tass--2020-11-18--Azeri leader says Russian, Turkish forces to take part in Karabakh security provision

BAKU , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian and Turkish military personnel will take part in operations to provide security for Azerbaijanis and Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh , Azerbaijan ’ s President Ilham Aliyev said on Wednesday .
All the countries of the region supported the joint statement by the leaders of Russia , Azerbaijan and Armenia on the ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh , Aliyev said .
`` All our neighbors expressed their support .
And two of our neighbors - Russia and Turkey - will participate in the operations to provide for the security of Azerbaijanis and Armenians , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the new Dutch ambassador to Baku , the news agency Azertac reported .
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27 , with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh .
The area experienced flare-ups of violence in the summer of 2014 , in April 2016 and this past July .
Azerbaijan and Armenia imposed martial law and launched mobilization efforts .
Both parties to the conflict reported numerous casualties , among them civilians .
On November 9 , Russian President Vladimir Putin , President of Azerbaijan Ilham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a full ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh , starting from November 10 .
Under the peace deal , the Azerbaijani and Armenian forces will remain at their current positions while Russian peacekeepers will be deployed to the region .
The conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh , a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up , but primarily populated by ethnic Armenians , broke out in February 1988 after the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region announced its withdrawal from the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic .
In 1992-1994 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military action for control over the enclave and seven adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them .
Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been ongoing since 1992 under the OSCE Minsk Group , led by its three co-chairs - Russia , France and the United States .

BAKU, November 18. /TASS/. The Russian and Turkish military personnel will take part in operations to provide security for Azerbaijanis and Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev said on Wednesday.
All the countries of the region supported the joint statement by the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia on the ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh, Aliyev said.
"All our neighbors expressed their support. And two of our neighbors - Russia and Turkey - will participate in the operations to provide for the security of Azerbaijanis and Armenians," the Azeri leader said at a meeting with the new Dutch ambassador to Baku, the news agency Azertac reported.
Renewed clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia erupted on September 27, with intense battles raging in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. The area experienced flare-ups of violence in the summer of 2014, in April 2016 and this past July. Azerbaijan and Armenia imposed martial law and launched mobilization efforts. Both parties to the conflict reported numerous casualties, among them civilians.
On November 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a full ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh, starting from November 10. Under the peace deal, the Azerbaijani and Armenian forces will remain at their current positions while Russian peacekeepers will be deployed to the region.
The conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory that had been part of Azerbaijan before the Soviet Union break-up, but primarily populated by ethnic Armenians, broke out in February 1988 after the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region announced its withdrawal from the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic.
In 1992-1994, tensions boiled over and exploded into large-scale military action for control over the enclave and seven adjacent territories after Azerbaijan lost control of them. Talks on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement have been ongoing since 1992 under the OSCE Minsk Group, led by its three co-chairs - Russia, France and the United States.


tass--2020-11-18--Coronavirus situation in Russia remains complicated, Putin says

NOVO-OGARYOVO , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin notes the complicated situation in the country due to @ @ @ @ @ .
The head of state has assured that this issue is always closely monitored by @ @ @ @ @ , our situation is not a simple one , '' Putin said at the beginning @ @ @ @ @ cabinet members on Wednesday .
He proposed to discuss the issues of fighting the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ means , lately this always remains in our field of attention , in our field @ @ @ @ @ head of state emphasized .
`` As we agreed earlier , today we will pay @ @ @ @ @ '' he announced .
The Russian leader assigned Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova to present @ @ @ @ @ evaluate the current situation .
`` .

NOVO-OGARYOVO, November 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin notes the complicated situation in the country due to the spread of the coronavirus. The head of state has assured that this issue is always closely monitored by the authorities.
"Unfortunately, our situation is not a simple one," Putin said at the beginning of his video conference with cabinet members on Wednesday. He proposed to discuss the issues of fighting the coronavirus infection. "By all means, lately this always remains in our field of attention, in our field of vision," the head of state emphasized.
"As we agreed earlier, today we will pay particular attention to it," he announced. The Russian leader assigned Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova to present a report, to "evaluate the current situation.".


tass--2020-11-18--Russia’s Investigative Committee charges four terrorists with Russian pilot’s death

