tass--2020-09-23--Elysee Palace could not leak Putin-Macron conversation tape to the media — Kremlin

MOSCOW , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
The Kremlin is convinced that the Elysee Palace could not have deliberately leaked the tape of a conversation between the Russian and French presidents , Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron , to the media in violation of diplomatic rules .
According to Peskov , the Kremlin does not believe that the French authorities could have leaked the leaders ’ conversation details to the media .
`` We can not believe that the Elysee Palace could have deliberately `` leaked '' to the media the tapescript of the two presidents ’ conversation .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this , we don ’ t even want to believe this , '' he said .
`` However , the newspaper did not give the exact wording .
And to be fair , it could hardly be exact because this would mean that our French partners had deliberately shared with the media the tape of the two presidents ’ conversation , which does not conform to diplomatic practice .
We are convinced that this is not so , '' Peskov stressed .
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters , commenting on the publication @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the issue of the Berlin patient was indeed discussed during the recent conversation between Putin and Macron , and the Kremlin announced this . ''
Toxic agents from the Novichok family can be synthesized in many countries and quite often it is impossible to identify their origin , the Russian presidential spokesman told the media on Wednesday .
`` The most important conclusion that can be derived from what experts and specialists say is this : first , how dangerous and lethal it is ; second , this substance was synthesized and can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries of the world and , third , it is not always possible and is often just impossible to identify the origin of this substance , because it can be synthesized at absolutely different laboratories , '' Peskov said .
Asked if President Vladimir Putin was notified of this , Peskov replied : `` It goes without saying . ''
In reply to the question of what the president and his entourage thought about Novichok , Peskov said it was totally unimportant , `` because neither President Putin nor his entourage are engaged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chemists or military chemists . ''
`` What is important , though , is that this substance has been repeatedly discussed and talked about by experts , including those who at a certain point had a bearing on the production of this compound , very dangerous for humanity , '' Peskov said .
The Novichok issue came into the spotlight again following the German government ’ s claims a substance from that family had been used to poison blogger Alexey Navalny .

MOSCOW, September 23. /TASS/. The Kremlin is convinced that the Elysee Palace could not have deliberately leaked the tape of a conversation between the Russian and French presidents, Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron, to the media in violation of diplomatic rules.
According to Peskov, the Kremlin does not believe that the French authorities could have leaked the leaders’ conversation details to the media. "We cannot believe that the Elysee Palace could have deliberately "leaked" to the media the tapescript of the two presidents’ conversation. This is France! France cannot do this, we don’t even want to believe this," he said.
"However, the newspaper did not give the exact wording. And to be fair, it could hardly be exact because this would mean that our French partners had deliberately shared with the media the tape of the two presidents’ conversation, which does not conform to diplomatic practice. We are convinced that this is not so," Peskov stressed.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, commenting on the publication by Le Monde newspaper, that "the issue of the Berlin patient was indeed discussed during the recent conversation between Putin and Macron, and the Kremlin announced this."
Toxic agents from the Novichok family can be synthesized in many countries and quite often it is impossible to identify their origin, the Russian presidential spokesman told the media on Wednesday.
"The most important conclusion that can be derived from what experts and specialists say is this: first, how dangerous and lethal it is; second, this substance was synthesized and can be synthesized at any moment in many countries of the world and, third, it is not always possible and is often just impossible to identify the origin of this substance, because it can be synthesized at absolutely different laboratories," Peskov said.
Asked if President Vladimir Putin was notified of this, Peskov replied: "It goes without saying."
In reply to the question of what the president and his entourage thought about Novichok, Peskov said it was totally unimportant, "because neither President Putin nor his entourage are engaged in developing chemical compounds nor are they chemists or military chemists."
"What is important, though, is that this substance has been repeatedly discussed and talked about by experts, including those who at a certain point had a bearing on the production of this compound, very dangerous for humanity," Peskov said.
The Novichok issue came into the spotlight again following the German government’s claims a substance from that family had been used to poison blogger Alexey Navalny.


tass--2020-09-23--Navalny can come back to Russia at any time, Kremlin says

`` If the patient is really getting better , this is great , we wish him the soonest recovery , '' the spokesman said .
`` As for his return to Moscow , like any Russian citizen , he is free to do that at any moment . ''
MOSCOW , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
Russian opposition figure Alexey Navalny , who was discharged from a hospital in Berlin earlier , can come back to Russia at any moment , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday .
However , Peskov pointed out that no official meetings are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or plans to somehow share the information that he actively shares with colleagues from Germany and other countries with our law enforcement . ''
Navalny was rushed to a local hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk on August 20 after collapsing on a Moscow-bound flight from Tomsk .
He fell into a coma and was put on a ventilator in an intensive care unit .
On August 22 , he was airlifted to Berlin and admitted to the Charite hospital .
On September 2 , Berlin claimed that having examined Navalny ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had come to the conclusion that the blogger had been affected by a toxic agent belonging to the Novichok family .
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia was ready for comprehensive cooperation with Germany .
He pointed out that no poisonous substances had been detected in Navalny ’ s system prior to his transfer to Berlin .
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the German Foreign Office had not provided the Russian ambassador with any proof of its version of the incident .

"If the patient is really getting better, this is great, we wish him the soonest recovery," the spokesman said. "As for his return to Moscow, like any Russian citizen, he is free to do that at any moment."
MOSCOW, September 23. /TASS/. Russian opposition figure Alexey Navalny, who was discharged from a hospital in Berlin earlier, can come back to Russia at any moment, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday.
However, Peskov pointed out that no official meetings are planned, "unless the patient wishes or plans to somehow share the information that he actively shares with colleagues from Germany and other countries with our law enforcement."
Navalny was rushed to a local hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk on August 20 after collapsing on a Moscow-bound flight from Tomsk. He fell into a coma and was put on a ventilator in an intensive care unit. On August 22, he was airlifted to Berlin and admitted to the Charite hospital.
On September 2, Berlin claimed that having examined Navalny’s test samples, German government toxicologists had come to the conclusion that the blogger had been affected by a toxic agent belonging to the Novichok family.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia was ready for comprehensive cooperation with Germany. He pointed out that no poisonous substances had been detected in Navalny’s system prior to his transfer to Berlin. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the German Foreign Office had not provided the Russian ambassador with any proof of its version of the incident.


tass--2020-09-23--TASS correspondent detained in Minsk near Independence Palace now released

MINSK , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
TASS correspondent Artyom Popov has been released after being detained by Belarusian law @ @ @ @ @ Palace in Minsk where the inauguration ceremony of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko was taking place @ @ @ @ @ the Minsk central police precinct he resumed contact and reported that the police officers apologized @ @ @ @ @ back to downtown Minsk .
When detained , the reporter had his official accreditation by @ @ @ @ @ displayed .
However , according to him , riot policemen took him to a minivan @ @ @ @ @ .
Despite all the necessary permits the journalist was taken to the central police precinct @ @ @ @ @ a holding cell .

MINSK, September 23. /TASS/. TASS correspondent Artyom Popov has been released after being detained by Belarusian law enforcement on Wednesday near Independence Palace in Minsk where the inauguration ceremony of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko was taking place. After three hours at the Minsk central police precinct he resumed contact and reported that the police officers apologized and delivered him by bus back to downtown Minsk.
When detained, the reporter had his official accreditation by the Belarusian Foreign Ministry visibly displayed. However, according to him, riot policemen took him to a minivan nearby to check his documents. Despite all the necessary permits the journalist was taken to the central police precinct where he was placed in a holding cell.


tass--2020-09-23--Deal with Yandex provides for preservation of Tinkoff brand — banker Tinkov

MOSCOW , September 23 .
/ TASS / .
Banker Oleg Tinkov told TASS on Wednesday that the deal with Yandex provides for the preservation of the Tinkoff brand and the entire bank team .
`` The deal is still under negotiation ...
It provides for the preservation of the Tinkoff brand and the complete preservation of the team with a minimum of integration with Yandex .
We see huge synergies in the merger with Yandex , while for clients everything will be the same and even better , like in the case of the Facebook-Instagram deal , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the current chairman of the board of TCS Group , Oliver Hughes , he will continue to develop the bank in Russia .
`` Oliver and I , and the whole team , remain in the company and will continue to build the coolest and largest private bank in the country , '' Tinkov said .
At the same time , banker Oleg Tinkov clarified that the possible deal with Yandex would more likely be a merger than a sale .
`` Now about `` selling the bank '' ...
I have not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being discussed .
And this is not a sale , but rather a merger , I respect Yandex immensely , we are the two best IT companies in the country and there may be a lot of synergies ! ''
Tinkov wrote .
The banker also added that he remains at Tinkoff Bank and will continue to be engaged in its activities .
`` I will definitely stay at Tinkoff Bank and will be engaged in its activities , nothing will change for clients , it will rather become even better , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was announced that Yandex had negotiated acquisition of Tinkoff Bank with TCS Group , the parent company of the bank .
The transaction amount will be $ 5.48 bln or $ 27.64 per bank share .
Yandex confirmed in its turn that the company is holding talks with TCS Group on possible acquisition of 100 % in Tinkoff Bank .
Final terms of the deal will depend on satisfactory completion of the due diligence and negotiation of final documents , the company added .
On April 2 , 2020 , Oleg Tinkov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Board of Directors of Tinkoff Bank due to health problems .
In March , the banker announced that he was diagnosed with an acute form of leukemia .

