciences ( RAS ) view the current state of science in the country in a negative light .
Nevertheless , they expect the situation to change in the future , as follows from the results of a poll posted on the Nauchnaya Rossiya ( Scientific Russia ) website on Thursday .
`` Scientists are skeptical about the state of affairs in Russian science today and in the near future .
That said , 50.2 % of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ science as dismal , 46.5 % take a discouraging view of its future in a year , and just 14 % are optimistic about it .
Scientists are much more upbeat about the distant future , 32.1 % believe it will be encouraging in five years ’ time , while 56.4 % said it would be favorable in 20 years , '' the survey ’ s results revealed .
At the same time , in the opinion of 37.1 % of those polled , the sway that scientists have in Russian society has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
On the other hand , 25.1 % disagree with that , and 37.8 % agree with that partially .
The survey was conducted on December 18-22 , 2020 , with 1,012 Russian scientists having been interviewed .
There were 296 full members , 452 corresponding members and 239 professors of the Russian Academy of Sciences among those polled ( 25 respondents referred to themselves as directors of institutes , professors and research fellows ) .
Members of all branches of the Russian Academy of Sciences took part in the poll .

MOSCOW, December 24 . /TASS/. About 50% of full members, corresponding members and professors of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) view the current state of science in the country in a negative light. Nevertheless, they expect the situation to change in the future, as follows from the results of a poll posted on the Nauchnaya Rossiya (Scientific Russia) website on Thursday.
"Scientists are skeptical about the state of affairs in Russian science today and in the near future. That said, 50.2% of the respondents describe the current state of Russian science as dismal, 46.5% take a discouraging view of its future in a year, and just 14% are optimistic about it. Scientists are much more upbeat about the distant future, 32.1% believe it will be encouraging in five years’ time, while 56.4% said it would be favorable in 20 years," the survey’s results revealed.
At the same time, in the opinion of 37.1% of those polled, the sway that scientists have in Russian society has climbed since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. On the other hand, 25.1% disagree with that, and 37.8% agree with that partially.
The survey was conducted on December 18-22, 2020, with 1,012 Russian scientists having been interviewed. There were 296 full members, 452 corresponding members and 239 professors of the Russian Academy of Sciences among those polled (25 respondents referred to themselves as directors of institutes, professors and research fellows). Members of all branches of the Russian Academy of Sciences took part in the poll.


tass--2020-12-24--China poised to join efforts with Russia on fostering African economy — diplomat

BEIJING , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
China is ready to join efforts with Russia in order to spur the African countries ’ economic development , a Chinese diplomat said on Thursday , according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry ’ s website .
`` The Chinese side is poised to cooperate with Russia on issues related to this region on a regular basis , '' head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry ’ s African Affairs Department Wu Peng told the 3rd round of Chinese-Russian consultations on African issues .
`` We are ready to join forces with Russia to contribute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' According to the diplomat , Beijing hopes to develop active cooperation with Moscow in this direction `` taking into account the African side ’ s interests . ''
Furthermore , Wu Peng underlined that `` China and Russia are important partners for Africa . ''
`` We have come to terms on a wide range of issues and set similar goals in regard to the activities aimed at supporting African countries ’ development , '' he said .
Vsevolod Tkachenko , the Head of the Russian Foreign Ministry ’ s Department of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Russian side .
At the talks , the Russian and Chinese counterparts discussed measures to combat the pandemic in the region , as well as effective formats to advance cooperation with the continent .

BEIJING, December 24. /TASS/. China is ready to join efforts with Russia in order to spur the African countries’ economic development, a Chinese diplomat said on Thursday, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s website.
"The Chinese side is poised to cooperate with Russia on issues related to this region on a regular basis," head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s African Affairs Department Wu Peng told the 3rd round of Chinese-Russian consultations on African issues. "We are ready to join forces with Russia to contribute to Africa’s economic development."
According to the diplomat, Beijing hopes to develop active cooperation with Moscow in this direction "taking into account the African side’s interests." Furthermore, Wu Peng underlined that "China and Russia are important partners for Africa." "We have come to terms on a wide range of issues and set similar goals in regard to the activities aimed at supporting African countries’ development," he said.
Vsevolod Tkachenko, the Head of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Department of Africa, took part in the event from the Russian side. At the talks, the Russian and Chinese counterparts discussed measures to combat the pandemic in the region, as well as effective formats to advance cooperation with the continent.