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Russia ’ s Investigative Committee ( IC ) has charged four members of the terrorist organization Jabhat al-Nusra ( outlawed in Russia ) in absentia with the death of Russian air pilot Roman Filipov and put them on the international wanted list , IC spokeswoman , Svetlana Petrenko told the media on Wednesday .
`` The main directorate for the investigation of special cases of Russia ’ s Investigative Committee has established the identities of four accomplices in the death of Russian fighter jet Sukhoi-25SM ’ s pilot Major Roman Filipov , deputy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s air assault regiment .
They are Ibrahim Ramadan al-Ahmad , Mohammed Gazi al-Alaviyu , Abdel Sattar Abdul Gafur al-Sayyah and Abdel Basit Ibrahim al-Hamoud .
All of them are members of the terrorist organization Jabhat al-Nusra ( Hayat Tahrir al-Sham ) , '' Petrenko said .
They were charged in absentia under Part 2 of Article 205.5 of the Criminal Code ( participation in an organization recognized as terrorist in Russia ) , Part 3 of Article 30 and Part 2 of Article 105 of the Criminal Code ( attempted murder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Criminal Code ( theft of firearms ) .
`` The accused have been put on the international wanted list .
The investigation is going to ask court to remand them in custody in absentia , '' Petrenko said .
On February 3 , 2018 , a terrorist group attacked a Sukhkoi-25SM plane with an anti-aircraft missile system .
Roman Filipov ejected and parachuted in Syria ’ s Idlib province .
The plane fell apart in the air .
After landing Major Filipov offered resistance to the terrorists , who surrounded him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a hand grenade .
The terrorists stole his handgun , helmet and oxygen mask .
`` The necessary evidence that allowed for establishing the circumstances of Major Filipov ’ s death and those responsible was gathered as a result of active work by investigators and forensic experts from the IC ’ s central office in Syria in cooperation with the Russian Defense Ministry and the Syrian authorities concerned , '' Petrenko said .
Satellite images were examined thoroughly and the sites of Major Filipov ’ s death and the crash of his plane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the plane ’ s debris and questioned witnesses , including Syrian citizens .
`` A number of forensic examinations are being carried out , including explosive , ballistic and identification ones .
The conclusions will be important for establishing the circumstances of the crime , '' Petrenko said .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. Russia’s Investigative Committee (IC) has charged four members of the terrorist organization Jabhat al-Nusra (outlawed in Russia) in absentia with the death of Russian air pilot Roman Filipov and put them on the international wanted list, IC spokeswoman, Svetlana Petrenko told the media on Wednesday.
"The main directorate for the investigation of special cases of Russia’s Investigative Committee has established the identities of four accomplices in the death of Russian fighter jet Sukhoi-25SM’s pilot Major Roman Filipov, deputy squadron commander of the Eastern Military District’s air assault regiment. They are Ibrahim Ramadan al-Ahmad, Mohammed Gazi al-Alaviyu, Abdel Sattar Abdul Gafur al-Sayyah and Abdel Basit Ibrahim al-Hamoud. All of them are members of the terrorist organization Jabhat al-Nusra (Hayat Tahrir al-Sham)," Petrenko said. They were charged in absentia under Part 2 of Article 205.5 of the Criminal Code (participation in an organization recognized as terrorist in Russia), Part 3 of Article 30 and Part 2 of Article 105 of the Criminal Code (attempted murder) and Part 1 of Article 226 of the Criminal Code (theft of firearms).
"The accused have been put on the international wanted list. The investigation is going to ask court to remand them in custody in absentia," Petrenko said.
On February 3, 2018, a terrorist group attacked a Sukhkoi-25SM plane with an anti-aircraft missile system. Roman Filipov ejected and parachuted in Syria’s Idlib province. The plane fell apart in the air. After landing Major Filipov offered resistance to the terrorists, who surrounded him, and eventually blew himself up with a hand grenade. The terrorists stole his handgun, helmet and oxygen mask.
"The necessary evidence that allowed for establishing the circumstances of Major Filipov’s death and those responsible was gathered as a result of active work by investigators and forensic experts from the IC’s central office in Syria in cooperation with the Russian Defense Ministry and the Syrian authorities concerned," Petrenko said. Satellite images were examined thoroughly and the sites of Major Filipov’s death and the crash of his plane were established and searched. Investigators found the plane’s debris and questioned witnesses, including Syrian citizens.
"A number of forensic examinations are being carried out, including explosive, ballistic and identification ones. The conclusions will be important for establishing the circumstances of the crime," Petrenko said.


tass--2020-11-18--Armenian PM presents roadmap for further work

YEREVAN , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has presented a roadmap for the government ’ s further work , adding that he plans to make changes in the government ’ s composition .
`` I would like to stress that I consider myself the main person responsible for the current situation , however , I am also the main person responsible for ensuring stability and safety in the country .
So , I present a roadmap , and for its implementation , I have initiated changes in the government ’ s composition , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ majority of measures offered by Pashinyan aim to overcome the consequences of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict .
The measures include social guarantees for the families of officers killed in combat , the return of prisoners to Armenia , the recovery of buildings and infrastructure damaged in the hostilities , the formation of a political rehabilitation system .
The Armenian PM stressed the importance of the Armenian refugees ’ return to Karabakh and the full recovery of normal life .
Besides , Pashinyan plans to renew the talks on the status of Nagorno-Karabakh within the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he aims to hold talks with representatives of the public and politicians .
He also looks to reform Armenia ’ s armed forces .
The Armenian opposition is demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan , who , according to opposition politicians , `` signed a capitulation agreement '' on Nagorno-Karabakh .
On November 9 , Russian President Vladimir Putin , Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10 .
The Russian leader said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region .
Besides , Baku and Yerevan must exchange prisoners and the bodies of those killed .
On Monday , Armenian President Armen Sarkissian addressed the nation , calling for a snap parliamentary election .
He offered to establish a government of national accord in the run-up to the election .

YEREVAN, November 18. /TASS/. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has presented a roadmap for the government’s further work, adding that he plans to make changes in the government’s composition.
"I would like to stress that I consider myself the main person responsible for the current situation, however, I am also the main person responsible for ensuring stability and safety in the country. So, I present a roadmap, and for its implementation, I have initiated changes in the government’s composition," he wrote on Wednesday on Facebook.
The majority of measures offered by Pashinyan aim to overcome the consequences of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The measures include social guarantees for the families of officers killed in combat, the return of prisoners to Armenia, the recovery of buildings and infrastructure damaged in the hostilities, the formation of a political rehabilitation system. The Armenian PM stressed the importance of the Armenian refugees’ return to Karabakh and the full recovery of normal life.
Besides, Pashinyan plans to renew the talks on the status of Nagorno-Karabakh within the OSCE Minsk Group. The PM noted that he aims to hold talks with representatives of the public and politicians. He also looks to reform Armenia’s armed forces.
The Armenian opposition is demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who, according to opposition politicians, "signed a capitulation agreement" on Nagorno-Karabakh.
On November 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10. The Russian leader said the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides would maintain the positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region. Besides, Baku and Yerevan must exchange prisoners and the bodies of those killed.
On Monday, Armenian President Armen Sarkissian addressed the nation, calling for a snap parliamentary election. He offered to establish a government of national accord in the run-up to the election.


tass--2020-11-18--Bill submitted to Russian parliament on labeling individuals as foreign agents

`` Suggesting this package of amendments we say : you get money for your activity from abroad , please , register as a foreign agent and work but you must inform state bodies and Russian citizens in the interests of which state you are acting , which events you are planning and carrying out and how you are spending money allocated by foreign sponsors , '' said Piskarev , who heads the Security and Corruption Control Committee .
MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
A group of MPs and senators on Wednesday submitted to the State Duma , Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the recognition of individuals as foreign agents and defining their status and responsibility , one of its authors Vasily Piskarev said .
`` In particular , such individuals can neither hold office at a state and municipal service nor have access to state secrets , '' said the lawmaker , who also heads the State Duma ’ s commission on investigating facts of foreign meddling in Russia ’ s affairs .
Under the document , individuals can be recognized as foreign agents regardless of their citizenship if they carry out political activity on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a foreign state , its state bodies , international or a foreign organization , foreign citizens or persons without citizenship . ''
Another reason could be an effort aimed at `` deliberately collecting data on Russia ’ s military , military-technical activity , which can be used by foreign sponsors against Russian security , except for data that is a state secret and the handover of which is prosecuted under the Criminal Code . ''
Such individuals must apply for being listed as foreign agents .
If foreign citizens living abroad plan to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they should notify the authorities in advance before their arrival in the country .
The list of individuals who are foreign agents will be available to the public .
Meanwhile , diplomatic staff , accredited foreign journalists and other persons with special permission will be exempt from this procedure .
Individuals labeled as foreign agents must report about their activity , including on spending money and using property provided by foreign sponsors , at least once in every six months .

