tass--2020-03-21--China’s experience gives hope for defeating coronavirus pandemic — WHO

GENEVA , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Chinese Wuhan ’ s experience of pushing back the novel coronavirus gives hope that the pandemic can be stopped , Director General of the World Health Organization ( WHO ) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a briefing on Friday .
`` Yesterday , Wuhan , China , reported no new cases for the first time since the COVID19 outbreak started .
Wuhan provides hope for the rest of the world , that even the most severe situation can be turned around , '' he said .
`` Of course , we must exercise caution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the experience of cities and countries that have pushed back this coronavirus give hope and courage to the rest of the world , '' he said .
The WHO chief recalled that the coronavirus hits most older people .
But , in his words , `` younger people are not spared . ''
He called for solidarity among people of various ages to defeat the disease .
`` Solidarity is the key to defeating COVID19 - solidarity between countries , but also between age groups , '' he stressed .
He also spoke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal protective equipment .
In this connection , he said talks were underway with Chinese manufacturers .
`` We ’ re currently finalizing the arrangements and coordinating shipments so we can refill our warehouse to ship personal protective equipment to whoever needs it most , '' he said , adding that WHO was working to increase the supply of diagnostic tests .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously known as 2019-nCoV ) was reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan , a large trade and industrial center with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 140 countries and territories , including Russia , which by now has 253 cases .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 240,000 , with more than 10,000 deaths .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .
In order to keep the citizens updated on the coronavirus situation in Russia , the government has launched a @ @ @ @ @ @

GENEVA, March 20. /TASS/. Chinese Wuhan’s experience of pushing back the novel coronavirus gives hope that the pandemic can be stopped, Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a briefing on Friday.
"Yesterday, Wuhan, China, reported no new cases for the first time since the COVID19 outbreak started. Wuhan provides hope for the rest of the world, that even the most severe situation can be turned around," he said.
"Of course, we must exercise caution - the situation can reverse. But the experience of cities and countries that have pushed back this coronavirus give hope and courage to the rest of the world," he said.
The WHO chief recalled that the coronavirus hits most older people. But, in his words, "younger people are not spared." He called for solidarity among people of various ages to defeat the disease. "Solidarity is the key to defeating COVID19 - solidarity between countries, but also between age groups," he stressed.
He also spoke about problems with supplying health workers with personal protective equipment. In this connection, he said talks were underway with Chinese manufacturers. "We’re currently finalizing the arrangements and coordinating shipments so we can refill our warehouse to ship personal protective equipment to whoever needs it most," he said, adding that WHO was working to increase the supply of diagnostic tests.
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV) was reported in China’s city of Wuhan, a large trade and industrial center with a population of 12 million, in late December 2019. Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported from more than 140 countries and territories, including Russia, which by now has 253 cases. The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 240,000, with more than 10,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic. In order to keep the citizens updated on the coronavirus situation in Russia, the government has launched a website at http://···············.··.


tass--2020-03-21--Central Bank to reduce burden on Russian companies amid coronavirus pandemic

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The Bank of Russia suggests that a number of measures to reduce the burden on Russian companies be implemented amid the coronavirus pandemic and a sharp drop of oil prices , particularly proposals to change the corporate legislation , according to a statement released on the regulator ’ s website on Friday .
`` Those changes will allow adjusting the requirements on the date and formats of information disclosure , corporate actions to the current situation , keeping the necessary level of shareholders ’ interests protection , '' the statement said .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be allowed to increase the terms of holding corporate procedures , as well as not to take into account the financial results of operations in 2020 from the viewpoint of the ratio of the cost of net assets to equity capital .
`` A special refinancing program of the Bank of Russia , along with regulatory exemptions , will help companies keep access to bank loans and avoid financial insolvency amid decreasing revenues as a result of the pandemic , '' the regulator noted , adding that small-and medium-sized business are `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economy amid the pandemic .
`` .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The Bank of Russia suggests that a number of measures to reduce the burden on Russian companies be implemented amid the coronavirus pandemic and a sharp drop of oil prices, particularly proposals to change the corporate legislation, according to a statement released on the regulator’s website on Friday.
"Those changes will allow adjusting the requirements on the date and formats of information disclosure, corporate actions to the current situation, keeping the necessary level of shareholders’ interests protection," the statement said.
For example, it is suggested that companies will be allowed to increase the terms of holding corporate procedures, as well as not to take into account the financial results of operations in 2020 from the viewpoint of the ratio of the cost of net assets to equity capital.
"A special refinancing program of the Bank of Russia, along with regulatory exemptions, will help companies keep access to bank loans and avoid financial insolvency amid decreasing revenues as a result of the pandemic," the regulator noted, adding that small-and medium-sized business are "one of the most vulnerable sectors of the economy amid the pandemic.".


tass--2020-03-21--OPEC to continue talks on oil issue with US regulator

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
OPEC Secretary General Mohammad Barkindo held telephone talks with the Texas Railroad Commission late on Friday , March 20 , a source in the secretariat told TASS , adding that the sides agreed to continue consultations .
Later the commissioner Ryan Sitton confirmed the information via Twitter .
`` A telephone conference with US colleagues just ended .
A successful conversation , very fruitful .
Agreed to continue , '' the source said , adding no details .
The sides discussed global supply and demand , Sitton said .
`` We all agree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure economic stability as we recover from COVID-19 , '' he wrote on Twitter .
Barkindo invited Sitton to the next OPEC meeting in June in Vienna , he added .
The Wall Street Journal wrote earlier that Texas , the largest US state in terms of oil production , is considering the option of crude output reduction amid falling oil prices .
Texas has not cut production since the 1970s .
Crude prices nosedived after Russia and Saudi Arabia failed to agree an extension of crude production cuts after March 2020 when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the former allies intend to substantially boost production in April , which market observers have already dubbed a price war .
As of March 20 , the price of futures contracts of Brent crude oil dropped below $ 29 per barrel , while the price of futures contracts of North American WTI crude oil is down below $ 25 per barrel .
Texas is the center of the US shale oil production .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. OPEC Secretary General Mohammad Barkindo held telephone talks with the Texas Railroad Commission late on Friday, March 20, a source in the secretariat told TASS, adding that the sides agreed to continue consultations. Later the commissioner Ryan Sitton confirmed the information via Twitter.
"A telephone conference with US colleagues just ended. A successful conversation, very fruitful. Agreed to continue," the source said, adding no details.
The sides discussed global supply and demand, Sitton said. "We all agree an international deal must get done to ensure economic stability as we recover from COVID-19," he wrote on Twitter.
Barkindo invited Sitton to the next OPEC meeting in June in Vienna, he added.
The Wall Street Journal wrote earlier that Texas, the largest US state in terms of oil production, is considering the option of crude output reduction amid falling oil prices. Texas has not cut production since the 1970s.
Crude prices nosedived after Russia and Saudi Arabia failed to agree an extension of crude production cuts after March 2020 when the current agreements expire. Moreover, the former allies intend to substantially boost production in April, which market observers have already dubbed a price war. As of March 20, the price of futures contracts of Brent crude oil dropped below $29 per barrel, while the price of futures contracts of North American WTI crude oil is down below $25 per barrel. Texas is the center of the US shale oil production.


tass--2020-03-21--Foreigners can extend Russian visas amid coronavirus pandemic, says Foreign Ministry

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Foreign nationals can extend their Russian visas due to the coronavirus situation , @ @ @ @ @ s consular department said in a statement .
According to the statement , visas will @ @ @ @ @ purpose of the visit to Russia .
Foreign nationals who don ’ t need a @ @ @ @ @ extend the period of their stay in the country .
The Russian Foreign Ministry said @ @ @ @ @ would be provided with an opportunity to extend their stay in Russia .
In order @ @ @ @ @ need to file a request with the nearest office of the Interior Ministry .
Besides @ @ @ @ @ work permit applications from foreign nationals , the ministry added .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Foreign nationals can extend their Russian visas due to the coronavirus situation, the Russian Foreign Ministry’s consular department said in a statement.
According to the statement, visas will be extended regardless of the purpose of the visit to Russia. Foreign nationals who don’t need a visa will be able to extend the period of their stay in the country.
The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that foreign visitors would be provided with an opportunity to extend their stay in Russia. In order to do it, they need to file a request with the nearest office of the Interior Ministry. Besides, authorities will resume receiving work permit applications from foreign nationals, the ministry added.


tass--2020-03-20--Sanctions particularly harmful amid pandemic, says German lawmaker

BERLIN , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Restrictions are particularly harmful amid the current pandemic , Chairman of the German @ @ @ @ @ and Energy Klaus Ernst , who represents the Left Party , told TASS on Friday @ @ @ @ @ are particularly harmful in the current situation .
After all , we need to boost @ @ @ @ @ country can effectively combat the coronavirus .
Even without the pandemic crisis , sanctions on @ @ @ @ @ us far , '' he pointed out .
In 2014 , the European Union imposed @ @ @ @ @ situation in Ukraine and Crimea ’ s reunification with Russia .
Talks on waiving visas @ @ @ @ @ cooperation agreement were suspended .
Some Russian officials were barred from entering EU counties , @ @ @ @ @ Besides , trade , financial and military restrictions were also introduced .
In response , @ @ @ @ @ a number of food products from EU countries .

