tass--2020-02-18--Novel coronavirus death toll in China reaches 1,868

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The number of people who died of novel coronavirus in China has risen to 1,868 by Tuesday , China ’ s National Health Commission said .
A total of 12,500 novel coronavirus patients have recovered to date .
The National Health Commission said the overall number of confirmed novel coronavirus cases in the country increased by about 1,800 in the past 24 hours , topping 72,400 by Tuesday .
In the past 24 hours , a total of 98 deaths among novel coronavirus patients were reported , while 1,701 people were discharged from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of people , who died from the novel coronavirus in China ’ s province of Hubei , has risen to 1,789 , the regional health commission said on Tuesday .
A total of 93 novel coronavirus deaths were reported in the region in the past 24 hours .
The overall number of confirmed cases in the province , where the disease broke out last December , increased by about 1,800 in the past 24 hours to surpass the benchmark of 60,000 .
A total of 7,862 coronavirus patients have recovered so far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals in the past day. In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the WHO about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , central China .
Coronavirus cases have also been reported in 25 other countries , including Russia .
The WHO declared the outbreak of the novel coronavirus a global health emergency and named the virus COVID-19 .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. The number of people who died of novel coronavirus in China has risen to 1,868 by Tuesday, China’s National Health Commission said.
A total of 12,500 novel coronavirus patients have recovered to date.
The National Health Commission said the overall number of confirmed novel coronavirus cases in the country increased by about 1,800 in the past 24 hours, topping 72,400 by Tuesday.
In the past 24 hours, a total of 98 deaths among novel coronavirus patients were reported, while 1,701 people were discharged from hospitals in the reported period.
Situation in Hubei
The number of people, who died from the novel coronavirus in China’s province of Hubei, has risen to 1,789, the regional health commission said on Tuesday.
A total of 93 novel coronavirus deaths were reported in the region in the past 24 hours.
The overall number of confirmed cases in the province, where the disease broke out last December, increased by about 1,800 in the past 24 hours to surpass the benchmark of 60,000. A total of 7,862 coronavirus patients have recovered so far, including 1,223 who were discharged from hospitals in the past day.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the WHO about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Coronavirus cases have also been reported in 25 other countries, including Russia. The WHO declared the outbreak of the novel coronavirus a global health emergency and named the virus COVID-19.


tass--2020-02-18--Russian embassy to Switzerland dismisses media report of Russian spy’s detention

GENEVA , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian embassy in Switzerland rejects media reports about an alleged detention of ‘ a Russian agent ’ in the country last summer , an embassy official has told TASS .
`` This report is just another fake news report .
This attempt to fuel spy hysteria from nothing is regrettable , '' the Russian diplomat said .
In its Sunday edition , Swiss newspaper SonntagsZeitung said that for the first time in the newest history , a `` Russian agent '' had been detained , arrested and convicted in the country .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ whose car had mock Italian license plates was detained in Geneva on July 27 .
In the trunk , police found six mobile phones , a drone , a camera and a laptop .
Later , investigators reportedly established that the man was a foreign spy .
In January , he was sentenced to six months in prison without a public trial .
The man walked free from the courtroom , because his remand time counted as prison time .
The citizenship and identity of the man was never disclosed , but SonntagsZeitung @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agent '' tasked with spying on his compatriots in Switzerland , possibly Russian dissidents or tycoons .
The suspect denied all charges .
The publication coincided with the Crypto AG scandal , that broke out after a joint journalistic inquiry by SRF ( Swiss TV ) program 'Rundschau ' , Germany ’ s ZDF broadcaster and the Washington Post .
According to journalists , the US Central Intelligence Agency ( CIA ) and the BND ( German Federal Intelligence Service ) secretly purchased a stake in Swiss company Crypto AG in Zug , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As a result , devices manufactured by the company were rigged to give US and German special services an opportunity to crack codes .
The report suggests that Swiss authorities were aware of those activities and covered them up .
The Swiss government and a parliamentary commission announced last week they would conduct their own inquiry into the matter , because the scandal threatened Switzerland ’ s reputation of a neutral country .

GENEVA, February 18. /TASS/. The Russian embassy in Switzerland rejects media reports about an alleged detention of ‘a Russian agent’ in the country last summer, an embassy official has told TASS.
"This report is just another fake news report. This attempt to fuel spy hysteria from nothing is regrettable," the Russian diplomat said.
In its Sunday edition, Swiss newspaper SonntagsZeitung said that for the first time in the newest history, a "Russian agent" had been detained, arrested and convicted in the country. According to the paper, a man whose car had mock Italian license plates was detained in Geneva on July 27. In the trunk, police found six mobile phones, a drone, a camera and a laptop.
Later, investigators reportedly established that the man was a foreign spy. In January, he was sentenced to six months in prison without a public trial. The man walked free from the courtroom, because his remand time counted as prison time.
The citizenship and identity of the man was never disclosed, but SonntagsZeitung claimed that it was a "Russian agent" tasked with spying on his compatriots in Switzerland, possibly Russian dissidents or tycoons. The suspect denied all charges.
The publication coincided with the Crypto AG scandal, that broke out after a joint journalistic inquiry by SRF (Swiss TV) program 'Rundschau', Germany’s ZDF broadcaster and the Washington Post. According to journalists, the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the BND (German Federal Intelligence Service) secretly purchased a stake in Swiss company Crypto AG in Zug, producing encryption devices and selling them worldwide. As a result, devices manufactured by the company were rigged to give US and German special services an opportunity to crack codes. The report suggests that Swiss authorities were aware of those activities and covered them up.
The Swiss government and a parliamentary commission announced last week they would conduct their own inquiry into the matter, because the scandal threatened Switzerland’s reputation of a neutral country.


tass--2020-02-17--China's Sanya introduces taxi, bus passengers registration amid coronavirus outbreak

SANYA , February 17 .
/TASS/ .
Hainan 's Sanya introduced an obligatory check-in system for taxi and bus passengers @ @ @ @ @ Island of Hainan , www.hinews.cn reported .
Starting from February 18 , taxi and passengers @ @ @ @ @ code using WeChat messenger and register .
There is no need to download any applications @ @ @ @ @ a passenger has no mobile phone with them , the driver can check them in @ @ @ @ @ part of the joint effort to combat the spread of the virus in the province @ @ @ @ @ the outbreak of pneumonia caused by a new type of coronavirus the Hainan authorities had @ @ @ @ @ booking services in Haikou and Sanya .
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the @ @ @ @ @ city of Wuhan .
Cases of new coronavirus were confirmed in 24 other countries and @ @ @ @ @ .
The World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a public health emergency of international @ @

SANYA, February 17. /TASS/. Hainan's Sanya introduced an obligatory check-in system for taxi and bus passengers amid coronavirus oubreak on the Island of Hainan, www.hinews.cn reported.
Starting from February 18, taxi and passengers must scan a special QR code using WeChat messenger and register. There is no need to download any applications for that. In case a passenger has no mobile phone with them, the driver can check them in.
Such measures became a part of the joint effort to combat the spread of the virus in the province.
Earlier, due to the outbreak of pneumonia caused by a new type of coronavirus the Hainan authorities had to temporarily suspend online taxi booking services in Haikou and Sanya.
The Chinese authorities registered an outbreak of the new coronavirus 2019-nCoV in the city of Wuhan. Cases of new coronavirus were confirmed in 24 other countries and territories, including in Russia. The World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.


tass--2020-02-17--No new coronavirus cases registered in China's Hainan province in three days

HAIKOU , February 17 .
/TASS/ .
China 's Hainan province managed to stop the spreading of the novel coronavirus — no cases have been reported on the island in three days , according to China ’ s National Health and Family Planning Commission .
According to the authorities , a favourable situation is seen in the central part of the Hainan Island , where there are practically no infected .
Secretary of the Hainan Party Committee Liu Cigui stated that `` it was necessary to take into account all the successful experience gained while battling the oubreak on Hainan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ starting with its roots '' .
The official noted that currently Hainan doctors and competent government institutions should pay close attention to advanced medical technologies enabling to better diagnose the illness and ensuring the recovery .
On December 31 , Chinese authorities informed the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about an outbreak of an unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan — a large trade and industrial center in central China populated by 11 million people .
On January 7 , Chinese experts identified the infecting agent — coronavirus 2019-nCoV , currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 24 more countries apart from China .
The WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak in China a global health emergency .
Currently , the total number of people infected with coronavirus exceeded 70,500 in China with over 1,800 people reported to have died from the disease .
Meanwhile , over 10,800 people have reportedly recovered .