"Suggesting this package of amendments we say: you get money for your activity from abroad, please, register as a foreign agent and work but you must inform state bodies and Russian citizens in the interests of which state you are acting, which events you are planning and carrying out and how you are spending money allocated by foreign sponsors," said Piskarev, who heads the Security and Corruption Control Committee.
MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. A group of MPs and senators on Wednesday submitted to the State Duma, Russia's lower house, a bill authorizing the recognition of individuals as foreign agents and defining their status and responsibility, one of its authors Vasily Piskarev said.
"In particular, such individuals can neither hold office at a state and municipal service nor have access to state secrets," said the lawmaker, who also heads the State Duma’s commission on investigating facts of foreign meddling in Russia’s affairs.
Under the document, individuals can be recognized as foreign agents regardless of their citizenship if they carry out political activity on Russian soil "in the interests of a foreign state, its state bodies, international or a foreign organization, foreign citizens or persons without citizenship."
Another reason could be an effort aimed at "deliberately collecting data on Russia’s military, military-technical activity, which can be used by foreign sponsors against Russian security, except for data that is a state secret and the handover of which is prosecuted under the Criminal Code."
Such individuals must apply for being listed as foreign agents. If foreign citizens living abroad plan to carry out this activity in Russia, they should notify the authorities in advance before their arrival in the country. The list of individuals who are foreign agents will be available to the public. Meanwhile, diplomatic staff, accredited foreign journalists and other persons with special permission will be exempt from this procedure.
Individuals labeled as foreign agents must report about their activity, including on spending money and using property provided by foreign sponsors, at least once in every six months.


tass--2020-11-18--Russian parliament approves primacy of Constitution in over 100 laws

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian State Duma ( lower house of parliament ) has approved the third reading of the bill stipulating primacy of the Russian Constitution over international agreements and decisions of intergovernmental bodies .
Changes have been made to over 110 Russian laws .
The new norm stipulates that the Russian law prevails if the provisions of international agreements violate the Russian Constitution .
The Russian Constitutional Court has been tasked with estimating whether an international agreement or decision running counter to the Russian Constitution should be executed .
The new laws will enter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official publication .
Russian President Vladimir Putin put forward the draft bills to the Russian State Duma on October 14 .
Article 79 of the Russian Constitution rules that the decisions of international bodies that violate the Russian Constitution can not be adhered to in Russia .
Earlier , Russian State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said that the president ’ s initiative would help protect the rights and interests of citizens , as well as Russian sovereignty , and that they will `` improve the quality of government . ''
He pointed out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempts to stall Russia ’ s development , namely using `` international law instruments '' with political aims .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. The Russian State Duma (lower house of parliament) has approved the third reading of the bill stipulating primacy of the Russian Constitution over international agreements and decisions of intergovernmental bodies.
Changes have been made to over 110 Russian laws. The new norm stipulates that the Russian law prevails if the provisions of international agreements violate the Russian Constitution.
The Russian Constitutional Court has been tasked with estimating whether an international agreement or decision running counter to the Russian Constitution should be executed. The new laws will enter into force on the day of their official publication.
Russian President Vladimir Putin put forward the draft bills to the Russian State Duma on October 14. Article 79 of the Russian Constitution rules that the decisions of international bodies that violate the Russian Constitution cannot be adhered to in Russia.
Earlier, Russian State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin said that the president’s initiative would help protect the rights and interests of citizens, as well as Russian sovereignty, and that they will "improve the quality of government." He pointed out that a number of Western states make attempts to stall Russia’s development, namely using "international law instruments" with political aims.


tass--2020-11-18--Number of COVID-19 infections in Moscow may increase over winter holidays, expert says

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
The number of coronavirus infections in Moscow may increase during winter holidays , Chief Medical Officer of Moscow ’ s Filatov Hospital Valery Vechorko told the Russia-24 TV channel on Wednesday .
`` We are ready for any development of the events .
Regarding the evaluation of the situation as a whole , it is still too early to talk about any stabilization of the situation and , as we know , restrictive measures are in effect from November 13 through January 15 , '' he said .
The expert added that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask and gloves regime as well as social distancing .
`` It is possible to presume that , if our citizens won ’ t observe the measures we recommend , we may see an increase in incidence during winter holidays , '' the expert said .
According to the latest global statistics , over 55.6 mln people have been infected worldwide and more than 1.3 mln deaths have been reported .
To date , 1,991,998 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia , with 1,501,083 patients having recovered from the disease .
Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nationwide .
Earlier , the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. The number of coronavirus infections in Moscow may increase during winter holidays, Chief Medical Officer of Moscow’s Filatov Hospital Valery Vechorko told the Russia-24 TV channel on Wednesday.
"We are ready for any development of the events. Regarding the evaluation of the situation as a whole, it is still too early to talk about any stabilization of the situation and, as we know, restrictive measures are in effect from November 13 through January 15," he said.
The expert added that it is necessary to continue to observe the mask and gloves regime as well as social distancing.
"It is possible to presume that, if our citizens won’t observe the measures we recommend, we may see an increase in incidence during winter holidays," the expert said.
According to the latest global statistics, over 55.6 mln people have been infected worldwide and more than 1.3 mln deaths have been reported. To date, 1,991,998 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Russia, with 1,501,083 patients having recovered from the disease. Russia’s latest data indicates 34,387 fatalities nationwide. Earlier, the Russian government set up an Internet hotline to keep the public updated on the coronavirus situation.


tass--2020-11-18--OPEC+ monitoring committee to hold consultations with all participant states by December 1