BERLIN, March 20. /TASS/. Restrictions are particularly harmful amid the current pandemic, Chairman of the German Bundestag Committee on Economic Affairs and Energy Klaus Ernst, who represents the Left Party, told TASS on Friday.
"Definitely, sanctions are particularly harmful in the current situation. After all, we need to boost global cooperation so that every country can effectively combat the coronavirus. Even without the pandemic crisis, sanctions on Russia won’t take us far," he pointed out.
In 2014, the European Union imposed sanctions on Moscow over the situation in Ukraine and Crimea’s reunification with Russia. Talks on waiving visas and negotiations on a new cooperation agreement were suspended. Some Russian officials were barred from entering EU counties, their assets were frozen. Besides, trade, financial and military restrictions were also introduced. In response, Russia banned the import of a number of food products from EU countries.


tass--2020-03-20--Putin gives award to Russian ambassador in Iraq for role in evacuating children

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed an order awarding a certificate of honor to Russian Ambassador in Iraq Maxim Maximov for his role in evacuating Russian children from Baghdad .
The order has been published on the official website containing legal information .
`` Russian Ambassador to Iraq Maxim Maximov is hereby awarded a certificate of honor for the successful implementation of a humanitarian mission to evacuate underage Russian nationals from Iraq , '' the order reads .
The problem of Russian children in Iraq and Syria emerged after certain Russian citizens joined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group ( outlawed in Russia ) in the region .
Many of them brought their wives and kids with them , while others concluded marriages or fathered children in Iraq and Syria .
Many of those children were orphaned as a result of hostilities .
In 2017 , the children ’ s rights commissioner set up an inter-agency commission to facilitate the return of Russian children from war zones .
Together with the Foreign Ministry , the Emergencies Ministry , the Interior Ministry , the Health Ministry and other state agencies , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Russian kids from Iraq .
As many as 122 children have been brought home since December 2018 .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed an order awarding a certificate of honor to Russian Ambassador in Iraq Maxim Maximov for his role in evacuating Russian children from Baghdad. The order has been published on the official website containing legal information.
"Russian Ambassador to Iraq Maxim Maximov is hereby awarded a certificate of honor for the successful implementation of a humanitarian mission to evacuate underage Russian nationals from Iraq," the order reads.
The problem of Russian children in Iraq and Syria emerged after certain Russian citizens joined the ranks of the Islamic State terror group (outlawed in Russia) in the region. Many of them brought their wives and kids with them, while others concluded marriages or fathered children in Iraq and Syria. Many of those children were orphaned as a result of hostilities.
In 2017, the children’s rights commissioner set up an inter-agency commission to facilitate the return of Russian children from war zones. Together with the Foreign Ministry, the Emergencies Ministry, the Interior Ministry, the Health Ministry and other state agencies, the commission developed a roadmap for the return of Russian kids from Iraq. As many as 122 children have been brought home since December 2018.


tass--2020-03-20--Nine laboratories for making COVID-19 tests created in Moscow

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Five city laboratories have begun to make novel coronavirus tests starting from Friday @ @ @ @ @ list of such facilities will grow to nine .
About 10,000 tests will be made @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has said .
`` I ’ m very grateful to @ @ @ @ @ and the federal laboratories .
They have worked round-the-clock over the past few weeks , @ @ @ @ @ .
Nevertheless , it is pretty clear that the capacity of such facilities fall short @ @ @ @ @ a big city as Moscow .
We have obtained permission and together with consumer rights @ @ @ @ @ biggest laboratories and brought there more cutting-edge equipment .
Over the coming week , starting @ @ @ @ @ nine major laboratories that will be able of making up to 10,000 tests a day @ @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Five city laboratories have begun to make novel coronavirus tests starting from Friday and over next week the list of such facilities will grow to nine. About 10,000 tests will be made there every day, Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has said.
"I’m very grateful to the consumer rights watchdog Rospotrebnadzor and the federal laboratories. They have worked round-the-clock over the past few weeks, sparing no time and effort. Nevertheless, it is pretty clear that the capacity of such facilities fall short of the requirements of such a big city as Moscow. We have obtained permission and together with consumer rights watchdog specialists have tested our biggest laboratories and brought there more cutting-edge equipment. Over the coming week, starting from today we will open nine major laboratories that will be able of making up to 10,000 tests a day," Sobyanin said.


tass--2020-03-20--About 9,000 Russians waiting to be evacuated home from foreign countries

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
About 9,000 Russian nationals are stuck in foreign countries waiting to be evacuated @ @ @ @ @ the novel coronavirus pandemic , Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Friday .
@ @ @ @ @ are waiting to be able to return to Russia .
We are addressing that matter @ @ @ @ @ Round-the-clock , '' she wrote on her Facebook account .
She denied media allegations that @ @ @ @ @ putting off with lame excuses .
`` These are not lame excuses .
The matter @ @ @ @ @ An inter-agency meeting on the evacuation logistics is currently underway .
`` .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. About 9,000 Russian nationals are stuck in foreign countries waiting to be evacuated home in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Friday.
"About 9,000 Russian national are waiting to be able to return to Russia. We are addressing that matter. All of us. Round-the-clock," she wrote on her Facebook account.
She denied media allegations that Russian overseas missions were merely putting off with lame excuses. "These are not lame excuses. The matter is really being addressed. An inter-agency meeting on the evacuation logistics is currently underway.".


tass--2020-03-20--Russians spent 80.1 bln rubles ($1 bln) on impulse purchases in a week

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Russian citizens spent 80.1 bln rubles ( $ 1 bln ) on impulse purchases from March 7 to March 13 , which a 8.4 % increase in comparison with the beginning of the month .
Sberbank said in a press release .
`` Expenses of Russian citizens between March 7 and 13 increased by 8.4 % compared with the beginning of the month to 80.1 billion rubles that were spent on impulse purchases over these seven days , '' the bank said referring to the estimates of its analysts .
The most rapid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sector of household appliances and electronics .
Between March 7 and 13 , it increased by a quarter in comparison with the levels of January - February .
Sberbank attributes active purchases of household appliances to consumers reaction to the depreciation of the ruble , which was already observed earlier .
Also , a noticeable increase in spending was registered in pharmacies .
In the reporting period , it was 7.6 % higher than at the beginning of the year .
`` Russians finance their costs of household appliances and medical supplies partially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tourism industry related goods and services have substantially dropped .
The volume of spending on airline tickets fell by a third compared to the beginning of 2020 , and spending on hotels reduced proportionally .
As for the purchases buckwheat and toilet paper , that has been widely discussed recently due to the spread of coronavirus , there is no significant change in consumer activity in grocery stores and supermarkets during the period under review .
It is likely that the situation will change next week , '' the bank stressed .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ volume of online purchases by Russian citizens had grown 1.5 times after many of them switched to working from home amid the spread of coronavirus .
According to VTB , spending in pharmacies increased by a quarter and spending on air tickets increased by one third .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Russian citizens spent 80.1 bln rubles ($1 bln) on impulse purchases from March 7 to March 13, which a 8.4% increase in comparison with the beginning of the month. Sberbank said in a press release.
"Expenses of Russian citizens between March 7 and 13 increased by 8.4% compared with the beginning of the month to 80.1 billion rubles that were spent on impulse purchases over these seven days," the bank said referring to the estimates of its analysts.
The most rapid growth in spending was recorded in the sector of household appliances and electronics. Between March 7 and 13, it increased by a quarter in comparison with the levels of January - February.
Sberbank attributes active purchases of household appliances to consumers reaction to the depreciation of the ruble, which was already observed earlier. Also,a noticeable increase in spending was registered in pharmacies. In the reporting period, it was 7.6% higher than at the beginning of the year.
"Russians finance their costs of household appliances and medical supplies partially by cutting travel expenses. Sales of tourism industry related goods and services have substantially dropped. The volume of spending on airline tickets fell by a third compared to the beginning of 2020, and spending on hotels reduced proportionally.
As for the purchases buckwheat and toilet paper, that has been widely discussed recently due to the spread of coronavirus, there is no significant change in consumer activity in grocery stores and supermarkets during the period under review. It is likely that the situation will change next week," the bank stressed.
On Thursday, VTB Bank reported that the volume of online purchases by Russian citizens had grown 1.5 times after many of them switched to working from home amid the spread of coronavirus. According to VTB, spending in pharmacies increased by a quarter and spending on air tickets increased by one third.


tass--2020-03-20--Pobeda says has evacuated all its passengers from Montenegro

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s low-cost airline Pobeda said on Friday it has evacuated all @ @ @ @ @ stuck in Montenegro ’ s Tivat .
`` Pobeda low-cost airline on Friday evacuated all @ @ @ @ @ Moscow .
Four flight were organized on Match 19 and 20 from Montenegro after it @ @ @ @ @ March 17 .
Some of Pobeda ’ s clients were evacuated by Aeroflot flights , @ @ @ @ @ It was reported on March 17 that Russia ’ s flagship air carrier Aeroflot , @ @ @ @ @ Airline were unable to bring home their passengers from Montenegro as they had been failing @ @ @ @ @ that country ’ s authorities .
A source in the sector told TASS that Montenegro @ @ @ @ @ its nationals be brought from Moscow to Tivat without tickets in exchange for such a @ @

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Russia’s low-cost airline Pobeda said on Friday it has evacuated all of its passengers who were stuck in Montenegro’s Tivat.
"Pobeda low-cost airline on Friday evacuated all its passengers from Montenegro to Moscow. Four flight were organized on Match 19 and 20 from Montenegro after it closed its airspace overnight to March 17. Some of Pobeda’s clients were evacuated by Aeroflot flights," the company said.
It was reported on March 17 that Russia’s flagship air carrier Aeroflot, its subsidiary Pobeda and S7 Airline were unable to bring home their passengers from Montenegro as they had been failing to obtain a permit from that country’s authorities. A source in the sector told TASS that Montenegro’s government insisted 50 its nationals be brought from Moscow to Tivat without tickets in exchange for such a permit.