HAIKOU, February 17. /TASS/. China's Hainan province managed to stop the spreading of the novel coronavirus — no cases have been reported on the island in three days, according to China’s National Health and Family Planning Commission.
According to the authorities, a favourable situation is seen in the central part of the Hainan Island, where there are practically no infected. Secretary of the Hainan Party Committee Liu Cigui stated that "it was necessary to take into account all the successful experience gained while battling the oubreak on Hainan <...> curb the coronavirus outbreak starting with its roots". The official noted that currently Hainan doctors and competent government institutions should pay close attention to advanced medical technologies enabling to better diagnose the illness and ensuring the recovery.
On December 31, Chinese authorities informed the World Health Organization (WHO) about an outbreak of an unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan — a large trade and industrial center in central China populated by 11 million people. On January 7, Chinese experts identified the infecting agent — coronavirus 2019-nCoV, currently known as COVID-19. The virus spread to 24 more countries apart from China. The WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak in China a global health emergency.
Currently, the total number of people infected with coronavirus exceeded 70,500 in China with over 1,800 people reported to have died from the disease. Meanwhile, over 10,800 people have reportedly recovered.


tass--2020-02-19--US redeploys over 300 trucks with weapons from Iraq to Syria — Russian Defense Ministry

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Thirteen US military convoys comprised of more than 80 armored vehicles and more than 300 trucks with weapons have been redeployed from Iraq to northeastern Syria since the beginning of the current year .
These weapons are used against Turkish troops and civilians , Oleg Zhuravlev , chief of the Russian Center for Reconciliation of the conflicting sides in Syria , told reporters on Tuesday .
`` The command of the American forces in the region is flooding the trans-Euphrates region with weapons and munitions .
Thus , since the beginning of 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 80 armored vehicles , more than 300 heavy-duty trucks with various types of weapons , munitions and materiel have arrived in Syria from Iraq .
The US weapons are used both in clashes between numerous militant groups along the entire trans-Euphrates region and against Turkish troops in northern Syria , and against civilians , '' Zhuravlev said .
The aggravated humanitarian situation in Syria ’ s northeastern regions and continuing shelling attacks by militants force civilian population to flee their homes for territories controlled by the Syrian government .
`` About @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and elderly people , have fled the area via the al-Salikhiyah checkpoint alone since the beginning of 2020 , '' Zhuravlev noted .
He also said that three more checkpoints for civilians leaving the militants-controlled areas of the Idlib de-escalation zone were opened on February 17 in the settlements of Bjarez , Maarret al-Nuuman and Khabit .
As many as 177 , 171 , and 35 people , respectively , used them to cross into government-controlled areas on February 18 .
During the day , the Russian reconciliation center registered 29 shelling attacks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Latakia and Hama governorates in the Idlib de-escalation zone .
Zhuravlev also said that the Russian military police had continued patrolling along a number of routes in the Aleppo governorate .
`` The patrolling missions were conducted in accordance with the plans .
No incidents were reported during the mission , '' he noted .
The Russian reconciliation center continues to fulfill assigned tasks after the completion of the military campaign in Syria .
The center ’ s officers regularly travel around the country 's liberated areas to assess the humanitarian situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military are now focused on assistance to the refugees returning to their homes and evacuation of civilians from de-escalation zones .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. Thirteen US military convoys comprised of more than 80 armored vehicles and more than 300 trucks with weapons have been redeployed from Iraq to northeastern Syria since the beginning of the current year. These weapons are used against Turkish troops and civilians, Oleg Zhuravlev, chief of the Russian Center for Reconciliation of the conflicting sides in Syria, told reporters on Tuesday.
"The command of the American forces in the region is flooding the trans-Euphrates region with weapons and munitions. Thus, since the beginning of 2020 alone, thirteen military convoys consisting of more than 80 armored vehicles, more than 300 heavy-duty trucks with various types of weapons, munitions and materiel have arrived in Syria from Iraq. The US weapons are used both in clashes between numerous militant groups along the entire trans-Euphrates region and against Turkish troops in northern Syria, and against civilians," Zhuravlev said.
The aggravated humanitarian situation in Syria’s northeastern regions and continuing shelling attacks by militants force civilian population to flee their homes for territories controlled by the Syrian government. "About 23,000 Syrians, mostly families with children and elderly people, have fled the area via the al-Salikhiyah checkpoint alone since the beginning of 2020," Zhuravlev noted.
He also said that three more checkpoints for civilians leaving the militants-controlled areas of the Idlib de-escalation zone were opened on February 17 in the settlements of Bjarez, Maarret al-Nuuman and Khabit. As many as 177, 171, and 35 people, respectively, used them to cross into government-controlled areas on February 18.
During the day, the Russian reconciliation center registered 29 shelling attacks by illegal armed groups in the Aleppo, Latakia and Hama governorates in the Idlib de-escalation zone.
Zhuravlev also said that the Russian military police had continued patrolling along a number of routes in the Aleppo governorate. "The patrolling missions were conducted in accordance with the plans. No incidents were reported during the mission," he noted.
The Russian reconciliation center continues to fulfill assigned tasks after the completion of the military campaign in Syria. The center’s officers regularly travel around the country's liberated areas to assess the humanitarian situation. The main efforts of the Russian military are now focused on assistance to the refugees returning to their homes and evacuation of civilians from de-escalation zones.


tass--2020-02-19--EU countries decide not to recognize Russian passports of Donbass residents — ministry

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The European Union ( EU ) countries have joined the policy of stifling Donbass residents as they do not recognize Russian passports received by those residents , the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement released on Tuesday .
`` EU member countries have joined the tactic of stifling Donbass residents .
Several EU countries have decided not to recognize the Russian passports received by Donbass residents on humanitarian grounds and not to stamp Schengen visas in them , just as it was done before with Crimean residents , '' the statement said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discrimination and violation of human rights , '' the statement added .
The Russian Foreign Ministry noted that the right to choose citizenship freely is `` guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights from 1948 , the European Convention on Nationality from 1997 and other international documents . ''
`` Recently Ukrainian General Prosecutor 's Office has opened criminal cases over 'forced ' issuance to Donbass residents of passports of the proclaimed Lugansk People 's Republic , '' the statement said .
`` This represents extreme cynicism — to deprive people of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when they start adpating to new circumstances and try to solve pressing issues , to open criminal cases against them , '' the statement added .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. The European Union (EU) countries have joined the policy of stifling Donbass residents as they do not recognize Russian passports received by those residents, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement released on Tuesday.
"EU member countries have joined the tactic of stifling Donbass residents. Several EU countries have decided not to recognize the Russian passports received by Donbass residents on humanitarian grounds and not to stamp Schengen visas in them, just as it was done before with Crimean residents," the statement said. "We consider this as direct discrimination and violation of human rights," the statement added.
The Russian Foreign Ministry noted that the right to choose citizenship freely is "guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights from 1948, the European Convention on Nationality from 1997 and other international documents."
"Recently Ukrainian General Prosecutor's Office has opened criminal cases over 'forced' issuance to Donbass residents of passports of the proclaimed Lugansk People's Republic," the statement said. "This represents extreme cynicism — to deprive people of access to basic vital services, and when they start adpating to new circumstances and try to solve pressing issues, to open criminal cases against them," the statement added.


tass--2020-02-19--OSCE's SMM records marked spike in number of ceasefire violations in Donbass

VIENNA , February 19 .
/TASS/ .
The Special Monitoring Mission ( SMM ) of the Organization for Security and @ @ @ @ @ ) has registered a spike of ceasefire violations near the contact line in the Lugansk @ @ @ @ @ morning of 18 February , from approximately 05:30 to 11:30 hrs , while on patrol @ @ @ @ @ ( government-controlled , 60km west of Luhansk ) and at its forward patrol bases in @ @ @ @ @ non-government-controlled , 50km west of Luhansk ) and Popasna ( government-controlled , 69km west of @ @ @ @ @ its cameras - the SMM recorded a marked spike in the number of ceasefire violations @ @ @ @ @ over 2,300 explosions , '' the SMM said in a report released on Tuesday .
@ @ @ @ @ the SMM diverted a long-range unmanned aerial vehicle over the area .
Its footage is @ @ @ @ @ the report added .
Earlier on Tuesday the sides in the Donbass conflict reported escalation @ @ @ @ @ contact line .

VIENNA, February 19. /TASS/. The Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has registered a spike of ceasefire violations near the contact line in the Lugansk region.
"In the morning of 18 February, from approximately 05:30 to 11:30 hrs, while on patrol in the area of Zolote (government-controlled, 60km west of Luhansk) and at its forward patrol bases in Kadiivka (formerly Stakhanov, non-government-controlled, 50km west of Luhansk) and Popasna (government-controlled, 69km west of Luhansk) - and with its cameras - the SMM recorded a marked spike in the number of ceasefire violations in the area, including over 2,300 explosions," the SMM said in a report released on Tuesday.
"At about 12:00, the SMM diverted a long-range unmanned aerial vehicle over the area. Its footage is currently being analysed," the report added.
Earlier on Tuesday the sides in the Donbass conflict reported escalation of the situation on the contact line.


tass--2020-02-19--Escalation in Donbass undermines Minsk Agreements — NATO spokesperson

Kremlin hopes details on clash in Donbass will be clarified soon BRUSSELS , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Escalation in @ @ @ @ @ on Ukraine and efforts at peaceful settlement of the conflict in the country , NATO @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday .
`` This undermines the Minsk agreements and efforts towards a peaceful resolution of @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson said adding that NATO is concerned by the escalation in eastern Ukraine .
`` @ @ @ @ @ integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders , '' Lungescu noted .
@ @ @ @ @ on Russia to withdraw its forces , cease its support for the separatists , and @ @ @ @ @ implement the Minsk agreements , '' she added .
Earlier on Tuesday the sides in @ @ @ @ @ of the situation on the contact line .