tass--2020-12-24--Press review: OPCW’s ties with Russia turn toxic and why Doha’s delegation visited Moscow

Russia and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons ( OPCW ) have faced some hurdles when trying to agree on a visit by international experts in order to investigate the incident with blogger Alexey Navalny .
In early October , Russia sent a request to the organization to provide it with technical assistance .
OPCW Director General Fernando Arias confirmed on December 11 that the international experts ’ visit was being coordinated .
However , the parties have failed to come to terms on it .
A diplomatic source told Izvestia that the key obstacle is that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unilaterally hand over Navalny ’ s samples , but Moscow won ’ t be satisfied with this proposal .
According to Russia , cooperation here must be a two-way street .
The source notes that now Moscow has enough grounds to `` slam the door '' and leave the organization .
Russia should evaluate whether its further participation in the OPCW is really advisable .
The only reason to keep its membership is that the organization serves as a platform for sharing knowledge in the chemical industry .
Meanwhile , Russia ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the source notes .
Other countries could view this move not just as a protest but as admitting guilt .
`` We took part in creating the OPCW hoping that a technical mechanism would be established for controlling compliance with the convention .
In the end , we destroyed our chemical arsenals voluntarily and unilaterally , '' Director of the MGIMO Center for Military and Political Studies Alexey Podberezkin said .
`` But after we eliminated them , it turned out that the US did not fully destroy its potentials .
In the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a tool of political influence rather than technical control .
This transformation has happened recently .
We are not controlling this process and since we are not in control of this , the question is why on earth should we take part in it , '' the expert noted .
Kommersant : Qatari delegation visits Moscow for first time since onset of pandemic A delegation from Qatar , one of Russia ’ s major investors among Arab countries , paid a visit to Moscow .
On Wednesday , Qatar ’ s Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Finance Minister Ali Sharif Al Emadi held talks with the heads of Rosneft and VTB , Igor Sechin and Andrei Kostin , as well as Russian government members and Nikolai Patrushev , secretary of the Security Council .
During the visit , the Qatari envoys focused on the prospects of investment , trade and economic cooperation .
This somehow compensated for the lack of contacts at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum , Kommersant writes .
Qatar was scheduled to take part in the event , but the forum was canceled due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CEO of the Moscow Policy Group , told the newspaper that `` cooperation between Russian and Qatari companies is the most promising in the field of high-tech , cyber and food security . ''
According to him , Russia ’ s experience in preparing for the 2018 World Cup gave an impetus for this cooperation .
Doha took up the baton and is actively using Russia ’ s know-how .
The exact volume of Qatar ’ s investments in Russia has not been unveiled .
However , this summer , Russian Ambassador to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans to cultivate projects in the field of infrastructure development , agriculture , medicine , real estate , and oil and gas to the tune of over $ 10 bln .
The visit was also well-timed from the viewpoint of a political agenda .
The Qataris came to Moscow following a visit by a delegation from the United Arab Emirates .
So , Russia could take a look at the challenging situation in the Persian Gulf from different sides .
At the talks in Moscow , the parties discussed the regional agenda : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iranian nuclear dossier and the situation in the Persian Gulf region in general .
Izvestia : Will Netanyahu hold on to the prime minister ’ s seat ?
Despite the coronavirus pandemic , Israel is set to hold its fourth parliamentary elections in the past two years , which are scheduled for March 23 .
The Knesset ( legislature ) failed to pass the budget and automatically dissolved early on December 23 .
Experts polled by Izvestia believe that during his campaign Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will place his bets on a successful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states .
By March , more Middle East states are likely to establish diplomatic relations with Israel .