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Ministers of the OPEC+ monitoring committee that postponed issuing recommendation on oil production cuts in 2021 at a Tuesday meeting , will discuss the issue in the coming two weeks with all countries participating in the deal , a source in OPEC told TASS .
Uncertainty around COVID-19 was the main reason why the ministers decided to take time out , he said .
`` They want to see how the situation will unfold within those two weeks .
They may recommend extension by three months now , though if everything gets only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to opt for six months , '' the source explained .
`` They want to have consultations with all participating countries on the issue by December 1 , '' he added .
Initially the agreement on crude output reduction stipulated that cuts would be eased starting January 1 , 2021 , enabling the participating nations to boost production by 1.9 mln barrels per day .
As a result , 5.8 mln barrels per day would be reduced instead of the current 7.7 mln barrels per day .
However , due to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus and new lockdowns , OPEC+ is considering extension of the existing reduction parameters by 3-6 months .
The monitoring committee was to issue a respective recommendation at a meeting on November 17 , however , it was decided to announce it at a meeting on December 1 , 2020 .
The ministerial conference of all OPEC and non-OPEC states is scheduled for that day .
After considering the recommendation of the monitoring committe , they are expected to announce a final decision on production cuts in the first months of 2021 @

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. Ministers of the OPEC+ monitoring committee that postponed issuing recommendation on oil production cuts in 2021 at a Tuesday meeting, will discuss the issue in the coming two weeks with all countries participating in the deal, a source in OPEC told TASS.
Uncertainty around COVID-19 was the main reason why the ministers decided to take time out, he said. "They want to see how the situation will unfold within those two weeks. They may recommend extension by three months now, though if everything gets only worse by December 1, they will have to opt for six months," the source explained.
"They want to have consultations with all participating countries on the issue by December 1," he added.
Initially the agreement on crude output reduction stipulated that cuts would be eased starting January 1, 2021, enabling the participating nations to boost production by 1.9 mln barrels per day. As a result, 5.8 mln barrels per day would be reduced instead of the current 7.7 mln barrels per day. However, due to the serious scale of a second wave of the coronavirus and new lockdowns, OPEC+ is considering extension of the existing reduction parameters by 3-6 months.
The monitoring committee was to issue a respective recommendation at a meeting on November 17, however, it was decided to announce it at a meeting on December 1, 2020. The ministerial conference of all OPEC and non-OPEC states is scheduled for that day. After considering the recommendation of the monitoring committee, they are expected to announce a final decision on production cuts in the first months of 2021.


tass--2020-11-18--Men die of coronavirus 30% more often than women, scientist says

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Men die of complications caused by the coronavirus infection 30 % more often @ @ @ @ @ the Lomonosov Moscow State University Clinic Armais Kamalov said at an online meeting of the @ @ @ @ @ Academy of Sciences on the subject of COVID-19 and reproductive health on Wednesday .
These @ @ @ @ @ publications on the incidence of the coronavirus infection worldwide , he explained .
`` Per @ @ @ @ @ 11 cases of incidence among men .
12 men are hospitalized , and already 18 @ @ @ @ @ unit .
The mortality , unfortunately , is at 15 compared to women .
This @ @ @ @ @ die 30 % more often , '' he said .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. Men die of complications caused by the coronavirus infection 30% more often than women, Director of the Lomonosov Moscow State University Clinic Armais Kamalov said at an online meeting of the academic board of the Russian Academy of Sciences on the subject of COVID-19 and reproductive health on Wednesday.
These conclusions were drawn from research publications on the incidence of the coronavirus infection worldwide, he explained.
"Per each 10 women we have 11 cases of incidence among men. 12 men are hospitalized, and already 18 stay at an intensive care unit. The mortality, unfortunately, is at 15 compared to women. This means that men died and die 30% more often," he said.