MOSCOW, September 23. / TASS /. Banker Oleg Tinkov told TASS on Wednesday that the deal with Yandex provides for the preservation of the Tinkoff brand and the entire bank team.
"The deal is still under negotiation ... It provides for the preservation of the Tinkoff brand and the complete preservation of the team with a minimum of integration with Yandex. We see huge synergies in the merger with Yandex, while for clients everything will be the same and even better, like in the case of the Facebook-Instagram deal," he said.
Tinkov added that together with the current chairman of the board of TCS Group, Oliver Hughes, he will continue to develop the bank in Russia. "Oliver and I, and the whole team, remain in the company and will continue to build the coolest and largest private bank in the country," Tinkov said.
At the same time, banker Oleg Tinkov clarified that the possible deal with Yandex would more likely be a merger than a sale. "Now about "selling the bank"...I have not sold anything yet, the deal is being discussed. And this is not a sale, but rather a merger, I respect Yandex immensely, we are the two best IT companies in the country and there may be a lot of synergies!" Tinkov wrote.
The banker also added that he remains at Tinkoff Bank and will continue to be engaged in its activities. "I will definitely stay at Tinkoff Bank and will be engaged in its activities, nothing will change for clients, it will rather become even better," he added.
On September 22, it was announced that Yandex had negotiated acquisition of Tinkoff Bank with TCS Group, the parent company of the bank. The transaction amount will be $5.48 bln or $27.64 per bank share. Yandex confirmed in its turn that the company is holding talks with TCS Group on possible acquisition of 100% in Tinkoff Bank. Final terms of the deal will depend on satisfactory completion of the due diligence and negotiation of final documents, the company added.
On April 2, 2020, Oleg Tinkov left the post of Chairman of the Board of Directors of Tinkoff Bank due to health problems. In March, the banker announced that he was diagnosed with an acute form of leukemia.


tass--2020-09-23--Kremlin says presidential inauguration is Belarus’ domestic affair

MOSCOW , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
The Kremlin believes that it is up to Belarus to set the date for the inauguration of its president , Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday .
`` I would refrain from commenting on it because it was the Belarusian authorities ’ sovereign decision , and if they made such a decision , it means they considered it to be reasonable , '' he said , when asked if it was a timely move on the part of Alexander Lukashenko to take the oath of office on September 23 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the inauguration ’ s date in advance .
In response to the question if Russian President Vladimir Putin had been invited to the ceremony , the Kremlin spokesman said that foreign leaders had not been expected to attend the Belarusian president ’ s inauguration .
Lukashenko took the oath of office earlier on Wednesday .
The inauguration ceremony was held at the Independence Palace in Minsk with no prior announcement .
Several hundred people , including state officials , lawmakers , heads of media outlets , scientists , cultural workers and athletes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its presidential election on August 9 .
According to the Central Election Commission ’ s data , incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko received 80.1 % of the vote .
Svetlana Tikhanovskaya , who garnered 10.12 % , refused to recognize the election ’ s results and left Belarus .
Protests erupted in the country 's capital of Minsk and several other cities following the presidential vote , leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement officers .
The opposition ’ s Coordination Council continues to urge the country ’ s people to carry on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called , while the authorities are emphasizing the need to put an end to unauthorized activities .

MOSCOW, September 23. /TASS/. The Kremlin believes that it is up to Belarus to set the date for the inauguration of its president, Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday.
"I would refrain from commenting on it because it was the Belarusian authorities’ sovereign decision, and if they made such a decision, it means they considered it to be reasonable," he said, when asked if it was a timely move on the part of Alexander Lukashenko to take the oath of office on September 23.
Peskov said that he had been unaware of the inauguration’s date in advance. In response to the question if Russian President Vladimir Putin had been invited to the ceremony, the Kremlin spokesman said that foreign leaders had not been expected to attend the Belarusian president’s inauguration.
Lukashenko took the oath of office earlier on Wednesday. The inauguration ceremony was held at the Independence Palace in Minsk with no prior announcement. Several hundred people, including state officials, lawmakers, heads of media outlets, scientists, cultural workers and athletes, attended the ceremony.
Belarus held its presidential election on August 9. According to the Central Election Commission’s data, incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko received 80.1% of the vote. Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who garnered 10.12%, refused to recognize the election’s results and left Belarus. Protests erupted in the country's capital of Minsk and several other cities following the presidential vote, leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement officers. The opposition’s Coordination Council continues to urge the country’s people to carry on with protests until a new election is called, while the authorities are emphasizing the need to put an end to unauthorized activities.


tass--2020-09-23--Press review: What Putin offered the world in UN speech and US itching to oust Maduro