tass--2020-03-20--Nine-year-oil child confirmed to have coronavirus in Kirov

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
/TASS/ .
Two more coronavirus infection cases have been confirmed in Kirov , @ @ @ @ @ of such cases in that city to five .
One of the two new patients @ @ @ @ @ the press service of the regional government told TASS on Friday .
`` Laboratory tests @ @ @ @ @ cases .
The patients are a woman and her child , the passengers of the @ @ @ @ @ of today , there are five coronavirus cases in the region .
All the patients @ @ @ @ @ showing no clinical signs , '' it said .
The first coronavirus case was confirmed @ @ @ @ @ March 16 .
The patient was a woman who had returned from Germany shortly before @ @ @ @ @ husband and a passenger of the train they had taken to return to Kirov from @ @ @ @ @ have the coronavirus .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. /TASS/. Two more coronavirus infection cases have been confirmed in Kirov, thus bringing the overall number of such cases in that city to five. One of the two new patients is a nine-year-oil child, the press service of the regional government told TASS on Friday.
"Laboratory tests have confirmed two more coronavirus cases. The patients are a woman and her child, the passengers of the Novy Urengoi-Moscow train. As of today, there are five coronavirus cases in the region. All the patients are in satisfactory condition, showing no clinical signs," it said.
The first coronavirus case was confirmed in the Kirov region on March 16. The patient was a woman who had returned from Germany shortly before. The woman’s husband and a passenger of the train they had taken to return to Kirov from Moscow were also found to have the coronavirus.


tass--2020-03-20--Two footballers of German FC Bayern Munich donate over $1 million to fight COVID-19 threat

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
German football club Bayern Munich ’ s midfielders Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich have decided to donate one million euros ( $ 1.07 ) to charity organizations , which are raising funds to fight the ongoing global spread of the novel coronavirus , Goretzka announced on his Twitter web page on Friday .
`` We can outplay anyone on the field , but we must unite to defeat coronavirus , '' Goretzka Tweeted .
`` This is why we have decided jointly with Kimmich to kick off initiative # WeKickCorona and have donated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foundations . ''
Germany has a total number of over 17,770 registered COVID-19 cases in the country with 48 deaths caused by the novel coronavirus .
Last week German Chancellor Angela Merkel stated that up to 70 % of the country ’ s population was likely to have contracted the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) .
On December 31 , 2019 , the Chinese authorities reported to the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown etiology in Wuhan , an economic and industrial megalopolis with a population @ @ @ @ @ @ @ identified on January 7 as 2019-nCoV .
The World Health Organization declared in January that the new coronavirus outbreak was a public health emergency of international concern , characterizing it as an epidemic with multiple locations .
On February 11 , WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the organization gave the novel coronavirus an official name of COVID-19 .
On March 11 , the World Health Organization officially stated that the continuously spreading novel coronavirus was a global pandemic .
As of today , 182 countries and territories reported confirmed coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , over 252,770 cases of patients infected with the novel coronavirus have been confirmed worldwide .
The virus ’ death toll has reached 10,405 , yet more than 89,050 patients have recovered from the disease .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. German football club Bayern Munich’s midfielders Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich have decided to donate one million euros ($1.07) to charity organizations, which are raising funds to fight the ongoing global spread of the novel coronavirus, Goretzka announced on his Twitter web page on Friday.
"We can outplay anyone on the field, but we must unite to defeat coronavirus," Goretzka Tweeted. "This is why we have decided jointly with Kimmich to kick off initiative #WeKickCorona and have donated one million euros to social and charity foundations."
Germany has a total number of over 17,770 registered COVID-19 cases in the country with 48 deaths caused by the novel coronavirus. Last week German Chancellor Angela Merkel stated that up to 70% of the country’s population was likely to have contracted the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
COVID-19 Global Spread
On December 31, 2019, the Chinese authorities reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) about an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown etiology in Wuhan, an economic and industrial megalopolis with a population of 11 million.
The virus was identified on January 7 as 2019-nCoV. The World Health Organization declared in January that the new coronavirus outbreak was a public health emergency of international concern, characterizing it as an epidemic with multiple locations.
On February 11, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the organization gave the novel coronavirus an official name of COVID-19. On March 11, the World Health Organization officially stated that the continuously spreading novel coronavirus was a global pandemic.
As of today, 182 countries and territories reported confirmed coronavirus cases. According to the latest reports, over 252,770 cases of patients infected with the novel coronavirus have been confirmed worldwide. The virus’ death toll has reached 10,405, yet more than 89,050 patients have recovered from the disease.


tass--2020-03-20--Nornickel to set up digital centers at mines in Krasnoyarsk Region’s north

The digital centers are used to plan and control online mining works round the clock to model best modes for technology processes and to prevent hazardous and emergency situations .
The first center of the kind opened at the Oktyabrsky mine in 2019 .
A similar center entered service at the Komsomolsky mine in March .
MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The Norilsk Nickel Company ( Nornickel ) will install digital centers for planning and monitoring at all its mines in the Krasnoyarsk Region ’ s north , Director of the Company ’ s Polar Division Nikolai Utkin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ center at the Komsomolsky mine on Friday .
`` Another center is to open at the Taimyrsky mine , and parallel to it we have been working on the project to set up such a center at the Nadezhda Metallurgical Plant .
< … > This year , we plan [ to install such a center ] at the Taimyrsky mine , later , in the first quarter of 2021 — at the Nadezhda Metallurgical Plant , and then at the Skalisty mine , '' the director said .
`` In 2021 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centers . ''
Investments in such centers will make 400 million rubles ( $ 5 million ) , the company told TASS .
Construction of the center at the Komsomolsky mine began in September 2019 and continued to March 2020 .
Investments made 172 million rubles ( $ 2.2 million ) .
Norilsk Nickel is a diversified mining and metallurgical company , the world ’ s largest producer of refined nickel and palladium and a leading producer of platinum , cobalt , copper and rhodium .
The company also produces gold , silver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tellurium .
The company ’ s units are located at the Norilsk Industrial District , on the Kola Peninsula and in the Chita Region in Russia as well as in Finland and South Africa .
The company ’ s Polar Division unites the Taimyrsky , Oktyabrsky , Komsomolsky , Skalisty and Mayak mines , as well as the Nadezhda Metallurgical Plant and the Talnakh and Norilsk Concentrators .

The digital centers are used to plan and control online mining works round the clock to model best modes for technology processes and to prevent hazardous and emergency situations. The first center of the kind opened at the Oktyabrsky mine in 2019. A similar center entered service at the Komsomolsky mine in March.
MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The Norilsk Nickel Company (Nornickel) will install digital centers for planning and monitoring at all its mines in the Krasnoyarsk Region’s north, Director of the Company’s Polar Division Nikolai Utkin told reporters during opening of an operations center at the Komsomolsky mine on Friday.
"Another center is to open at the Taimyrsky mine, and parallel to it we have been working on the project to set up such a center at the Nadezhda Metallurgical Plant. <…> This year, we plan [to install such a center] at the Taimyrsky mine, later, in the first quarter of 2021 — at the Nadezhda Metallurgical Plant, and then at the Skalisty mine," the director said. "In 2021, all the enterprises will have such multi-functional centers."
Investments in such centers will make 400 million rubles ($5 million), the company told TASS. Construction of the center at the Komsomolsky mine began in September 2019 and continued to March 2020. Investments made 172 million rubles ($2.2 million).
Norilsk Nickel is a diversified mining and metallurgical company, the world’s largest producer of refined nickel and palladium and a leading producer of platinum, cobalt, copper and rhodium. The company also produces gold, silver, iridium, selenium, ruthenium and tellurium. The company’s units are located at the Norilsk Industrial District, on the Kola Peninsula and in the Chita Region in Russia as well as in Finland and South Africa.
The company’s Polar Division unites the Taimyrsky, Oktyabrsky, Komsomolsky, Skalisty and Mayak mines, as well as the Nadezhda Metallurgical Plant and the Talnakh and Norilsk Concentrators.


tass--2020-03-20--Russian government adopts subsidies' eligibility criteria for Arctic projects

The government has been working on incentives for investors in Arctic projects , including tax benefits and preferences for mining companies .
MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian government has adopted requirements for investment projects in the Arctic , eligible for subsidies to establish the infrastructure .
The benefits may apply to projects worth at least 300 million rubles ( $ 3.8 million ) , whose state support does not exceed 20 % of the announced private investments , the document reads .
`` The selection criteria for investment projects are as follows : < … > @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not less than 300 million rubles , < … > the total amount of state support for the investment project does not exceed 20 % of the announced private investments in the project ’ s implementation , '' reads the statement published on the legal information website .
Besides , a project should offer new jobs , and the production facility should be located in the Arctic .
The project ’ s objectives should comply with the plans for social and economic development of the Russian Arctic zone .
In February , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a package of bills , drafted by the Ministry for Development of the Far East and Arctic , on incentives for investors in Arctic projects .
Any entrepreneur registered in the Arctic ready to implement a new investment project and invest at least 10 million rubles ( $ 125,800 ) will be able to obtain a resident status , which implies a number of tax incentives and non-tax preferences , the documents informs .
The set of incentives for mineral companies includes reduction to 5 % of the mineral extraction tax rate for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ projects , zero mineral extraction tax rate for 12 years for liquefied gas and gas-to-chemicals production and zero mineral extraction tax rate for the first 12 years to be gradually increased to a full rate in the period between the 13th to 17th year for new oil provinces in the Eastern Arctic .
Subsidies for other projects are also provided , particularly a zero profit tax for a ten-year period .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The Russian government has adopted requirements for investment projects in the Arctic, eligible for subsidies to establish the infrastructure. The benefits may apply to projects worth at least 300 million rubles ($3.8 million), whose state support does not exceed 20% of the announced private investments, the document reads.
"The selection criteria for investment projects are as follows: <…> the investment project’s total cost is not less than 300 million rubles, <…> the total amount of state support for the investment project does not exceed 20% of the announced private investments in the project’s implementation," reads the statement published on the legal information website.
Besides, a project should offer new jobs, and the production facility should be located in the Arctic. The project’s objectives should comply with the plans for social and economic development of the Russian Arctic zone.
In February, the government submitted to the State Duma a package of bills, drafted by the Ministry for Development of the Far East and Arctic, on incentives for investors in Arctic projects. Any entrepreneur registered in the Arctic ready to implement a new investment project and invest at least 10 million rubles ($125,800) will be able to obtain a resident status, which implies a number of tax incentives and non-tax preferences, the documents informs.
The set of incentives for mineral companies includes reduction to 5% of the mineral extraction tax rate for a 15-year period for offshore oil production projects, zero mineral extraction tax rate for 12 years for liquefied gas and gas-to-chemicals production and zero mineral extraction tax rate for the first 12 years to be gradually increased to a full rate in the period between the 13th to 17th year for new oil provinces in the Eastern Arctic. Subsidies for other projects are also provided, particularly a zero profit tax for a ten-year period.