Kremlin hopes details on clash in Donbass will be clarified soon
BRUSSELS, February 18. /TASS/. Escalation in Donbass undermines the Minsk Agreements on Ukraine and efforts at peaceful settlement of the conflict in the country, NATO Spokesperson Oana Lungescu said on Tuesday.
"This undermines the Minsk agreements and efforts towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict," the spokesperson said adding that NATO is concerned by the escalation in eastern Ukraine.
"NATO fully supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders," Lungescu noted. "We continue to call on Russia to withdraw its forces, cease its support for the separatists, and engage in genuine efforts to implement the Minsk agreements," she added.
Earlier on Tuesday the sides in the Donbass conflict reported escalation of the situation on the contact line.


tass--2020-02-19--Rosneft says US sanctions against its subsidiary constitute act of legal arbitrariness

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The United States ’ sanctions against Rosneft Trading , a subsidiary of Russian oil major Rosneft , are illegal , ungrounded and constitute an act of legal arbitrariness , Rosneft said in press statement on Tuesday .
The US administration on Tuesday announced new sanctions against Rosneft Trading S. A. and its and president , Didier Casimiro , for selling Venezuelan oil .
Those on the sanctions list have their assets in the US frozen , while American citizens and companies can not engage in any business activities with them .
Washington granted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rosneft Trading .
`` The sanctions against Rosneft ’ s subsidiary RTSA and its chief executive that have been announced by the US Department of the Treasury are illegal and ungrounded .
They can be interpreted as an act of legal arbitrariness , '' Rosneft said .
`` Notably , the US Department of the Treasury has given no evidence to the company ’ s illegal activities and violations of the United States ’ unilateral restrictions , '' it stressed .
`` After analyzing the documents , the company will look at options @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stressed that it was implementing projects in Venezuela in strict compliance with international law , under contracts signed before the sanctions had been imposed .
`` Rosneft began investing in Venezuela ’ s economy long before the US sanctions .
The company ’ s activities in Venezuela linked with the implementation of production contracts and trading ( supplies of oil on the advance payment basis and counter deliveries of oil products ) are carried out under contracts signed before the sanctions were imposed and are geared to refund previous investments and implement long-term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. The United States’ sanctions against Rosneft Trading, a subsidiary of Russian oil major Rosneft, are illegal, ungrounded and constitute an act of legal arbitrariness, Rosneft said in press statement on Tuesday.
The US administration on Tuesday announced new sanctions against Rosneft Trading S. A. and its and president, Didier Casimiro, for selling Venezuelan oil. Those on the sanctions list have their assets in the US frozen, while American citizens and companies cannot engage in any business activities with them. Washington granted 90 days to complete all deals with Rosneft Trading.
"The sanctions against Rosneft’s subsidiary RTSA and its chief executive that have been announced by the US Department of the Treasury are illegal and ungrounded. They can be interpreted as an act of legal arbitrariness," Rosneft said.
"Notably, the US Department of the Treasury has given no evidence to the company’s illegal activities and violations of the United States’ unilateral restrictions," it stressed. "After analyzing the documents, the company will look at options of legal defense."
The company stressed that it was implementing projects in Venezuela in strict compliance with international law, under contracts signed before the sanctions had been imposed.
"Rosneft began investing in Venezuela’s economy long before the US sanctions. The company’s activities in Venezuela linked with the implementation of production contracts and trading (supplies of oil on the advance payment basis and counter deliveries of oil products) are carried out under contracts signed before the sanctions were imposed and are geared to refund previous investments and implement long-term commercial contracts," the company said.


tass--2020-02-19--US sanctions against Rosneft’s subsidiary are arbitrary — spokesman

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
US sanctions against Rosneft Trading , the subsidiary of the Russian oil producer @ @ @ @ @ the company has never been engaged in illegal activities , press secretary of Rosneft Mikhail @ @ @ @ @ station .
`` We can immediately state that neither the company nor its units were @ @ @ @ @ operations .
We are acting strictly within the framework of international law .
We have @ @ @ @ @ sanctions , as the US regulator repeatedly said .
No evidence backs this decision .
@ @ @ @ @ '' Leontyev said .
The company will need to study documents on sanctions in order @ @ @ @ @ , the spokesman added .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. US sanctions against Rosneft Trading, the subsidiary of the Russian oil producer Rosneft, are arbitrary because the company has never been engaged in illegal activities, press secretary of Rosneft Mikhail Leontyev told Kommersant FM radio station.
"We can immediately state that neither the company nor its units were ever engaged in any illegal operations. We are acting strictly within the framework of international law. We have never breached even conditions of sanctions, as the US regulator repeatedly said. No evidence backs this decision. This is absolutely arbitrary," Leontyev said.
The company will need to study documents on sanctions in order to speak about specific actions, the spokesman added.


tass--2020-02-18--Russian embassy slams Rosneft Trading sanctions as unfair competition

WASHINGTON , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Embassy in the United States has blasted the decision of the US authorities to impose sanctions against Rosneft Trading S.A. company as an example of unfair competition .
`` The United States keeps on whipping up sanctions against Russian enterprises in the global markets .
This time the US Administration tries to oust our companies from Venezuela .
Meanwhile American companies continue their operations in the mentioned country .
This is another clear example of unfair competition , '' the embassy wrote on its official Facebook account on Tuesday .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unacceptable .
Russia stands for an inclusive dialogue between all significant political forces of Venezuela without interference into its internal affairs from abroad , '' the diplomatic mission added .
On Tuesday , the US administration announced new sanctions against Rosneft Trading S. A. and its and president Didier Casimiro for selling Venezuelan oil .
Those on the sanctions list have their assets in the US frozen , while American citizens and companies can not engage in any business activities with them .
Washington granted 90 days to complete all deals with Rosneft @ @

WASHINGTON, February 18. /TASS/. The Russian Embassy in the United States has blasted the decision of the US authorities to impose sanctions against Rosneft Trading S.A. company as an example of unfair competition.
"The United States keeps on whipping up sanctions against Russian enterprises in the global markets. This time the US Administration tries to oust our companies from Venezuela. Meanwhile American companies continue their operations in the mentioned country. This is another clear example of unfair competition," the embassy wrote on its official Facebook account on Tuesday.
"The extraterritorial application of national legislation is unacceptable. Russia stands for an inclusive dialogue between all significant political forces of Venezuela without interference into its internal affairs from abroad," the diplomatic mission added.
On Tuesday, the US administration announced new sanctions against Rosneft Trading S. A. and its and president Didier Casimiro for selling Venezuelan oil. Those on the sanctions list have their assets in the US frozen, while American citizens and companies cannot engage in any business activities with them. Washington granted 90 days to complete all deals with Rosneft Trading.


tass--2020-02-18--Distressed Superjet safely lands at Moscow’s Vnukovo

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
A Rusjet airline ’ s Sukhoi Superjet 100 has safely landed at Moscow @ @ @ @ @ an actuated air-conditioning system failure sensor , a source in the emergencies services told TASS @ @ @ @ @ plane has landed safely , '' the source said .
According the source , the @ @ @ @ @ Russian Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov may be on board .
The minister @ @ @ @ @ to Germany on February 17-18 .
The ministry ’ s press service was unavailable for @ @

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. A Rusjet airline’s Sukhoi Superjet 100 has safely landed at Moscow’s Vnukovo airport with an actuated air-conditioning system failure sensor, a source in the emergencies services told TASS on Tuesday.
"The plane has landed safely," the source said.
According the source, the plane arrived from Berlin and Russian Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov may be on board.
The minister,made a working visit to Germany on February 17-18. The ministry’s press service was unavailable for comment.


tass--2020-02-18--Constitution may guarantee former Russian presidents immunity — lawmaker

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
A group of State Duma and Federation Council members has proposed an amendment @ @ @ @ @ to the Russian Constitution asserting the immunity of Russia ’ s former presidents , the @ @ @ @ @ on amendments to Russia ’ s fundamental law , Pavel Krasheninnikov , told the media @ @ @ @ @ version of article 92.1 will stipulate that a Russian president whose powers have come to @ @ @ @ @ A former president can be stripped of immunity in accordance with impeachment procedures described in @ @ @ @ @ , established for the incumbent head of state , Krasheninnikov said .
So far the @ @ @ @ @ terminating the immunity of Russia ’ s former president have been described in a federal @ @

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. A group of State Duma and Federation Council members has proposed an amendment to the bill on changes to the Russian Constitution asserting the immunity of Russia’s former presidents, the co-chairman of the working group on amendments to Russia’s fundamental law, Pavel Krasheninnikov, told the media on Tuesday.
The new version of article 92.1 will stipulate that a Russian president whose powers have come to an end enjoys immunity. A former president can be stripped of immunity in accordance with impeachment procedures described in article 93 of the Constitution, established for the incumbent head of state, Krasheninnikov said.
So far the presidential immunity and rules of terminating the immunity of Russia’s former president have been described in a federal law.


tass--2020-02-18--No plans to evacuate Russian who contracted coronavirus from Japan — minister

`` This is not a question for us , pose it to the Foreign Ministry .
They will be taken to hospital as far as we know .
It has been decided there , '' he responded to a question from TASS .
MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian passenger aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship who was identified to have contracted the coronavirus and his spouse who was taken to hospital are not planned to be evacuated from Japan to Russia , Russian Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko said Tuesday .
According to him , Russians in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistance , they are not in critical condition .
The Japanese authorities said Tuesday that the novel coronavirus had been detected in a Russian man even though previous reports suggested it was a woman .
This is the first confirmed coronavirus case among Russian citizens .
According to the embassy , he was taken to a specialized medical facility in the Aichi Prefecture , while his wife was rushed to a hospital in the Kanagawa Prefecture .
Overall , 542 people aboard the Diamond Princess are known to have contracted the virus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Diamond Princess cruise ship left Yokohama on January 20 and returned on February 3 .
A Chinese citizen who was later diagnosed with coronavirus was among the passengers and disembarked in Hong Kong on January 25 .
Japanese authorities ordered the cruise ship to anchor near Yokohama to screen everyone on board .
The Diamond Princess had around 3,700 passengers and crewmembers from 50 countries , including Russia .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously called 2019-nCoV ) was reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ central China populated by 12 million people — in late December .
The WHO declared it a global emergency , describing the outbreak as an epidemic with multiple foci .
The virus spread to 25 more countries , apart from China : Australia , Belgium , Cambodia , Canada , Egypt , Finland , France , Germany , Japan , India , Italy , Malaysia , Nepal , the Philippines , Russia , Singapore , South Korea , Spain , Sri Lanka , Sweden , Thailand , the United Arab Emirates , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vietnam .
Chinese authorities have confirmed 72,400 cases of the disease , almost 1,900 people died , while more than 12,500 people are reported to have recovered .