Izvestia : Putin offers cooperation and COVID-19 vaccine to the world Russia is ready to provide UN staff with a free vaccine against COVID-19 , President Vladimir Putin said at the 75th session of the General Assembly .
He also offered to hold a virtual conference in the near future with the participation of states interested in cooperating to create drugs to fight coronavirus .
In addition , in his speech , Putin touched upon the problems of the militarization of outer space and the extension of New START .
Experts told Izvestia that Putin 's speech at the UN @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since the Russian leader did not look for those responsible for the coronavirus crisis and other world problems , but offered unity to counter threats .
The Russian head of state also reiterated the need to introduce the so-called green corridors , free from trade wars and sanctions .
According to him , unchaining world trade from barriers , prohibitions , restrictions , and illegitimate sanctions could help restore global growth and reduce unemployment .
At the same time , Russia intends to closely cooperate with other states and international structures in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Putin added that Russia also proposed striking a legally binding agreement that would ban weapons in space , as well as the use of force or the threat of force against space objects .
According to President of the American University in Moscow Edward Lozansky , New START will still be extended .
However , Russia and the United States need broad negotiations on many other issues , not just on weapons .
After all , many experts believe that now the world is slowly sleepwalking into a nuclear catastrophe , the political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vladimir Putin ’ s speech to Donald Trump ’ s speech or say some other leaders , it ’ s like night and day .
Trump threatens , promises to punish , and looks for those responsible .
We are trying to extend a hand of friendship and offer cooperation instead of confrontation . ''
First Deputy Chair of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs Vladimir Dzhabarov told Izvestia .
According to the senator , setting up such green corridors would play a key role during the coronavirus era , since sanctions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this new invisible enemy .
Negotiations between US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Latin American national leaders on battling the regime of Nicolas Maduro , as well as personal sanctions against the Venezuelan leader represent yet another attempt to interfere in Venezuela 's internal affairs before its elections , foreign experts told Izvestia .
However , according to analysts , Washington will not be able to remove Maduro easily , because people do not trust the fragile Venezuelan opposition .
At the same time , the idea of a `` military coup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Maduro ’ s domestic opponents , if implemented , would result in devastating consequences for the entire region .
Spanish international analyst Jose Antonio Egido told Izvestia he believes that Trump and Pompeo do not want the legislative elections in Venezuela to take place , because they understand that their plan to install Guaido has failed .
So now they are cooking up new schemes to meddle in Venezuela 's affairs from outside the country , he added .
Pompeo 's trip puts pressure on the situation in Venezuela , Ronal Rodriguez @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Venezuelan Observatory , a think-tank at the University of Rosario in Colombia , told Izvestia .
According to the expert , such sentiments were observed last year , but in the face of COVID-19 , a military coup is unlikely to solve the problem .
Many Latin American countries , including Peru and Brazil , are opposed to US intervention , since it would plunge the entire region into chaos , Rodriguez noted .
In his opinion , as long as the opposition supports international sanctions , the population will hold on to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still clinging to the idea of sanctions against individual officials and organizations in Belarus , as well as pushing the authorities into dialogue with the public .
Political commentators in Minsk told Nezavisimaya Gazeta , they are skeptical about the success of such steps .
They are convinced that Alexander Lukashenko will never accept a single idea that would threaten him with the loss of power , even if it comes from Russia .
Experts in Minsk believe that the Belarusian president has already dropped the idea of the western vector of foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now consists of only relations with Russia , '' political scientist Valery Karbalevich told Nezavisimaya Gazeta .
`` Belarus ’ ‘ foreign policy is now subordinate only to the mission of keeping Lukashenko 's power .
For this , they are ready to nullify many years of work that has been done in order to establish Belarus as a kind of peacekeeping center , a donor of regional security , and so on , '' Karbalevich added .
For Lukashenko , severing relations with the West is not something that would shake his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same time , conflicts between Lukashenko and Moscow can not be ruled out if Russia insists on removing the incumbent Belarusian leader from power .
`` There has been a contradiction between the Kremlin ’ s demand for constitutional reform and somehow smoothly leaving power , and the fact that Lukashenko doesn ’ t want to give up power , '' political observer Alexander Klaskovsky told the newspaper .
`` It is likely that Lukashenko made some promises to Putin in Sochi , but when he arrived in Minsk , he announced that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Constitution , that is , in five years , '' the expert recalled .
He also did not rule out that Lukashenko could increase the presidential term , and then new elections would take place in nine years .
However , Klaskovsky believes that this gamble would not suit Moscow .
Yandex tentatively agreed to purchase the TCS Group - the head structure of Tinkoff Bank - for about $ 5.48 bln ( around 417 bln rubles ) .
Investors from both companies reacted positively to the news , and experts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powerful ecosystem , an alternative to the project of Yandex 's former partner in the digital services market - Sberbank with the Mail.ru Group .
According to Kommersant , the risks lie in the integration of new assets , which might require retaining the bank 's management team .
Until recently , Yandex had been cultivating a joint business with Sberbank .
However , in June , the parties officially announced the division of assets .
At the same time , Sberbank is actively developing its service system with Yandex ’ s competitors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After the nixed Sberbank deal , the purchase of TCS looks like a logical step , Managing Director of the NKR Rating Agency Stanislav Volkov told Kommersant .
`` The deal is within the global trend of creating ecosystems that can offer clients a huge range of services in a wide variety of areas .
At the same time , the issue of the quality of integration comes to the fore , '' he said .
The deal will combine all sorts of user data and offer the most relevant services , Maria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Markets , told the newspaper .
From the point of view of Tinkoff Bank 's business , the change of ownership may enable a further increase in the client base , including through potential partnership projects with Yandex , claims Maria Malyukova , Moody 's junior vice president .
At the same time , a surge in Tinkoff Bank ’ s client base after the deal with Yandex should not be expected , since the credit institution already has a developed mechanism for attracting retail customers and a brand recognizable in all regions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kommersant .
Kommersant : Price tag on digital services in Russia may rise after pandemic Russian telecom operators can earn more from communication and digital services , according to a study by the Kearney consulting company .
Currently , Russians pay half as much as even East European consumers for such services .
The price of entertainment content in Russia may rise from the current 6 euro , to almost 9 euro per month , Kommersant wrote .
After the pandemic , Russians ' spending on communications and online services as a whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ music streaming market in Russia is less developed than in Europe , and the potential for its growth in price is estimated at 13 % .
Audiobook services , news subscriptions , and eSports have similar potential , and spending of Russians on online education could grow by 20 % , analysts believe .
The comparatively low level of prices for communication in Russia has been confirmed by other studies .
According to Content Review , Russia ranked sixth among countries with the cheapest mobile Internet , ahead of Egypt and Turkey .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Eastern Europe for ten years , and the domestic market is in no hurry to narrow this gap , telecom operator Tele2 told the newspaper .
`` However , it is too early to write off traditional communication services .
The pandemic has sparked an increase in demand for voice communications , which users used to compensate for the lack of live communication , '' Tele2 said .
Prices for traditional communication services has been stagnating for five years , and operators are looking for new business areas - from mobile TV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Denis Chernookiy told Kommersant .
He does not expect an increase in prices for communication services amid the crisis , noting that prices for new services are already set with a margin .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews

Izvestia: Putin offers cooperation and COVID-19 vaccine to the world Russia is ready to provide UN staff with a free vaccine against COVID-19, President Vladimir Putin said at the 75th session of the General Assembly. He also offered to hold a virtual conference in the near future with the participation of states interested in cooperating to create drugs to fight coronavirus. In addition, in his speech, Putin touched upon the problems of the militarization of outer space and the extension of New START. Experts told Izvestia that Putin's speech at the UN General Assembly was different from others, since the Russian leader did not look for those responsible for the coronavirus crisis and other world problems, but offered unity to counter threats.
Read also Putin calls for strengthening WHO, removing obstacles for partnership in healthcare sector
The Russian head of state also reiterated the need to introduce the so-called green corridors, free from trade wars and sanctions. According to him, unchaining world trade from barriers, prohibitions, restrictions, and illegitimate sanctions could help restore global growth and reduce unemployment. At the same time, Russia intends to closely cooperate with other states and international structures in the fight against Covid-19, Putin noted. Putin added that Russia also proposed striking a legally binding agreement that would ban weapons in space, as well as the use of force or the threat of force against space objects. According to President of the American University in Moscow Edward Lozansky, New START will still be extended. However, Russia and the United States need broad negotiations on many other issues, not just on weapons. After all, many experts believe that now the world is slowly sleepwalking into a nuclear catastrophe, the political scientist emphasized. "If you compare Vladimir Putin’s speech to Donald Trump’s speech or say some other leaders, it’s like night and day. Trump threatens, promises to punish, and looks for those responsible. We are trying to extend a hand of friendship and offer cooperation instead of confrontation." First Deputy Chair of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs Vladimir Dzhabarov told Izvestia. According to the senator, setting up such green corridors would play a key role during the coronavirus era, since sanctions often prevent individual states from effectively fighting this new invisible enemy. Izvestia: Washington aims to undermine Venezuelan elections Negotiations between US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Latin American national leaders on battling the regime of Nicolas Maduro, as well as personal sanctions against the Venezuelan leader represent yet another attempt to interfere in Venezuela's internal affairs before its elections, foreign experts told Izvestia. However, according to analysts, Washington will not be able to remove Maduro easily, because people do not trust the fragile Venezuelan opposition. At the same time, the idea of a "military coup" put forward by the United States and Maduro’s domestic opponents, if implemented, would result in devastating consequences for the entire region. Spanish international analyst Jose Antonio Egido told Izvestia he believes that Trump and Pompeo do not want the legislative elections in Venezuela to take place, because they understand that their plan to install Guaido has failed. So now they are cooking up new schemes to meddle in Venezuela's affairs from outside the country, he added. Pompeo's trip puts pressure on the situation in Venezuela, Ronal Rodriguez, a professor and researcher at the Venezuelan Observatory, a think-tank at the University of Rosario in Colombia, told Izvestia. According to the expert, such sentiments were observed last year, but in the face of COVID-19, a military coup is unlikely to solve the problem. Many Latin American countries, including Peru and Brazil, are opposed to US intervention, since it would plunge the entire region into chaos, Rodriguez noted. In his opinion, as long as the opposition supports international sanctions, the population will hold on to Nicolas Maduro. Izvestia: Lukashenko drops multi-vector foreign policy in favor of Russia The European Union is still clinging to the idea of sanctions against individual officials and organizations in Belarus, as well as pushing the authorities into dialogue with the public. Political commentators in Minsk told Nezavisimaya Gazeta, they are skeptical about the success of such steps. They are convinced that Alexander Lukashenko will never accept a single idea that would threaten him with the loss of power, even if it comes from Russia.
Read also Lukashenko says foreign strategists tried to split Belarusian elite
Experts in Minsk believe that the Belarusian president has already dropped the idea of the western vector of foreign policy. "Belarus’ foreign policy now consists of only relations with Russia," political scientist Valery Karbalevich told Nezavisimaya Gazeta. "Belarus’ ‘foreign policy is now subordinate only to the mission of keeping Lukashenko's power. For this, they are ready to nullify many years of work that has been done in order to establish Belarus as a kind of peacekeeping center, a donor of regional security, and so on," Karbalevich added. For Lukashenko, severing relations with the West is not something that would shake his confidence, analysts believe. At the same time, conflicts between Lukashenko and Moscow cannot be ruled out if Russia insists on removing the incumbent Belarusian leader from power. "There has been a contradiction between the Kremlin’s demand for constitutional reform and somehow smoothly leaving power, and the fact that Lukashenko doesn’t want to give up power," political observer Alexander Klaskovsky told the newspaper. "It is likely that Lukashenko made some promises to Putin in Sochi, but when he arrived in Minsk, he announced that the next elections would be held according to the Constitution, that is, in five years," the expert recalled. He also did not rule out that Lukashenko could increase the presidential term, and then new elections would take place in nine years. However, Klaskovsky believes that this gamble would not suit Moscow. Kommersant: Russia’s IT giant Yandex buys out major banking group Yandex tentatively agreed to purchase the TCS Group - the head structure of Tinkoff Bank - for about $5.48 bln (around 417 bln rubles). Investors from both companies reacted positively to the news, and experts believe that the deal could create a powerful ecosystem, an alternative to the project of Yandex's former partner in the digital services market - Sberbank with the Mail.ru Group. According to Kommersant, the risks lie in the integration of new assets, which might require retaining the bank's management team. Until recently, Yandex had been cultivating a joint business with Sberbank. However, in June, the parties officially announced the division of assets. At the same time, Sberbank is actively developing its service system with Yandex’s competitors - Rambler Group and Mail.ru Group.
Read also Yandex negotiated Tinkoff Bank acquisition with TCS Group for $5.48 bln


tass--2020-09-23--Flamethrower teams destroy 50 armored targets during Kavkaz-2020 exercise