From the very beginning , many experts doubted that Netanyahu would entertain the idea of voluntarily yielding the prime minister ’ s seat to Benny Gantz under a coalition deal .
So , many of them view the government ’ s resignation and consequently , ditching the rotation as part of Netanyahu ’ s plan .
However , Israeli political scientist Zeev Hanin dismissed this speculation .
`` Netanyahu sought to hold these new elections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when the vaccinations will end and the economy will demonstrate more sustainable growth , and when more Arab countries seeking to normalize ties will emerge .
This would be a position guaranteeing him a convenient scenario at the elections , '' the expert told the newspaper .
March is not convenient for Netanyahu in all respects .
The results of the mass vaccination campaign won ’ t be so evident and economic growth will be at a minimum .
So , the political scientist believes that the prime minister should not be blamed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sake of ruining the coalition .
According to Sergei Melkonyan , an expert on Israeli studies from the Institute for Oriental Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences , the PR campaign on vaccinations should be viewed as Netanyahu ’ s first step in the election race .
The potential success in handling the coronavirus could bring Netanyahu some major points , he noted .
Digital currencies could become a rival to the SWIFT international payment system in the future , First Deputy Chairperson of the Bank of Russia Olga Skorobogatova said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ development of a digital ruble , RBC writes .
A new system of international settlements could be created by using blockchain technology .
This operation can be carried out via digital national currencies , Vice President of the Russian Association of Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain Vladislav Martynov said .
According to Brian O'Toole , a former senior advisor at the Office of Foreign Assets Control ( OFAC ) of the US Department of the Treasury , if SWIFT fails to catch up with the blockchain technology ’ s development , then digital currencies of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role of SWIFT , but not fully because fiat currency is here to stay .
Even if Russia could create the payment mechanism using a digital ruble , it could not be a rival to the dollar until Russia ’ s financial system becomes more reliable , he predicted .
For creating an alternative to SWIFT , a significant number of economic powers should agree on the rules of the game and blockchain settlements , Martynov noted .
`` Countries have two reasons to support blockchain : economic and political ones .
From @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cost of transactions , since there is no commission to a middleman that needs to be paid and the process itself will require less resources and investments in IT infrastructure .
As for political reasons , blockchain could be backed by those countries , which dislike the American financial system ’ s pressure - namely the countries of BRICS , Africa , Latin America and probably , some part of Europe , '' Martynov said .
The Moldovan government has resigned , clearing the way for a key power struggle in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Their outcome will decide the country 's foreign policy course in the near future .
If Moldova ’ s new President Maia Sandu gets control of the parliament , Chisinau will definitely build closer ties to the West .
If Igor Dodon , who lost the presidential election , together with his Party of Socialists turn the tables , Moscow will retain its influence over the republic , Kommersant writes .
For Sandu , the early elections are a chance to win genuine power .
In his turn , outgoing President Dodon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interested in the snap elections .
This is the only opportunity for him to get revenge after his November defeat .
It is likely that soon he will be elected chairman of the Party of Socialists ( where he was an informal leader for all four years of his presidential term ) and will prepare it for a new struggle .
The day when the government resigned , Dodon pretended that everything was planned this way and that the moment was ripe .
However , there is an opinion that Dodon was being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was his own initiative .
`` Initially , the Socialists ’ goal was to delay the elections so that it would be harder for Sandu to ride the wave after defeating Dodon .
Now , there is no such threat , '' said Sergey Manastyrly , who heads the Chisinau-based Balkan Center .
The expert believes that the resignation is a concession , which Sandu had forced her opponents to make .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews .

Izvestia: Russia’s relations with OPCW turn toxic amid Navalny incident
Read also Western countries showed nihilism by refusing to listen to former OPCW chief — diplomat
Russia and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) have faced some hurdles when trying to agree on a visit by international experts in order to investigate the incident with blogger Alexey Navalny. In early October, Russia sent a request to the organization to provide it with technical assistance. OPCW Director General Fernando Arias confirmed on December 11 that the international experts’ visit was being coordinated. However, the parties have failed to come to terms on it. A diplomatic source told Izvestia that the key obstacle is that the chemical weapons watchdog insists that Russia must unilaterally hand over Navalny’s samples, but Moscow won’t be satisfied with this proposal. According to Russia, cooperation here must be a two-way street. The source notes that now Moscow has enough grounds to "slam the door" and leave the organization. Russia should evaluate whether its further participation in the OPCW is really advisable. The only reason to keep its membership is that the organization serves as a platform for sharing knowledge in the chemical industry. Meanwhile, Russia’s withdrawal could trigger major political consequences, the source notes. Other countries could view this move not just as a protest but as admitting guilt. "We took part in creating the OPCW hoping that a technical mechanism would be established for controlling compliance with the convention. In the end, we destroyed our chemical arsenals voluntarily and unilaterally," Director of the MGIMO Center for Military and Political Studies Alexey Podberezkin said. "But after we eliminated them, it turned out that the US did not fully destroy its potentials. In the end, the organization itself has turned into a tool of political influence rather than technical control. This transformation has happened recently. We are not controlling this process and since we are not in control of this, the question is why on earth should we take part in it," the expert noted. Kommersant: Qatari delegation visits Moscow for first time since onset of pandemic
A delegation from Qatar, one of Russia’s major investors among Arab countries, paid a visit to Moscow. On Wednesday, Qatar’s Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani and Finance Minister Ali Sharif Al Emadi held talks with the heads of Rosneft and VTB, Igor Sechin and Andrei Kostin, as well as Russian government members and Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of the Security Council. During the visit, the Qatari envoys focused on the prospects of investment, trade and economic cooperation. This somehow compensated for the lack of contacts at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Kommersant writes. Qatar was scheduled to take part in the event, but the forum was canceled due to the pandemic. Alexei Potemkin, CEO of the Moscow Policy Group, told the newspaper that "cooperation between Russian and Qatari companies is the most promising in the field of high-tech, cyber and food security." According to him, Russia’s experience in preparing for the 2018 World Cup gave an impetus for this cooperation. Doha took up the baton and is actively using Russia’s know-how. The exact volume of Qatar’s investments in Russia has not been unveiled. However, this summer, Russian Ambassador to Qatar Nurmakhmad Kholov announced that there were plans to cultivate projects in the field of infrastructure development, agriculture, medicine, real estate, and oil and gas to the tune of over $10 bln. The visit was also well-timed from the viewpoint of a political agenda. The Qataris came to Moscow following a visit by a delegation from the United Arab Emirates. So, Russia could take a look at the challenging situation in the Persian Gulf from different sides. At the talks in Moscow, the parties discussed the regional agenda: Syria, Libya, Palestine, the Iranian nuclear dossier and the situation in the Persian Gulf region in general. Izvestia: Will Netanyahu hold on to the prime minister’s seat?
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, Israel is set to hold its fourth parliamentary elections in the past two years, which are scheduled for March 23. The Knesset (legislature) failed to pass the budget and automatically dissolved early on December 23. Experts polled by Izvestia believe that during his campaign Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will place his bets on a successful vaccination campaign and normalizing ties with Arab states. By March, more Middle East states are likely to establish diplomatic relations with Israel. From the very beginning, many experts doubted that Netanyahu would entertain the idea of voluntarily yielding the prime minister’s seat to Benny Gantz under a coalition deal. So, many of them view the government’s resignation and consequently, ditching the rotation as part of Netanyahu’s plan. However, Israeli political scientist Zeev Hanin dismissed this speculation. "Netanyahu sought to hold these new elections, but closer to the summer, when the vaccinations will end and the economy will demonstrate more sustainable growth, and when more Arab countries seeking to normalize ties will emerge. This would be a position guaranteeing him a convenient scenario at the elections," the expert told the newspaper. March is not convenient for Netanyahu in all respects. The results of the mass vaccination campaign won’t be so evident and economic growth will be at a minimum. So, the political scientist believes that the prime minister should not be blamed for artificially whipping up tensions for the sake of ruining the coalition. According to Sergei Melkonyan, an expert on Israeli studies from the Institute for Oriental Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences, the PR campaign on vaccinations should be viewed as Netanyahu’s first step in the election race. The potential success in handling the coronavirus could bring Netanyahu some major points, he noted. RBC: Russian regulator views digital currencies as potential rival to SWIFT
Read also Digital ruble circulation in international transfers feasible — Central Bank
Digital currencies could become a rival to the SWIFT international payment system in the future, First Deputy Chairperson of the Bank of Russia Olga Skorobogatova said. The Central Bank is currently discussing the development of a digital ruble, RBC writes. A new system of international settlements could be created by using blockchain technology. This operation can be carried out via digital national currencies, Vice President of the Russian Association of Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain Vladislav Martynov said. According to Brian O'Toole, a former senior advisor at the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of the Treasury, if SWIFT fails to catch up with the blockchain technology’s development, then digital currencies of central banks will partly replace the central role of SWIFT, but not fully because fiat currency is here to stay. Even if Russia could create the payment mechanism using a digital ruble, it could not be a rival to the dollar until Russia’s financial system becomes more reliable, he predicted. For creating an alternative to SWIFT, a significant number of economic powers should agree on the rules of the game and blockchain settlements, Martynov noted. "Countries have two reasons to support blockchain: economic and political ones. From an economic viewpoint, blockchain could lower the cost of transactions, since there is no commission to a middleman that needs to be paid and the process itself will require less resources and investments in IT infrastructure. As for political reasons, blockchain could be backed by those countries, which dislike the American financial system’s pressure - namely the countries of BRICS, Africa, Latin America and probably, some part of Europe," Martynov said. Kommersant: Moldova plunges into a new political crisis
Read also Moldova’s outgoing president accuses successor of attempts to destabilize situation