tass--2020-03-20--Aeroflot brings nearly 26,000 Russians home from overseas

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Russia 's national air carrier Aeroflot brought nearly 26,000 Russians home from abroad @ @ @ @ @ company 's spokesperson Yulia Spivakova told reporters .
`` According to preliminary data , Aeroflot @ @ @ @ @ home from coronavirus-hit countries on March 14-20 , '' she pointed out .
Flights to @ @ @ @ @ been suspended and Russian air carriers are conducting flights to bring Russian nationals back home @ @ @ @ @ people returned from Prague , 2,200 from Paris , 1,700 from Vienna , another 1,700 @ @ @ @ @ Amsterdam , and 1,400 from Berlin , Spivakova specified .
`` Aeroflot continues to carry @ @ @ @ @ to provide Russian nationals with the opportunity to return home , '' the company spokesperson @ @

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Russia's national air carrier Aeroflot brought nearly 26,000 Russians home from abroad on March 14-20, the company's spokesperson Yulia Spivakova told reporters.
"According to preliminary data, Aeroflot brought nearly 26,000 Russian citizens home from coronavirus-hit countries on March 14-20," she pointed out.
Flights to and from most countries have been suspended and Russian air carriers are conducting flights to bring Russian nationals back home.
A total of 2,700 people returned from Prague, 2,200 from Paris, 1,700 from Vienna, another 1,700 from Barcelona, 1,600 from Amsterdam, and 1,400 from Berlin, Spivakova specified.
"Aeroflot continues to carry out regular and charter flights to provide Russian nationals with the opportunity to return home," the company spokesperson emphasized.


tass--2020-03-20--EU suspends migrant relocation over coronavirus

BRUSSELS , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The European Commission ( EC ) has temporarily suspended implementation of programs on migrant relocation from Greece and Italy camps over the coronavirus threat , but plans to resume this process shortly , the EC representative told TASS Friday .
`` In current conditions , we are forced to suspend the relocation process - in particular , relocation of unaccompanied minors - over the significant tightening of sanitary requirements of the member states over the coronavirus pandemic .
However , we conduct intensive consultations with member states to resume this process as soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
The EC representative has also confirmed that the situation on Greek-Turkish border has normalized , and that Ankara continues to fulfill its obligations on border closure for migrants .
A migrant crisis happened after Ankara opened its border in late February , as an attempt to push the EU towards supporting the Turkish military operation in Idlib , but to no avail .
At least two migrant relocation programs currently take place in the EU .
One of them is a quota relocation for 160,000 migrants from Italy and Greece , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The other one is directed to emergency relocation of unaccompanied minor migrants .
Italy is Europe ’ s largest coronavirus hotbed ; as the epidemic in China shrinks , Italy might become the largest hotbed in the world .
The number of lethal cases there has already reached 3,400 people , which is already more than in China .
More than 41,000 people are infected in Italy .
Despite total quarantine , imposed by Italian authorities on March 10 and movement ban , epidemic spread does not slow down .
In late @ @ @ @ @ @ @ World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 140 countries , including Russia .
On March 11 , the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic .
As of now , over 230,000 people have been infected around the world and about 10,000 have died .
Russia has identified 199 cases so far .
The Russian government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country ’ s people informed about the coronavirus situation .

BRUSSELS, March 20. /TASS/. The European Commission (EC) has temporarily suspended implementation of programs on migrant relocation from Greece and Italy camps over the coronavirus threat, but plans to resume this process shortly, the EC representative told TASS Friday.
"In current conditions, we are forced to suspend the relocation process - in particular, relocation of unaccompanied minors - over the significant tightening of sanitary requirements of the member states over the coronavirus pandemic. However, we conduct intensive consultations with member states to resume this process as soon as the situation allows," he said.
The EC representative has also confirmed that the situation on Greek-Turkish border has normalized, and that Ankara continues to fulfill its obligations on border closure for migrants.
A migrant crisis happened after Ankara opened its border in late February, as an attempt to push the EU towards supporting the Turkish military operation in Idlib, but to no avail.
At least two migrant relocation programs currently take place in the EU. One of them is a quota relocation for 160,000 migrants from Italy and Greece, approved in 2015 and still not complete. The other one is directed to emergency relocation of unaccompanied minor migrants.
Italy is Europe’s largest coronavirus hotbed; as the epidemic in China shrinks, Italy might become the largest hotbed in the world. The number of lethal cases there has already reached 3,400 people, which is already more than in China. More than 41,000 people are infected in Italy. Despite total quarantine, imposed by Italian authorities on March 10 and movement ban, epidemic spread does not slow down.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 140 countries, including Russia.
On March 11, the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic. As of now, over 230,000 people have been infected around the world and about 10,000 have died. Russia has identified 199 cases so far. The Russian government has launched an Internet hotline to keep the country’s people informed about the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-03-20--Number of coronavirus cases in Russia up from 199 to 253 in past day

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The number of the novel coronavirus cases in Russia has increased from 199 to 253 over the past 24 hours , with 54 new cases being reported in nine regions , the coronavirus emergency response taskforce reported Friday .
`` Over the past day , fifty four new coronavirus cases were confirmed in nine Russian regions , '' the taskforce said .
`` As of today , there are 253 coronavirus cases in Russia . ''
Of these , thirty three coronavirus cases have been registered in Moscow in the past 24 hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most of whom visited European countries .
`` Thirty three new coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Moscow .
Most of these people have arrived from European countries , '' the disease response team stated , adding that all of the patients ' contacts , including other passengers onboard the planes they took , have been traced .
Seven of them have been taken to Moscow ’ s hospitals .
There are two children among coronavirus cases identified in Moscow in the past 24 hours , the coronavirus monitoring center informed .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
One of them did not attend school after returning from overseas , and the other stopped attending classes on March 12 , and the school has been placed under quarantine , '' the statement reads .
Also six new cases were reported in the Siberian republic of Yakutia , four — in Russia ’ s second largest city of St. Petersburg and in the Samara Region each , two — in the Kirov and the Novosibirsk regions each , and one — in the Moscow region , the Ulyanovsk region and the @ @ @ @

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The number of the novel coronavirus cases in Russia has increased from 199 to 253 over the past 24 hours, with 54 new cases being reported in nine regions, the coronavirus emergency response taskforce reported Friday.
"Over the past day, fifty four new coronavirus cases were confirmed in nine Russian regions," the taskforce said. "As of today, there are 253 coronavirus cases in Russia."
Of these, thirty three coronavirus cases have been registered in Moscow in the past 24 hours, according to the disease taskforce, most of whom visited European countries. "Thirty three new coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Moscow. Most of these people have arrived from European countries," the disease response team stated, adding that all of the patients' contacts, including other passengers onboard the planes they took, have been traced. Seven of them have been taken to Moscow’s hospitals.
There are two children among coronavirus cases identified in Moscow in the past 24 hours, the coronavirus monitoring center informed.
"There are two children among the patients. One of them did not attend school after returning from overseas, and the other stopped attending classes on March 12, and the school has been placed under quarantine," the statement reads.
Also six new cases were reported in the Siberian republic of Yakutia, four — in Russia’s second largest city of St. Petersburg and in the Samara Region each, two — in the Kirov and the Novosibirsk regions each, and one — in the Moscow region, the Ulyanovsk region and the Tyumen region each.


tass--2020-03-20--Bombs reported on board ten Russian planes, says source

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Bombs have been reported on board ten Russian planes on Friday , an @ @ @ @ @ `` Sheremetyevo Airport received an anonymous message about bombs on board seven planes en route @ @ @ @ @ Arkhangelsk , Orenburg , Ufa , Chelyabibnsk and St. Petersburg , and from Novosibirsk to @ @ @ @ @ said .
According to him , all planes continue their flights .
Earlier on Friday @ @ @ @ @ email about bombs on board planes bound for Moscow from Vladivostok , Ufa and Irkutsk @ @ @ @ @ have landed at their destination .
Messages about bombs on board planes started coming in @ @ @ @ @ many as 40 flights have been affected so far but all threats turned out to @ @ @ @ @ another law enforcement source , anonymous messages keep coming in , reporting bombs on planes @ @ @ @ @ shopping malls and airports , and demanding payment in Bitcoin .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Bombs have been reported on board ten Russian planes on Friday, an emergency source told TASS.
"Sheremetyevo Airport received an anonymous message about bombs on board seven planes en route from Moscow to Murmansk, Arkhangelsk, Orenburg, Ufa, Chelyabibnsk and St. Petersburg, and from Novosibirsk to Moscow," the source said.
According to him, all planes continue their flights.
Earlier on Friday, Sheremetyevo Airport recieved an email about bombs on board planes bound for Moscow from Vladivostok, Ufa and Irkutsk. All three of them have landed at their destination.
Messages about bombs on board planes started coming in on March 3. As many as 40 flights have been affected so far but all threats turned out to be hoaxes.
According to another law enforcement source, anonymous messages keep coming in, reporting bombs on planes, in court buildings, shopping malls and airports, and demanding payment in Bitcoin.


