tass--2020-04-27--Don't give up hope: How scientists cope with teleworking

However , not everyone was lucky enough to get an opportunity to get on with their regular work .
`` Neuropsychologists and pathopsychologists can no longer get into neuropsychiatric dispensaries and carry on examinations , '' said Polina Krivykh , a psychologist , who conducts experiments at the Department of Psychophysiology at Moscow State University and under the auspices of the cognitive research laboratory of the Higher School of Economics .
The clinical department of the Research Center for Medical and Biological Problems of Human Adaptation in the Arctic , which includes a hospital , a clinic and a clinical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activities either .
`` We are examining contact patients placed under observation in the normal mode and treating patients with chronic lung diseases , cardiovascular diseases and type 1 diabetes .
We also continue to examine patients with cancer , chronic kidney disease , and with transplanted organs and tissues who are in self-isolation , '' said Julia Gilyarova , assistant to the chairman of the department for public relations and the head of the external relations department .
One of the portfolio subsidiary companies of the Russian Venture Company ( RVC ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specializes in providing services in diagnostic testing , laboratory processing , analysis and storage of biological samples , also does not intend to take a break from work .
`` We have something to offer in the fight against the pandemic , '' the founder and CEO of the company Vitaly Prutsky told the portal .
`` We , in fact , are a continuous-cycle company and can not just give everything up and leave .
Our refrigeration equipment requires maintenance , IT systems which monitor its work as well .
If we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be unable to earn money , but we will lose those unique biomaterials that are already in our possession . ''
Several laboratories of the Vernadsky Federal University in Crimea are also operating in a regular mode .
Only the number of researchers in the office has changed , and work schedules have also shifted .
`` The medical and food industries continue to function as usual .
The laboratories that conduct diagnostic tests for medical institutions and evaluate the quality control of agricultural products also continue their work , '' Anatoly Kubyshkin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Federal University , told the portal .
The Medical Scientific and Educational Center of the Moscow State University , which since the end of April began to receive patients with confirmed or suspected cases of the coronavirus infection , is also carrying on with its work .
`` We conducted a large-scale restructuring and re-equipping of our clinical building , including the redesign of rooms , passages and gates .
We paid special attention to the resuscitation and intensive care units , and communication facilities , '' said Simon Matskeplishvili , a member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deputy director for scientific work at the Medical Scientific and Educational Center .
Despite the common transition to working online , a number of experts still continue their research in the usual way , since it is simply impossible for them to work from home .
These are , for instance , researchers working at some laboratories at Moscow State University ( MSU ) and at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology ( MIPT ) .
`` MIPT bans the presence of personnel on the premises , except for cases when their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Institute ’ s normal activity in general or its structural facilities in the future depend on them , '' said Vitaly Bagan , vice-rector for research and development programs at MIPT .
`` Thus , the vast majority of employees work remotely , '' he added .
How are scientists coping with the new order of things ?
Does remote work encourage the optimization of costs and the creation of new research ?
The material by the `` Future Russia .
National Projects '' portal operated by TASS looks at this question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It was not easy for various enterprises and organizations to switch to remote work amid the novel coronavirus pandemic .
Not all scientists were able to continue their research in laboratories , they had to work from home without access to necessary equipment , and several high-tech startups had difficulties with loans and rent .
According to Krivykh , the work of clinical psychologists has stopped indefinitely .
`` Psychophysiologists can not conduct their research without subjects .
Many experiments were actually suspended from mid-March .
And this was absolutely right .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the subjects who were supposed to come to us for the experiment , '' the scientist said , noting that at the moment the real work in her field has been reduced to analyzing the data already obtained , which is why there is another serious problem with the final qualification works of student researchers .
`` Physicists have theoretical , as well as experimental work .
The was no impact on the theoretical part .
Physicists continue to work the same way as they did before .
As far as experiments go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can not be carried out at home , '' a spokeswoman for the Joint Institute for High Temperatures of the Russian Academy of Sciences Elena Kogteva told the portal .
At the same time , she noted that experimenters often have a large amount of data that require processing and analysis , which can also be conducted remotely .
`` Such a margin of safety on experimental data usually provides for several months ahead , '' she added .
Difficulties may arise in the work of the Russian Venture Company ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - the ExoAtlet company .
It has in fact suspended office work amid the coronavirus pandemic and is currently in talks on optimizing rental costs .
The ability to change landlords is complicated by the fact that there is test equipment on the premises , and a number of licensed procedures are associated with a specific laboratory location .
`` The premises of R & D laboratories include special equipment , and in the event of a commercial lease , moving to a cheaper space poses great complications .
This is not at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , moving the sales department of a distribution company or switching specialists to remote work , '' the CEO and co-founder of the company Mikhail Krundyshev told the portal .
Not only have researchers been deprived of their equipment , but also venture funds , which in this situation have to overestimate their portfolio , have found themselves in a difficult position , noted Mikhail Fedotov , director for subsidiary funds at the Russian Venture Company ( RVC ) .
`` Companies are ranked by their demonstrated potential to effectively overcome the crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greater the support priority the project gets , '' Fedotov explained , by elaborating on the estimation method .
According to him , soft loans to pay off debts on wages , rent and leasing payments are correct and timely measures taken by the Russian government , however , the loans still need to be repaid , and it is extremely difficult to predict when the period of turbulence will be over .
In order to do so , according to Fedotov , other means of financial support should be considered , such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participation and venture funds .
`` This is especially important for projects with a long production cycle and a big amount of R & D costs [ research and development costs —TASS ] , '' Fedotov said .
At the same time , employees of a number of laboratories surveyed by the portal have kept their spirits up and derive all maximum benefits from the current situation .
In particular , scientists from the Bauman Moscow State Technical University ( MSTU ) delved into the analysis of data from previous studies and experiments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an opportunity to do proper scientific research .
According to the results of the experiments , a huge amount of data that required multi-parameter analysis was accumulated , so it ’ s high time that we sat down and worked on our computers , '' said Ilya Rodionov , director of the Research and Education Center `` Functional Micro/Nanosystems '' at Bauman Moscow State Technical University and the Dukhov All-Russian Research Institute of Automation .
Scientists at the multisectoral engineering center `` Composites of Russia '' at MSTU share a similar opinion .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the future can be used for quick testing of various diseases , including domestically .
`` Of course , the transition to remote work has affected scientific activity , as our specialists now have no opportunity to conduct laboratory experiments .
Given that the quarantine is a temporary measure , I ’ m sure that this will not affect the quality of our work .
All employees are able to work remotely .
Researchers are now devoting all their time to writing and updating articles , reports , and are also planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ literature , '' noted Vladimir Nelub , the director of the center .
The staff of the National University of Science and Technology ( MISIS ) also delved into data systematization .
`` Now , we are focusing on in-depth work with literature , systematization and generalization of materials obtained earlier during research .
In order to do so , the university prepared well .
We organized remote access to information sources , '' Andrey Polyakov , head of the MISIS science department , told the portal .
In addition , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joint Institute for High Temperatures of the Russian Academy of Sciences , now scientists have both the time and opportunity to do the work which is also very important - to prepare , write and publish scientific articles .
`` Moreover , the volume of our obligations under grants and contracts has not decreased at all .
Work continues , despite some communication difficulties , '' she added .
Still a lot to be done As Polyakov noted , the measures taken to limit movement did not hamper the scientific community and did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adjusted the format of communication .
`` Scientific research never stops .
A scientist can have an idea regardless of their whereabouts , '' the expert believes .
`` The chats are as busy as ever , smartphones are in constant readiness mode .
There is definitely a lot to do , work has just changed its format .
Now , there is no time to even get up from the table , '' said Yuri Kovalev , head of the laboratory of fundamental and applied research on relativistic objects in the Universe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Technology ( MIPT ) .
The Laboratory for Modeling Mechanical Systems and Processes at MIPT also continues to work on a software package for designing satellite constellations .
`` We regularly conduct meetings online and set operational tasks .
Work does not stop , '' said Natalia Zavyalova , who heads the laboratory .
According to Artur Isaev , director of the Center for Genetics and Reproductive Medicine Genetico , even under such circumstances , one can find opportunities to continue productive work .
`` Bookkeeping , legal , marketing , and sales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he pointed out .
`` For contacts with clients , for example , we partially use the offsite format . ''
At the same time , according to Isaev , now the company already sees opportunities to reduce costs , including expenditures on office space .
What ’ s new for one person is routine for someone else The transition to remote work has not become something extraordinary for scientists at the Higher School of Economics .
They had switched to that format way before the lockdown was imposed over the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , led by prominent international scientists , online seminars , discussions , the implementation of joint projects using a variety of collaborative online tools have long been a reality , '' commented the HSE press service .
The laboratory of supercomputer methods in condensed-matter physics at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology is not experiencing any difficulties as well .
As the head of the laboratory Vladimir Stegailov noted , calculations on supercomputers , fortunately , are always carried out remotely .
`` We preloaded a number of samples using various measuring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signals , '' Ilya Rodionov told the portal .
According to him , automation allows scientists to continue experimental work , receiving operational data from their own equipment and allows them to keep in touch with [ our ] foreign colleagues .