tass--2020-12-24--Frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov launches cruise missile Uran for the first time

`` The frigate has for the first time successfully launched a cruise missile of the anti-ship system Uran , installed in the process of the frigate ’ s upgrade , '' the news release runs .
MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
The Pacific Fleet ’ s upgraded frigate The Marshal Shaposhnikov has test-fired the anti-ship cruise missile Uran for the first time , the fleet ’ s press service said on Thursday .
The Marshal Shaposhnikov underwent repairs and upgrade at the Dalzavod shipyards in Vladivostok .
On December 15 , the Dalzavod ’ s press service said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Japan for testing missile and artillery systems .
In the process of the upgrade the anti-submarine ship The Marshal Shaposhnikov of project 1155 was converted into a frigate - a universal ship capable of fighting against ground , surface and underwater targets .
It was armed with advanced missile systems Kalibr-NK and Uran and the newest artillery systems .
The ship ’ s firepower increased several times .
The Marshal Shaposhnikov began to be laid at the Yantar shipyard in Kaliningrad in 1983 .
Currently the ship is in the final phase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repair center Dalzavod .
This is the first-ever project of this scale in Russia .
The frigate ’ s life cycle will be prolonged by ten years .

"The frigate has for the first time successfully launched a cruise missile of the anti-ship system Uran, installed in the process of the frigate’s upgrade," the news release runs.
MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. The Pacific Fleet’s upgraded frigate The Marshal Shaposhnikov has test-fired the anti-ship cruise missile Uran for the first time, the fleet’s press service said on Thursday.
The Marshal Shaposhnikov underwent repairs and upgrade at the Dalzavod shipyards in Vladivostok.
On December 15, the Dalzavod’s press service said the frigate had departed for the Sea of Japan for testing missile and artillery systems.
In the process of the upgrade the anti-submarine ship The Marshal Shaposhnikov of project 1155 was converted into a frigate - a universal ship capable of fighting against ground, surface and underwater targets. It was armed with advanced missile systems Kalibr-NK and Uran and the newest artillery systems. The ship’s firepower increased several times.
The Marshal Shaposhnikov began to be laid at the Yantar shipyard in Kaliningrad in 1983. Currently the ship is in the final phase of profound overhaul and upgrade at the repair center Dalzavod. This is the first-ever project of this scale in Russia. The frigate’s life cycle will be prolonged by ten years.


tass--2020-12-24--Centara Invites Russian Guests to Escape the Cold Winter in the Maldives