tass--2020-03-20--Current period is challenging for Russian economy, says Central Bank

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The current period is challenging for the Russian economy but the Bank of @ @ @ @ @ tools to mitigate occurring risk and support the economic activity in the existing environment , @ @ @ @ @ Elvira Nabiullina said on Friday after the Board meeting .
`` Concerning the fact how @ @ @ @ @ you know , it is normally proper to do so when this period ends .
@ @ @ @ @ , most importantly , we have approached this period with sufficient accruals and buffers and @ @ @ @ @ We have the whole range of tools to mitigate risks , and not merely to @ @ @ @ @ support the economic activity and lending in this environment , '' she said .
The @ @ @ @ @ the key rate at the level of 6 % per annum earlier on Friday after @ @ @ @ @ reduction .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The current period is challenging for the Russian economy but the Bank of Russia has the range of tools to mitigate occurring risk and support the economic activity in the existing environment, Governor of the Central Bank Elvira Nabiullina said on Friday after the Board meeting.
"Concerning the fact how to name this situation, you know, it is normally proper to do so when this period ends. The period is challenging and, most importantly, we have approached this period with sufficient accruals and buffers and the financial system stability. We have the whole range of tools to mitigate risks, and not merely to mitigate risks but also to support the economic activity and lending in this environment," she said.
The Bank of Russia has kept the key rate at the level of 6% per annum earlier on Friday after a lengthy cycle of its reduction.


tass--2020-03-20--Most coronavirus-infected patients recover completely, says expert

`` Most patients recover completely , but those who developed pneumonia or experienced the severe form of the disease may have to brace for some adverse effects , pulmonary fibrosis being the worst of all .
The bronchi and lungs deserve the closest attention , '' Drapkina said in a live broadcast on the portal Future of Russia .
National Projects , operated by TASS .
MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Most patients infected with the novel coronavirus recover completely , while those who experienced the severe form of the disease may suffer from certain unfavorable effects , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the National Medical Research Center for Preventive Medicine , Oksana Drapkina , has said .
Drapkina said that in such cases patients should turn to specialists for advice and recommendations as to how to proceed with medical treatment .
`` The doctor will decide when the lungs should be scanned again or whether an X-ray examination is advisable .
The doctor ’ s advice is to be followed by all means , '' she said .
People with chronic diseases of the lungs , asthma and others should certainly take precautions to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the immune system and makes the human body more vulnerable to infection , '' Drapkina said .
`` I ’ ve come across some quite alarming information about re-infected patients , although recoveries are many .
Such people are back to work and there have been no relapses .
We still lack the time to assess immunity .
The clinical picture is changing very fast and some consequences are still not very well known to us , '' she said .
An outbreak of the novel coronavirus-related disease in central China late last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries .
The World Health Organization has declared a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , more than 230,000 people have contracted the virus around the world .
The disease has claimed 10,000 lives .
According to the anti-coronavirus center , 199 cases of COVID-19 infection have been registered in Russia .

"Most patients recover completely, but those who developed pneumonia or experienced the severe form of the disease may have to brace for some adverse effects, pulmonary fibrosis being the worst of all. The bronchi and lungs deserve the closest attention," Drapkina said in a live broadcast on the portal Future of Russia. National Projects, operated by TASS.
MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Most patients infected with the novel coronavirus recover completely, while those who experienced the severe form of the disease may suffer from certain unfavorable effects, such as pulmonary fibrosis, the director of the National Medical Research Center for Preventive Medicine, Oksana Drapkina, has said.
Drapkina said that in such cases patients should turn to specialists for advice and recommendations as to how to proceed with medical treatment.
"The doctor will decide when the lungs should be scanned again or whether an X-ray examination is advisable. The doctor’s advice is to be followed by all means," she said.
People with chronic diseases of the lungs, asthma and others should certainly take precautions to avoid aggravations.
"Any aggravation harms the immune system and makes the human body more vulnerable to infection," Drapkina said.
"I’ve come across some quite alarming information about re-infected patients, although recoveries are many. Such people are back to work and there have been no relapses. We still lack the time to assess immunity. The clinical picture is changing very fast and some consequences are still not very well known to us," she said.
An outbreak of the novel coronavirus-related disease in central China late last year has spread to more than 140 countries. The World Health Organization has declared a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, more than 230,000 people have contracted the virus around the world. The disease has claimed 10,000 lives. According to the anti-coronavirus center, 199 cases of COVID-19 infection have been registered in Russia.


tass--2020-03-20--This week in photos: A masked donkey, metro disinfection and Pope Francis in deserted Rome

The donkey of the statue of the 'Bremen Town Musicians ' wearing a face mask and a sign with the inscription 'Social Distancing , please !
We will only win the struggle with Corona if everybody helps ' in Bremen , Germany , March 19 .
The German federal states have closed many shops and limited the opening hours of restaurants in order to prevent the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus causing the Covid-19 disease © EPA-EFE/FOCKE STRANGMANN US President Donald Trump talking to journalists about response to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic during a briefing in the James S. Brady @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Washington , USA , March 17 © Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images Co-director Diana Goodrich observing a chimpanzee at Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest , as she fears that the coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) may likely affect chimpanzees , leading the sanctuary to suspend all volunteering , postpone a fundraising gala , and requiring masks , gloves , and scrubs to be used by staff , in Cle Elum , Washington , US , March 16 © REUTERS/David Ryder Pallbearers waiting outside a cemetery in Bergamo , Italy , March 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most hit by the new coronavirus outbreak in Italy .
For most people , the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms .
For some it can cause more severe illness © Claudio Furlan/LaPresse via AP President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro adjusts his protective mask during a press conference regarding government plans and measures about the Coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) outbreak in Brazil , at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia , Brazil , March 18 © Andre Coelho/Getty Images A patient on a stretcher is transported by medical workers wearing protective suits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gemelli hospital where the second Covid-19 emergency center has opened in Rome , Italy , March 16 .
Italy is under lockdown in an attempt to prevent the spread of the pandemic Coronavirus © EPA-EFE/GIUSEPPE LAMI Personal trainer Antonietta Orsini carries out an exercise class for her neighbours from her balcony while Italians can not leave their homes due to the coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) outbreak , in Rome , Italy , March 18 © REUTERS/Remo Casilli Women standing near burning tires during a protest against the agreement on joint Russian and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Idlib province , Syria , March 15 © REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi Pope Francis walking to reach S. Marcello al Corso church , where there is a miraculous crucifix that in 1552 was carried in a procession around Rome to stop the great plague , Rome , Italy , March 15 © Vatican Media via REUTERS Travelers are seen wearing raincoats , plastic covers , gloves , goggles , and facemasks as they wait for their flight at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila , Philippines , March 18 .
The Philippine government has sealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and most populous island , to prevent the spread of COVID-19 .
Land , sea , and air travel has been suspended , while government work , schools , businesses , and public transportation have been ordered shut in a bid to keep some 55 million people at home © Ezra Acayan/Getty Images An empty Times Square is seen on the street following the outbreak of coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) , in New York , US , March 18 © REUTERS/Jeenah Moon

The donkey of the statue of the 'Bremen Town Musicians' wearing a face mask and a sign with the inscription 'Social Distancing, please! We will only win the struggle with Corona if everybody helps' in Bremen, Germany, March 19. The German federal states have closed many shops and limited the opening hours of restaurants in order to prevent the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus causing the Covid-19 disease © EPA-EFE/FOCKE STRANGMANN
US President Donald Trump talking to journalists about response to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic during a briefing in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, USA, March 17 © Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images
Co-director Diana Goodrich observing a chimpanzee at Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest, as she fears that the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may likely affect chimpanzees, leading the sanctuary to suspend all volunteering, postpone a fundraising gala, and requiring masks, gloves, and scrubs to be used by staff, in Cle Elum, Washington, US, March 16 © REUTERS/David Ryder
Pallbearers waiting outside a cemetery in Bergamo, Italy, March 16. Bergamo is one of the cities most hit by the new coronavirus outbreak in Italy. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms. For some it can cause more severe illness © Claudio Furlan/LaPresse via AP
President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro adjusts his protective mask during a press conference regarding government plans and measures about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Brazil, at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, March 18 © Andre Coelho/Getty Images
A patient on a stretcher is transported by medical workers wearing protective suits at the Columbus hospital unit of the Gemelli hospital where the second Covid-19 emergency center has opened in Rome, Italy, March 16. Italy is under lockdown in an attempt to prevent the spread of the pandemic Coronavirus © EPA-EFE/GIUSEPPE LAMI
A man in protective gear disinfects a train car at the Yerevan metro, Armenia, March 20 © Artur Harutyunyan/Yerevan City Administration/TASS
Personal trainer Antonietta Orsini carries out an exercise class for her neighbours from her balcony while Italians cannot leave their homes due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Rome, Italy, March 18 © REUTERS/Remo Casilli
Women standing near burning tires during a protest against the agreement on joint Russian and Turkish patrols, at M4 highway in Idlib province, Syria, March 15 © REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi
Kim Jong-un attends a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a modern general hospital in Pyongyang, North Korea, March 17 © KCNA
Pope Francis walking to reach S. Marcello al Corso church, where there is a miraculous crucifix that in 1552 was carried in a procession around Rome to stop the great plague, Rome, Italy, March 15 © Vatican Media via REUTERS
Travelers are seen wearing raincoats, plastic covers, gloves, goggles, and facemasks as they wait for their flight at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, Philippines, March 18. The Philippine government has sealed off Luzon, the country's largest and most populous island, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Land, sea, and air travel has been suspended, while government work, schools, businesses, and public transportation have been ordered shut in a bid to keep some 55 million people at home © Ezra Acayan/Getty Images


tass--2020-03-20--Russia plans to complete testing of six COVID-19 vaccines in near future

The prime minister stressed that the government ’ s main aim is to avoid mass spread of the virus , which is why it will be taking proactive measures MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Russia is developing six types of vaccines against the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) , which are expected to be approved and confirmed as safe in the near future , Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said during a session of the government ’ s coordination center tasked with combating the spread of the virus .
The prime minister stressed that the Russian government ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of the virus , which is why it `` will control the situation literally in a non-stop mode '' taking proactive measures .
The measures include not only suspending flights and public events , but also developing the vaccine against the novel infection , the PM stated .
`` Currently , Russia is testing six vaccines .
Our researchers have created them in record time , in two months , using the existing as well as the state-of-the-art biotechnologies , '' Mishustin stated .
He added that the work on developing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope that in the near future , we will be able to confirm that these discoveries are safe and effective , and that they can be used to prevent and control the epidemic , '' the prime minister stressed .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about an outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , central China .
On March 11 , WHO officially characterized the situation with the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) as a pandemic .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
According to latest reports , over 240,000 people have been infected with the virus globally , and about 10,000 have died .