"This is not a question for us, pose it to the Foreign Ministry. They will be taken to hospital as far as we know. It has been decided there," he responded to a question from TASS.
MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. The Russian passenger aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship who was identified to have contracted the coronavirus and his spouse who was taken to hospital are not planned to be evacuated from Japan to Russia, Russian Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko said Tuesday.
According to him, Russians in Japan are provided with all the necessary assistance, they are not in critical condition.
The Japanese authorities said Tuesday that the novel coronavirus had been detected in a Russian man even though previous reports suggested it was a woman. This is the first confirmed coronavirus case among Russian citizens. According to the embassy, he was taken to a specialized medical facility in the Aichi Prefecture, while his wife was rushed to a hospital in the Kanagawa Prefecture.
Overall, 542 people aboard the Diamond Princess are known to have contracted the virus, 88 cases were reported on Tuesday.
The Diamond Princess cruise ship left Yokohama on January 20 and returned on February 3. A Chinese citizen who was later diagnosed with coronavirus was among the passengers and disembarked in Hong Kong on January 25. Japanese authorities ordered the cruise ship to anchor near Yokohama to screen everyone on board. The Diamond Princess had around 3,700 passengers and crewmembers from 50 countries, including Russia.
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously called 2019-nCoV) was reported in China’s city of Wuhan — a large trade and industrial center in central China populated by 12 million people — in late December. The WHO declared it a global emergency, describing the outbreak as an epidemic with multiple foci.
The virus spread to 25 more countries, apart from China: Australia, Belgium, Cambodia, Canada, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, India, Italy, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam. Chinese authorities have confirmed 72,400 cases of the disease, almost 1,900 people died, while more than 12,500 people are reported to have recovered.


tass--2020-02-18--Lukashenko counts on agreement with Rosneft for further cooperation — BelTA

The meeting is taking place amidst difficult Belarusian-Russian negotiations on the terms of oil supplies to the republic from the Russian Federation .
MINSK , February 18 .
/ TASS / .
President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko said he was counting on an agreement with Rosneft for further cooperation , said he at the meeting with Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin , the BelTA news agency reported on Tuesday .
`` Thank you for coming .
There is nothing to hide .
I would like to discuss with the head of the largest oil-producing public company the situation that is developing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Belarus and Russia on oil .
I know that you keep abreast of the recent developments , but it would be wrong to not even consult on specific issues , how to proceed and how to work , including with Rosneft , '' Lukashenko said .
`` Because last year you delivered to Belarus no more and no less but half of the oil that we bought in Russia .
It was recycled here , in Belarus . ''
`` We 'd like some clarification , '' said he .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we have known each other for a long time , you can hint at something , and we can agree on our further cooperation , '' Lukashenko added .
He noted that the main issue of the meeting was the situation with oil supplies from Russia .
Rosneft aims for constructive work with Belarus on oil supplies to the country , Chief Executive Officer of the Russian oil major Igor Sechin said on Tuesday , cited by the company .
`` I highly value the trust-based relations existing between us .
Certainly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mood is constructive , '' the top manager stated at the meeting with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko .
The parties exchanged opinions on further development of cooperation in the energy sphere , Rosneft informed .

The meeting is taking place amidst difficult Belarusian-Russian negotiations on the terms of oil supplies to the republic from the Russian Federation.
MINSK, February 18. / TASS /. President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko said he was counting on an agreement with Rosneft for further cooperation, said he at the meeting with Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin, the BelTA news agency reported on Tuesday.
"Thank you for coming. There is nothing to hide. I would like to discuss with the head of the largest oil-producing public company the situation that is developing in our relations, one might say, Belarus and Russia on oil. I know that you keep abreast of the recent developments, but it would be wrong to not even consult on specific issues, how to proceed and how to work, including with Rosneft," Lukashenko said. "Because last year you delivered to Belarus no more and no less but half of the oil that we bought in Russia. It was recycled here, in Belarus."
"We'd like some clarification," said he. "I think, taking advantage of the fact that we have known each other for a long time, you can hint at something, and we can agree on our further cooperation," Lukashenko added.
He noted that the main issue of the meeting was the situation with oil supplies from Russia.
Rosneft's plans for cooperation
Rosneft aims for constructive work with Belarus on oil supplies to the country, Chief Executive Officer of the Russian oil major Igor Sechin said on Tuesday, cited by the company.
"I highly value the trust-based relations existing between us. Certainly, we should work together. Our mood is constructive," the top manager stated at the meeting with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko.
The parties exchanged opinions on further development of cooperation in the energy sphere, Rosneft informed.


tass--2020-02-18--Alrosa sells pink diamond to US collector

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian diamond miner Alrosa sold a 6.21-carat cushion cut pink diamond to @ @ @ @ @ the company says on Tuesday .
Russia 's Alrosa to be largest producer of color @ @ @ @ @ does not disclose the selling price of the gem .
`` As global production declines @ @ @ @ @ rarer and thus more valuable , '' Larry West said .
`` This is the @ @ @ @ @ I have bought directly from ALROSA .
It possesses excellent characteristics and will certainly take @ @ @ @ @ collection , '' the collector added , cited by Alrosa .
The diamond was unearthed @ @ @ @ @ was provided with detailed information about the gem ’ s origin , including a digital @ @ @ @ @ of mining and cutting .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. The Russian diamond miner Alrosa sold a 6.21-carat cushion cut pink diamond to US-based collector Larry West, the company says on Tuesday.
Alrosa does not disclose the selling price of the gem.
"As global production declines, pink diamonds will become rarer and thus more valuable," Larry West said. "This is the first diamond from Russia that I have bought directly from ALROSA. It possesses excellent characteristics and will certainly take a worthy place in my collection," the collector added, cited by Alrosa.
The diamond was unearthed in Yakutia. The buyer was provided with detailed information about the gem’s origin, including a digital certificate with the detailed history of mining and cutting.


tass--2020-02-18--Russia, Italy draft agreement on rescue work on submarines in distress

`` An agreement is being drafted on carrying out rescue work on submarines in distress , '' Shoigu stated , replying to a question from TASS .
MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russia and Italy are planning to sign an agreement on carrying out rescue work on submarines in distress , Russian Defense Minister Army General Sergei Shoigu said after the negotiations of the foreign and defense ministers from both countries in the 2x2 format in Rome on Tuesday .
This is an important agreement , the Russian defense minister stressed .
`` We hope that the group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it and we will be able to adopt it , '' Shoigu commented .
The fulfillment of accords on excluding dangerous incidents in the air and at sea is a major area of cooperation , the Russian defense minister added .
`` This agreement , these accords are being implemented in full , '' he stressed .
`` We hope that we will make amendments to these accords relating to the distance of the movement of aerial vehicles and sea vessels , especially in the areas where we have joint work , joint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he noted .
The Russian defense minister also said he hoped that Italy would accept the proposal to take part in the International Army Games .
`` I hope for the participation of our colleagues in one of more than 40 contests , '' he said .

"An agreement is being drafted on carrying out rescue work on submarines in distress," Shoigu stated, replying to a question from TASS.
MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. Russia and Italy are planning to sign an agreement on carrying out rescue work on submarines in distress, Russian Defense Minister Army General Sergei Shoigu said after the negotiations of the foreign and defense ministers from both countries in the 2x2 format in Rome on Tuesday.
This is an important agreement, the Russian defense minister stressed. "We hope that the group that is working on it will prepare it and we will be able to adopt it," Shoigu commented.
The fulfillment of accords on excluding dangerous incidents in the air and at sea is a major area of cooperation, the Russian defense minister added.
"This agreement, these accords are being implemented in full," he stressed.
"We hope that we will make amendments to these accords relating to the distance of the movement of aerial vehicles and sea vessels, especially in the areas where we have joint work, joint patrols and joint on-duty missions," he noted.
The Russian defense minister also said he hoped that Italy would accept the proposal to take part in the International Army Games. "I hope for the participation of our colleagues in one of more than 40 contests," he said.


tass--2020-02-18--Putin removes Surkov from presidential aide office

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed an executive order to release Vladislav Surkov from the position of his aide , the Kremlin ’ s press service said .
`` To relieve Vladislav Surkov from the position of the aide to the Russian president , '' the order reads .
The order also notes that it is effective on the day of signing .
Surkov was appointed Putin ’ s aide in September 2013 .
He headed the Russian Presidential Directorate for Social and Economic Cooperation with the Commonwealth of Independent States Member Countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Republic of South Ossetia .
Following the coup d ’ etat in Ukraine in winter 2014 , he was also put in charge of the Ukrainian policy and issues of the Donbass settlement .
He took part in preparations for Normandy Four meetings and was engaging in contacts with the US Department of State representatives on the Ukrainian crisis issues .
Last week , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov revealed that Deputy Chief of the Russian Presidential Staff Dmitry Kozak will now be in charge of the Ukrainian affairs in the Kremlin .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed an executive order to release Vladislav Surkov from the position of his aide, the Kremlin’s press service said.
"To relieve Vladislav Surkov from the position of the aide to the Russian president," the order reads.
The order also notes that it is effective on the day of signing.
Surkov was appointed Putin’s aide in September 2013. He headed the Russian Presidential Directorate for Social and Economic Cooperation with the Commonwealth of Independent States Member Countries, the Republic of Abkhazia, and the Republic of South Ossetia. Following the coup d’etat in Ukraine in winter 2014, he was also put in charge of the Ukrainian policy and issues of the Donbass settlement. He took part in preparations for Normandy Four meetings and was engaging in contacts with the US Department of State representatives on the Ukrainian crisis issues.
Last week, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov revealed that Deputy Chief of the Russian Presidential Staff Dmitry Kozak will now be in charge of the Ukrainian affairs in the Kremlin.