However, not everyone was lucky enough to get an opportunity to get on with their regular work. "Neuropsychologists and pathopsychologists can no longer get into neuropsychiatric dispensaries and carry on examinations," said Polina Krivykh, a psychologist, who conducts experiments at the Department of Psychophysiology at Moscow State University and under the auspices of the cognitive research laboratory of the Higher School of Economics.
The clinical department of the Research Center for Medical and Biological Problems of Human Adaptation in the Arctic, which includes a hospital, a clinic and a clinical diagnostic laboratory, is not suspending its activities either. "We are examining contact patients placed under observation in the normal mode and treating patients with chronic lung diseases, cardiovascular diseases and type 1 diabetes. We also continue to examine patients with cancer, chronic kidney disease, and with transplanted organs and tissues who are in self-isolation," said Julia Gilyarova, assistant to the chairman of the department for public relations and the head of the external relations department.
One of the portfolio subsidiary companies of the Russian Venture Company (RVC) - the National BioService startup, which specializes in providing services in diagnostic testing, laboratory processing, analysis and storage of biological samples, also does not intend to take a break from work. "We have something to offer in the fight against the pandemic," the founder and CEO of the company Vitaly Prutsky told the portal. "We, in fact, are a continuous-cycle company and cannot just give everything up and leave. Our refrigeration equipment requires maintenance, IT systems which monitor its work as well. If we suspend everything, we will not only be unable to earn money, but we will lose those unique biomaterials that are already in our possession."
Several laboratories of the Vernadsky Federal University in Crimea are also operating in a regular mode. Only the number of researchers in the office has changed, and work schedules have also shifted. "The medical and food industries continue to function as usual. The laboratories that conduct diagnostic tests for medical institutions and evaluate the quality control of agricultural products also continue their work," Anatoly Kubyshkin, vice-rector for research at the Crimean Federal University, told the portal.
The Medical Scientific and Educational Center of the Moscow State University, which since the end of April began to receive patients with confirmed or suspected cases of the coronavirus infection, is also carrying on with its work. "We conducted a large-scale restructuring and re-equipping of our clinical building, including the redesign of rooms, passages and gates. We paid special attention to the resuscitation and intensive care units, and communication facilities," said Simon Matskeplishvili, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and deputy director for scientific work at the Medical Scientific and Educational Center.
Despite the common transition to working online, a number of experts still continue their research in the usual way, since it is simply impossible for them to work from home. These are, for instance, researchers working at some laboratories at Moscow State University (MSU) and at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT). "MIPT bans the presence of personnel on the premises, except for cases when their work is absolutely necessary, and if the Institute’s normal activity in general or its structural facilities in the future depend on them," said Vitaly Bagan, vice-rector for research and development programs at MIPT. "Thus, the vast majority of employees work remotely," he added.
How are scientists coping with the new order of things? Does remote work encourage the optimization of costs and the creation of new research? The material by the "Future Russia. National Projects" portal operated by TASS looks at this question.
MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. It was not easy for various enterprises and organizations to switch to remote work amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. Not all scientists were able to continue their research in laboratories, they had to work from home without access to necessary equipment, and several high-tech startups had difficulties with loans and rent.
According to Krivykh, the work of clinical psychologists has stopped indefinitely.
"Psychophysiologists cannot conduct their research without subjects. Many experiments were actually suspended from mid-March. And this was absolutely right. We felt responsible for the health of the subjects who were supposed to come to us for the experiment," the scientist said, noting that at the moment the real work in her field has been reduced to analyzing the data already obtained, which is why there is another serious problem with the final qualification works of student researchers.
"Physicists have theoretical, as well as experimental work. The was no impact on the theoretical part. Physicists continue to work the same way as they did before. As far as experiments go, they are more complicated, so they cannot be carried out at home," a spokeswoman for the Joint Institute for High Temperatures of the Russian Academy of Sciences Elena Kogteva told the portal. At the same time, she noted that experimenters often have a large amount of data that require processing and analysis, which can also be conducted remotely. "Such a margin of safety on experimental data usually provides for several months ahead," she added.
Difficulties may arise in the work of the Russian Venture Company’s startup which carries out production of exoskeletons - the ExoAtlet company. It has in fact suspended office work amid the coronavirus pandemic and is currently in talks on optimizing rental costs. The ability to change landlords is complicated by the fact that there is test equipment on the premises, and a number of licensed procedures are associated with a specific laboratory location.
"The premises of R&D laboratories include special equipment, and in the event of a commercial lease, moving to a cheaper space poses great complications. This is not at all the same as, for example, moving the sales department of a distribution company or switching specialists to remote work," the CEO and co-founder of the company Mikhail Krundyshev told the portal.
Assisting scientists and foundations
Not only have researchers been deprived of their equipment, but also venture funds, which in this situation have to overestimate their portfolio, have found themselves in a difficult position, noted Mikhail Fedotov, director for subsidiary funds at the Russian Venture Company (RVC).
"Companies are ranked by their demonstrated potential to effectively overcome the crisis. The higher this potential, the greater the support priority the project gets," Fedotov explained, by elaborating on the estimation method.
According to him, soft loans to pay off debts on wages, rent and leasing payments are correct and timely measures taken by the Russian government, however, the loans still need to be repaid, and it is extremely difficult to predict when the period of turbulence will be over. In order to do so, according to Fedotov, other means of financial support should be considered, such as grants using co-financing mechanisms with state participation and venture funds.
"This is especially important for projects with a long production cycle and a big amount of R&D costs [research and development costs —TASS]," Fedotov said.
Time for conclusions and plans
At the same time, employees of a number of laboratories surveyed by the portal have kept their spirits up and derive all maximum benefits from the current situation. In particular, scientists from the Bauman Moscow State Technical University (MSTU) delved into the analysis of data from previous studies and experiments.
"We’ve been given an opportunity to do proper scientific research. According to the results of the experiments, a huge amount of data that required multi-parameter analysis was accumulated, so it’s high time that we sat down and worked on our computers," said Ilya Rodionov, director of the Research and Education Center "Functional Micro/Nanosystems" at Bauman Moscow State Technical University and the Dukhov All-Russian Research Institute of Automation.
Scientists at the multisectoral engineering center "Composites of Russia" at MSTU share a similar opinion. They are developing biological sensors, which in the future can be used for quick testing of various diseases, including domestically.
"Of course, the transition to remote work has affected scientific activity, as our specialists now have no opportunity to conduct laboratory experiments. Given that the quarantine is a temporary measure, I’m sure that this will not affect the quality of our work. All employees are able to work remotely. Researchers are now devoting all their time to writing and updating articles, reports, and are also planning future research, experiments and reading scientific literature," noted Vladimir Nelub, the director of the center.
The staff of the National University of Science and Technology (MISIS) also delved into data systematization. "Now, we are focusing on in-depth work with literature, systematization and generalization of materials obtained earlier during research. In order to do so, the university prepared well. We organized remote access to information sources," Andrey Polyakov, head of the MISIS science department, told the portal.
In addition, according to Elena Kogteva, press secretary for the Joint Institute for High Temperatures of the Russian Academy of Sciences, now scientists have both the time and opportunity to do the work which is also very important - to prepare, write and publish scientific articles. "Moreover, the volume of our obligations under grants and contracts has not decreased at all. Work continues, despite some communication difficulties," she added.
Still a lot to be done
As Polyakov noted, the measures taken to limit movement did not hamper the scientific community and did not paralyze its work, it only adjusted the format of communication.
"Scientific research never stops. A scientist can have an idea regardless of their whereabouts," the expert believes.
"The chats are as busy as ever, smartphones are in constant readiness mode. There is definitely a lot to do, work has just changed its format. Now, there is no time to even get up from the table," said Yuri Kovalev, head of the laboratory of fundamental and applied research on relativistic objects in the Universe at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT).
The Laboratory for Modeling Mechanical Systems and Processes at MIPT also continues to work on a software package for designing satellite constellations. "We regularly conduct meetings online and set operational tasks. Work does not stop," said Natalia Zavyalova, who heads the laboratory.
According to Artur Isaev, director of the Center for Genetics and Reproductive Medicine Genetico, even under such circumstances, one can find opportunities to continue productive work.
"Bookkeeping, legal, marketing, and sales are now working from home," he pointed out. "For contacts with clients, for example, we partially use the offsite format."
At the same time, according to Isaev, now the company already sees opportunities to reduce costs, including expenditures on office space.
What’s new for one person is routine for someone else
The transition to remote work has not become something extraordinary for scientists at the Higher School of Economics. They had switched to that format way before the lockdown was imposed over the novel coronavirus pandemic.
"For our international laboratories, led by prominent international scientists, online seminars, discussions, the implementation of joint projects using a variety of collaborative online tools have long been a reality," commented the HSE press service.
The laboratory of supercomputer methods in condensed-matter physics at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology is not experiencing any difficulties as well. As the head of the laboratory Vladimir Stegailov noted, calculations on supercomputers, fortunately, are always carried out remotely.
"We preloaded a number of samples using various measuring circuits, filtering schemes and screening microwave signals," Ilya Rodionov told the portal. According to him, automation allows scientists to continue experimental work, receiving operational data from their own equipment and allows them to keep in touch with [our] foreign colleagues.