The prime minister stressed that the government’s main aim is to avoid mass spread of the virus, which is why it will be taking proactive measures
MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Russia is developing six types of vaccines against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), which are expected to be approved and confirmed as safe in the near future, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said during a session of the government’s coordination center tasked with combating the spread of the virus.
Read also Russia starts testing vaccine against COVID-19
The prime minister stressed that the Russian government’s main aim is to avoid mass spread of the virus, which is why it "will control the situation literally in a non-stop mode" taking proactive measures. The measures include not only suspending flights and public events, but also developing the vaccine against the novel infection, the PM stated. "Currently, Russia is testing six vaccines. Our researchers have created them in record time, in two months, using the existing as well as the state-of-the-art biotechnologies," Mishustin stated. He added that the work on developing the vaccines was underway 24/7.
Read also One more coronavirus case confirmed in Moscow Region in past day


tass--2020-03-20--Kazakh president asks Putin to help organize evacuation of his nationals

NUR-SULTAN , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Kazakhstan ’ s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has asked his Russian counterpart , Vladimir @ @ @ @ @ evacuation of Kazakh nationals from Russia , the press service of the Kazakh president said @ @ @ @ @ Tokayev had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Putin .
The two heads of state @ @ @ @ @ spread of the coronavirus infection in the two neighboring countries .
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev asked the @ @ @ @ @ evacuation of Kazakh nationals staying in Russia as transit passengers and those who are in @ @ @ @ @ Putin promised that the Russian government would help resolve the problem , '' it informed @

NUR-SULTAN, March 20. /TASS/. Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has asked his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, to help organize evacuation of Kazakh nationals from Russia, the press service of the Kazakh president said on Friday.
"Kassym-Jomart Tokayev had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Putin. The two heads of state discussed efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus infection in the two neighboring countries. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev asked the Russian leader to help organize evacuation of Kazakh nationals staying in Russia as transit passengers and those who are in the border areas. Vladimir Putin promised that the Russian government would help resolve the problem," it informed.


tass--2020-03-20--Pyotr Morgunov landing ship to be commissioned in late May

`` All timetables are coordinated .
In mid-April , factory sea trials will wrap up .
Then , state tests , which began in parallel with the sea trials , will continue .
The ship ’ s commissioning is scheduled for late May , '' he said .
MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The Project 11711 Pyotr Morgunov landing ship will be commissioned to the Russian Navy in late May this year , the Yantar Shipyard spokesman Sergei Mikhailov told TASS .
On March 4 , Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that the Navy would receive the Pyotr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pyotr Morgunov is the second project 11711 ship , developed by the Nevskoe Design Bureau .
The contract for the ship 's construction was signed in September 2014 , and the ship was laid down in June 2015 .
The ship was launched in May 2018 .
The first ship of this class , Ivan Gren , was commissioned in June 2018 .
Since April 2019 , the Yantar Shipyard conducts construction of two landing ships of modified Project 11711 — Vladimir Andreyev and Vasiliy Trushin .
Compared to the initial Project 11711 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will carry several helicopters .

"All timetables are coordinated. In mid-April, factory sea trials will wrap up. Then, state tests, which began in parallel with the sea trials, will continue. The ship’s commissioning is scheduled for late May," he said.
MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The Project 11711 Pyotr Morgunov landing ship will be commissioned to the Russian Navy in late May this year, the Yantar Shipyard spokesman Sergei Mikhailov told TASS.
On March 4, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that the Navy would receive the Pyotr Morgunov landing ship in 2020.
The Pyotr Morgunov is the second project 11711 ship, developed by the Nevskoe Design Bureau. The contract for the ship's construction was signed in September 2014, and the ship was laid down in June 2015. The ship was launched in May 2018. The first ship of this class, Ivan Gren, was commissioned in June 2018.
Since April 2019, the Yantar Shipyard conducts construction of two landing ships of modified Project 11711 — Vladimir Andreyev and Vasiliy Trushin. Compared to the initial Project 11711 design, they will have bigger displacement and will carry several helicopters.


tass--2020-03-20--US plans to hold G7 video calls in April and May, says German gov't

BERLIN , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
After the June G7 summit has been canceled , the US plans to @ @ @ @ @ leaders in a format of a video call in April and May , German government @ @ @ @ @ a briefing on Friday .
`` The US stated that the G7 summit planned for @ @ @ @ @ in a physical form , however , it should take place in the format of @ @ @ @ @ US also informed that they plan to organize additional video calls with the participation of @ @ @ @ @ and government before the summit in June , that is , in April and May @ @ @ @ @

BERLIN, March 20. /TASS/. After the June G7 summit has been canceled, the US plans to organize talks between the G7 leaders in a format of a video call in April and May, German government spokesman Steffen Seibert said during a briefing on Friday.
"The US stated that the G7 summit planned for mid-June would not take place in a physical form, however, it should take place in the format of a video conference. The US also informed that they plan to organize additional video calls with the participation of the G7 heads of state and government before the summit in June, that is, in April and May," Seibert said.


tass--2020-03-20--Hainan continues to reduce poverty on the island

HAIKOU , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Since 2012 , about 650,000 rural residents of Hainan are not considered as poor any more , according to the data provided by the Chinese State Statistical Office quoted by the Hainan Daily newspaper .
As of the end of 2019 , the newspaper writes , the poverty rate in the province decreased to 0.5 % .
In 2012 , this indicator stood at the level of 11.4 % .
By the end of 2019 , the provincial authorities were able to fulfill the targets for poverty alleviation in rural Hainan areas ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capita in rural areas was brought up to 12,789 yuan ( about $ 1,800 ) , which is by 1,244 yuan ( about $ 177 ) more than in 2018 .
Over the past 10 years the local authorities have been able to significantly improve living standards in rural areas through various measures of supporting local farmers .
It was the agricultural sector in 2019 that became the main source of income for the poor in rural districts .
In February , the Hainan authorities announced they completed their anti-poverty efforts in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that direction , said Meng Li , head of the regional office for poverty alleviation .
According to the official , the cities of Wuzhishan and Baisha-Li autonomous county in the central part of the island as well as Lingao county in the island 's north are no longer considered poor and economically disadvantaged .
Thus , the region implemented one more task on the Chinese 13th five-year plan ( 2016-2020 ) .

HAIKOU, March 20. /TASS/. Since 2012, about 650,000 rural residents of Hainan are not considered as poor any more, according to the data provided by the Chinese State Statistical Office quoted by the Hainan Daily newspaper.
As of the end of 2019, the newspaper writes, the poverty rate in the province decreased to 0.5%. In 2012, this indicator stood at the level of 11.4%. By the end of 2019, the provincial authorities were able to fulfill the targets for poverty alleviation in rural Hainan areas ahead of schedule. The disposable income per capita in rural areas was brought up to 12,789 yuan (about $ 1,800), which is by 1,244 yuan (about $ 177) more than in 2018.
Over the past 10 years the local authorities have been able to significantly improve living standards in rural areas through various measures of supporting local farmers. It was the agricultural sector in 2019 that became the main source of income for the poor in rural districts.
In February, the Hainan authorities announced they completed their anti-poverty efforts in the province and vowed to continue working in that direction, said Meng Li, head of the regional office for poverty alleviation. According to the official, the cities of Wuzhishan and Baisha-Li autonomous county in the central part of the island as well as Lingao county in the island's north are no longer considered poor and economically disadvantaged. Thus, the region implemented one more task on the Chinese 13th five-year plan (2016-2020).


tass--2020-03-20--Baltic fleet naval aviation practice night attacks

KALININGRAD , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Crews of the Baltic Fleet ’ s Su-27 fighters , Su-24M bombers and @ @ @ @ @ attacks on air and ground targets during night training flights in the Kaliningrad region , @ @ @ @ @ .
`` During night flights that took place over sea and landmark-free area , the @ @ @ @ @ air and ground-based targets , destruction of command centers and vehicles of the alleged enemy @ @ @ @ @ maneuvering , '' the statement says .
In particular , the press service says , @ @ @ @ @ fight with alleged enemy ’ s planes .
They practiced search and detection of enemy @ @ @ @ @ by An-26 transport planes .
`` Special attention was paid to piloting techniques , using @ @ @ @ @ various altitudes and speeds and mock use of planes ’ weapons , '' the message @ @ @ @ @ planes of the Fleet ’ s naval aviation ware involved in the drills , the @ @ @ @