tass--2020-02-18--Foreign, defense ministers of Russia and Italy discuss missile moratorium

`` We have thoroughly discussed strategic stability issues , including the United States ’ withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty , '' he said .
`` We reaffirmed Russia ’ s commitment to refrain from deploying such weapons to certain regions unless similar US missiles are deployed there , which is what Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated on numerous occasions , '' Lavrov added .
ROME , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The foreign and defense ministers of Russia and Italy discussed a moratorium on the deployment of short- and intermediate-range missiles at a `` two-plus-two '' meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lavrov said at a press conference .
Italy has not yet responded to Russia 's proposal on missile moratorium — ambassador According to him , the Russian ministers draw the attention of their Italian counterparts to the fact that the Russian president had called on the leaders of NATO member states and a number of other countries to agree on a moratorium on the deployment of such weapons .
`` Most of them gave no response , '' Lavrov noted , adding that French President Emmanuel Macron had been the only exception .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ out that Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio said recently that Italy saw no reason to reject President Putin ’ s proposal , '' the Russian foreign minister added .
`` We welcome such an approach , '' Lavrov emphasized .

"We have thoroughly discussed strategic stability issues, including the United States’ withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty," he said. "We reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to refrain from deploying such weapons to certain regions unless similar US missiles are deployed there, which is what Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated on numerous occasions," Lavrov added.
ROME, February 18. /TASS/. The foreign and defense ministers of Russia and Italy discussed a moratorium on the deployment of short- and intermediate-range missiles at a "two-plus-two" meeting in Rome, Russian top diplomat Sergey Lavrov said at a press conference.
Italy has not yet responded to Russia's proposal on missile moratorium — ambassador
According to him, the Russian ministers draw the attention of their Italian counterparts to the fact that the Russian president had called on the leaders of NATO member states and a number of other countries to agree on a moratorium on the deployment of such weapons.
"Most of them gave no response," Lavrov noted, adding that French President Emmanuel Macron had been the only exception. "I would also like to point out that Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio said recently that Italy saw no reason to reject President Putin’s proposal," the Russian foreign minister added.
"We welcome such an approach," Lavrov emphasized.


tass--2020-02-18--Russian Baltic Fleet ship leaves Oman in anti-piracy deployment to Indian Ocean

KALININGRAD , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Baltic Fleet guard ship Yaroslav Mudry has wrapped up the program of @ @ @ @ @ port of Salalah in Oman and set off for the Gulf of Aden in its @ @ @ @ @ Ocean , the Fleet ’ s press office reported on Tuesday .
`` The ship @ @ @ @ @ designated area where the support vessels — the Baltic Fleet tanker Yelnya and the sea @ @ @ @ @ waiting for it , '' the press office said in a statement .
During the @ @ @ @ @ at the port of Oman on February 10-18 , the Russian sailors had a rest @ @ @ @ @ fresh water and food supplies .
`` The Yaroslav Mudry will continue implementing its anti-piracy @ @ @ @ @ and solving other tasks in accordance with the plan of its deployment , '' the @ @ @ @

KALININGRAD, February 18. /TASS/. The Baltic Fleet guard ship Yaroslav Mudry has wrapped up the program of its business call at the port of Salalah in Oman and set off for the Gulf of Aden in its anti-piracy deployment to the Indian Ocean, the Fleet’s press office reported on Tuesday.
"The ship has set off for the designated area where the support vessels — the Baltic Fleet tanker Yelnya and the sea tug Viktor Konetsky — are waiting for it," the press office said in a statement.
During the guard ship’s anchorage at the port of Oman on February 10-18, the Russian sailors had a rest and replenished shipborne fuel, fresh water and food supplies.
"The Yaroslav Mudry will continue implementing its anti-piracy mission in the Indian Ocean and solving other tasks in accordance with the plan of its deployment," the press office stressed.


tass--2020-02-18--All 144 people evacuated from Wuhan to Russia confirmed healthy

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
/TASS/ .
All 144 people evacuated from China ’ s Wuhan to the @ @ @ @ @ been confirmed healthy , head of the Tyumen Region Healthcare Department Inna Kulikova told reporters @ @ @ @ @ have received the final results of follow-up tests for coronavirus from the Novosibirsk Research Center @ @ @ @ @ those evacuated from China to Tyumen are healthy , '' the official said .
On @ @ @ @ @ Aerospace Forces ’ aircrafts transported 144 people from China ’ s Wuhan ( capital of @ @ @ @ @ including 128 Russian nationals , along with citizens of Ukraine and the Eurasian Economic Union @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. /TASS/. All 144 people evacuated from China’s Wuhan to the Russian city of Tyumen have been confirmed healthy, head of the Tyumen Region Healthcare Department Inna Kulikova told reporters on Tuesday.
"We have received the final results of follow-up tests for coronavirus from the Novosibirsk Research Center "Vector." All those evacuated from China to Tyumen are healthy," the official said.
On February 5, two Russian Aerospace Forces’ aircrafts transported 144 people from China’s Wuhan (capital of the Hubei province), including 128 Russian nationals, along with citizens of Ukraine and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member states.


tass--2020-02-18--Bulgarian president confirms his visit to Moscow on May 9

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has confirmed his participation in celebrations of the 75th @ @ @ @ @ ’ s victory in the Great Patriotic War ( the Eastern Front during WWII where @ @ @ @ @ ) in Moscow on May 9 , the Kremlin press service said on Tuesday after @ @ @ @ @ with Russian President Vladimir Putin .
`` Bulgaria ’ s head of state confirmed his @ @ @ @ @ the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War in Moscow on May @ @ @ @ @ service said .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has confirmed his participation in celebrations of the 75th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War (the Eastern Front during WWII where Russia fought against Nazi Germany) in Moscow on May 9, the Kremlin press service said on Tuesday after Radev’s telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"Bulgaria’s head of state confirmed his participation in the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War in Moscow on May 9," the press service said.


tass--2020-02-18--Why Russians die of vascular disorders more often than Norwegians

`` The ratio is : eight Russians to one Norwegian aged 40-65 among those who die of cardiovascular diseases , '' the expert said .
ARKHANGELSK , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
At the symposium , dubbed From Heart to Heart , scientists discussed results of research into health conditions of Russians and Norwegians .
Alexander Kudryavtsev of the Northern State Medical University told TASS Russians aged 40-69 die by eight times more often from cardiovascular diseases than Norwegians .
In 2015-2017 , the Learn Your Heart program continued in Arkhangelsk and Novosibirsk .
As many as 2,400 people between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Parallel to that , studies in Norway took place in Tomso .
Since 1974 , the University in Tromso ( the Arctic University of Norway ) continues the Tromso Study program to analyze the population .
The program ’ s another stage was in 2015-2016 .
`` As the Tromso Study and Learn Your Heart programs were completed , we launched the initiative From Heart to Heart to compare results of the studies among Russians and among Norwegians , '' the scientist said .
The key objective was to highlight reasons of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of active working age .
The project also features specialists from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine ( the UK ) , the National Medical Research Center for Preventive Medicine ( Moscow ) , the Center of Physics-Chemical Medicine ( Moscow ) , the Novosibirsk State University , the Academy of Sciences ’ Institute of Therapy and Preventive Medicine , and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research ( Germany ) .
According to Sergi Trias-Llimos of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results could be explained by classical reasons for cardiovascular pathology , like levels of cholesterol , blood pressure , as well as smoking , and diabetes .
Experts used standard methods , adopted by the World Health Organization and saw those factors could explain only 43 % of differences among men and 22 % among women in Russia and Norway , he told TASS .
Sameline Grimsgaard of the University in Tromso said cardiovascular diseases are the main reason for death both in Norway and Russia , though , as a rule , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to her , Norway will use results of the studies to prevent cardiovascular diseases .
At the meeting in Arkhangelsk , experts agreed that both men and women in Russia usually have higher blood pressure than people tested in Norway .
At the same time , many tested Russians said they were taking drugs to lower blood pressure but could not reach desired levels .
`` In this country , those are over-the-counter drugs , '' the Russian expert said , adding some people might be taking them without prior consultations with doctors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is smoking : Russian men smoke more than Norwegians , though scientists say the rates have been going down , including in Arkhangelsk .
The main risk for women , he continued , is overweight or even obesity .
At the same time , Russians and Norwegians have similar lipid profiles .
`` Interestingly , the death rates are so different , but we haven ’ t seen big differences in lipid rates , '' the scientist said .
Russians , however , had higher rates of swelling .
`` They have higher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most sensitive marker of swelling - TASS ) , '' Olena Yakunchikova of the University in Tromso said .
The swelling is a factor , which causes atherosclerosis , experts explained .
Besides , Russians more often than Norwegians have cholesterol plaques in carotid arteries , they said .
Scientists pointed to different approaches in taking drugs .
`` Here is an example : we have much fewer people , who take lipid-lowering drugs , which are statins .
In Norway , many more people take them , especially at the age of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems .
Our patients after heart attacks and strokes usually take drugs to control blood pressure , while their patients control lipids , '' Kudryavtsev said .
The studies will continue .
Currently , Russian and Norwegian specialists compare data on physical activities .
Scientists will also look into other factors , causing cardiovascular diseases .
They have pointed to lower consumption of fruit and vegetables among Russians in comparison with Norwegians .
Researchers continue the so-called follow-up .
`` We have tested everyone once , and were authorized to use their medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` Now we follow up those people to receive updates on diagnoses , and , unfortunately , deaths . ''
The received data , he stressed , could be used by the Russian healthcare system to improve the situation with cardiovascular diseases , including in the Arctic regions .