tass--2020-04-27--Georgy Borisenko appointed Russian ambassador to Egypt

MOSCOW , April 27./TASS/ .
The Director of the North America Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry , Georgy Borisenko , has been appointed Russian ambassador to Egypt and Russian plenipotentiary to the League of Arab States by President Vladimir Putin ’ s decrees uploaded to the official portal of legal information on Monday .
Putin gives award to Russian ambassador in Iraq for role in evacuating children One of the decrees rules `` to appoint Borisenko Georgy Yevgenyevich as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Arab Republic of Egypt . ''
Another decree appoints him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s envoy to the League of Arab States in Cairo .
From September 2019 , Svetana Zubova was Russia 's charge d ’ affaires ad interim in Egypt .
In 2011-2019 , Sergei Kirpichenko was Russian ambassador in Cairo until he died a sudden death in a Cairo hospital on September 2 , 2019 at the age of 68 .
Georgy Borisenko was born in 1968 , graduating from Moscow State Institute of International Relations ( MGIMO ) in 1990 .
From December 1 , 2014 , he served as director of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ministry .

MOSCOW, April 27./TASS/. The Director of the North America Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry, Georgy Borisenko, has been appointed Russian ambassador to Egypt and Russian plenipotentiary to the League of Arab States by President Vladimir Putin’s decrees uploaded to the official portal of legal information on Monday.
Putin gives award to Russian ambassador in Iraq for role in evacuating children
One of the decrees rules "to appoint Borisenko Georgy Yevgenyevich as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Arab Republic of Egypt." Another decree appoints him on a part-time basis as Russia’s envoy to the League of Arab States in Cairo.
From September 2019, Svetana Zubova was Russia's charge d’affaires ad interim in Egypt. In 2011-2019, Sergei Kirpichenko was Russian ambassador in Cairo until he died a sudden death in a Cairo hospital on September 2, 2019 at the age of 68.
Georgy Borisenko was born in 1968, graduating from Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) in 1990. From December 1, 2014, he served as director of the North America Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry.


tass--2020-04-27--Over 390 pregnant women in Russia diagnosed with coronavirus infection

MOSCOW , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
More than 390 pregnant women in Russia have been diagnosed with the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ 270 of them living in Moscow , Leila Adamyan , chief obstetrician-gynecologist of the Russian @ @ @ @ @ Monday .
`` By today , as many as 394 pregnant women in Russia have @ @ @ @ @ total of 276 of them live in Moscow .
Luckily , they have no serious @ @ @ @ @ in an interview with the Internet hotline set up by the Russian government to keep @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus situation .
To date , a total of 87,147 coronavirus cases have been confirmed @ @ @ @ @ patients having recovered from the virus .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 794 fatalities @ @

MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. More than 390 pregnant women in Russia have been diagnosed with the coronavirus infection, with more than 270 of them living in Moscow, Leila Adamyan, chief obstetrician-gynecologist of the Russian Health Ministry, said on Monday.
"By today, as many as 394 pregnant women in Russia have confirmed coronavirus infection. A total of 276 of them live in Moscow. Luckily, they have no serious complications," she said in an interview with the Internet hotline set up by the Russian government to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.
To date, a total of 87,147 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 7,346 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 794 fatalities nationwide.


tass--2020-04-27--No progress in EU-EAEU dialogue because of EU’s biasedness — Lavrov

`` So far , there is no progress , '' he said in a video lecture for students of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations ( MGIMO ) .
MOSCOW , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
There is no progress in dialogue between the Eurasian Economic Union ( EAEU ) and the European Union because of the latter ’ s biasedness , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday .
He recalled that contacts between the two commissions had been established at the initiative of the Eurasian Economic Commission in line with its request issued almost four years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long time and ultimately the European Commission agreed on cooperation on issues of technical regulations and phytosanitary norms .
`` I.e .
on the matters that are to be agreed to ensure smooth trade and those matters that were delegated to the supranational level in the cases of both us and the European Union , '' he said , adding that the European colleagues demonstrated a utilitarian approach .
`` And we think that it is useful too .
At least , it indicates recognition of the realities , recognition of the fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the structures the five post-Soviet nations have established and continue to develop in order to ensure smooth trade , and everyone wants to maintain trade relations , '' he added .
According to the Russian top diplomat , Moscow is interested in an agreement between the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union .
The document , in his words , would set political frames and facilitate trade and economic relations but the key obstacle is `` political biasedness and stubborn obsession with the notorious five principles '' worded by Federica Mogherini @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief .
`` These five principles , as a matter of fact , place further development , normalization and improvement of relations between Russia and the European Union in dependence on the implementation of the Minsk agreements on the Ukrainian crisis , '' Lavrov said , adding that it is Ukraine that must implement the Minsk accords in direct dialogue with Donetsk and Lugansk .
He also drew attention to the fact that many joint projects had been halted due to the EU ’ s illegitimate sanctions .
Moreover , the West also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the East .
`` We have already realized that we don ’ t want to depend on partners , including the EU , who helped boost a number of our industries but proved to be unreliable .
So , we have opted for import substitution .
But it is unfair to accuse us of turning for the East because the West has imposed sanctions and of more active cooperation with China , India and other Asia Pacific nations , '' he stressed .
`` Our position has nothing to do with any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Russia-ASEAN summit in Sochi back in 2016 Russian President Vladimir Putin had come out with an initiative to forge a bigger Eurasian partnership involving members nations of the EAEU , the Shanghai Cooperation Organization ( SCO ) , ASEAN states and all other nations of the huge Eurasian continent , including the EU countries .
`` We never create anything that would be closed for other countries which are interested in joining it as sharing the charter principles of this or that structure .
I can assure you that this greater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about , which perfectly correlates with China ’ s One Belt and One Road initiative , this greater Eurasian partnership will be determining the trends on our continent more and more , '' Lavrov stressed .
According to the Russian foreign minister , the European Union so far has a `` neutral negative '' attitude to these concepts .
He recalled the United Kingdom ’ s exit from the European Union and the exit deal .
`` The new agreements between the United States and the European Union will , probably , be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the [ US President Donald ] Trump administration , the talks are going to be difficult , '' he presumed .
`` And to ignore the advantages of our common continent in such conditions , not to use these advantages would mean to deprive oneself , I mean the European Union , of additional possibilities for competition in this highly-competitive world . ''

"So far, there is no progress," he said in a video lecture for students of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO).
MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. There is no progress in dialogue between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the European Union because of the latter’s biasedness, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday.
He recalled that contacts between the two commissions had been established at the initiative of the Eurasian Economic Commission in line with its request issued almost four years ago. No response came for a long time and ultimately the European Commission agreed on cooperation on issues of technical regulations and phytosanitary norms. "I.e. on the matters that are to be agreed to ensure smooth trade and those matters that were delegated to the supranational level in the cases of both us and the European Union," he said, adding that the European colleagues demonstrated a utilitarian approach.
"And we think that it is useful too. At least, it indicates recognition of the realities, recognition of the fact that it is necessary to have contacts with the structures the five post-Soviet nations have established and continue to develop in order to ensure smooth trade, and everyone wants to maintain trade relations," he added.
According to the Russian top diplomat, Moscow is interested in an agreement between the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union. The document, in his words, would set political frames and facilitate trade and economic relations but the key obstacle is "political biasedness and stubborn obsession with the notorious five principles" worded by Federica Mogherini when she was the EU foreign policy chief. "These five principles, as a matter of fact, place further development, normalization and improvement of relations between Russia and the European Union in dependence on the implementation of the Minsk agreements on the Ukrainian crisis," Lavrov said, adding that it is Ukraine that must implement the Minsk accords in direct dialogue with Donetsk and Lugansk.
He also drew attention to the fact that many joint projects had been halted due to the EU’s illegitimate sanctions. Moreover, the West also wants Russia to scale down its relations with the East. "We have already realized that we don’t want to depend on partners, including the EU, who helped boost a number of our industries but proved to be unreliable. So, we have opted for import substitution. But it is unfair to accuse us of turning for the East because the West has imposed sanctions and of more active cooperation with China, India and other Asia Pacific nations," he stressed. "Our position has nothing to do with any resentments."
The minister recalled that at the Russia-ASEAN summit in Sochi back in 2016 Russian President Vladimir Putin had come out with an initiative to forge a bigger Eurasian partnership involving members nations of the EAEU, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), ASEAN states and all other nations of the huge Eurasian continent, including the EU countries.
"We never create anything that would be closed for other countries which are interested in joining it as sharing the charter principles of this or that structure. I can assure you that this greater Eurasian partnership embracing everything I have spoken about, which perfectly correlates with China’s One Belt and One Road initiative, this greater Eurasian partnership will be determining the trends on our continent more and more," Lavrov stressed.
According to the Russian foreign minister, the European Union so far has a "neutral negative" attitude to these concepts.
He recalled the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union and the exit deal. "The new agreements between the United States and the European Union will, probably, be next. And I think, knowing the [US President Donald] Trump administration, the talks are going to be difficult," he presumed. "And to ignore the advantages of our common continent in such conditions, not to use these advantages would mean to deprive oneself, I mean the European Union, of additional possibilities for competition in this highly-competitive world."