KALININGRAD, March 20. /TASS/. Crews of the Baltic Fleet’s Su-27 fighters, Su-24M bombers and Su-30SM multirole fighters have practice attacks on air and ground targets during night training flights in the Kaliningrad region, Fleet press service said Friday.
"During night flights that took place over sea and landmark-free area, the pilots practiced attacks on low-speed air and ground-based targets, destruction of command centers and vehicles of the alleged enemy, practiced aerobatics and combat maneuvering," the statement says.
In particular, the press service says, Su-27 fighter pilots practiced air-to-air fight with alleged enemy’s planes. They practiced search and detection of enemy’s aircraft, played by An-26 transport planes.
"Special attention was paid to piloting techniques, using offensive and defensive maneuvers at various altitudes and speeds and mock use of planes’ weapons," the message adds.
More than 10 planes of the Fleet’s naval aviation ware involved in the drills, the press service said.


tass--2020-03-20--One more coronavirus case confirmed in Moscow Region in past day

The overall number of the infected stands at 18 , according to the regional coronavirus emergency response taskforce MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
One more coronavirus case has been confirmed in the Moscow Region in the past 24 hours , thus bringing the overall number to 18 , the regional coronavirus emergency response taskforce said on Friday .
`` Eighteen coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the Moscow Region , '' it reported .
It also urged all those who arrived in Moscow from Prague by flight SU 2011 on March 11 , 2020 to call a doctor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Moscow Region on March 13 .
Employers are strongly recommended to transfer their personnel to remote work and sanitize the premises .
Schools and universities will shift to online learning in a period from March 21 to April 12 .
The Moscow Region 's authorities earlier asked shopping centers ’ owners to suspend the work of cinemas due to the coronavirus infection spread risks .
The first recovered coronavirus patient has been discharged from hospital in the Moscow Region , the region ’ s coronavirus emergency response taskforce reported .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus infection has been released from hospital , '' it said , adding that the woman had a mild form of the disease .
According to the taskforce , the woman underwent proper treatment and her final tests were negative for the coronavirus .
`` As of now , the patient has recovered , with no symptoms of the infection , '' it stated .
A pneumonia outbreak caused by the COVID-19 virus ( previously known as 2019-nCoV ) was reported in China ’ s city of Wuhan , a large trade and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million , in late December 2019 .
Cases of the new coronavirus have also been reported in more than 180 countries and territories , including Russia .
The World Health Organization says that the novel coronavirus cases across the globe have exceeded 240,000 , with about 10,000 deaths .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has officially described the situation with the novel coronavirus as a pandemic .

The overall number of the infected stands at 18, according to the regional coronavirus emergency response taskforce
MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. One more coronavirus case has been confirmed in the Moscow Region in the past 24 hours, thus bringing the overall number to 18, the regional coronavirus emergency response taskforce said on Friday.
Read also Citywide quarantine in Moscow not under discussion — Kremlin
"Eighteen coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the Moscow Region," it reported. It also urged all those who arrived in Moscow from Prague by flight SU 2011 on March 11, 2020 to call a doctor. The high alert regime was imposed in the Moscow Region on March 13. Employers are strongly recommended to transfer their personnel to remote work and sanitize the premises. Schools and universities will shift to online learning in a period from March 21 to April 12. The Moscow Region's authorities earlier asked shopping centers’ owners to suspend the work of cinemas due to the coronavirus infection spread risks. First recovered patient
Read also Nine people recover from COVID-19 in Russia


tass--2020-03-20--Brent crude oil price down below $29 per barrel on London's ICE

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The growth of the price of futures contracts of Brent crude oil for @ @ @ @ @ slow down on London 's ICE on Friday .
According to the trading data as @ @ @ @ @ , the Brent crude oil was trading at $ 28.93 per barrel , an increase @ @ @ @ @ the previous closure .
The price of futures contracts of WTI crude oil was $ @ @ @ @ @ % ) .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The growth of the price of futures contracts of Brent crude oil for May 2020 delivery continued to slow down on London's ICE on Friday. According to the trading data as of 3:24 pm Moscow time, the Brent crude oil was trading at $28.93 per barrel, an increase of 1.6% compared with the previous closure.
The price of futures contracts of WTI crude oil was $26.22 per barrel (+1.2%).


tass--2020-03-20--Russian coronavirus vaccine to be tested on ferrets and primates

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
Novosibirsk ’ s Vector Institute , which has developed a prototype of the coronavirus vaccine , will test it first on the most sensitive lab animals - lower primates and ferrets , Vector Institute Deputy Chairwoman on Research Yelena Gavrilova said on TV Friday .
Earlier reports indicated that Vector has developed a prototype coronavirus vaccine .
Now , it will be tested on the sensitive lab animals .
It would allow determining the most effective dosage , frequency and administration method of the vaccine .
`` Currently , we have both vaccines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine , developed on six separate technological platforms .
We have already began experiments on animal lab models .
Immediately after we got our hands on the living virus , we conducted studies on getting sensitive lab models , which turned out to be ferrets and lower primates .
Now that we have vaccine prototypes , we test them on the lab animals , '' Gavrilova said .
In late December 2019 , Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 140 countries , including Russia .
On March 11 , the WHO declared the outbreak of a global pandemic .
As of now , over 230,000 people have been infected around the world and about 10,000 have died .
Russia has identified 199 cases so far .
The Vector Institute of Virology and Biotechnology , created in 1974 , is one of the world ’ s largest organizations of its kind .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as anthrax and tularemia .
Now , Vector develops means of infection diseases diagnosis and treatment under the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing ( Rospotrebnadzor , Russian sanitary watchdog ) .
In particular , the Institute specialists work on swine flu , HIV and Ebola vaccines .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. Novosibirsk’s Vector Institute, which has developed a prototype of the coronavirus vaccine, will test it first on the most sensitive lab animals - lower primates and ferrets, Vector Institute Deputy Chairwoman on Research Yelena Gavrilova said on TV Friday.
Earlier reports indicated that Vector has developed a prototype coronavirus vaccine. Now, it will be tested on the sensitive lab animals. It would allow determining the most effective dosage, frequency and administration method of the vaccine.
"Currently, we have both vaccines based on known recombinant viruses and synthetic vaccine, developed on six separate technological platforms. We have already began experiments on animal lab models. Immediately after we got our hands on the living virus, we conducted studies on getting sensitive lab models, which turned out to be ferrets and lower primates. Now that we have vaccine prototypes, we test them on the lab animals," Gavrilova said.
In late December 2019, Chinese authorities notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in more than 140 countries, including Russia.
On March 11, the WHO declared the outbreak of a global pandemic. As of now, over 230,000 people have been infected around the world and about 10,000 have died. Russia has identified 199 cases so far.
The Vector Institute of Virology and Biotechnology, created in 1974, is one of the world’s largest organizations of its kind. Initially, it studied deadly diseases, such as anthrax and tularemia. Now, Vector develops means of infection diseases diagnosis and treatment under the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing (Rospotrebnadzor, Russian sanitary watchdog). In particular, the Institute specialists work on swine flu, HIV and Ebola vaccines.


tass--2020-03-20--Defense Ministry cancels international meetings, trips abroad due to coronavirus

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Defense Ministry has paused visits by foreign officials to Russia and @ @ @ @ @ to other countries due to the coronavirus risks , Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu told the @ @ @ @ @ on Friday .
Also , Shoigu said that `` all sports , cultural , entertainment @ @ @ @ @ military garrisons have been suspended . ''
`` All those entering the premises of military @ @ @ @ @ on the daily basis .
Restrictions have been imposed on all movements of military personnel @ @ @ @ @ he added .
An outbreak of the novel coronavirus-related disease in central China late last @ @ @ @ @ than 140 countries .
The World Health Organization has declared a pandemic .
According to @ @ @ @ @ than 230,000 people have contracted the virus around the world .
The disease has claimed @ @ @ @ @ the anti-coronavirus center , 199 cases of COVID-19 infection have been registered in Russia .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The Russian Defense Ministry has paused visits by foreign officials to Russia and Russian military delegations’ trips to other countries due to the coronavirus risks, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu told the ministry’s board meeting on Friday.
Also, Shoigu said that "all sports, cultural, entertainment and other mass events outside military garrisons have been suspended."
"All those entering the premises of military units have body temperature measured on the daily basis. Restrictions have been imposed on all movements of military personnel outside their garrisons," he added.
An outbreak of the novel coronavirus-related disease in central China late last year has spread to more than 140 countries. The World Health Organization has declared a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, more than 230,000 people have contracted the virus around the world. The disease has claimed 10,000 lives. According to the anti-coronavirus center, 199 cases of COVID-19 infection have been registered in Russia.


tass--2020-03-20--Kremlin heralds new full-length film on TASS ‘20 Questions with Vladimir Putin’ project

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
A TASS film based on Russian President Vladimir Putin ’ s interview will include several interesting episodes that haven ’ t been released yet , Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters .
He added that he expected the movie to be released in the near future though it would depend on the news flow .
`` TASS will make a video compilation of all of the interview ’ s episodes , '' Peskov noted , adding : `` It will also contain those episodes that haven ’ t been released yet . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ interesting episodes left , '' the presidential spokesman emphasized .
`` They [ TASS ] plan to show it once things calm down a bit , '' he noted .
`` We hope that it will be soon , '' Peskov said .
According to Peskov , it was TASS that made the decision to stop releasing separate episodes of the interview and make a full-scale film instead , and informed the Kremlin about the change of plans .
`` We supported the move , '' he stated .
`` Clearly , both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focused on other issues , '' the Kremlin spokesman explained .
`` Perhaps , we need to wait a little bit until the agenda is more diverse , [ until ] the situation calms down and conditions emerge for the audience to carefully listen to what the president has to say on a wide range of topics , '' he elaborated .
TASS announced earlier on Thursday that the remaining episodes of its project dubbed `` 20 Questions with Vladimir Putin , '' which had premiered on February 20 and had since been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be included in the anticipated full-scale film .
The rest of the interview that the head of state granted to TASS journalist Andrei Vandenko will not be released episode by episode .
The next one was scheduled for Monday , March 23 .
Apart from the excerpts of the previously released broadcasts , the film will also contain the president ’ s answers that Internet viewers haven ’ t heard yet , which particularly concern freedom of speech and the role of journalists in today ’ s society , as well as his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to relax and unwind .
TASS chose to make these changes in light of some of the radical transformations the world is now seeing , which run counter to the original concept of the project — an attempt to look back at the changes that the nation has undergone over the past two decades rather than at the day-to-day news flow .
The project was drawing to a close when `` a perfect storm '' hit the global media space .
So now , the novel coronavirus and the current economic turbulence are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shed light on how the project was created and will also contain some scenes that did not make it into any of the episodes .
The movie is set to be released in the spring , and the date will be announced later .
The project `` 20 Questions with Vladimir Putin , '' launched on February 20 is based on an exclusive three-hour-long video interview with the Russian president , timed for his 20th anniversary at the helm of power ( Putin first won a Russian presidential election on March 26 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Internet users .
Each of its episodes contains explanatory graphics , facts and quotes .