PRUDBOI PROVING GROUND /Volgograd Region/ , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
Flamethrower teams have destroyed 50 armored targets with single shots and salvoes during the command and staff exercise Kavkaz-2020 , the Defense Ministry told the media on Wednesday .
Bal system copes with task of sinking enemy ship in Caspian Sea during Kavkaz exercise Under the scenario , military drones spotted a hypothetical enemy ’ s reserves on the way to command posts .
`` Flamethrower teams armed with infantry flamethrowers RPO-A Shmel destroyed about 50 light armored vehicles and the hypothetical enemy ’ s manpower at long-term fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The flamethrower teams fired single shots at individual fire emplacements and salvoes at advancing hypothetical enemy forces and armored vehicles providing support .
The Kavkaz-2020 exercise is being held on September 21-September 26 in the Southern Military District and the Black and Caspian seas under the command of the chief of Russia ’ s General Staff , Valery Gerasimov .
All in all , about 80,000 servicemen , Emergencies Ministry and national guard Rosgvardiya personnel and up to 1,000 troops from Armenia , Belarus , Iran , China , Myanmar and Pakistan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the restrictions of the 2011 Vienna document on confidence-building measures will involve no more than 12,900 troops .

PRUDBOI PROVING GROUND /Volgograd Region/, September 23. /TASS/. Flamethrower teams have destroyed 50 armored targets with single shots and salvoes during the command and staff exercise Kavkaz-2020, the Defense Ministry told the media on Wednesday.
Bal system copes with task of sinking enemy ship in Caspian Sea during Kavkaz exercise
Under the scenario, military drones spotted a hypothetical enemy’s reserves on the way to command posts.
"Flamethrower teams armed with infantry flamethrowers RPO-A Shmel destroyed about 50 light armored vehicles and the hypothetical enemy’s manpower at long-term fire emplacements," the Defense Ministry said.
The flamethrower teams fired single shots at individual fire emplacements and salvoes at advancing hypothetical enemy forces and armored vehicles providing support.
The Kavkaz-2020 exercise is being held on September 21-September 26 in the Southern Military District and the Black and Caspian seas under the command of the chief of Russia’s General Staff, Valery Gerasimov. All in all, about 80,000 servicemen, Emergencies Ministry and national guard Rosgvardiya personnel and up to 1,000 troops from Armenia, Belarus, Iran, China, Myanmar and Pakistan are taking part. The drills falling under the restrictions of the 2011 Vienna document on confidence-building measures will involve no more than 12,900 troops.


tass--2020-09-23--Bal system copes with task of sinking enemy ship in Caspian Sea during Kavkaz exercise

MOSCOW , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
A battalion of the coastal missile systems Bal has coped with the virtual task of destroying a hypothetical enemy ’ s ship in the Caspian Sea during the command and staff exercise Kavkaz-2020 , the Defense Ministry told the media on Wednesday .
The system was deployed on the Caspian Sea coast in Dagestan .
The small missile ship The Uglich performed the role of an enemy naval vessel .
`` The missile systems ' crews spotted and identified a surface target , locked on to it and carried out computer-simulated missile launches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Also , the personnel practiced prompt redeployment and evasive maneuvers to dodge enemy attacks .
The Kavkaz-2020 exercise is being held on September 21-September 26 in the Southern Military District and the Black and Caspian seas under the command of the chief of Russia ’ s General Staff Valery Gerasimov .
All in all , about 80,000 servicemen , Emergencies Ministry and national guard Rosgvardiya personnel and up to 1,000 troops from Armenia , Belarus , Iran , China , Myanmar and Pakistan are taking part .
The drills falling under the restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures will involve no more than 12,900 troops .

MOSCOW, September 23. /TASS/. A battalion of the coastal missile systems Bal has coped with the virtual task of destroying a hypothetical enemy’s ship in the Caspian Sea during the command and staff exercise Kavkaz-2020, the Defense Ministry told the media on Wednesday.
The system was deployed on the Caspian Sea coast in Dagestan. The small missile ship The Uglich performed the role of an enemy naval vessel.
"The missile systems' crews spotted and identified a surface target, locked on to it and carried out computer-simulated missile launches," the Defense Ministry said.
Also, the personnel practiced prompt redeployment and evasive maneuvers to dodge enemy attacks.
The Kavkaz-2020 exercise is being held on September 21-September 26 in the Southern Military District and the Black and Caspian seas under the command of the chief of Russia’s General Staff Valery Gerasimov. All in all, about 80,000 servicemen, Emergencies Ministry and national guard Rosgvardiya personnel and up to 1,000 troops from Armenia, Belarus, Iran, China, Myanmar and Pakistan are taking part. The drills falling under the restrictions of the 2011 Vienna document on confidence-building measures will involve no more than 12,900 troops.


tass--2020-09-23--Police uncover weapons, cash and jewels in raid on Siberian religious sect

MOSCOW , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
Police found weapons , cash and jewelry during a raid conducted on the premises of a religious sect , the Church of the Last Testament , also known as Vissarion ’ s community , in Siberia ’ s Krasnoyarsk Region , a law enforcement source told TASS .
According to the interlocutor , the officers seized a Saiga semi-automatic rifle and handguns .
`` Some weapons were registered .
We are verifying if the rest of the arms were registered as well , '' the source said .
`` During the search , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rubles ( $ 39,300 ) , expensive alcohol , weapons , knives and presents in the form of expensive watches , pens and golden jewelry , including crowns , were found , '' the source said .
On September 22 , law enforcement agencies detained three ringleaders of a religious sect known as the Church of the Last Testament : Sergei Torop ( Vissarion ) , Vladimir Vedernikov and Vadim Redkin .
According to the Investigative Committee , these three have headed the cult since its creation in 1991 .
They are facing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whose activities involve violence against citizens and causing harm to their health and welfare .
The cult leaders are accused of profiteering from their religious activity by siphoning money from their adherents .
They also allegedly used psychological violence , inflicting serious long-term damage to their followers .
The Church of the Last Testament was set up in 1991 by Sergei Torop , who dubbed himself Vissarion , a self-proclaimed messiah .
In 1995 , his followers founded a settlement in the Kuraginsky District called Sun City .
Other cult adherents live in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the south of the Krasnoyarsk Region .

MOSCOW, September 23. /TASS/. Police found weapons, cash and jewelry during a raid conducted on the premises of a religious sect, the Church of the Last Testament, also known as Vissarion’s community, in Siberia’s Krasnoyarsk Region, a law enforcement source told TASS.
According to the interlocutor, the officers seized a Saiga semi-automatic rifle and handguns. "Some weapons were registered. We are verifying if the rest of the arms were registered as well," the source said.
"During the search, cash to the tune of 3 mln rubles ($39,300), expensive alcohol, weapons, knives and presents in the form of expensive watches, pens and golden jewelry, including crowns, were found," the source said.
On September 22, law enforcement agencies detained three ringleaders of a religious sect known as the Church of the Last Testament: Sergei Torop (Vissarion), Vladimir Vedernikov and Vadim Redkin. According to the Investigative Committee, these three have headed the cult since its creation in 1991. They are facing charges of establishing an illegal religious organization whose activities involve violence against citizens and causing harm to their health and welfare.
The cult leaders are accused of profiteering from their religious activity by siphoning money from their adherents. They also allegedly used psychological violence, inflicting serious long-term damage to their followers.
The Church of the Last Testament was set up in 1991 by Sergei Torop, who dubbed himself Vissarion, a self-proclaimed messiah. In 1995, his followers founded a settlement in the Kuraginsky District called Sun City. Other cult adherents live in settlements of the Kuraginsky and Karatuzsky districts in the south of the Krasnoyarsk Region.


tass--2020-09-23--Lukashenko sworn in as Belarusian president

The inauguration ceremony , attended by several hundred people , is taking place at Independence Palace .
Lukashenko took the oath of office in the Belarusian language , putting his hand on the Constitution , and signed the certificate of the inauguration .
Later , Election Commission Chairperson Lidiya Ermoshina gave him the presidential certificate .
`` Assuming the office of the President of the Republic of Belarus , I solemnly swear to faithfully serve the people of the Republic of Belarus , to respect and protect the rights and freedoms of man and of the citizen , to observe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Belarus , and to fulfill strictly and conscientiously the lofty duties that have been bestowed upon me , '' Lukashenko said , according to BelTA .
The ceremony was attended by senior officials , members of the parliament and heads of government bodies , local executive bodies , the national media , scientists , figures of culture and sports .
Belarus held the presidential election on August 9 .
According to the Central Election Commission ’ s official results , incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide , garnering 80.10 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the race , Svetlana Tikhanovskaya , came in second , with 10.12 % of the ballot .
However , she refused to recognize the election ’ s outcome , and left Belarus for Lithuania .
After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9 , mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities .
During the early post-election period , the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police .
The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition ’ s Coordination Council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for more protests .
In response , the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped .

The inauguration ceremony, attended by several hundred people, is taking place at Independence Palace. Lukashenko took the oath of office in the Belarusian language, putting his hand on the Constitution, and signed the certificate of the inauguration.
Later, Election Commission Chairperson Lidiya Ermoshina gave him the presidential certificate.
"Assuming the office of the President of the Republic of Belarus, I solemnly swear to faithfully serve the people of the Republic of Belarus, to respect and protect the rights and freedoms of man and of the citizen, to observe and protect the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus, and to fulfill strictly and conscientiously the lofty duties that have been bestowed upon me," Lukashenko said, according to BelTA.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials, members of the parliament and heads of government bodies, local executive bodies, the national media, scientists, figures of culture and sports.
Belarus held the presidential election on August 9. According to the Central Election Commission’s official results, incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won by a landslide, garnering 80.10% of the vote. His closest rival in the race, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, came in second, with 10.12% of the ballot. However, she refused to recognize the election’s outcome, and left Belarus for Lithuania. After the results of the exit polls were announced late on August 9, mass protests erupted in downtown Minsk and other Belarusian cities. During the early post-election period, the rallies snowballed into fierce clashes between the protesters and police. The current unrest is being cheered on by the opposition’s Coordination Council, which has been beating the drum for more protests. In response, the Belarusian authorities have castigated the ongoing turmoil and demanded that these unauthorized demonstrations be stopped.


tass--2020-09-23--Navalny discharged from Charite hospital

`` Alexei Navalny , who had been receiving treatment at Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin since August 22 , 2020 , was yesterday discharged from inpatient care , '' the statement reads .
`` The patient ’ s condition had improved sufficiently for him to be discharged from acute inpatient care .
Alexei Navalny had been receiving treatment at Charite for a total of 32 days , of which 24 days were spent in intensive care , '' the hospital said .
`` Based on the patient ’ s progress and current condition , the treating physicians believe that complete recovery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too early to gauge the potential long-term effects of his severe poisoning , '' the statement adds .
Navalny was rushed to a local hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk on August 20 after collapsing on a Moscow-bound flight from Tomsk .
He fell into a coma and was put on a ventilator in an intensive care unit .
On August 22 , he was airlifted to Berlin and admitted to the Charite hospital .
On September 2 , Berlin claimed that having examined Navalny ’ s test samples , German government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the blogger had been affected by a toxic agent belonging to the Novichok family .
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia was ready for comprehensive cooperation with Germany .
He pointed out that no poisonous substances had been detected in Navalny ’ s system prior to his transfer to Berlin .
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the German Foreign Office had not provided the Russian ambassador with any proof of its version of the incident .

"Alexei Navalny, who had been receiving treatment at Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin since August 22, 2020, was yesterday discharged from inpatient care," the statement reads.
"The patient’s condition had improved sufficiently for him to be discharged from acute inpatient care. Alexei Navalny had been receiving treatment at Charite for a total of 32 days, of which 24 days were spent in intensive care," the hospital said. "Based on the patient’s progress and current condition, the treating physicians believe that complete recovery is possible. However, it remains too early to gauge the potential long-term effects of his severe poisoning," the statement adds.
Navalny case
Navalny was rushed to a local hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk on August 20 after collapsing on a Moscow-bound flight from Tomsk. He fell into a coma and was put on a ventilator in an intensive care unit. On August 22, he was airlifted to Berlin and admitted to the Charite hospital.
On September 2, Berlin claimed that having examined Navalny’s test samples, German government toxicologists had come to the conclusion that the blogger had been affected by a toxic agent belonging to the Novichok family.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia was ready for comprehensive cooperation with Germany. He pointed out that no poisonous substances had been detected in Navalny’s system prior to his transfer to Berlin. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the German Foreign Office had not provided the Russian ambassador with any proof of its version of the incident.


tass--2020-09-23--Russia records over 6,400 new coronavirus cases

MOSCOW , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s confirmed coronavirus cases grew by 6,431 in the past day @ @ @ @ @ July 13 , the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Wednesday .
Nearly 218,000 remain @ @ @ @ @ Russia According to the crisis center , in the past five days the daily growth @ @ @ @ @ % .
Russia has registered a total of 1,122,241 coronavirus cases .
The lowest growth @ @ @ @ @ Chechen Republic ( 0.2 % ) , in Moscow , the Smolensk Region , the @ @ @ @ @ the Chuvash Republic ( 0.3 % ) , the Pskov , Irkutsk , Bryansk , @ @ @ @ @ the Republic of Bashkortostan ( 0.4 % ) .
Some 970 new coronavirus cases were @ @ @ @ @ in St. Petersburg , 183 in the Rostov Region , 152 in the Voronezh Region @ @ @ @ @ Novgorod Region .
Currently , some 178,743 people are undergoing treatment for the coronavirus in @ @

MOSCOW, September 23. /TASS/. Russia’s confirmed coronavirus cases grew by 6,431 in the past day, a record high since July 13, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Wednesday.
Nearly 218,000 remain under supervision over coronavirus in Russia
According to the crisis center, in the past five days the daily growth rate did not exceed 0.6%. Russia has registered a total of 1,122,241 coronavirus cases.
The lowest growth rates were recorded in the Chechen Republic (0.2%), in Moscow, the Smolensk Region, the Tula Region, Tatarstan, the Chuvash Republic (0.3%), the Pskov, Irkutsk, Bryansk, Sverdlovsk, Vladimir Regions and the Republic of Bashkortostan (0.4%).
Some 970 new coronavirus cases were recorded in Moscow, 208 in St. Petersburg, 183 in the Rostov Region, 152 in the Voronezh Region and 147 in the Nizhny Novgorod Region.
Currently, some 178,743 people are undergoing treatment for the coronavirus in Russia.


tass--2020-09-23--Six convicts escape from penitentiary in Dagestan

MAKHACHKALA , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
Six convicts have escaped from a penal colony in the Dagestani Shamkhal settlement @ @ @ @ @ republic ’ s security forces told TASS .
`` The law enforcement is undertaking measures @ @ @ @ @ escaped on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning from a penitentiary in the Shamkhal settlement .
@ @ @ @ @ which they used to escape , '' he said , adding that one Tajikistani native @ @ @ @ @ the rest were Dagestani natives .
`` Four out of six had lengthy sentences for @ @ @ @ @ for murder , '' the source specified .
As TASS was told by the press @ @ @ @ @ Ministry , all points bulletins on the fugitives have been distributed to all regional police @ @ @ @ @ for the escapees is underway .
`` Currently the apprehension of the escapees is the @ @ @ @ @ Ministry , '' the press service representative noted .