tass--2020-04-27--Chief physician of Moscow coronavirus hospital dismisses reports on mass resignations

Earlier , Telegram channel 112 reported that nursing staff of the clinic in Kommunarka was preparing to sign resignation papers @ @ @ @ @ working for 48 hours without any rest breaks , foodstuffs and bonuses , as well @ @ @ @ @ Meanwhile , one nurse has to treat up to 90 patients .
`` There are @ @ @ @ @ hospital , all of them are officially employed by the hospital .
There are no @ @ @ @ @ there are 15 junior medical staff and none of them has resigned since beginning to @ @ @ @ @ Protsenko wrote on his Facebook page .
The remaining 137 personnel have official work contracts @ @ @ @ @ chief physician stressed that the hospital had enough individual protective gears and all personnel had @ @ @ @ @ court in the hospital ’ s clean zone .
Protsenko said he was ironing out @ @ @ @ @ outsourcing personnel from a private company .

Earlier, Telegram channel 112 reported that nursing staff of the clinic in Kommunarka was preparing to sign resignation papers. They allegedly complained about working for 48 hours without any rest breaks, foodstuffs and bonuses, as well as free hotel rooms. Meanwhile, one nurse has to treat up to 90 patients.
"There are 385 nurses working at the hospital, all of them are officially employed by the hospital. There are no mass resignations! Besides, there are 15 junior medical staff and none of them has resigned since beginning to work in Kommunarka," Protsenko wrote on his Facebook page. The remaining 137 personnel have official work contracts with the hospital.
The chief physician stressed that the hospital had enough individual protective gears and all personnel had free access to the food court in the hospital’s clean zone. Protsenko said he was ironing out the issue of paychecks for outsourcing personnel from a private company.


tass--2020-04-27--Russia will continue aiding Libyan crisis regulation — foreign minister

MOSCOW , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
Russia plans to continue aiding the Libyan peaceful regulation process , Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Monday during a video lecture for students of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations ( MGIMO University ) on Monday .
`` In the course of all initiatives proposed by France , Italy and the UAE to resuscitate direct dialogue between Libyan conflict sides , we have always stressed that all decisions must be approved by the direct participants of the conflict , while we will only help them sit down at the negotiations table @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the majority of cases , like for example , during the Berlin conference , our calls were not heard .
Nevertheless , Russia will continue helping Libya exit this deepest crisis . ''
According to the minister , it is necessary to develop approaches that would arrive on the outcomes of the agreements between Fayez al-Sarraj , head of the Government of National Accord ( GNA ) , and Commander Khalifa Haftar , who leads the Libyan National Army ( LNA ) .
`` This is the task of the UN special envoy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who led this difficult venture until recently , has resigned , '' Lavrov said .
`` We think it is crucial that we find a replacement for Mr. Salame as soon as possible , and this must be a representative of a country in the region , which would be a part of the African Union , '' the foreign minister stressed .
On January 19 , an international high-level conference on Libya took place in Berlin , with at least ten heads of state and government attending the event including Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s final communique includes a call to ceasefire , as well as the call for foreign countries to refrain from intervening in Libya ’ s affairs , while it also proposes creation of a single government and launch of reforms to restore statehood that was demolished by NATO almost ten years ago .
The conflict sides also agreed to establish a special ceasefire monitoring commission .
Currently , Libya has two parallel bodies of executive power : the internationally recognized Government of National Accord ( GNA ) headed by Fayez al-Sarraj , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , operating in the country ’ s east together with parliament and supported by the Libyan National Army ( LNA ) , led by Commander Khalifa Haftar .

MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. Russia plans to continue aiding the Libyan peaceful regulation process, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Monday during a video lecture for students of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO University) on Monday.
"In the course of all initiatives proposed by France, Italy and the UAE to resuscitate direct dialogue between Libyan conflict sides, we have always stressed that all decisions must be approved by the direct participants of the conflict, while we will only help them sit down at the negotiations table," he said. "In the majority of cases, like for example, during the Berlin conference, our calls were not heard. Nevertheless, Russia will continue helping Libya exit this deepest crisis."
According to the minister, it is necessary to develop approaches that would arrive on the outcomes of the agreements between Fayez al-Sarraj, head of the Government of National Accord (GNA), and Commander Khalifa Haftar, who leads the Libyan National Army (LNA). "This is the task of the UN special envoy for Libya, however, Ghassan Salame, who led this difficult venture until recently, has resigned," Lavrov said.
"We think it is crucial that we find a replacement for Mr. Salame as soon as possible, and this must be a representative of a country in the region, which would be a part of the African Union," the foreign minister stressed.
On January 19, an international high-level conference on Libya took place in Berlin, with at least ten heads of state and government attending the event including Russian President Vladimir Putin. The conference’s final communique includes a call to ceasefire, as well as the call for foreign countries to refrain from intervening in Libya’s affairs, while it also proposes creation of a single government and launch of reforms to restore statehood that was demolished by NATO almost ten years ago. The conflict sides also agreed to establish a special ceasefire monitoring commission.
Currently, Libya has two parallel bodies of executive power: the internationally recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) headed by Fayez al-Sarraj, and Abdullah Abdurrahman al-Thani’s interim government, operating in the country’s east together with parliament and supported by the Libyan National Army (LNA), led by Commander Khalifa Haftar.


tass--2020-04-27--Over 38,000 coronavirus cases reported in the Netherlands

According to the institute , 38,245 people have tested positive for coronavirus as of now .
As many as 4,518 people have died , with 43 fatalities reported in the past 24 hours .
The institute does not give data on how many patients have recovered .
THE HAGUE , April 27./TASS/ .
As many as 400 new coronavirus cases have been reported in the Netherlands in the past 24 hours , bringing their overall number to over 38,000 , the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment reported on Monday .
`` Figures of the past few days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government to prevent the spread of the virus ] work , '' it said .
`` The number of daily hospitalized patients continues declining .
The same refers to fatalities , '' the national institute reported .
The Netherlands reported the first coronavirus patient on February 27 , while the first death was reported on March 6 .
The country took measures to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus .
All educational and entertainment establishments , gyms , cafes , bars , restaurants , hairdresser ’ s , beauty and massage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ People are requested to stay at home and work from home whenever possible , as well as to keep a distance of 1.5 meters from each other in the street and in supermarkets .
They are banned from visiting other countries without urgent necessity .
Besides , all mass events have been banned across the country until September 1 .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 207,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 882,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

According to the institute, 38,245 people have tested positive for coronavirus as of now. As many as 4,518 people have died, with 43 fatalities reported in the past 24 hours. The institute does not give data on how many patients have recovered.
THE HAGUE, April 27./TASS/. As many as 400 new coronavirus cases have been reported in the Netherlands in the past 24 hours, bringing their overall number to over 38,000, the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment reported on Monday.
"Figures of the past few days confirm that the measures [taken by the government to prevent the spread of the virus] work," it said. "The number of daily hospitalized patients continues declining. The same refers to fatalities," the national institute reported.
The Netherlands reported the first coronavirus patient on February 27, while the first death was reported on March 6. The country took measures to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. All educational and entertainment establishments, gyms, cafes, bars, restaurants, hairdresser’s, beauty and massage parlors are closed until May 19. People are requested to stay at home and work from home whenever possible, as well as to keep a distance of 1.5 meters from each other in the street and in supermarkets. They are banned from visiting other countries without urgent necessity. Besides, all mass events have been banned across the country until September 1.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 207,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 882,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-04-27--Russian healthcare watchdog issues country’s first biomedical cell product license