tass--2020-11-18--Scientists prove bacteria can decompose bioplastics in Arctic

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Scientists at the Siberian Federal University proved bioplastics may be used in sub-Arctic latitudes without harming the environment , as soil bacteria can decompose bioplastics membranes .
Thus , using these ecology-friendly bioplastics will cut the harmful impacts on fragile ecosystems , like the Arctic , an author of the studies , Svetlana Prudnikova , the University ’ s biotechnologist , told TASS .
Though Arctic and sub-Arctic regions are low-populated areas , they are polluted with plastics .
The main route for bringing it to the Arctic is the Gulf Stream , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Research Institute , told TASS .
`` The route is by currents , the Gulf Stream and further on towards the north .
Another watercourse goes into the Barents Sea , along coastlines of Norway and the Kola Peninsula .
This is the main supplier of plastics into the Arctic .
In addition to it , there are local sources - fishing , since we have productive waters , namely in the Barents and Greenland Seas .
Nets are often lost in the waters , and some vessels dump waste into the sea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most polluted are the Barents and Greenland Seas .
An expert in ecology and sustainable development at St. Petersburg State University Katerina Shalunova told TASS that Russian and international teams had been studying spread of microplastics in the Arctic zone .
`` All researchers note that they would find plastic particles smaller than 5mm - polymer threads , granules or fragments - in nearly every sample , '' she said .
According to Vesman , plastics are the most dangerous for the fauna , since fish and birds can take it for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plastic , an animal cuts its intake .
`` Lab tests show that microplastics may harm the endocrine system and may cause many health-related problems , '' she said .
Any thrown away bag may gradually reach northern territories , while decomposition of , for example , polyethylene takes centuries , Prudnikova said .
`` Perhaps , in the future microorganisms will get adapted to it , and species may appear that can decompose plastics , which have been produced actively , but as yet , those plastics decompose very slowly .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the northern territories , which suffer from plastic waste .
If later on , people use bio-decomposable materials , these [ the materials ] will reach northern territories too .
The objective of our studies was to understand what may happen to them [ the materials ] there . ''
Earlier , scientists at the Russian Academy of Sciences ’ Siberian Branch ’ s Institute of Biophysics , led by Professor Tatyana Volovaya , developed a technology to make special biopolymers - polyhydroxyalkanoates ( PHAs ) , which bacteria produce naturally , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientists grow microorganisms , in the cells of which the polymer is synthesized .
The polymer is then extracted from the cells and purified , and only then it can be used in biodegradable products , such as bags or packages .
`` Interestingly , different kinds of bacteria have this ability [ to produce biopolymers ] , though with different efficiency .
The Institute of Biophysics has patented highly productive cultures , which may be used to produce bioplastics , '' she added .
The obtained material may decompose into non-toxic compounds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Prudnikova , the material ’ s decomposition speed depends on the polymer ’ s structure , the product ’ s form and thickness .
`` If we speak about thin bags - they will degrade quickly .
For whatever long-term products , people should use other production technologies .
This way it would be possible to control the material decomposition in the nature , '' she said .
Moreover , the researcher added , bioplastics are better than regular plastics because they are capable of complete oxidation , that is , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of environmental pollution with small plastic particles .
The scientists conducted tests to see how bioplastics may be decomposed by soil microorganisms in various climate conditions .
Prior to these studies , the scientists tested bioplastics ’ decomposition by bacteria in salted and non-salted waters , as well as by bacteria in tropical soils .
The recent experiment was organized in Evenkiya - an Arctic area in the Krasnoyarsk Region ’ s north .
`` The technology for such studies is rather universal .
We put products into a case , through which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to lose those products during the gradual decomposition .
The case may be made of polyether , which is non-degradable , '' Prudnikova said .
As part of an experiment , scientists put plastics into net bags and dug them for more than one year .
Later on , they studied how the plastics had changed - the weight , chemical structure and the microbial community - and made conclusions as to which microorganisms could use the polymer as a substrate .
`` The perennially frozen ground and the cold climate affected the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when microorganisms are active , '' the scientist said .
`` While in the tropics , the decomposition may take a few weeks , here we had to wait for more than one year , after which the process was only starting at the molecular level . ''
Anyway , the experiment has shown that bioplastics may decompose in sub-Arctic latitudes , and thus they are not hazardous .
The Arctic has a potential to decompose such materials , Prudnikova said , adding `` as yet this is a theory and we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decomposition may take .
In case of packaging , the term may be a few years . ''
The proved safety of bioplastics in northern latitudes will help expand its further use , Prudnikova said .
Scientists have been working to cut its production expenses .
`` In this country , PHAs are not used for packaging .
The production costs are rather high , thus they may be used as medical materials .
Foreign countries have been using PHAs for packaging .
Work in different directions - affordable substrates and better technologies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ massively and for many purposes .
We have theoretical grounds for this , and the task is to make the material affordable for mass production , '' the scientist said .
Vesman pointed to the positive effect of these technologies , stressing the importance of developing reasonable consumption habits in society , so that not to increase the amounts of plastics in circulation .
`` New materials are good , but the main emphasis [ should be made ] on cutting use of existing plastics , '' she added .
The Siberian Federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ university , established in 2006 through a merger of four universities in Krasnoyarsk .
It is the biggest university in eastern Russia .
In 2019 , at the initiative of Governor Alexander Uss , the university organized a department for Arctic studies .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. Scientists at the Siberian Federal University proved bioplastics may be used in sub-Arctic latitudes without harming the environment, as soil bacteria can decompose bioplastics membranes. Thus, using these ecology-friendly bioplastics will cut the harmful impacts on fragile ecosystems, like the Arctic, an author of the studies, Svetlana Prudnikova, the University’s biotechnologist, told TASS.
Though Arctic and sub-Arctic regions are low-populated areas, they are polluted with plastics. The main route for bringing it to the Arctic is the Gulf Stream, Anna Vesman of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute, told TASS.
"The route is by currents, the Gulf Stream and further on towards the north. Another watercourse goes into the Barents Sea, along coastlines of Norway and the Kola Peninsula. This is the main supplier of plastics into the Arctic. In addition to it, there are local sources - fishing, since we have productive waters, namely in the Barents and Greenland Seas. Nets are often lost in the waters, and some vessels dump waste into the sea," she said, adding that the most polluted are the Barents and Greenland Seas.
An expert in ecology and sustainable development at St. Petersburg State University Katerina Shalunova told TASS that Russian and international teams had been studying spread of microplastics in the Arctic zone. "All researchers note that they would find plastic particles smaller than 5mm - polymer threads, granules or fragments - in nearly every sample," she said.
According to Vesman, plastics are the most dangerous for the fauna, since fish and birds can take it for food. Having eaten a piece of plastic, an animal cuts its intake. "Lab tests show that microplastics may harm the endocrine system and may cause many health-related problems," she said.
Any thrown away bag may gradually reach northern territories, while decomposition of, for example, polyethylene takes centuries, Prudnikova said. "Perhaps, in the future microorganisms will get adapted to it, and species may appear that can decompose plastics, which have been produced actively, but as yet, those plastics decompose very slowly. The problem of waste accumulation is highly topical for the northern territories, which suffer from plastic waste. If later on, people use bio-decomposable materials, these [the materials] will reach northern territories too. The objective of our studies was to understand what may happen to them [the materials] there."
Modern technologies
Earlier, scientists at the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Siberian Branch’s Institute of Biophysics, led by Professor Tatyana Volovaya, developed a technology to make special biopolymers - polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), which bacteria produce naturally, under certain conditions. For this, scientists grow microorganisms, in the cells of which the polymer is synthesized. The polymer is then extracted from the cells and purified, and only then it can be used in biodegradable products, such as bags or packages.
"Interestingly, different kinds of bacteria have this ability [to produce biopolymers], though with different efficiency. The Institute of Biophysics has patented highly productive cultures, which may be used to produce bioplastics," she added.
The obtained material may decompose into non-toxic compounds - carbon dioxide and water. According to Prudnikova, the material’s decomposition speed depends on the polymer’s structure, the product’s form and thickness. "If we speak about thin bags - they will degrade quickly. For whatever long-term products, people should use other production technologies. This way it would be possible to control the material decomposition in the nature," she said.
Moreover, the researcher added, bioplastics are better than regular plastics because they are capable of complete oxidation, that is, they can be used to solve the problem of environmental pollution with small plastic particles.
Safety tests
The scientists conducted tests to see how bioplastics may be decomposed by soil microorganisms in various climate conditions. Prior to these studies, the scientists tested bioplastics’ decomposition by bacteria in salted and non-salted waters, as well as by bacteria in tropical soils. The recent experiment was organized in Evenkiya - an Arctic area in the Krasnoyarsk Region’s north.
"The technology for such studies is rather universal. We put products into a case, through which microorganisms may infiltrate - so that not to lose those products during the gradual decomposition. The case may be made of polyether, which is non-degradable," Prudnikova said. As part of an experiment, scientists put plastics into net bags and dug them for more than one year. Later on, they studied how the plastics had changed - the weight, chemical structure and the microbial community - and made conclusions as to which microorganisms could use the polymer as a substrate.
"The perennially frozen ground and the cold climate affected the decomposition process, reducing the time, when microorganisms are active," the scientist said. "While in the tropics, the decomposition may take a few weeks, here we had to wait for more than one year, after which the process was only starting at the molecular level."
Anyway, the experiment has shown that bioplastics may decompose in sub-Arctic latitudes, and thus they are not hazardous. The Arctic has a potential to decompose such materials, Prudnikova said, adding "as yet this is a theory and we cannot say for sure how long the decomposition may take. In case of packaging, the term may be a few years."
The proved safety of bioplastics in northern latitudes will help expand its further use, Prudnikova said. Scientists have been working to cut its production expenses. "In this country, PHAs are not used for packaging. The production costs are rather high, thus they may be used as medical materials. Foreign countries have been using PHAs for packaging. Work in different directions - affordable substrates and better technologies - may result in using microbial polymers massively and for many purposes. We have theoretical grounds for this, and the task is to make the material affordable for mass production," the scientist said.
Vesman pointed to the positive effect of these technologies, stressing the importance of developing reasonable consumption habits in society, so that not to increase the amounts of plastics in circulation. "New materials are good, but the main emphasis [should be made] on curtailing use of existing plastics," she added.
About University
The Siberian Federal University is Russia’s first federal university, established in 2006 through a merger of four universities in Krasnoyarsk. It is the biggest university in eastern Russia. In 2019, at the initiative of Governor Alexander Uss, the university organized a department for Arctic studies.