MAKHACHKALA, September 23. /TASS/. Six convicts have escaped from a penal colony in the Dagestani Shamkhal settlement, a source in the republic’s security forces told TASS.
"The law enforcement is undertaking measures to intercept six convicts who escaped on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning from a penitentiary in the Shamkhal settlement. They dug an underground tunnel which they used to escape," he said, adding that one Tajikistani native was among them, while the rest were Dagestani natives.
"Four out of six had lengthy sentences for drug offences, two - for murder," the source specified.
As TASS was told by the press service of the regional Interior Ministry, all points bulletins on the fugitives have been distributed to all regional police precincts, the full search for the escapees is underway. "Currently the apprehension of the escapees is the priority task of the Interior Ministry," the press service representative noted.


tass--2020-09-23--Unparalleled personalized service: Hilton's luxury resorts in the Maldives invite

MALE , Maldives , Sept. 23 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ From unparalleled personalized service to distinctive experiences : Hilton 's luxury resorts in the Maldives invite travelers to experience renowned levels of hospitality .
Nestled in unique atolls surrounded by azure blue waters , powdery white sand and an incredible diversity of marine life , Hilton 's luxury resorts Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island are ready invite travelers to experience renowned levels of hospitality. Beyond the unsurpassed levels of Hilton hospitality that discerning guests to the two Maldivian resorts would have come to expect , guests can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ implemented industry-leading standards of cleanliness and disinfection of the proprietary Hilton CleanStay program , while adhering to Maldivian health and safety guidelines .
`` As a company which has delivered over a hundred years of hospitality , the wellbeing and safety of our guests and team members have always been our number one priority .
In looking at how we can meet the evolving needs and preferences of our guests at the same time it is heartening to see the amount of effort our team members are putting in to ensure they are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete assurance and peace of mind .
Regardless of whether they choose to stay at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi or Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , I have every confidence our guests will create amazing new memories as they enjoy the level of Hilton hospitality that they have come to expect , '' said Paul Hutton , Vice President , Operations , Hilton , South East Asia .
From arrival to check in and throughout their stay , guests can experience an elevated standard of cleanliness and sanitization which builds upon Hilton 's high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital-grade cleaning products and upgraded protocols were already in place .
`` As the first international hotel company to enter the Maldives more than two decades ago , we are committed to creating the most unforgettable and inspiring experiences for our guests in this sought-after destination and we are absolutely thrilled to once more be welcoming guests back to our resorts , '' said Nils-Arne Schroeder , Vice President , Luxury and Lifestyle , Asia Pacific .
`` Our passionate team members are dedicated to continue to deliver unparalleled , bespoke service to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guests and provide a safe and secure environment during this unique time , '' Schroeder added .
Having recently celebrated its first year since opening , the iconic Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers guests a sense of elevated luxury in an exclusive tropical enclave , a plethora of activities for guests of all generations and a personal concierge service giving guests the freedom to create memories that last a lifetime .
The 119 all-villa resort , which was also recently awarded two notable titles in the coveted annual Travel + Leisure World 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a world of visionary design where elite travelers with a discerning eye will appreciate exquisite architecture and design that blends perfectly into the landscape .
Designed to meet local environmental requirements and needs , every aspect of the resort has been guided by the natural setting and local architectural style , with a luxury edge .
Upon arrival , guests are greeted by a breath-taking view of villas nestled within the sparkling Maldivian landscape , inspired by the island 's beauty , natural resources and local culture .
In line with the Waldorf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ innovation and excellence , the resort has been designed to appeal to luxury leisure seekers with a refined palate and an appreciation for international cuisine , featuring 10 specialty dining venues serving the freshest produce in extraordinary settings -- the diversity of which is a first for the Maldives .
No matter their preference , guests can select from venues ranging from inspired tree-top dining and private wine cellars set in a cave to organic farmhouses and an authentic Chinese restaurant .
Special occasions can also be celebrated at spectacular venues including the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfort of their villas .
Reopening to guests from 28 September 2020 , Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is recognized for its stunning white-sand beaches and an amazing underwater world .
A short seaplane ride away from Male international airport , the beautiful resort is situated in the midst of the Maldives ' best diving and snorkeling spots .
Guests planning a quiet getaway can enjoy an authentic Maldivian hideaway on Rangali Island while enjoying access to the facilities of the larger and livelier Rangali-Finolhu Island , which are linked by a 500-meter bridge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guests can make their way to The Spa Retreat , an over-water destination spa , set 100-meter off of the tip of the main island .
The inspirational island oasis nestled in the South Ari Atoll features 151 purposefully designed villas and suites , a true gourmet 's delight with a choice of 12 award-winning restaurants and bars , two spas and a selection of culturally inspired experiences and activities set against the awe-inspiring Maldivian surrounding .
The latest architectural marvel introduced by Conrad Maldives is the world 's first undersea residence , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ residence with a master bedroom submerged over 16 feet below sea level .
`` MURAKA , '' translated to mean `` coral '' in Dhivehi , epitomizes how the residence lives and thrives among the natural landscape of the Indian Ocean .
For more information on Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi , visit www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com .
For more information on Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , visit www.conradmaldives.com .
Hilton ( NYSE : HLT ) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,200 properties with more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ territories .
Dedicated to fulfilling its mission to be the world 's most hospitable company , Hilton welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its 100-year history , earned a top spot on the 2019 World 's Best Workplaces list , and was named the 2019 Global Industry Leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices .
In 2020 , Hilton CleanStay was introduced , bringing an industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection to hotels worldwide .
Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors , the 108 million members who book directly with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and experiences money ca n't buy , plus enjoy instant benefits , including digital check-in with room selection , Digital Key , and Connected Room .
Visit for more information , and connect with Hilton on , , , and .
Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is a portfolio of 32 iconic properties that creates a unique sense of place with a relentless commitment to personal service and culinary expertise in landmark locations around the world .
Unified by their inspirational environments and True Waldorf Service , Waldorf Astoria hotels deliver graceful service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ checkout .
In addition to the brand 's renowned hotel offerings , Waldorf Astoria boasts a best-in-class residential portfolio , including 18 properties either open or in development , that provide the comfort of a private home combined with the unsurpassed amenities and legendary service of Waldorf Astoria .
Waldorf Astoria is a part of Hilton , a leading global hospitality company .
Experience Waldorf Astoria by booking at www.waldorfastoria.com or through the Hilton Honors mobile app .
Learn about the brand by visiting newsroom.hilton.com/waldorfastoria , and follow Waldorf Astoria on Twitter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continents with nearly 40 properties , Conrad Hotels & Resorts has created a seamless connection between contemporary design , leading innovation and curated art to inspire the entrepreneurial spirit of the globally connected traveler .
Conrad is a place where guests can experience service and style on their own terms – all while connecting with local and global culture .
Connect with Conrad by booking at www.conradhotels.com or through the .
Learn more about the brand by visiting newsroom.hilton.com/conradhotels , and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .

MALE, Maldives, Sept. 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ From unparalleled personalized service to distinctive experiences: Hilton's luxury resorts in the Maldives invite travelers to experience renowned levels of hospitality. Nestled in unique atolls surrounded by azure blue waters, powdery white sand and an incredible diversity of marine life, Hilton's luxury resorts Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island are ready invite travelers to experience renowned levels of hospitality.
Beyond the unsurpassed levels of Hilton hospitality that discerning guests to the two Maldivian resorts would have come to expect, guests can also stay assured that the resorts have implemented industry-leading standards of cleanliness and disinfection of the proprietary Hilton CleanStay program, while adhering to Maldivian health and safety guidelines.
"As a company which has delivered over a hundred years of hospitality, the wellbeing and safety of our guests and team members have always been our number one priority. In looking at how we can meet the evolving needs and preferences of our guests at the same time it is heartening to see the amount of effort our team members are putting in to ensure they are absolutely ready to provide their guests with complete assurance and peace of mind. Regardless of whether they choose to stay at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi or Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, I have every confidence our guests will create amazing new memories as they enjoy the level of Hilton hospitality that they have come to expect," said Paul Hutton, Vice President, Operations, Hilton, South East Asia.
From arrival to check in and throughout their stay, guests can experience an elevated standard of cleanliness and sanitization which builds upon Hilton's high standards of housekeeping and hygiene, where hospital-grade cleaning products and upgraded protocols were already in place.
"As the first international hotel company to enter the Maldives more than two decades ago, we are committed to creating the most unforgettable and inspiring experiences for our guests in this sought-after destination and we are absolutely thrilled to once more be welcoming guests back to our resorts," said Nils-Arne Schroeder, Vice President, Luxury and Lifestyle, Asia Pacific.
"Our passionate team members are dedicated to continue to deliver unparalleled, bespoke service to meet the needs and preferences of our guests and provide a safe and secure environment during this unique time," Schroeder added.
Having recently celebrated its first year since opening, the iconic Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers guests a sense of elevated luxury in an exclusive tropical enclave, a plethora of activities for guests of all generations and a personal concierge service giving guests the freedom to create memories that last a lifetime.
The 119 all-villa resort, which was also recently awarded two notable titles in the coveted annual Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards list, welcomes guests to a world of visionary design where elite travelers with a discerning eye will appreciate exquisite architecture and design that blends perfectly into the landscape. Designed to meet local environmental requirements and needs, every aspect of the resort has been guided by the natural setting and local architectural style, with a luxury edge. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a breath-taking view of villas nestled within the sparkling Maldivian landscape, inspired by the island's beauty, natural resources and local culture.
In line with the Waldorf Astoria brand's rich legacy of culinary innovation and excellence, the resort has been designed to appeal to luxury leisure seekers with a refined palate and an appreciation for international cuisine, featuring 10 specialty dining venues serving the freshest produce in extraordinary settings -- the diversity of which is a first for the Maldives. No matter their preference, guests can select from venues ranging from inspired tree-top dining and private wine cellars set in a cave to organic farmhouses and an authentic Chinese restaurant. Special occasions can also be celebrated at spectacular venues including the resort's private sandbank or within the comfort of their villas.
Reopening to guests from 28 September 2020, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is recognized for its stunning white-sand beaches and an amazing underwater world. A short seaplane ride away from Male international airport, the beautiful resort is situated in the midst of the Maldives' best diving and snorkeling spots.
Guests planning a quiet getaway can enjoy an authentic Maldivian hideaway on Rangali Island while enjoying access to the facilities of the larger and livelier Rangali-Finolhu Island, which are linked by a 500-meter bridge. For a true wellness experience, guests can make their way to The Spa Retreat, an over-water destination spa, set 100-meter off of the tip of the main island.
The inspirational island oasis nestled in the South Ari Atoll features 151 purposefully designed villas and suites, a true gourmet's delight with a choice of 12 award-winning restaurants and bars, two spas and a selection of culturally inspired experiences and activities set against the awe-inspiring Maldivian surrounding.
The latest architectural marvel introduced by Conrad Maldives is the world's first undersea residence, The MURAKA: a first-of-its-kind, two-level residence with a master bedroom submerged over 16 feet below sea level. "MURAKA," translated to mean "coral" in Dhivehi, epitomizes how the residence lives and thrives among the natural landscape of the Indian Ocean.
For more information on Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, visit www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com.
For more information on Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, visit www.conradmaldives.com.
About Hilton
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,200 properties with more than 983,000 rooms, in 118 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its mission to be the world's most hospitable company, Hilton welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its 100-year history, earned a top spot on the 2019 World's Best Workplaces list, and was named the 2019 Global Industry Leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. In 2020, Hilton CleanStay was introduced, bringing an industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection to hotels worldwide. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the 108 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy, plus enjoy instant benefits, including digital check-in with room selection, Digital Key, and Connected Room. Visit newsroom.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook , Twitter , LinkedIn , Instagram and YouTube .
About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts
Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is a portfolio of 32 iconic properties that creates a unique sense of place with a relentless commitment to personal service and culinary expertise in landmark locations around the world. Unified by their inspirational environments and True Waldorf Service, Waldorf Astoria hotels deliver graceful service from the moment a guest books through checkout. In addition to the brand's renowned hotel offerings, Waldorf Astoria boasts a best-in-class residential portfolio, including 18 properties either open or in development, that provide the comfort of a private home combined with the unsurpassed amenities and legendary service of Waldorf Astoria. Waldorf Astoria is a part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company. Experience Waldorf Astoria by booking at www.waldorfastoria.com or through the Hilton Honors mobile app. Learn about the brand by visiting newsroom.hilton.com/waldorfastoria, and follow Waldorf Astoria on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
About Conrad Hotels & Resorts


tass--2020-09-23--Nearly 218,000 remain under supervision over coronavirus in Russia

Post-registration trials of Sputnik V vaccine to be completed in summer 2021 MOSCOW , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
Nearly @ @ @ @ @ supervision in Russia over a suspected coronavirus infection , the sanitary watchdog said on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ under medical supervision in Russia , '' the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights @ @ @ @ @ .
More than 43.6 mln COVID-19 tests have been carried out , including 291,000 tests @ @ @ @ @ according to the sanitary watchdog .

Post-registration trials of Sputnik V vaccine to be completed in summer 2021
MOSCOW, September 23. /TASS/. Nearly 218,000 people remain under medical supervision in Russia over a suspected coronavirus infection, the sanitary watchdog said on Wednesday
"Some 217,919 people remain under medical supervision in Russia," the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing reported.
More than 43.6 mln COVID-19 tests have been carried out, including 291,000 tests in the past day, according to the sanitary watchdog.


tass--2020-09-23--Religious cult leader arrested in Siberian city for two months

Earlier two other leaders of the sect , Vadim Redkin and Vladimir Vedernikov , were also arrested for two months on similar accusations .
Torop , who calls himself Vissarion , is suspected of setting up a religious group , which used violence against citizens , the judge said .
`` Torop will be placed in custody for two months , until November 22 , '' she said .
NOVOSIBIRSK , September 23 .
/TASS/ .
The Central District Court in the Siberian city of Novosibirsk on Wednesday arrested for two months Sergei Torop , the founder of a religious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last Testament , '' Judge Alla Veselykh said .
Torop has rejected the accusations against him .
He has questioned the words of the alleged victims , adding that he had never seen some of them .
According to him , many of these people , who are facing a challenging situation , are constantly complaining and expressing their discontent .
`` I have never seen one of them and I saw another one 15 years ago .
In the past three years , three of these people have been constantly creating some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
Early on Tuesday , law enforcement officers in Novosibirsk detained three leaders of the local religious group , the `` Church of the Last Testament . ''
According to the Investigative Committee , since 1991 Torop , Redkin and Vedernikov have led this organization .
They are facing charges of setting up a religious group , which uses violence against citizens and causing damage to their health .
The group ’ s leaders are accused of using their followers ’ money for making profits .
They also allegedly used psychological @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followers ' health for a long time .
The `` Church of the Last Testament '' was set up in 1991 by Sergei Torop , who calls himself Vissarion .
In 1995 his followers founded a settlement in the Kuraginsky district dubbed Sun City .
Its members also live in many settlements of the Kuraginsky and Karatuzsky districts in the south of the Krasnoyarsk Region .
Vedernikov leads a private school for children of the community ’ s members .

Earlier two other leaders of the sect, Vadim Redkin and Vladimir Vedernikov, were also arrested for two months on similar accusations.
Torop, who calls himself Vissarion, is suspected of setting up a religious group, which used violence against citizens, the judge said. "Torop will be placed in custody for two months, until November 22," she said.
NOVOSIBIRSK, September 23. /TASS/. The Central District Court in the Siberian city of Novosibirsk on Wednesday arrested for two months Sergei Torop, the founder of a religious sect, the "Church of the Last Testament," Judge Alla Veselykh said.
Torop has rejected the accusations against him. He has questioned the words of the alleged victims, adding that he had never seen some of them. According to him, many of these people, who are facing a challenging situation, are constantly complaining and expressing their discontent. "I have never seen one of them and I saw another one 15 years ago. In the past three years, three of these people have been constantly creating some difficulties and lodging their complaints," he said.
Early on Tuesday, law enforcement officers in Novosibirsk detained three leaders of the local religious group, the "Church of the Last Testament." According to the Investigative Committee, since 1991 Torop, Redkin and Vedernikov have led this organization. They are facing charges of setting up a religious group, which uses violence against citizens and causing damage to their health.
The group’s leaders are accused of using their followers’ money for making profits. They also allegedly used psychological violence, inflicting serious damage to the followers' health for a long time.
The "Church of the Last Testament" was set up in 1991 by Sergei Torop, who calls himself Vissarion. In 1995 his followers founded a settlement in the Kuraginsky district dubbed Sun City. Its members also live in many settlements of the Kuraginsky and Karatuzsky districts in the south of the Krasnoyarsk Region. Vedernikov leads a private school for children of the community’s members.


tass--2020-09-23--"Paradigm Shift for Greater Value" Huawei drives 100 typical scenario-based solutions