MOSCOW , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian healthcare watchdog Roszdravnadzor has issued the country ’ s first license @ @ @ @ @ products , press service of the Healthcare Ministry told reporters on Monday .
`` Roszdravnadzor @ @ @ @ @ license for biomedical cell products .
The recipient is one of Russian pharmaceutical companies , @ @ @ @ @ Biomedical cell products are widely used in regenerative medicine .
They can be used in @ @ @ @ @ , for cornea recovery and in cancer and other diseases therapy , the Ministry added @

MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. The Russian healthcare watchdog Roszdravnadzor has issued the country’s first license for production of biomedical cell products, press service of the Healthcare Ministry told reporters on Monday.
"Roszdravnadzor has issued the first manufacturing license for biomedical cell products. The recipient is one of Russian pharmaceutical companies," the Ministry said.
Biomedical cell products are widely used in regenerative medicine. They can be used in therapy of the locomotor system, for cornea recovery and in cancer and other diseases therapy, the Ministry added.


tass--2020-04-27--Use of reserves to be highly sparing in crisis conditions — Kremlin

Kremlin says talk about oil output drop possible only after OPEC+ deal enters into force MOSCOW , April 27 .
@ @ @ @ @ injection into the economy will not generate a positive effect in the midterm , press @ @ @ @ @ , Dmitry Peskov said on Monday in an interview with the Rossiya-24 TV Channel .
@ @ @ @ @ can be positive but such methods of work in the midterm will lead to the @ @ @ @ @ be left without the positive effect at all , '' Peskov said .
There is @ @ @ @ @ extremely careful '' in the use of reserves , he noted .
`` The safety @ @ @ @ @ should be spent with care , as President [ Vladimir Putin ] reiterated , '' @ @ @

Kremlin says talk about oil output drop possible only after OPEC+ deal enters into force
MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. The one-time cash injection into the economy will not generate a positive effect in the midterm, press secretary of the Russian president, Dmitry Peskov said on Monday in an interview with the Rossiya-24 TV Channel.
"A certain one-time effect can be positive but such methods of work in the midterm will lead to the fact that we will eventually be left without the positive effect at all," Peskov said.
There is a need "to be extremely careful" in the use of reserves, he noted. "The safety margin is available but it should be spent with care, as President [Vladimir Putin] reiterated," Peskov added.


tass--2020-04-27--European Commission showing no signs of reviewing its relations with Moscow — Lavrov

MOSCOW , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
The European Commission apparently does not seem intent to review its policy towards Russia , Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday .
`` Although High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Spain 's former Foreign Minister Josep Borrell has repeatedly announced his plans to begin to review the European Union ’ s policy towards Russia , so far , we have seen nothing of that , '' he said in a video lecture for students of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations ( MGIMO ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ dialogue with any of the European Union structures . ''
He stressed that Russia cherishes no offences in relations with the European Union and is not seeking to do any harm to the European integration when it develops bilateral relations with individual EU nations .
`` It is absolutely wrong to accuse us of seeking to shatter anything or to drive any wedges , '' he stressed .
`` If you don ’ t want to implement the existing agreements of strategic partnership and cooperation , how can we force you to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` There are countries that are developing cooperation with Russia in full compliance with the authority granted by the European Union on the national level , '' he said , adding that such cooperation is quite successful .
As an example , he cited France , Italy , Hungary and some other states .

MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. The European Commission apparently does not seem intent to review its policy towards Russia, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday.
"Although High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Spain's former Foreign Minister Josep Borrell has repeatedly announced his plans to begin to review the European Union’s policy towards Russia, so far, we have seen nothing of that," he said in a video lecture for students of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO). "But we are always open for dialogue with any of the European Union structures."
He stressed that Russia cherishes no offences in relations with the European Union and is not seeking to do any harm to the European integration when it develops bilateral relations with individual EU nations. "It is absolutely wrong to accuse us of seeking to shatter anything or to drive any wedges," he stressed.
"If you don’t want to implement the existing agreements of strategic partnership and cooperation, how can we force you to do that?," he said.
"There are countries that are developing cooperation with Russia in full compliance with the authority granted by the European Union on the national level," he said, adding that such cooperation is quite successful. As an example, he cited France, Italy, Hungary and some other states.
Multilateralism


tass--2020-04-27--Fiji refuses to okay landing of airliner intent on bringing home Russian nationals

MOSCOW , April 27./TASS/ .
The Fijian authorities have denied a request by a Russian airliner to land in order @ @ @ @ @ on April 27 , the Russian Ministry of Communications blogged on its Telegram channel on @ @ @ @ @ flight can not take off from Fiji .
The Fijian authorities did not allow the @ @ @ @ @ going to evacuate Russian nationals from the island , to land .
With this in @ @ @ @ @ looking into other options for repatriating these Russian nationals .
The UTA9033 flight will fly @ @ @ @ @ April 27 , '' it said .
Earlier , the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency @ @ @ @ @ flight , it was put on the preliminary schedule for repatriation flights until April 27 @ @ @ @ @ also said that a flight from Prague to Moscow would be made on Tuesday , @ @ @ @ @ Russian nationals .

MOSCOW, April 27./TASS/. The Fijian authorities have denied a request by a Russian airliner to land in order to take home Russian nationals on April 27, the Russian Ministry of Communications blogged on its Telegram channel on Monday.
"The UTA9033 flight cannot take off from Fiji. The Fijian authorities did not allow the Russian airliner, which was going to evacuate Russian nationals from the island, to land. With this in mind, we are actively looking into other options for repatriating these Russian nationals. The UTA9033 flight will fly along the Denpasar-Bangkok-Surgut route on April 27," it said.
Earlier, the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency disclosed plans for a Denpasar-Fiji-Denpasar-Bangkok-Surgut flight, it was put on the preliminary schedule for repatriation flights until April 27.
The Ministry of Communications also said that a flight from Prague to Moscow would be made on Tuesday, April 28, to evacuate Russian nationals.


tass--2020-04-27--Global economy will face long recovery period after pandemic — Lavrov

MOSCOW , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
The coronavirus pandemic had a serious negative impact on the global economy and @ @ @ @ @ a long recovery period , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday giving a @ @ @ @ @ in a video conference format .
`` The world economy has suffered a very powerful @ @ @ @ @ of most experts , it will have a very long recovery period , '' he @ @ @ @ @ any contacts between people , including humanitarian , educational , scientific and tourist exchanges , @ @ @ @ @ Unfortunately , the possibilities of diplomatic efforts are also reduced , '' he added .
@ @ @ @ @ comprehensively evaluate and understand the final consequences of the epidemic for international life and to @ @ @ @ @ building our work in the post-pandemic period , '' the minister emphasized .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ will receive support and contribution from the scientific and expert MGIMO capacities .
We are @ @ @ @ @ Lavrov added .

MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. The coronavirus pandemic had a serious negative impact on the global economy and experts forecast it will have a long recovery period, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday giving a lecture for MGIMO University students in a video conference format.
"The world economy has suffered a very powerful blow. According to forecasts of most experts, it will have a very long recovery period," he said.
Lavrov noted that any contacts between people, including humanitarian, educational, scientific and tourist exchanges, are seriously limited. "Unfortunately, the possibilities of diplomatic efforts are also reduced," he added.
"We have yet to comprehensively evaluate and understand the final consequences of the epidemic for international life and to develop joint integrated approaches to building our work in the post-pandemic period," the minister emphasized. "I am convinced that here we will receive support and contribution from the scientific and expert MGIMO capacities. We are interested in this," Lavrov added.


tass--2020-04-27--Kremlin says no reasons for oil prices to return to high levels

MOSCOW , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
There are no reasons for oil prices to return to high levels but the OPEC+ oil production limiting deal can make fluctuations smoother , press secretary of the Russian President Dmitry Peskov said on Monday in an interview with the Rossiya-24 TV Channel .
`` There is no occasion to expect the return of prices to very high level but nevertheless , relying on the consensus results , specifically the OPEC+ deal , there are grounds to hope that when it will be in effect from May 1 , it will enable damping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ price fluctuations and avoiding any collapse values , '' Peskov said .
Current oil price do not have `` a tremendous drop , '' Peskov noted .
The oil production limiting deal achieved will hopefully make it possible to keep prices at an acceptable level , he said.
`` Yes , this level is lower than we would like to have , slightly lower , but such period can not last perpetually and the demand for oil and oil products will definitely come ; the trend will change to the increase in price @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .

MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. There are no reasons for oil prices to return to high levels but the OPEC+ oil production limiting deal can make fluctuations smoother, press secretary of the Russian President Dmitry Peskov said on Monday in an interview with the Rossiya-24 TV Channel.
"There is no occasion to expect the return of prices to very high level but nevertheless, relying on the consensus results, specifically the OPEC+ deal, there are grounds to hope that when it will be in effect from May 1, it will enable damping, that is, making smoother oil price fluctuations and avoiding any collapse values," Peskov said.
Current oil price do not have "a tremendous drop," Peskov noted. The oil production limiting deal achieved will hopefully make it possible to keep prices at an acceptable level, he said. " Yes, this level is lower than we would like to have, slightly lower, but such period cannot last perpetually and the demand for oil and oil products will definitely come; the trend will change to the increase in price parameters also over time," he added.


tass--2020-04-27--Number of people infected with novel coronavirus in Qatar surpasses 11,000

According to the ministry , in the past 24 hours , 54 people have recovered .
In the entire period since the start of the coronavirus epidemic , 1,066 people have recovered , and 10 deaths have been documented .
Medical professionals have held over 85,000 tests for COVID-19 .
MOSCOW , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
Qatari medics have documented 957 new cases of the novel coronavirus infection , the Qatari Health Ministry informed on Twitter on Monday , adding that the total number of people infected has risen to 11,244 .
Qatar has reported one of the highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a comparatively low lethality rate .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,000,000 people have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 882,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

According to the ministry, in the past 24 hours, 54 people have recovered. In the entire period since the start of the coronavirus epidemic, 1,066 people have recovered, and 10 deaths have been documented. Medical professionals have held over 85,000 tests for COVID-19.
MOSCOW, April 27. /TASS/. Qatari medics have documented 957 new cases of the novel coronavirus infection, the Qatari Health Ministry informed on Twitter on Monday, adding that the total number of people infected has risen to 11,244.
Qatar has reported one of the highest numbers of infection among Arab states, with a comparatively low lethality rate.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 207,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 882,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-04-27--Putin cautions against downplaying other threats amid coronavirus pandemic

NOVO-OGARYOVO , April 27./TASS/ .
The battle against the novel coronavirus is not the reason for relaxing attention to other @ @ @ @ @ Putin told a conference reviewing the situation with floods and wildfires in Russian regions on @ @ @ @ @ are currently first of all concentrated on the flight against the spread of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ not weaken our attention to other potential threats to the life and safety of the @ @ @ @ @ .
The start of the spring-summer season `` has objectively increased risks of seasonal natural @ @ @ @ @ , '' the president stated .
According to him , these risks are especially high @ @ @ @ @ the Far Eastern and Siberian federal districts '' .
`` The situation is already rather @ @ @ @ @ areas , '' the president pointed out .

NOVO-OGARYOVO, April 27./TASS/. The battle against the novel coronavirus is not the reason for relaxing attention to other threats, Russian President Vladimir Putin told a conference reviewing the situation with floods and wildfires in Russian regions on Monday.
"All efforts are currently first of all concentrated on the flight against the spread of the coronavirus infection, but we must not weaken our attention to other potential threats to the life and safety of the people," Putin stressed. The start of the spring-summer season "has objectively increased risks of seasonal natural calamities - fires and floods," the president stated. According to him, these risks are especially high "on the territory of the Far Eastern and Siberian federal districts". "The situation is already rather difficult in some of their areas," the president pointed out.


tass--2020-04-27--Fires in Chernobyl exclusion zone engulf around 20,000 hectares

KIEV , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
Fires in the exclusion zone around the Chernobyl nuclear power plant engulfed an @ @ @ @ @ , Sergei Kalashnik , chief of Ukraine ’ s state agency for the management of @ @ @ @ @ on Monday .
`` The overall area of forests hit by the fire is around @ @ @ @ @ not yet taken inventory of losses , '' he said , adding that according to @ @ @ @ @ hectares of forests were destroyed by fire .

KIEV, April 27. /TASS/. Fires in the exclusion zone around the Chernobyl nuclear power plant engulfed an area of around 20,000 hectares, Sergei Kalashnik, chief of Ukraine’s state agency for the management of the exclusion zone, said on Monday.
"The overall area of forests hit by the fire is around 20,000 hectares. We have not yet taken inventory of losses," he said, adding that according to preliminary estimates, about 10,000 hectares of forests were destroyed by fire.


tass--2020-04-27--Almost 8,000 coronavirus cases reported in the Philippines

According to the ministry , ten more people have died , bringing the overall death toll to 511 .
Seventy people have recovered , and the number of recoveries now stands at 93 .
BANGKOK , April 27./TASS/ .
The Philippine authorities have confirmed 198 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours , bringing the overall number of infected people to 7,777 .
As many as 285 new cases were reported the day before , the Ministry of Health said .
On January 30 , the country reported its first coronavirus cases .
On February 1 , the Philippines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ report a coronavirus death .
March 31 and April 12 saw the biggest daily growth in the number of infected people and deaths ( 537 and 50 accordingly ) .
A state of emergency was imposed in the country for half-a-year .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 207,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 882,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

According to the ministry, ten more people have died, bringing the overall death toll to 511. Seventy people have recovered, and the number of recoveries now stands at 93.
BANGKOK, April 27./TASS/. The Philippine authorities have confirmed 198 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, bringing the overall number of infected people to 7,777. As many as 285 new cases were reported the day before, the Ministry of Health said.
On January 30, the country reported its first coronavirus cases. On February 1, the Philippines became the first country outside China to report a coronavirus death. March 31 and April 12 saw the biggest daily growth in the number of infected people and deaths (537 and 50 accordingly). A state of emergency was imposed in the country for half-a-year.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 207,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 882,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-04-27--Belgium’s daily Covid-19 death toll sees record low over the past month

BRUSSELS , April 27./TASS/ .
As many as 113 people have died from coronavirus in Belgium in the past 24 hours , the lowest death toll in the past month , the Belgian Ministry of Health said on Monday .
Over the past 24 hours , the country has reported 553 new cases , these numbers are also among the lowest over the past month .
Overall , 46,687 people have been infected since the epidemic hit the European country .
According to local rules , only people with acute symptoms of the disease are tested for coronavirus .
Belgium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since March 14 .
It was first imposed until April 5 , but then extended to April 19 , and further prolonged until May 3 .
All educational , cultural and public institutions remain closed , students and pupils were moved to online learning settings , and all public and private gatherings were banned irrespective of how many people take part .
All private companies were asked to have their staff moved to teleworking from home .
The state agencies work part time , while only emergency services are operating on a regular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to leave their neighborhoods .
Social distancing rules are in effect on municipal transport and in supermarkets .
Belgium also closed its borders , banning any trips across the country .
Late on Friday , Prime Minister Sophie Wilmes said that on May 4 , the country will launch a step-by-step easing of the lockdown , making it compulsory for people to wear masks in public places .
The process of lifting the lockdown will be slow and gradual .
It is expected to continue at least until August 31 , and maybe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 207,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 882,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

BRUSSELS, April 27./TASS/. As many as 113 people have died from coronavirus in Belgium in the past 24 hours, the lowest death toll in the past month, the Belgian Ministry of Health said on Monday.
Over the past 24 hours, the country has reported 553 new cases, these numbers are also among the lowest over the past month. Overall, 46,687 people have been infected since the epidemic hit the European country. According to local rules, only people with acute symptoms of the disease are tested for coronavirus.
Belgium has been under a nationwide lockdown ever since March 14. It was first imposed until April 5, but then extended to April 19, and further prolonged until May 3. All educational, cultural and public institutions remain closed, students and pupils were moved to online learning settings, and all public and private gatherings were banned irrespective of how many people take part. All private companies were asked to have their staff moved to teleworking from home. The state agencies work part time, while only emergency services are operating on a regular basis. Local residents are not allowed to leave their neighborhoods. Social distancing rules are in effect on municipal transport and in supermarkets.
Belgium also closed its borders, banning any trips across the country. Late on Friday, Prime Minister Sophie Wilmes said that on May 4, the country will launch a step-by-step easing of the lockdown, making it compulsory for people to wear masks in public places. The process of lifting the lockdown will be slow and gradual. It is expected to continue at least until August 31, and maybe longer.
According to the latest statistics, over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 207,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 882,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-04-27--Hainan's major resort offers safe program for tourists during May holidays

HAIKOU , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
Hainan 's biggest resort , the city of Sanya , has prepared a program to organize safe tourist trips for the May holidays amid the novel coronavirus pandemic in the world , the Sanya Daily newspaper reported .
According to the news outlet , during the Labor Day ( Day of International Solidarity of Workers ) holidays which will last from May 1 to 5 , the regional department for tourism , culture , television and radio broadcasting and sports , with the assistance of a number of relevant authorities , intends to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local beaches and visiting cultural attractions , on trips to the rainforest .
“ In order to do so , preparations were made to counteract the risks of the spread of the virus , ” a representative of the department explained .
“ At the same time , we have toughened measures regulating the activities of companies [ in the tourism and other industries ] .
” According to the official , due to the government 's efforts , travelers can stay safe while visiting public places where high-quality disinfection is carried out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection is ensured .
As the official pointed out , the program 's high efficiency to ensure the safety of tourists is carried out with the active assistance from travel agencies and hotels .
According to statistics , Hainan has not had coronavirus cases for a while .
After the necessary tough quarantine measures , the local administration drafted a process of gradual steps for industrial and trading companies , the work of transport , public institutions and organizations .
The island 's parks are working , restaurants and libraries , tourist attractions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At the same time , taking into account the complex epidemiological situation in the world , the local authorities maintain enhanced control measures .
Since the beginning of the pandemic , more than 2.9 million people have been infected with coronavirus in the world , more than 204,000 have died .