tass--2020-11-18--Press review: Who’s exempt from Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act and Trump mulls strike on Iran

Rallies against Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashininyan are unlikely to gain momentum in the near future , experts interviewed by Izvestia said .
The opposition lacks legal levers to topple the prime minister and it does n't have an alternative leader .
According to political scientists , if over a short-term horizon a power change does occur , the prime minister ’ s seat will be occupied by the ruling party ’ s candidate .
The political crisis in Yerevan has been raging on for a week after Pashinyan signed a statement with the leaders of Russia and Azerbaijan on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister acknowledged his responsibility but is clearly signaling that he is not going to leave .
The key obstacle now is martial law in the country , during which the head of the cabinet can not be ousted , the paper writes .
Director of the Yerevan-based Caucasus Institute Alexander Iskandaryan says neither the president nor the opposition have the possibility to shift from words to action now .
`` To invalidate martial law , half of the parliament ’ s votes plus one would be needed .
The opposition doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ruling party can do this .
But even if martial law is annulled , a one-third vote to discuss the prime minister ’ s ouster would be needed .
The opposition would lack four votes , '' the expert noted .
`` So , it would be very hard to do something in legal terms , '' he explained .
Besides , Pashinyan can not reach a compromise with the opposition , which demands his resignation .
Meanwhile , some in Yerevan think that the prime minister ’ s resignation during the evacuation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over to Baku and the deployment of Russian peacekeepers to Nagorno-Karabakh is probably not the best idea now .
According to Vladimir Evseev , who heads the Eurasian Integration and SCO Development Department at the CIS Institute , Yerevan managed to save face and Pashinyan did not give up by leaving these problems on someone else ’ s lap , instead he is trying to iron them out .
The fact that the scale of the protests has stopped growing shows that the Armenian premier enjoys support among his citizens .
The most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pashinyan will be replaced by someone among his allies , the political scientist projected .
Maia Sandu , Moldova ’ s newly-elected president was welcomed by the leaders of the European Union , the United States and Russia .
But in her own country she is opposed by the government and the largest parliamentary faction - the Party of Socialists .
Sandu ’ s key goal is to come to terms with the cabinet of ministers and secure the parliamentary elections .
Otherwise , she won ’ t be able to fulfill her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in addition to distancing Moldova from Russia .
Vadim Krasnoselsky , Transnistria ’ s president , signaled that Tiraspol was ready to cooperate with any president elected by Moldova ’ s citizens .
This is an important statement demonstrating Tiraspol ’ s readiness to hold dialogue with Chisinau , the paper writes .
The talks on ironing out the Transnistrian conflict , which have been stalled over the past years , should resume now .
Earlier , the Transnistrian leader refused to hold meetings saying that Moldova had failed to meet its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks .
Now Tiraspol is offering Chisinau a chance to remedy the situation .
The incoming pro-EU president will also face problems when cooperating with the parliament , in which the Party of Socialists supporting incumbent President Igor Dodon , has the majority .
Political scientists believe Moldova should hold snap elections but note that the most challenging task will be to form a parliamentary majority .
`` I believe the resignation of the legislature is the only solution , '' Romanian political analyst Armang Goshu said .
Member of the European Parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a challenging period due to the imminent confrontation between the president and the parliament .
`` President Sandu will have to find a way to work with this parliament and with this government if it is here to stay , '' he emphasized .
On Tuesday , the Senate passed the Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act ( RADA ) , which empowers the US to pursue criminal prosecution of violators of anti-doping rules around the world .
The new law won ’ t punish athletes and mainly targets doping conspirators globally , sports attorney Alexei @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legislation has no retroactive effect and will be only applied to organizers of future doping schemes .
`` Russian athletes won ’ t be held accountable based on the new law , '' said Panich , who represents the interests of Russian biathletes in the Court of Arbitration for Sport ( CAS ) .
The Rodchenkov Act will apply to all competitions where the World Anti-Doping Agency ( WADA ) rules are in place , sports lawyer Artem Patsev said .
`` In accordance with this document , the US will be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alleged doping collusion at competitions where Americans take part , '' he noted .
Professional North American leagues such as the National Basketball Association ( NBA ) and the National Hockey League ( NHL ) won ’ t be targeted by this law because they are not regulated by the WADA Code .
`` The North American professional leagues rake in a lot of money , '' the attorney stressed .
These leagues don ’ t recognize the WADA [ Anti-Doping ] Code and its anti-doping rules and they have their own system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own anti-doping rules , he pointed out .
According to the lawyer , given that the US has its own anti-doping system distinct from the rest of the world , most American athletes won ’ t be affected by the Rodchenkov Act .
`` Since the Rodchenkov Act is aimed at protecting American athletes from any manipulations and fraud from foreign athletes at major international competitions held under the auspices of the International Olympic Committee and the WADA Code , it ’ s clear that these professional leagues are fully exempt from this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 90 % or more American athletes and coaches won ’ t be targeted by this law and can feel thoroughly calm , '' he stressed .
The Trump administration is considering including a use of force scenario in a package of `` farewell '' measures against Iran .
During a meeting on November 12 , Trump asked about options for striking the Natanz nuclear site , Nezavisimaya Gazeta writes , citing a report by The New York Times .
Trump mulled the options of carrying out a missile strike or a cyber attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president from moving ahead with a military strike , warning him that this could trigger a full-scale conflict in the Middle East during the last weeks of his presidential term .
However , Trump is still determined to inflict maximum harm to Tehran .
Officials say Trump is not considering the use of force anymore .
Another option on the table was designating Yemen ’ s Iran-backed Houthi insurgents a terrorist organization before leaving office in January .
Director of the Future of Iran Initiative at the Washington-based Atlantic Council think tank , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administration of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani breathed a sigh of relief at Joe Biden ’ s projected victory in the US election and the growing chances of returning to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on the Iranian nuclear program or at least a temporary deal .
Iran , which needs to stabilize its national currency and combat COVID-19 , will refrain from any response until the Trump administration decides to take a foolish step , she noted .
Yulia Sveshnikova , an adviser at the PIR-Center , doubts that Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planning .
`` It seems to me that these are ill-considered steps , '' the analyst said .
`` As for the Houthis : even if they are designated as a terrorist organization , I don ’ t think the change of their status will directly impact Iran .
Moreover , this will be a unilateral US step rather than the outcome of a coordinated policy by the international community . ''
The expert noted that Tehran had certain expectations over a Biden presidency but everything depends on his first steps .
Analysts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of oxygen pillows in Russia this autumn compared with last year .
Russians are also actively buying oxygen concentrators and sprays .
Experts told Izvestia that people are trying to provide themselves with these goods in case they get infected with COVID-19 .
Meanwhile , doctors warn that these devices can be used only under strict medical supervision .
According to analysts at Platforma OFD , the major growth in sales of these devices was recorded in November .
The average price tag for an oxygen concentrator was 30,650 rubles ( $ 400 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year ’ s figures .
`` Citizens are seeking to protect themselves and their families as much as possible from the negative consequences of the virus and often buy such goods to have them in store , just in case .
This anxiety as a rule is related to the rumor mill , which reports about the lack of some goods in local pharmacies , '' the experts explained .