SHANGHAI , Sept. 23 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- At HUAWEI CONNECT 2020 , Mr. Peng Zhongyang , Board Member , President of Enterprise BG , Huawei , delivered a keynote speech on the theme of `` Paradigm Shift for Greater Value '' .
Peng stated that the shift to a new paradigm of industrial digital transformation is urgently needed for the development of our future intelligent society .
To drive industrial digitalization and construct the new paradigm , we need to focus on clients ' demands and dreams , realize the new paradigm by scenario-based innovation , and through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a digital ecosystem for mutual benefits with joint creation while creating new value for industries .
2020 is an extraordinary year , witnessing explosive growth in technologies together with reforms in different industries .
The tremendous potential of digital transformation is to be unleashed on the basis of synergy across five tech domains , in which connectivity , cloud computing , AI and applications develop surrounding 5G in ways never seen before .
By turning coal mines into digital structures for more than 10 scenarios , Huawei has achieved digital twining , making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For the Malanshan Video Cultural Creative Industrial Park , Huawei has collaborated with clients and partners to establish the cloud platform for filming process , streamline the entire video production ranging from shooting , editing streaming , to storage and backhaul , shortening the cycle by 30 % and reducing cost by 20 % .
Huawei has long been adhering to best practices for a better future .
In 2018 , Huawei 's logistics park in Dongguan underwent transformation that lasted for half a year .
With the help of automated equipment and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of goods delivered per capita ) has increased by 67 % , and the delivery cycle has been shortened by over 50 % .
Peng concluded , `` There are three decisive factors while digitalizing scenarios .
The first one is the cutting-edge technology , allowing integration of ICT with core scenarios .
The second one is industry know-how , where we should seek industrial insights in depth and understand the industrial knowledge .
Finally , it is all about execution .
That is to put all these into practice , turning theories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
A digital ecosystem with which Huawei creates and shares value is crucial for the construction of the prosperous digital future .
In the digitalized era , the essence of business is to `` make the cake bigger '' and achieve win-win results rather than compete in the zero-sum game .
To this end , Huawei proposes to build a `` digital ecosystem cube '' from three dimensions .
The first dimension is to target at the future of digitalization , gain insights of the unsatisfied demands from numerous segmented scenarios in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of `` the bigger cake '' .
The second dimension is to aggregate different capabilities of various partners and fully play to their strengths , which is the basis of `` baking a bigger cake '' .
The third is to develop multiple approaches for collaboration and business models , and make conscious effort to create and share value together .
This is the permanent force that continually drives the expansion of market size .
Taking Shenzhen Airport as an example .
By working with industry-leading solution partners and based on the synergy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devices , data management and industry application , Huawei has developed diverse and segmented scenario-based solutions , such as flight scheduling , stand allocation and ground support .
In 2019 , it helped reduce the number of passengers who took shuttle bus by some 2.6 million , boosting the efficiency of security check by 60 % .
It has led to a safer airport with better efficiency and superior experience tailor-made for travelers .
Now , Huawei has built on the 100 scenario-based solutions , creating more industrial value associated with partners .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ land with an old map , '' Peng said , calling on clients to embrace changes , and craft a new paradigm of industrial digital transformation for a greater future .
At HUAWEI CONNECT 2020 , the global leading ICT company also invited clients with great achievements in digital transformation to share their experience .
Chen Jinzu , General Manager of Shenzhen Airport Group , said that Shenzhen Airport is a pioneer in digital transformation , contributing in building a smart civic airport with the wisdom and experience of Shenzhen .
Tang Shaojie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said that as the backbone of public transportation , Shenzhen Metro will facilitate station-city integration , high degree of amalgamation of multiple transportation modes across Shenzhen and the region , and joint-construction of the `` Greater Bay Area on the track '' , with a smart city initiative .
In appreciating global partners for their efforts in driving business growth and shared success over the past years , Huawei has presented them with outstanding partner awards of 2020 .
These recognitions include the Excellent Global Channel Partner , Excellent Global Strategic Partner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Industry Solution Partner , Excellent Global Talent Ecosystem Partner , and Excellent HUAWEI CLOUD Channel Partner .
Meanwhile , Huawei has announced its declaration of industry ecosystem , that is to innovate and grow together for success together in the future .
HUAWEI CONNECT 2020 is an annual flagship event hosted by Huawei for the global ICT industry , and is being held in Shanghai from September 23 to 26 , 2020 .
HUAWEI CONNECT is an open platform designed to help our customers and partners navigate these changes , share experience , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
At this year 's event , we will explore trends and opportunities in industry digitization ; showcase advanced ICT technologies , products , and solutions ; give you an insider 's look at the fruits of joint innovation ; and share best practices in digital transformation .
Our ultimate goal is to build an open and sound industry ecosystem that will benefit all stakeholders and create new value for all industries .
For more information , please visit :

SHANGHAI, Sept. 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- At HUAWEI CONNECT 2020, Mr. Peng Zhongyang, Board Member, President of Enterprise BG, Huawei, delivered a keynote speech on the theme of "Paradigm Shift for Greater Value". Peng stated that the shift to a new paradigm of industrial digital transformation is urgently needed for the development of our future intelligent society. To drive industrial digitalization and construct the new paradigm, we need to focus on clients' demands and dreams, realize the new paradigm by scenario-based innovation, and through the synergy across five tech domains to establish a digital ecosystem for mutual benefits with joint creation while creating new value for industries.
Cutting-edge technology, industry know-how, and practices
2020 is an extraordinary year, witnessing explosive growth in technologies together with reforms in different industries. The tremendous potential of digital transformation is to be unleashed on the basis of synergy across five tech domains, in which connectivity, cloud computing, AI and applications develop surrounding 5G in ways never seen before.
By turning coal mines into digital structures for more than 10 scenarios, Huawei has achieved digital twining, making whole mining business digital and smart.
For the Malanshan Video Cultural Creative Industrial Park, Huawei has collaborated with clients and partners to establish the cloud platform for filming process, streamline the entire video production ranging from shooting, editing streaming, to storage and backhaul, shortening the cycle by 30% and reducing cost by 20%.
Huawei has long been adhering to best practices for a better future. In 2018, Huawei's logistics park in Dongguan underwent transformation that lasted for half a year. With the help of automated equipment and intelligent algorithms, delivery efficiency (volume of goods delivered per capita) has increased by 67%, and the delivery cycle has been shortened by over 50%.
Peng concluded, "There are three decisive factors while digitalizing scenarios. The first one is the cutting-edge technology, allowing integration of ICT with core scenarios. The second one is industry know-how, where we should seek industrial insights in depth and understand the industrial knowledge. Finally, it is all about execution. That is to put all these into practice, turning theories into reality with continuous exploration and innovation."
A new paradigm of digital transformation
A digital ecosystem with which Huawei creates and shares value is crucial for the construction of the prosperous digital future.
In the digitalized era, the essence of business is to "make the cake bigger" and achieve win-win results rather than compete in the zero-sum game. To this end, Huawei proposes to build a "digital ecosystem cube" from three dimensions. The first dimension is to target at the future of digitalization, gain insights of the unsatisfied demands from numerous segmented scenarios in various industries, which is the premise of "the bigger cake". The second dimension is to aggregate different capabilities of various partners and fully play to their strengths, which is the basis of "baking a bigger cake". The third is to develop multiple approaches for collaboration and business models, and make conscious effort to create and share value together. This is the permanent force that continually drives the expansion of market size.
Taking Shenzhen Airport as an example. By working with industry-leading solution partners and based on the synergy across five tech domains that integrates end devices, data management and industry application, Huawei has developed diverse and segmented scenario-based solutions, such as flight scheduling, stand allocation and ground support. In 2019, it helped reduce the number of passengers who took shuttle bus by some 2.6 million, boosting the efficiency of security check by 60%. It has led to a safer airport with better efficiency and superior experience tailor-made for travelers.
Now, Huawei has built on the 100 scenario-based solutions, creating more industrial value associated with partners.
"You can't find a new land with an old map," Peng said, calling on clients to embrace changes, and craft a new paradigm of industrial digital transformation for a greater future.
At HUAWEI CONNECT 2020, the global leading ICT company also invited clients with great achievements in digital transformation to share their experience.
Chen Jinzu, General Manager of Shenzhen Airport Group, said that Shenzhen Airport is a pioneer in digital transformation, contributing in building a smart civic airport with the wisdom and experience of Shenzhen.
Tang Shaojie, General Manager of Shenzhen Metro Group, said that as the backbone of public transportation, Shenzhen Metro will facilitate station-city integration, high degree of amalgamation of multiple transportation modes across Shenzhen and the region, and joint-construction of the "Greater Bay Area on the track", with a smart city initiative.
In appreciating global partners for their efforts in driving business growth and shared success over the past years, Huawei has presented them with outstanding partner awards of 2020. These recognitions include the Excellent Global Channel Partner, Excellent Global Strategic Partner, Excellent Global Distributor, Excellent Global Industry Solution Partner, Excellent Global Talent Ecosystem Partner, and Excellent HUAWEI CLOUD Channel Partner. Meanwhile, Huawei has announced its declaration of industry ecosystem, that is to innovate and grow together for success together in the future.
HUAWEI CONNECT 2020 is an annual flagship event hosted by Huawei for the global ICT industry, and is being held in Shanghai from September 23 to 26, 2020. HUAWEI CONNECT is an open platform designed to help our customers and partners navigate these changes, share experience, and work together to create new value. At this year's event, we will explore trends and opportunities in industry digitization; showcase advanced ICT technologies, products, and solutions; give you an insider's look at the fruits of joint innovation; and share best practices in digital transformation. Our ultimate goal is to build an open and sound industry ecosystem that will benefit all stakeholders and create new value for all industries. For more information, please visit:
https://www.huawei.com/en/events/huaweiconnect2020/
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1279714/HUAWEI_CONNECT_2020.jpg
CONTACT: Qiwei Li, liqiwei2@huawei.com