HAIKOU, April 27. /TASS/. Hainan's biggest resort, the city of Sanya, has prepared a program to organize safe tourist trips for the May holidays amid the novel coronavirus pandemic in the world, the Sanya Daily newspaper reported.
According to the news outlet, during the Labor Day (Day of International Solidarity of Workers) holidays which will last from May 1 to 5, the regional department for tourism, culture, television and radio broadcasting and sports, with the assistance of a number of relevant authorities, intends to ensure a safe vacation for tourists on local beaches and visiting cultural attractions, on trips to the rainforest.
“In order to do so, preparations were made to counteract the risks of the spread of the virus,” a representative of the department explained. “At the same time, we have toughened measures regulating the activities of companies [in the tourism and other industries].”
According to the official, due to the government's efforts, travelers can stay safe while visiting public places where high-quality disinfection is carried out and reliable control eliminating the risks of infection is ensured. As the official pointed out, the program's high efficiency to ensure the safety of tourists is carried out with the active assistance from travel agencies and hotels.
According to statistics, Hainan has not had coronavirus cases for a while. After the necessary tough quarantine measures, the local administration drafted a process of gradual steps for industrial and trading companies, the work of transport, public institutions and organizations. The island's parks are working, restaurants and libraries, tourist attractions are open for tourists as well. At the same time, taking into account the complex epidemiological situation in the world, the local authorities maintain enhanced control measures.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, more than 2.9 million people have been infected with coronavirus in the world, more than 204,000 have died.


tass--2020-04-27--Hainan to provide subsidies to companies for air freight development in 2020

HAIKOU , April 27 .
/TASS/ .
The Hainan authorities will provide subsidies to companies operating in the field of air freight in 2020 , the regional transport department reported on Monday .
According to the statement , this measure is aimed at increasing the cargo flow of Hainan 's key airports — Meilan , Phoenix and Boao , located in the northern , southern and eastern parts of the island .
`` Subsidies from specialized funds for stimulating development will be provided to enterprises that meet officially established requirements , '' the statement reads .
According to the document @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reach 16,000 yuan ( about $ 2,200 at the current exchange rate ) per flight , for international routes — 40,000 yuan ( about $ 5,600 ) .
“ The Hainan authorities are helping to increase the flow of air freight by coordinating the relevant measures with the central government .
We are actively promoting the expansion of air channels to ensure national and international supplies , reducing logistics costs and increasing the competitiveness of Hainan 's products , ” said a representative of the provincial transport department .
On March 24 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of effective measures to stimulate the development of national air freight and increase the competitiveness of Chinese companies operating in this field .
Such a program is expected to boost the development of a number of Hainan industries , including agriculture , fisheries , low-carbon technology manufacturing , as well as enterprises specializing in the production of medical and pharmaceutical products .

HAIKOU, April 27. /TASS/. The Hainan authorities will provide subsidies to companies operating in the field of air freight in 2020, the regional transport department reported on Monday.
According to the statement, this measure is aimed at increasing the cargo flow of Hainan's key airports — Meilan, Phoenix and Boao, located in the northern, southern and eastern parts of the island. "Subsidies from specialized funds for stimulating development will be provided to enterprises that meet officially established requirements," the statement reads.
According to the document, the subsidy for domestic flights will reach 16,000 yuan (about $2,200 at the current exchange rate) per flight, for international routes — 40,000 yuan (about $5,600).
“The Hainan authorities are helping to increase the flow of air freight by coordinating the relevant measures with the central government. We are actively promoting the expansion of air channels to ensure national and international supplies, reducing logistics costs and increasing the competitiveness of Hainan's products,” said a representative of the provincial transport department.
On March 24, China's State Council ordered to adopt a number of effective measures to stimulate the development of national air freight and increase the competitiveness of Chinese companies operating in this field. Such a program is expected to boost the development of a number of Hainan industries, including agriculture, fisheries, low-carbon technology manufacturing, as well as enterprises specializing in the production of medical and pharmaceutical products.


tass--2020-04-28--Lavrov, Iranian top diplomat discuss joint efforts to combat coronavirus

MOSCOW , April 28 .
/TASS/ .
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif discussed @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus in a phone call on Tuesday , the Russian Foreign Ministry said in @ @ @ @ @ ministers compared their stances on ways to coordinate efforts to combat the coronavirus infection , @ @ @ @ @ `` They thoroughly discussed pressing global issues , focusing on developments in Afghanistan and the @ @ @ @ @ Plan of Action for Iran ’ s nuclear program , '' the ministry added .
@ @ @ @ @ and Hassan Rouhani of Iran earlier agreed that the two countries Health Ministries would maintain @ @ @ @ @ fight against the coronavirus .
The Iranian embassy in Moscow reported on April 11 that @ @ @ @ @ testing systems to Iran , which could be used for testing 50,000 people .

MOSCOW, April 28. /TASS/. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif discussed cooperation in the fight against the coronavirus in a phone call on Tuesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
"The ministers compared their stances on ways to coordinate efforts to combat the coronavirus infection," the statement reads. "They thoroughly discussed pressing global issues, focusing on developments in Afghanistan and the situation surrounding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action for Iran’s nuclear program," the ministry added.
Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Hassan Rouhani of Iran earlier agreed that the two countries Health Ministries would maintain contact in relation to the fight against the coronavirus. The Iranian embassy in Moscow reported on April 11 that Russia had sent 500 coronavirus testing systems to Iran, which could be used for testing 50,000 people.


tass--2020-04-28--Men more likely to contract COVID-19 than women, expert says

`` It is true , women contract the disease slightly less often than men .
However , the ratio is not that big .
60 % [ of infected persons ] are male , 40 % are female .
As for the severity of the disease , there are no grounds so far to say that men are more likely to develop severe symptoms , '' he said on the Rossiya-1 TV channel .
MOSCOW , April 28 .
/TASS/ .
Men are more likely to contract the novel coronavirus than women ( 60 % of men against 40 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deputy head of the pulmonology department at the First Moscow State Medical University , informed .
He added that there are no grounds so far to say that men get more severe symptoms of the disease than women .
Avdeev noted that the share of smokers among those infected with the virus is lower than expected .
`` It sounds like good news for all smokers , as in if you smoke , you are less likely to get infected .
However , it is too early to make such conclusions , because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smokers among the most serious patients , '' he explained .
The expert added that the amount of smokers in intensive care units `` may be double as high as the number of smokers among patients at the pre-intensive care stage . ''
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 211,000 deaths have been reported .
In addition , so far , over 923,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .
To date , a total of 93,558 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 8,456 patients having recovered from the virus .
Russia ’ s latest data indicates 867 fatalities nationwide .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

"It is true, women contract the disease slightly less often than men. However, the ratio is not that big. 60% [of infected persons] are male, 40% are female. As for the severity of the disease, there are no grounds so far to say that men are more likely to develop severe symptoms," he said on the Rossiya-1 TV channel.
MOSCOW, April 28. /TASS/. Men are more likely to contract the novel coronavirus than women (60% of men against 40% of women), Sergey Avdeev, deputy head of the pulmonology department at the First Moscow State Medical University, informed. He added that there are no grounds so far to say that men get more severe symptoms of the disease than women.
Avdeev noted that the share of smokers among those infected with the virus is lower than expected. "It sounds like good news for all smokers, as in if you smoke, you are less likely to get infected. However, it is too early to make such conclusions, because other data suggests that there are more smokers among the most serious patients," he explained. The expert added that the amount of smokers in intensive care units "may be double as high as the number of smokers among patients at the pre-intensive care stage."
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus - named COVID-19 by the WHO - have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 211,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 923,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.
To date, a total of 93,558 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 8,456 patients having recovered from the virus. Russia’s latest data indicates 867 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-04-28--Diplomat vows Alexander Courtyard legal dispute won’t harm Israeli-Russian ties