Devices like an oxygen pillow or a spray , which provide people with oxygen before an ambulance arrives could come in quite handy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ science editor at Vrachu.ru .
However , one major shortcoming of a concentrator is its low speed of delivering oxygen while patients in grave condition need a high speed , which can be only provided in a hospital , the expert explained .
If people use mobile oxygen devices at home , they should measure the oxygen in their blood by a pulse oximeter , the specialist noted .
Earlier , Izvestia wrote that the sales of these devices also had more than doubled in Russia .
TASS is not responsible for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Izvestia: Armenian opposition lacks legal levers to oust prime minister
Read also Putin dismisses allegations about Russia's changed attitude to Armenia under Pashinyan
Rallies against Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashininyan are unlikely to gain momentum in the near future, experts interviewed by Izvestia said. The opposition lacks legal levers to topple the prime minister and it doesn't have an alternative leader. According to political scientists, if over a short-term horizon a power change does occur, the prime minister’s seat will be occupied by the ruling party’s candidate. The political crisis in Yerevan has been raging on for a week after Pashinyan signed a statement with the leaders of Russia and Azerbaijan on a ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh. The prime minister acknowledged his responsibility but is clearly signaling that he is not going to leave. The key obstacle now is martial law in the country, during which the head of the cabinet cannot be ousted, the paper writes. Director of the Yerevan-based Caucasus Institute Alexander Iskandaryan says neither the president nor the opposition have the possibility to shift from words to action now. "To invalidate martial law, half of the parliament’s votes plus one would be needed. The opposition doesn’t have that many mandates. Only the ruling party can do this. But even if martial law is annulled, a one-third vote to discuss the prime minister’s ouster would be needed. The opposition would lack four votes," the expert noted. "So, it would be very hard to do something in legal terms," he explained. Besides, Pashinyan cannot reach a compromise with the opposition, which demands his resignation. Meanwhile, some in Yerevan think that the prime minister’s resignation during the evacuation of Armenians from the territories being handed over to Baku and the deployment of Russian peacekeepers to Nagorno-Karabakh is probably not the best idea now. According to Vladimir Evseev, who heads the Eurasian Integration and SCO Development Department at the CIS Institute, Yerevan managed to save face and Pashinyan did not give up by leaving these problems on someone else’s lap, instead he is trying to iron them out. The fact that the scale of the protests has stopped growing shows that the Armenian premier enjoys support among his citizens. The most real scenario is that some time later Pashinyan will be replaced by someone among his allies, the political scientist projected. Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Transnistria recognizes new Moldovan president
Read also Sandu wins Moldovan presidential election
Maia Sandu, Moldova’s newly-elected president was welcomed by the leaders of the European Union, the United States and Russia. But in her own country she is opposed by the government and the largest parliamentary faction - the Party of Socialists. Sandu’s key goal is to come to terms with the cabinet of ministers and secure the parliamentary elections. Otherwise, she won’t be able to fulfill her program on rapprochement with Romania and Ukraine, in addition to distancing Moldova from Russia. Vadim Krasnoselsky, Transnistria’s president, signaled that Tiraspol was ready to cooperate with any president elected by Moldova’s citizens. This is an important statement demonstrating Tiraspol’s readiness to hold dialogue with Chisinau, the paper writes. The talks on ironing out the Transnistrian conflict, which have been stalled over the past years, should resume now. Earlier, the Transnistrian leader refused to hold meetings saying that Moldova had failed to meet its commitments and add specific content to the talks. Now Tiraspol is offering Chisinau a chance to remedy the situation. The incoming pro-EU president will also face problems when cooperating with the parliament, in which the Party of Socialists supporting incumbent President Igor Dodon, has the majority. Political scientists believe Moldova should hold snap elections but note that the most challenging task will be to form a parliamentary majority. "I believe the resignation of the legislature is the only solution," Romanian political analyst Armang Goshu said. Member of the European Parliament Dragos Tudorache notes that Moldova will face a challenging period due to the imminent confrontation between the president and the parliament. "President Sandu will have to find a way to work with this parliament and with this government if it is here to stay," he emphasized. RBC: US sports exempt from Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act
Read also US Senate passes Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act
On Tuesday, the Senate passed the Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act (RADA), which empowers the US to pursue criminal prosecution of violators of anti-doping rules around the world. The new law won’t punish athletes and mainly targets doping conspirators globally, sports attorney Alexei Panich told RBC. Besides, this legislation has no retroactive effect and will be only applied to organizers of future doping schemes. "Russian athletes won’t be held accountable based on the new law," said Panich, who represents the interests of Russian biathletes in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The Rodchenkov Act will apply to all competitions where the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules are in place, sports lawyer Artem Patsev said. "In accordance with this document, the US will be able to prosecute any person taking part in alleged doping collusion at competitions where Americans take part," he noted. Professional North American leagues such as the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the National Hockey League (NHL) won’t be targeted by this law because they are not regulated by the WADA Code. "The North American professional leagues rake in a lot of money," the attorney stressed. These leagues don’t recognize the WADA [Anti-Doping] Code and its anti-doping rules and they have their own system of holding those accountable for violating their own anti-doping rules, he pointed out. According to the lawyer, given that the US has its own anti-doping system distinct from the rest of the world, most American athletes won’t be affected by the Rodchenkov Act. "Since the Rodchenkov Act is aimed at protecting American athletes from any manipulations and fraud from foreign athletes at major international competitions held under the auspices of the International Olympic Committee and the WADA Code, it’s clear that these professional leagues are fully exempt from this law. It turns out that nearly 90% or more American athletes and coaches won’t be targeted by this law and can feel thoroughly calm," he stressed. Nezavisimaya Gazeta: Trump mulls ‘farewell blow’ against Iran
Read also Weapons embargo against Iran not linked with nuclear deal — diplomat
The Trump administration is considering including a use of force scenario in a package of "farewell" measures against Iran. During a meeting on November 12, Trump asked about options for striking the Natanz nuclear site, Nezavisimaya Gazeta writes, citing a report by The New York Times. Trump mulled the options of carrying out a missile strike or a cyber attack. However, senior officials dissuaded the president from moving ahead with a military strike, warning him that this could trigger a full-scale conflict in the Middle East during the last weeks of his presidential term. However, Trump is still determined to inflict maximum harm to Tehran. Officials say Trump is not considering the use of force anymore. Another option on the table was designating Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi insurgents a terrorist organization before leaving office in January. Director of the Future of Iran Initiative at the Washington-based Atlantic Council think tank, Barbara Slavin told the newspaper that the administration of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani breathed a sigh of relief at Joe Biden’s projected victory in the US election and the growing chances of returning to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on the Iranian nuclear program or at least a temporary deal. Iran, which needs to stabilize its national currency and combat COVID-19, will refrain from any response until the Trump administration decides to take a foolish step, she noted. Yulia Sveshnikova, an adviser at the PIR-Center, doubts that Trump’s initiative is the result of a long-term planning. "It seems to me that these are ill-considered steps," the analyst said. "As for the Houthis: even if they are designated as a terrorist organization, I don’t think the change of their status will directly impact Iran. Moreover, this will be a unilateral US step rather than the outcome of a coordinated policy by the international community." The expert noted that Tehran had certain expectations over a Biden presidency but everything depends on his first steps. Izvestia: Sales of oxygen devices grow eight-fold in Russia
Read also Moscow hospital uses hyperbaric oxygenation to treat COVID-19 patients