"The ratio is: eight Russians to one Norwegian aged 40-65 among those who die of cardiovascular diseases," the expert said.
ARKHANGELSK, February 18. /TASS/. At the symposium, dubbed From Heart to Heart, scientists discussed results of research into health conditions of Russians and Norwegians. Alexander Kudryavtsev of the Northern State Medical University told TASS Russians aged 40-69 die by eight times more often from cardiovascular diseases than Norwegians.
In 2015-2017, the Learn Your Heart program continued in Arkhangelsk and Novosibirsk. As many as 2,400 people between 35 and 69 underwent tests in Arkhangelsk. Parallel to that, studies in Norway took place in Tomso. Since 1974, the University in Tromso (the Arctic University of Norway) continues the Tromso Study program to analyze the population. The program’s another stage was in 2015-2016.
"As the Tromso Study and Learn Your Heart programs were completed, we launched the initiative From Heart to Heart to compare results of the studies among Russians and among Norwegians," the scientist said.
The key objective was to highlight reasons of high mortality of cardiovascular diseases among Russians of active working age. The project also features specialists from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (the UK), the National Medical Research Center for Preventive Medicine (Moscow), the Center of Physics-Chemical Medicine (Moscow), the Novosibirsk State University, the Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Therapy and Preventive Medicine, and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (Germany).
Smoking, overweight and others problems
According to Sergi Trias-Llimos of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, only a certain part of results could be explained by classical reasons for cardiovascular pathology, like levels of cholesterol, blood pressure, as well as smoking, and diabetes. Experts used standard methods, adopted by the World Health Organization and saw those factors could explain only 43% of differences among men and 22% among women in Russia and Norway, he told TASS.
Sameline Grimsgaard of the University in Tromso said cardiovascular diseases are the main reason for death both in Norway and Russia, though, as a rule, Norwegians die at older ages. According to her, Norway will use results of the studies to prevent cardiovascular diseases.
At the meeting in Arkhangelsk, experts agreed that both men and women in Russia usually have higher blood pressure than people tested in Norway. At the same time, many tested Russians said they were taking drugs to lower blood pressure but could not reach desired levels.
"In this country, those are over-the-counter drugs," the Russian expert said, adding some people might be taking them without prior consultations with doctors. Another important risk factor among men is smoking: Russian men smoke more than Norwegians, though scientists say the rates have been going down, including in Arkhangelsk. The main risk for women, he continued, is overweight or even obesity.
Cholesterol and swelling indicators
At the same time, Russians and Norwegians have similar lipid profiles. "Interestingly, the death rates are so different, but we haven’t seen big differences in lipid rates," the scientist said.
Russians, however, had higher rates of swelling. "They have higher CRP rates (blood protein, a most sensitive marker of swelling - TASS)," Olena Yakunchikova of the University in Tromso said. The swelling is a factor, which causes atherosclerosis, experts explained.
Besides, Russians more often than Norwegians have cholesterol plaques in carotid arteries, they said.
Scientists pointed to different approaches in taking drugs. "Here is an example: we have much fewer people, who take lipid-lowering drugs, which are statins. In Norway, many more people take them, especially at the age of 40 plus, who have experienced vascular problems. Our patients after heart attacks and strokes usually take drugs to control blood pressure, while their patients control lipids," Kudryavtsev said.
Further studies
The studies will continue. Currently, Russian and Norwegian specialists compare data on physical activities.
Scientists will also look into other factors, causing cardiovascular diseases. They have pointed to lower consumption of fruit and vegetables among Russians in comparison with Norwegians.
Researchers continue the so-called follow-up. "We have tested everyone once, and were authorized to use their medical data for scientific purposes," Kudryavtsev said. "Now we follow up those people to receive updates on diagnoses, and, unfortunately, deaths." The received data, he stressed, could be used by the Russian healthcare system to improve the situation with cardiovascular diseases, including in the Arctic regions.


tass--2020-02-18--Russian-Italian bilateral mechanisms working more and more steadily — Lavrov

ROME , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russia and Italy are beginning to resume bilateral contacts and these contacts are @ @ @ @ @ , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday after talks in the 2+2 format @ @ @ @ @ and foreign ministers .
`` During our bilateral meeting with [ Italian Foreign ] Minister @ @ @ @ @ spoke about major aspects of our bilateral agenda in the light of the agreements reached @ @ @ @ @ We discussed a schedule for political contacts and the work of mechanisms established between our @ @ @ @ @ quite steadily , '' he said .

ROME, February 18. /TASS/. Russia and Italy are beginning to resume bilateral contacts and these contacts are becoming more and more stable, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday after talks in the 2+2 format involving Russian and Italian defense and foreign ministers.
"During our bilateral meeting with [Italian Foreign] Minister Luigi Di Maio, we spoke about major aspects of our bilateral agenda in the light of the agreements reached at the top level. We discussed a schedule for political contacts and the work of mechanisms established between our countries, which is resuming quite steadily," he said.


tass--2020-02-18--Hearts of gold: Most Russians consider themselves ‘good people’, says poll

`` Three-quarters of our compatriots ( 76 % ) consider themselves kind with varying degrees of confidence .
More often , women ( 82 % ) , as well as young people aged 25-34 ( 82 % ) and middle-aged respondents aged 35-44 ( 81 % ) , the study says .
MOSCOW , February 18 .
/ TASS / .
Three-quarters ( 76 % ) of Russian people polled by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center ( VTsIOM ) see themselves as good-natured individuals , the survey center said in its report on Tuesday , dedicated to World Kindness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they keep company with as good people ( 75 % ) .
In addition , almost two-thirds of Russians ( 64 % ) say that others often show kindness towards them .
At the same time , one out of ten respondents ( 11 % ) most likely does not see themselves as a good person , and clearly , 4 % could not call themselves good .
According to 28 % of those polled , a ‘ kind ’ person is someone who is always ready to help others .
Another 27 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsive , not indifferent to others and have the ability to sympathize .
At the same time , the majority of respondents ( 72 % ) believe that those who show kindness exclusively to their loved ones , but not to other people , can not be considered kind people .
The VTsIOM-Sputnik survey was conducted on February 15 , 2020 .
The survey involved 1,600 Russians over the age of 18 years ; the maximum error margin with a probability of 95 % does not exceed 2.5 % .

"Three-quarters of our compatriots (76%) consider themselves kind with varying degrees of confidence. More often, women (82%), as well as young people aged 25-34 (82%) and middle-aged respondents aged 35-44 (81%), the study says.
MOSCOW, February 18. / TASS /. Three-quarters (76%) of Russian people polled by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VTsIOM) see themselves as good-natured individuals, the survey center said in its report on Tuesday, dedicated to World Kindness Day.
Respondents also characterized those that they keep company with as good people (75%). In addition, almost two-thirds of Russians (64%) say that others often show kindness towards them. At the same time, one out of ten respondents (11%) most likely does not see themselves as a good person, and clearly, 4% could not call themselves good.
According to 28% of those polled, a ‘kind’ person is someone who is always ready to help others. Another 27% believe that good people should be responsive, not indifferent to others and have the ability to sympathize. At the same time, the majority of respondents (72%) believe that those who show kindness exclusively to their loved ones, but not to other people, cannot be considered kind people.
The VTsIOM-Sputnik survey was conducted on February 15, 2020. The survey involved 1,600 Russians over the age of 18 years; the maximum error margin with a probability of 95% does not exceed 2.5%.


tass--2020-02-18--Experts: Tax benefits in Arctic regions are attractive for big companies

TASS , February 18 .
New tax benefits for investors in the Arctic are aimed mostly at big mining companies .
Benefits for new investors will favor development of small and medium businesses in the Arctic and improvement of infrastructures , experts and representatives of the Arctic regions told TASS .
Earlier , Russian legislators supported amendments to the Tax Code , introducing benefits for investors in new projects in the Arctic .
Quite many preferences would be offered to mining companies .
The suggested changes offer a residential status to Arctic businesses , investing at least 10 million rubles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The status means certain tax and non-tax preferences , including optional free customs zones , easier formalities to obtain land , limited inspections , and protection at court .
The amendments offer to lower to 5 % the tax on extraction of mineral resources for 15 years for offshore production of oil , and to lower to 0 % the tax for LNG and gas chemistry for 12 years , as well as for new East Arctic oil provinces from the 13th to the 17th year .
`` The bill is aimed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The measures will surely attract investments in the Arctic zone , and first of all in the mining sector , '' Yakutia ’ s Ministers of Economy Maya Danilova told TASS .
She mentioned a few projects in the region , which could be interesting for major investors : development of the Ruchey Tirekhtyakh deposit , production of tin concentrate for further processing , a project to develop the world 's largest deposit of rare earth metals , Tomtor in the Olenek district , where estimated recoverable resources make 154 million tons of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regions say their further economic growth is impossible without big projects .
For example , Vorkuta ( the Komi Region ) focuses on new coal production facilities .
`` This way , the locals will have jobs , we shall attract new qualified staff , will have bigger tax payments , develop new fields , will promote public-private partnership , '' the city ’ s official Svetlana Chicherina said .
Big businesses make the first step , small and medium - follow suit The surveyed experts agree small and medium businesses will follow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Arctic by the new benefits .
`` In the climate conditions and the narrow market in the North it very complicated to develop small businesses , '' an expert of the Business Russia non-governmental organization , Viktor Zubarev , told TASS .
`` Big corporates are locomotives there - any big project is a trigger for many , first of all service , small companies . ''
He mentioned a coal-production project , which includes building a town for workers , electricity power plants , port facilities , and an airport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` A few hundred people will live there , thus attracting small businesses : suppliers of local food products , or service companies , '' he said .
Deputy speaker of the Nenets Autonomous Region ’ s legislative body , Matvey Chuprov , stressed the bill lacked information on communities of the North ’ s low-numbered indigenous peoples , `` that are not commercial organizations , but they work in traditional sectors , and the minimum of 10 million rubles could be affordable , thus the communities could enjoy the benefits . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Arctic , the Murmansk Region ’ s Minister of Economic Development Tatyana Russkova told TASS .
`` The biggest problem which hinders the Arctic ’ s development is the lacking infrastructure , '' expert Sergei Khrushchev said .