BANGKOK , Dec. 24 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ Centara Hotels & Resorts is inviting Russian guests to escape the cold and enjoy tropical island escapes in the Maldives this winter .
They love the Centara brand in Thailand and they can now experience the same high standards of hospitality in the Maldives .
The award-winning Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives is a dream destination for all ages .
Amid white sand , crystal clear lagoons and swaying palm trees , guests can stay in a collection of one-bedroom Beach Suites or Luxury Beachfront Pool Villas , all with plenty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overlooking the ocean .
Guests can dine at six restaurants , bars and lounges , swim in the pool , or take part in exciting activities such as tennis , volleyball , water sports and snorkelling in turquoise sea .
Parents can unwind with a massage at SPA Cenvaree or workout at the fitness centre , while their children enjoy hours of fun at the dual-age kids ' club .
The most wonderful aspect is that every activity is included in the rate , so cash is not required anywhere on the island @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Maldives is currently welcoming international tourists .
Russian citizens can visit visa-free , making the country ideal for warm winter sun vacations .
All-inclusive rates start from just THB 5,681 ( RUB 13,800 ) per night .
So leave the chill of the Russian winter behind and discover paradise with Centara .
Learn more at www.centarahotelsresorts.com/en/special-offers or contact your travel agent .
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand 's leading hotel operator .
Its 81 properties span all major Thai destinations and 13 additional countries .
Centara 's portfolio comprises six brands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & Resorts , Centara Hotels & Resorts , Centara Boutique Collection , Centra by Centara and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology .
Throughout the collection , Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service , exceptional food , pampering spas and the importance of families .
Over the next five years Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group , while spreading its footprint into new continents and market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here .
Download all Centara official images and logos at Image Bank .

BANGKOK, Dec. 24, 2020 /PRNewswire/ Centara Hotels & Resorts is inviting Russian guests to escape the cold and enjoy tropical island escapes in the Maldives this winter. They love the Centara brand in Thailand and they can now experience the same high standards of hospitality in the Maldives.
The award-winning Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives is a dream destination for all ages. Amid white sand, crystal clear lagoons and swaying palm trees, guests can stay in a collection of one-bedroom Beach Suites or Luxury Beachfront Pool Villas, all with plenty of space for families and private pools overlooking the ocean.
Guests can dine at six restaurants, bars and lounges, swim in the pool, or take part in exciting activities such as tennis, volleyball, water sports and snorkelling in turquoise sea. Parents can unwind with a massage at SPA Cenvaree or workout at the fitness centre, while their children enjoy hours of fun at the dual-age kids' club. The most wonderful aspect is that every activity is included in the rate, so cash is not required anywhere on the island.
Unlike some popular resort destinations, the Maldives is currently welcoming international tourists. Russian citizens can visit visa-free, making the country ideal for warm winter sun vacations.
All-inclusive rates start from just THB 5,681 (RUB 13,800) per night. So leave the chill of the Russian winter behind and discover paradise with Centara. Learn more at www.centarahotelsresorts.com/en/special-offers or contact your travel agent.
ABOUT CENTARA
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand's leading hotel operator. Its 81 properties span all major Thai destinations and 13 additional countries. Centara's portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families.
Over the next five years Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches.
Find out more about Centara here.
Download all Centara official images and logos at Image Bank.
CONTACT: Jerome Richard, Delivering Asia Communications, +66-9-1723-1648, jr@deliveringasia.com


tass--2020-12-24--Russia records all-time high of 635 new coronavirus deaths

MOSCOW , December 24 .
/TASS/ .
As many as 635 coronavirus deaths were recorded in Russia in the past @ @ @ @ @ number since the beginning of the pandemic , the anti-coronavirus crisis center said on Thursday @ @ @ @ @ has hit 53,096 .
According to data from the crisis center , 1.79 % of @ @ @ @ @ Russia .
In particular , 72 coronavirus deaths were recorded in St. Petersburg in the @ @ @ @ @ the Rostov region and 18 in the Perm region .
The Moscow and Krasnoyarsk regions @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, December 24. /TASS/. As many as 635 coronavirus deaths were recorded in Russia in the past 24 hours, the highest number since the beginning of the pandemic, the anti-coronavirus crisis center said on Thursday. The overall death toll has hit 53,096.
According to data from the crisis center, 1.79% of coronavirus patients have died in Russia.
In particular, 72 coronavirus deaths were recorded in St. Petersburg in the past day, 24 in the Rostov region and 18 in the Perm region. The Moscow and Krasnoyarsk regions reported 29 fatalities each.