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. A TASS film based on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s interview will include several interesting episodes that haven’t been released yet, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He added that he expected the movie to be released in the near future though it would depend on the news flow.
"TASS will make a video compilation of all of the interview’s episodes," Peskov noted, adding: "It will also contain those episodes that haven’t been released yet." "There is a number of very interesting episodes left," the presidential spokesman emphasized. "They [TASS] plan to show it once things calm down a bit," he noted. "We hope that it will be soon," Peskov said.
According to Peskov, it was TASS that made the decision to stop releasing separate episodes of the interview and make a full-scale film instead, and informed the Kremlin about the change of plans. "We supported the move," he stated. "Clearly, both the Russian and global agenda is currently focused on other issues," the Kremlin spokesman explained. "Perhaps, we need to wait a little bit until the agenda is more diverse, [until] the situation calms down and conditions emerge for the audience to carefully listen to what the president has to say on a wide range of topics," he elaborated.
TASS announced earlier on Thursday that the remaining episodes of its project dubbed "20 Questions with Vladimir Putin," which had premiered on February 20 and had since been uploaded to TASS’ resources, would be included in the anticipated full-scale film. The rest of the interview that the head of state granted to TASS journalist Andrei Vandenko will not be released episode by episode. The next one was scheduled for Monday, March 23.
Apart from the excerpts of the previously released broadcasts, the film will also contain the president’s answers that Internet viewers haven’t heard yet, which particularly concern freedom of speech and the role of journalists in today’s society, as well as his family, personal losses and his ways to relax and unwind.
TASS chose to make these changes in light of some of the radical transformations the world is now seeing, which run counter to the original concept of the project — an attempt to look back at the changes that the nation has undergone over the past two decades rather than at the day-to-day news flow. The project was drawing to a close when "a perfect storm" hit the global media space. So now, the novel coronavirus and the current economic turbulence are topping the headlines. The film will shed light on how the project was created and will also contain some scenes that did not make it into any of the episodes. The movie is set to be released in the spring, and the date will be announced later.
The project "20 Questions with Vladimir Putin," launched on February 20 is based on an exclusive three-hour-long video interview with the Russian president, timed for his 20th anniversary at the helm of power (Putin first won a Russian presidential election on March 26, 2000). The project specifically targets Internet users. Each of its episodes contains explanatory graphics, facts and quotes.


tass--2020-03-20--Kremlin says keeping key rate unchanged was Bank of Russia’s independent decision

MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The Bank of Russia independently decided to maintain the key rate at the @ @ @ @ @ Dmitry Peskov told TASS .
`` This is an independent decision of the regulator , @ @ @ @ @ the question whether President Vladimir Putin , and the Central Bank discussed the decision to @ @ @ @ @ Earlier on Friday , the Bank of Russia Board of Directors decided to keep the @ @ @ @ @ per annum .
Before that the regulator lowered the key rate several times in a @ @

MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. The Bank of Russia independently decided to maintain the key rate at the previous level, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told TASS.
"This is an independent decision of the regulator," he said, answering the question whether President Vladimir Putin, and the Central Bank discussed the decision to maintain the key rate.
Earlier on Friday, the Bank of Russia Board of Directors decided to keep the key rate at 6% per annum. Before that the regulator lowered the key rate several times in a row.


tass--2020-03-20--Second upgraded Tupolev-22M3M makes first flight

The plane took off from and landed at the airdrome of the Kazan aircraft-building plant .
MOSCOW , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
A second overhauled and fundamentally upgraded strategic bomber Tupolev-22M3M has performed its first flight , a source in the defense-industrial complex has told TASS .
The press service of the public joint stock company Tupolev ( an affiliate of the united aircraft-building corporation governed by the state corporation Rostec ) has confirmed the flight , adding that the purpose was to estimate the takeoff and landing parameters of the plane and test the IT and control system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tupolev-22M3M will begin a series of test flights in the near future .
The first experimental Tupolev-22M3M took off on December 28 , 2018 .
Another source in the defense-industrial complex specified that the first experimental bomber had made 18 successful flights by the end of October 2019 .
The newest upgraded missile-carrying bomber Tupolev-22M3M performed its first flight on December 28 , 2018 .
The flight at an altitude of 1,500 meters lasted 37 minutes .
According to the Public Joint Stock Company Tupolev , the plane has an expanded combat potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Aerospace Force , Viktor Bondarev , who currently leads the Federation Council ’ s defense and security committee , has said the upgraded bomber is capable of carrying cruise missiles X-32 and hypersonic missiles .

The plane took off from and landed at the airdrome of the Kazan aircraft-building plant.
MOSCOW, March 20. /TASS/. A second overhauled and fundamentally upgraded strategic bomber Tupolev-22M3M has performed its first flight, a source in the defense-industrial complex has told TASS.
The press service of the public joint stock company Tupolev (an affiliate of the united aircraft-building corporation governed by the state corporation Rostec) has confirmed the flight, adding that the purpose was to estimate the takeoff and landing parameters of the plane and test the IT and control system.
The press service said the second Tupolev-22M3M will begin a series of test flights in the near future.
The first experimental Tupolev-22M3M took off on December 28, 2018. Another source in the defense-industrial complex specified that the first experimental bomber had made 18 successful flights by the end of October 2019.
Tupolev-22M3M
The newest upgraded missile-carrying bomber Tupolev-22M3M performed its first flight on December 28, 2018. The flight at an altitude of 1,500 meters lasted 37 minutes.
According to the Public Joint Stock Company Tupolev, the plane has an expanded combat potential. A former commander of Russia’s Aerospace Force, Viktor Bondarev, who currently leads the Federation Council’s defense and security committee, has said the upgraded bomber is capable of carrying cruise missiles X-32 and hypersonic missiles.


tass--2020-03-20--Coronavirus cases in Iran increase by 1,237 over past 24 hours - Ministry of Health

`` As many as 1,237 new coronavirus cases have been recorded in the country over the past 24 hours .
The total number is 19,644 , '' the Young Journalists ’ Club news agency quotes him as saying .
He added that a total of 1,433 people had died .
According to previous reports , there were 18,407 coronavirus cases and 1,284 fatalities in the country .
TEHRAN , March 20 .
/TASS/ .
The number of novel coronavirus cases in Iran has increased by 1,237 over the past 24 hours , the virus has claimed the lives of 149 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Health and Medical Education Alireza Vahabzadeh said on Friday .
The first coronavirus cases in Iran were confirmed on February 19 in Qom Province .
All schools in the country are closed until the end of March , while many countries restricted communication with the Islamic Republic .
Iranian coronavirus cases include a number of high-ranking officials , namely , First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri , Minister of Cultural Heritage , Handicrafts , and Tourism Ali Asghar Mounesan and Minister of Industry , Mines and Business Reza Rahmani .
In addition , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parliament likewise tested positive for the coronavirus .
Two of them - Fatema Rahbar and Mohammad Ali Ramazani Dastak - have died .
The current coronavirus illness was registered in central China at the end of December 2019 .
On March 11 , the World Health Organization declared it a pandemic .
COVID-19 infection cases have been recorded in more than 166 countries .
According to the latest data , over 230,000 people have contracted the virus , more than 10,000 of them have died .

"As many as 1,237 new coronavirus cases have been recorded in the country over the past 24 hours. The total number is 19,644," the Young Journalists’ Club news agency quotes him as saying. He added that a total of 1,433 people had died. According to previous reports, there were 18,407 coronavirus cases and 1,284 fatalities in the country.
TEHRAN, March 20. /TASS/. The number of novel coronavirus cases in Iran has increased by 1,237 over the past 24 hours, the virus has claimed the lives of 149 people, adviser to the Iranian Minister of Health and Medical Education Alireza Vahabzadeh said on Friday.
The first coronavirus cases in Iran were confirmed on February 19 in Qom Province. All schools in the country are closed until the end of March, while many countries restricted communication with the Islamic Republic.
Iranian coronavirus cases include a number of high-ranking officials, namely, First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts, and Tourism Ali Asghar Mounesan and Minister of Industry, Mines and Business Reza Rahmani. In addition, 23 members of the country’s parliament likewise tested positive for the coronavirus. Two of them - Fatema Rahbar and Mohammad Ali Ramazani Dastak - have died.
The current coronavirus illness was registered in central China at the end of December 2019. On March 11, the World Health Organization declared it a pandemic. COVID-19 infection cases have been recorded in more than 166 countries. According to the latest data, over 230,000 people have contracted the virus, more than 10,000 of them have died.