TASS, February 18. New tax benefits for investors in the Arctic are aimed mostly at big mining companies. Benefits for new investors will favor development of small and medium businesses in the Arctic and improvement of infrastructures, experts and representatives of the Arctic regions told TASS.
Earlier, Russian legislators supported amendments to the Tax Code, introducing benefits for investors in new projects in the Arctic. Quite many preferences would be offered to mining companies. The suggested changes offer a residential status to Arctic businesses, investing at least 10 million rubles ($156,000) in new projects. The status means certain tax and non-tax preferences, including optional free customs zones, easier formalities to obtain land, limited inspections, and protection at court.
Big investments
The amendments offer to lower to 5% the tax on extraction of mineral resources for 15 years for offshore production of oil, and to lower to 0% the tax for LNG and gas chemistry for 12 years, as well as for new East Arctic oil provinces from the 13th to the 17th year. "The bill is aimed at big taxpayers. (…) The measures will surely attract investments in the Arctic zone, and first of all in the mining sector," Yakutia’s Ministers of Economy Maya Danilova told TASS.
She mentioned a few projects in the region, which could be interesting for major investors: development of the Ruchey Tirekhtyakh deposit, production of tin concentrate for further processing, a project to develop the world's largest deposit of rare earth metals, Tomtor in the Olenek district, where estimated recoverable resources make 154 million tons of ore, and some others.
Many regions say their further economic growth is impossible without big projects. For example, Vorkuta (the Komi Region) focuses on new coal production facilities. "This way, the locals will have jobs, we shall attract new qualified staff, will have bigger tax payments, develop new fields, will promote public-private partnership," the city’s official Svetlana Chicherina said.
Big businesses make the first step, small and medium - follow suit
The surveyed experts agree small and medium businesses will follow big companies, which will be attracted to the Arctic by the new benefits. "In the climate conditions and the narrow market in the North it very complicated to develop small businesses," an expert of the Business Russia non-governmental organization, Viktor Zubarev, told TASS. "Big corporates are locomotives there - any big project is a trigger for many, first of all service, small companies."
He mentioned a coal-production project, which includes building a town for workers, electricity power plants, port facilities, and an airport, which can serve long-haul aircraft. "A few hundred people will live there, thus attracting small businesses: suppliers of local food products, or service companies," he said.
Deputy speaker of the Nenets Autonomous Region’s legislative body, Matvey Chuprov, stressed the bill lacked information on communities of the North’s low-numbered indigenous peoples, "that are not commercial organizations, but they work in traditional sectors, and the minimum of 10 million rubles could be affordable, thus the communities could enjoy the benefits."
The importance of infrastructures
Benefits only cannot attract investors to the Arctic, the Murmansk Region’s Minister of Economic Development Tatyana Russkova told TASS.
"The biggest problem which hinders the Arctic’s development is the lacking infrastructure," expert Sergei Khrushchev said.


tass--2020-02-18--US imposes sanctions against Rosneft Trading

Rosneft has not yet been available for comments .
Sanctions against Rosneft Trading , S.A. do not apply to the parent company .
`` Today the Treasury Department has taken action against the Russian oil brokerage firm Rosneft Trading , S.A and its President Didier Casimiro for brokering the sale of Venezuelan oil globally on behalf of the illegitimate [ Nicolas ] Maduro regime , '' she said .
WASHINGTON , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The United States introduces sanctions against Rosneft Trading , S.A and its President Didier Casimiro linked to sales of oil from Venezuela , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday .
Share of US oil on the market being increased more via political methods , says Rosneft CEO Assets of Rosneft Trading , S.A and its President Didier Casimiro in the United States will be blocked in view of Washington ’ s decision to impose sanctions on the company , the official added .
`` As a result of today ’ s actions , all property and interest in property of Rosneft Trading , S.A. and Didier Casimiro in the United States < … > will be blocked , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide 90 days for countries and companies to complete their transactions with Rosneft Trading , she added .
The United States informed Russia in advance of its intention to impose sanctions on Rosneft Trading , S.A. , and its president , Didier Casimiro , in connection with the sale of oil from Venezuela , as specified by the interlocutor .
`` I would only add that US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday in Munich , and they discussed this .
And the US ambassador @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Minister of Finance Siluanov , to discuss this , '' the moderator said .
The United States will continue to engage with Russia on Venezuela , despite sanctions against Rosneft Trading , S.A. , a high ranking US official announced on Tuesday , during a telephone briefing for journalists .
According to the latter , the Secretary of State Michael Pompeo made it clear that the Russian presence in Venezuela is not welcomed by the people of Venezuela , and gave Russia a warning with this specific action .
He added that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia , in order to convey their concern about the continued support for a non-viable regime , while at the same time offering a way out of the situation , if Russia seeks a constructive cooperation for the sake of a more democratic future for Venezuela .
The situation in Venezuela escalated on January 23 , 2019 , after opposition leader Juan Guaido , whose appointment to the post of speaker of the parliament two days earlier was canceled by the Supreme Court , declared himself acting president .
The United States recognized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as joined by the countries of the Lima Group ( with the exception of Mexico ) , the Organization of American States and most countries of the European Union .
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called the incident an attempted coup and announced the severance of diplomatic relations with the United States .
Russia , Belarus , Bolivia , Iran , China , Cuba , Nicaragua , Syria and Turkey spoke out in his support .

Rosneft has not yet been available for comments. Sanctions against Rosneft Trading, S.A. do not apply to the parent company.
"Today the Treasury Department has taken action against the Russian oil brokerage firm Rosneft Trading, S.A and its President Didier Casimiro for brokering the sale of Venezuelan oil globally on behalf of the illegitimate [Nicolas] Maduro regime," she said.
WASHINGTON, February 18. /TASS/. The United States introduces sanctions against Rosneft Trading, S.A and its President Didier Casimiro linked to sales of oil from Venezuela, a high-ranking official of the US Administration said on Tuesday.
Share of US oil on the market being increased more via political methods, says Rosneft CEO
Assets of Rosneft Trading, S.A and its President Didier Casimiro in the United States will be blocked in view of Washington’s decision to impose sanctions on the company, the official added.
"As a result of today’s actions, all property and interest in property of Rosneft Trading, S.A. and Didier Casimiro in the United States <…> will be blocked," the official said.
The United States will provide 90 days for countries and companies to complete their transactions with Rosneft Trading, she added.
The United States informed Russia in advance of its intention to impose sanctions on Rosneft Trading, S.A., and its president, Didier Casimiro, in connection with the sale of oil from Venezuela, as specified by the interlocutor.
"I would only add that US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday in Munich, and they discussed this. And the US ambassador in Moscow John Sullivan yesterday met with the Minister of Finance Siluanov, to discuss this," the moderator said.
Interaction with Russia
The United States will continue to engage with Russia on Venezuela, despite sanctions against Rosneft Trading, S.A., a high ranking US official announced on Tuesday, during a telephone briefing for journalists.
According to the latter, the Secretary of State Michael Pompeo made it clear that the Russian presence in Venezuela is not welcomed by the people of Venezuela, and gave Russia a warning with this specific action. He added that the US would continue to work with Russia, in order to convey their concern about the continued support for a non-viable regime, while at the same time offering a way out of the situation, if Russia seeks a constructive cooperation for the sake of a more democratic future for Venezuela.
The situation in Venezuela escalated on January 23, 2019, after opposition leader Juan Guaido, whose appointment to the post of speaker of the parliament two days earlier was canceled by the Supreme Court, declared himself acting president. The United States recognized him as the interim head of state as joined by the countries of the Lima Group (with the exception of Mexico), the Organization of American States and most countries of the European Union.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called the incident an attempted coup and announced the severance of diplomatic relations with the United States. Russia, Belarus, Bolivia, Iran, China, Cuba, Nicaragua, Syria and Turkey spoke out in his support.


tass--2020-02-18--Two northern settlements in Krasnoyarsk Region to enjoy satellite communication

KRASNOYARSK , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Ust-Avam and Yessei settlements in the Krasnoyarsk Region , mostly inhabited by the North ’ s low-numbered indigenous peoples , will be for the first time connected to satellite networks , the region ’ s Minister for Digital Development Nikolai Raspopin told reporters .
`` This year , in August-September , satellite communication will be available in those settlements , '' he said .
`` We [ also ] plan to try providing access to the Internet .
Clearly , downloading movies will be hardly possible , but at least messengers , sites @ @ @ @ @ @ @ settlements presently do not have any communication at all . ''
Communication towers will appear near those settlements , the minister informed .
In 2020 , the region will build 18 communication towers for more than 30 settlements .
`` The North ’ s settlements participate in a test program , and if we see it works , we shall carry on with it , '' the official stated .
In 2019 , the region ’ s 38 settlements , where about 11,000 people live , received communication services .
Ust-Avam is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 300 people , mostly the Dolgans and Nganasans .
Yessei is in the northern Evenkiysky District .
The population is more than 600 people .
They are mostly Yessei Yakuts .