MOSCOW , April 28 .
/TASS/ .
The court battle over the ownership of the Alexander Metochion ( the Alexander Courtyard ) in the Old City of Jerusalem will not affect relations between Israel and Russia , because they are stronger than such challenges , Israeli Charge d ’ Affaires in Moscow Eli Belotserkovsky said at an online briefing organized by the Unified Information Center of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia .
`` As for the Alexander Metochion , this case is indeed in court .
I want to say , however , that our ties , relations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Dialogue has been maintained at all levels , so I am sure that we will be able to cope with any challenges that we encounter , '' he stressed .
The Alexander Metochion is located in the Old City of Jerusalem in close proximity to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre .
The Threshold of the Judgement Gate and the Church of St. Alexander Nevsky are located on its territory .
The land for its construction was purchased by Russian Emperor Alexander II in 1859 .
The compound was built by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The controversy surrounding its ownership began after the 1917 Revolution in Russia .
On January 23 , Israeli Minister of Environmental Protection and Co-Chairman of the Russian-Israeli intergovernmental commission Ze ’ ev Elkin said that Israel had begun the legal process of registering the Alexander Metochion to Russia in response to Moscow ’ s request .
On April 7 , The Marker Israeli newspaper reported that the Jerusalem District Court had suspended the registration until the hearing over a lawsuit filed by an organization known as the Orthodox Palestinian Society in the Holy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been completed .
Later on , the Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow would soon submit a response to the lawsuit with the court .

MOSCOW, April 28. /TASS/. The court battle over the ownership of the Alexander Metochion (the Alexander Courtyard) in the Old City of Jerusalem will not affect relations between Israel and Russia, because they are stronger than such challenges, Israeli Charge d’Affaires in Moscow Eli Belotserkovsky said at an online briefing organized by the Unified Information Center of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia.
"As for the Alexander Metochion, this case is indeed in court. I want to say, however, that our ties, relations between Israel and Russia are very strong. Dialogue has been maintained at all levels, so I am sure that we will be able to cope with any challenges that we encounter," he stressed.
The Alexander Metochion is located in the Old City of Jerusalem in close proximity to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Threshold of the Judgement Gate and the Church of St. Alexander Nevsky are located on its territory. The land for its construction was purchased by Russian Emperor Alexander II in 1859. The compound was built by the Imperial Orthodox Palestine Society in 1896. The controversy surrounding its ownership began after the 1917 Revolution in Russia.
On January 23, Israeli Minister of Environmental Protection and Co-Chairman of the Russian-Israeli intergovernmental commission Ze’ev Elkin said that Israel had begun the legal process of registering the Alexander Metochion to Russia in response to Moscow’s request.
On April 7, The Marker Israeli newspaper reported that the Jerusalem District Court had suspended the registration until the hearing over a lawsuit filed by an organization known as the Orthodox Palestine Society in the Holy Land that was unlawfully occupying the grounds had been completed. Later on, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow would soon submit a response to the lawsuit with the court.


tass--2020-04-28--Russian, Turkish top diplomats discuss coronavirus situation, repatriation of nationals

MOSCOW , April 28 .
/TASS/ .
Issues of peaceful settlement in Syria , the current coronavirus situation and repatriation @ @ @ @ @ of a telephone conversation between Russian and Turkish Foreign Ministers , Sergey Lavrov and Mevlut @ @ @ @ @ Ministry said on Tuesday .
`` The sides discussed in detail the situation around the @ @ @ @ @ taken in both countries to prevent further spread of the infection and prospects for cooperation @ @ @ @ @ two top diplomats hailed smooth coordination on the issues of repatriation of Russian and Turkish @ @ @ @ @ said .

MOSCOW, April 28. /TASS/. Issues of peaceful settlement in Syria, the current coronavirus situation and repatriation of nationals were in focus of a telephone conversation between Russian and Turkish Foreign Ministers, Sergey Lavrov and Mevlut Cavusoglu, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.
"The sides discussed in detail the situation around the novel coronavirus pandemic, measures taken in both countries to prevent further spread of the infection and prospects for cooperation in this sphere. The two top diplomats hailed smooth coordination on the issues of repatriation of Russian and Turkish nationals," the ministry said.


tass--2020-04-28--Lavrov, ICRC President Maurer discuss measures to overcome aftermath of pandemic

`` [ The parties ] discussed interaction in the fight against the spread of coronavirus and practical measures to overcome the humanitarian aftermath of the pandemic , '' the Foreign Ministry said .
MOSCOW , April 28 .
/TASS/ .
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and President of the International Committee of the Red Cross ( ICRC ) Peter Maurer discussed over the phone practical steps aimed at overcoming the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic , the Russian Foreign Ministry reported on Tuesday .
Lavrov and Maurer also exchanged views on crises in various regions of the world , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ southeastern Ukraine and Syria .
In late December 2019 , Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization ( WHO ) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan , in central China .
Since then , cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in every corner of the globe , including Russia .
On March 11 , 2020 , the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic .
According to the latest statistics , over 3,000,000 people have been infected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been reported .
In addition , so far , over 923,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe .

"[The parties] discussed interaction in the fight against the spread of coronavirus and practical measures to overcome the humanitarian aftermath of the pandemic," the Foreign Ministry said.
MOSCOW, April 28. /TASS/. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Peter Maurer discussed over the phone practical steps aimed at overcoming the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported on Tuesday.
Lavrov and Maurer also exchanged views on crises in various regions of the world, in particular, on assistance to civilians in southeastern Ukraine and Syria.
In late December 2019, Chinese officials notified the World Health Organization (WHO) about the outbreak of a previously unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan, in central China. Since then, cases of the novel coronavirus — named COVID-19 by the WHO — have been reported in every corner of the globe, including Russia.
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. According to the latest statistics, over 3,000,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 211,000 deaths have been reported. In addition, so far, over 923,000 individuals have recovered from the illness across the globe.


tass--2020-04-28--206 Key Investment and Talent Attraction Projects Commenced Simultaneously in Weifang

WEIFANG , China , April 28 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 22 , officials from the People 's Government of Weifang City held a live video conference to announce the simultaneous commencement of 206 key Investment and Talent Attraction projects across the city .
Hui Xin'an , secretary of the CPC Weifang Municipal Party Committee , explained that the key projects will provide crucial facilitation as Weifang replaces old growth drivers with new ones and accelerates high-level development .
The city is currently implementing epidemic prevention and control , alongside measures designed to accelerate the construction of a world-class @ @ @ @ @ @ @ openness , vitality and beauty .
This requires numerous large , quality projects .
Weifang will fully optimize its investment environment to provide investors with effective services and a conducive environment in the hope that a wide range of people will become confident in the development goals , and contribute to expanding investment with an increased number of projects in Weifang .
With a total investment of 177.466 billion RMB , the 206 projects cover a wide range , such as high-end equipment , modern agriculture , health care , new energy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cultural tourism , modern logistics , and high-end chemical engineering .
Four of the projects bring a total investment of more than 10 billion RMB and 21 total more than 2 billion RMB ; there are five projects from the Fortune Global 500 , five from the Top 500 Chinese Enterprises , and 22 from the categories of talents and scientific research platforms .
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attach-id=362688 Caption : The key Investment and Talent Attraction projects in Weifang , Shandong province

WEIFANG, China, April 28, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 22, officials from the People's Government of Weifang City held a live video conference to announce the simultaneous commencement of 206 key Investment and Talent Attraction projects across the city.
Hui Xin'an, secretary of the CPC Weifang Municipal Party Committee, explained that the key projects will provide crucial facilitation as Weifang replaces old growth drivers with new ones and accelerates high-level development. The city is currently implementing epidemic prevention and control, alongside measures designed to accelerate the construction of a world-class modern city characterized by ecological awareness, openness, vitality and beauty. This requires numerous large, quality projects. Weifang will fully optimize its investment environment to provide investors with effective services and a conducive environment in the hope that a wide range of people will become confident in the development goals, and contribute to expanding investment with an increased number of projects in Weifang.
With a total investment of 177.466 billion RMB, the 206 projects cover a wide range, such as high-end equipment, modern agriculture, health care, new energy and new materials, next-generation information technology, cultural tourism, modern logistics, and high-end chemical engineering. Four of the projects bring a total investment of more than 10 billion RMB and 21 total more than 2 billion RMB; there are five projects from the Fortune Global 500, five from the Top 500 Chinese Enterprises, and 22 from the categories of talents and scientific research platforms.
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Link: http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=362688
Caption: The key Investment and Talent Attraction projects in Weifang, Shandong province
CONTACT: Ms. Zhang, Tel: +86-10-63074558