KRASNOYARSK, February 18. /TASS/. Ust-Avam and Yessei settlements in the Krasnoyarsk Region, mostly inhabited by the North’s low-numbered indigenous peoples, will be for the first time connected to satellite networks, the region’s Minister for Digital Development Nikolai Raspopin told reporters.
"This year, in August-September, satellite communication will be available in those settlements," he said. "We [also] plan to try providing access to the Internet. Clearly, downloading movies will be hardly possible, but at least messengers, sites [will be accessible]. Those settlements presently do not have any communication at all."
Communication towers will appear near those settlements, the minister informed.
In 2020, the region will build 18 communication towers for more than 30 settlements. "The North’s settlements participate in a test program, and if we see it works, we shall carry on with it," the official stated.
In 2019, the region’s 38 settlements, where about 11,000 people live, received communication services.
Ust-Avam is a settlement on Taimyr with a population of more than 300 people, mostly the Dolgans and Nganasans. Yessei is in the northern Evenkiysky District. The population is more than 600 people. They are mostly Yessei Yakuts.


tass--2020-02-18--Russia, Zambia will find options to finance construction of nuclear center — official

`` Now the start of the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology has been suspended due to financial issues .
I would like to say that your request submitted to the Russian president last autumn is being carefully considered by our ministries and departments .
I ’ m confident that jointly we will find options to promote funding to roll out the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology , '' she said .
LUSAKA , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russia and Zambia will find options for financing nuclear science and technology in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Federation Council ( upper chamber of the Russian parliament ) Valentina Matvienko said at a meeting with Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu on Tuesday .
According to the Russian official , at the moment there are all conditions for the development of cooperation on high technologies between Russia and Zambia .
She called the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology a priority bilateral project .
`` Since the signing of the agreement in 2017 , a lot of work has been done .
We know that Zambia considers the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and technology as the first step in the development of the peaceful use of the atom and plans to consider the construction of a nuclear power plant in the future .
Of course , this will qualitatively change the economy of Zambia : not only it will be able to fully meet its electricity needs , but also to export it to other countries , `` Matvienko continued .
Rosatom and the Republic of Zambia signed a general contract for the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology , the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the field of nuclear technologies , in May 2018 .
In 2017 , Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom and the Zambian government concluded a number of agreements for the development of nuclear sector in Zambia .
In particular , they inked an agreement on cooperation in the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology , the first joint project of the two countries in the field of nuclear technologies .

"Now the start of the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology has been suspended due to financial issues. I would like to say that your request submitted to the Russian president last autumn is being carefully considered by our ministries and departments. I’m confident that jointly we will find options to promote funding to roll out the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology," she said.
LUSAKA, February 18. /TASS/. Russia and Zambia will find options for financing nuclear science and technology in the African country, speaker of Russia’s Federation Council (upper chamber of the Russian parliament) Valentina Matvienko said at a meeting with Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu on Tuesday.
According to the Russian official, at the moment there are all conditions for the development of cooperation on high technologies between Russia and Zambia. She called the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology a priority bilateral project.
"Since the signing of the agreement in 2017, a lot of work has been done. We know that Zambia considers the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology as the first step in the development of the peaceful use of the atom and plans to consider the construction of a nuclear power plant in the future. Of course, this will qualitatively change the economy of Zambia: not only it will be able to fully meet its electricity needs, but also to export it to other countries, " Matvienko continued.
Rosatom and the Republic of Zambia signed a general contract for the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology, the first joint project of the two countries in the field of nuclear technologies, in May 2018.
In 2017, Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom and the Zambian government concluded a number of agreements for the development of nuclear sector in Zambia. In particular, they inked an agreement on cooperation in the construction of a center for nuclear science and technology, the first joint project of the two countries in the field of nuclear technologies.


tass--2020-02-18--Russia’s FSB prevents teens from carrying out two terrorist attacks in Crimea

MOSCOW , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s Federal Security Service has identified two teenagers who plotted terrorist attacks on education facilities in the Crimean city of Kerch , the FSB said in a statement on Tuesday .
`` The FSB branch in Kerch has prevented two local residents , born in 2003 and 2004 , from carrying out terrorist attacks on two education facilities .
The two are followers of Vladislav Roslyakov , who killed 20 people at the Kerch Polytechnic College in October 2018 , '' the statement reads .
`` Homemade explosive devices and substances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ purchased online , have been seized from their homes .
The teenagers tested the trial versions of their explosive devices on pets , '' the FSB added .
According to the statement , `` in November 2018 , a preventive conversation with one of the detained teens was held over the latter 's positive comments to posts about the crimes , but nevertheless , he later joined an online neo-Nazi community , of which the above mentioned Vladislav Roslyakov used to be a member . ''
The FSB figured out that the teenagers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and searched the Internet for guidelines to create improvised explosive devices , as well as for plans of buildings . ''
They were also admins for the so-called death groups on social media and messaging services , instigating users to commit similar crimes .
The FSB noted that a criminal case is expected to be opened under Articles 30 and 205 of the Russian Criminal Code .
Meanwhile , a teenager who maintained online contact with the two and had information about their plans has been questioned in the Kurgan Region .

MOSCOW, February 18. /TASS/. Russia’s Federal Security Service has identified two teenagers who plotted terrorist attacks on education facilities in the Crimean city of Kerch, the FSB said in a statement on Tuesday.
"The FSB branch in Kerch has prevented two local residents, born in 2003 and 2004, from carrying out terrorist attacks on two education facilities. The two are followers of Vladislav Roslyakov, who killed 20 people at the Kerch Polytechnic College in October 2018," the statement reads.
"Homemade explosive devices and substances used for producing explosives, which were purchased online, have been seized from their homes. The teenagers tested the trial versions of their explosive devices on pets," the FSB added.
According to the statement, "in November 2018, a preventive conversation with one of the detained teens was held over the latter's positive comments to posts about the crimes, but nevertheless, he later joined an online neo-Nazi community, of which the above mentioned Vladislav Roslyakov used to be a member."
The FSB figured out that the teenagers "masterminded plans for armed robberies, and searched the Internet for guidelines to create improvised explosive devices, as well as for plans of buildings." They were also admins for the so-called death groups on social media and messaging services, instigating users to commit similar crimes.
The FSB noted that a criminal case is expected to be opened under Articles 30 and 205 of the Russian Criminal Code.
Meanwhile, a teenager who maintained online contact with the two and had information about their plans has been questioned in the Kurgan Region.


tass--2020-02-18--Second Russian hospitalized over coronavirus concerns aboard Diamond Princess

`` The Japanese side has specified the reports of infected Russian nationals on board the Diamond Princess .
According to the explanations we have been given , the spouse of the Russian woman who was suspected to have COVID-19 as of February 17 has been diagnosed with the virus , '' the embassy informed .
TOKYO , February 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Japanese government has confirmed that only one Russian national is infected with coronavirus on the Diamond Princess cruise ship , the Russian Embassy in Tokyo informed on Tuesday .
The embassy added that the man is currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aichi Prefecture .
His wife , who was reported to be infected earlier , has been hospitalized in Kanagawa Prefecture due to a high risk of having contracted the disease .
On Tuesday , the Japanese Health Ministry informed that 88 passengers of the Diamond Princess cruise ship , quarantined in the Japanese port of Yokohama , had been diagnosed with coronavirus .
The total number of people infected on the ship has reached 542 .
On Monday , one Russian citizen was diagnosed with coronavirus , which was the first confirmed case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Princess .
On December 31 , Chinese authorities informed the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about an outbreak of an unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan — a large trade and industrial center in central China populated by 11 million people .
The source of the outbreak is the COVID-19 coronavirus .
Cases of coronavirus have been documented in at least 25 countries , including Russia .
WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak in China a global health emergency .
Currently , the total number of people infected with coronavirus exceeds 72,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Meanwhile , approximately 12,500 people are said to have recovered .

"The Japanese side has specified the reports of infected Russian nationals on board the Diamond Princess. According to the explanations we have been given, the spouse of the Russian woman who was suspected to have COVID-19 as of February 17 has been diagnosed with the virus," the embassy informed.
TOKYO, February 18. /TASS/. The Japanese government has confirmed that only one Russian national is infected with coronavirus on the Diamond Princess cruise ship, the Russian Embassy in Tokyo informed on Tuesday.
The embassy added that the man is currently held at a special medical facility in Aichi Prefecture. His wife, who was reported to be infected earlier, has been hospitalized in Kanagawa Prefecture due to a high risk of having contracted the disease.
On Tuesday, the Japanese Health Ministry informed that 88 passengers of the Diamond Princess cruise ship, quarantined in the Japanese port of Yokohama, had been diagnosed with coronavirus. The total number of people infected on the ship has reached 542.
On Monday, one Russian citizen was diagnosed with coronavirus, which was the first confirmed case among Russian nationals on board the Diamond Princess.
On December 31, Chinese authorities informed the World Health Organization (WHO) about an outbreak of an unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan — a large trade and industrial center in central China populated by 11 million people. The source of the outbreak is the COVID-19 coronavirus. Cases of coronavirus have been documented in at least 25 countries, including Russia. WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak in China a global health emergency.
Currently, the total number of people infected with coronavirus exceeds 72,000 in China with over 1,800 reported deaths. Meanwhile, approximately 12,500 people are said to have recovered.