tass--2020-11-18--Advanced Tornado-S rocket launchers to replace Smerch systems in Russian troops by 2027

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Tornado-S large-caliber multiple launch rocket systems will fully replace operational Smerch rocket launchers and outdated Uragan systems in the Russian troops by late 2027 , Chief of Russia ’ s Missile Troops and Artillery Lieutenant-General Mikhail Matveyevsky said in an interview with the Defense Ministry ’ s Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper on Wednesday .
`` The planned rearmament of rocket artillery units with advanced Tornado multiple launch rocket systems continues .
By the end of 2027 , Tornado-S large-caliber multiple launch rocket systems with enhanced characteristics and the expanded range of rocket projectiles will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Uragan systems while Tornado-G medium-caliber weapons with automated target aiming will replace outdated Grad multiple rocket launchers , '' the general said .
Advanced Tornado multiple rocket launchers are precision systems outfitted with smart rocket shells capable of striking enemy vital facilities at considerable distances , he stressed .
The Russian troops also continue receiving upgraded 2S19M2 Msta-SM self-propelled howitzers with the Ring automated fire control technology that allows `` integration into the single tactical-level command and control system , '' the general said .
`` Koalitsiya-SV multi-service force artillery systems have arrived @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Military District .
This system is unique .
It features an unmanned combat compartment while the weapon ’ s aiming and loading processes are conducted without human participation , '' Matveyevsky noted .
Modern weaponry in Russia ’ s missile troops and artillery has grown from 25 % to 60 % since 2012 , the general said .
The Tornado-S multiple launch rocket system is a heavy upgrade of the Smerch multiple rocket launcher .
The new weapon features increased range and fire accuracy capabilities .
The Tornado-S also offers the possibility of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shell .
The system is designated to strike enemy manpower , military hardware , stationary and mobile sole and multiple targets .
At the Army-2020 international arms show , Russia ’ s Defense Ministry signed contracts on the delivery of Tornado-S combat and transporter-loader vehicles and 122mm rocket projectiles to the troops .
The Tornado-G has been the first multiple launch rocket system to receive the automated aiming and fire control system that makes it possible to continuously track the combat vehicle during a march and open fire within the shortest time possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian specialists have also created a single-piece high-explosive fragmentation shell for it : it uses a fuse with an altimeter , which allows regulating the altitude and detonating the projectile either at an altitude of several meters or upon hitting the ground .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. Tornado-S large-caliber multiple launch rocket systems will fully replace operational Smerch rocket launchers and outdated Uragan systems in the Russian troops by late 2027, Chief of Russia’s Missile Troops and Artillery Lieutenant-General Mikhail Matveyevsky said in an interview with the Defense Ministry’s Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper on Wednesday.
"The planned rearmament of rocket artillery units with advanced Tornado multiple launch rocket systems continues. By the end of 2027, Tornado-S large-caliber multiple launch rocket systems with enhanced characteristics and the expanded range of rocket projectiles will fully replace existing Smerch launchers and outdated Uragan systems while Tornado-G medium-caliber weapons with automated target aiming will replace outdated Grad multiple rocket launchers," the general said.
Advanced Tornado multiple rocket launchers are precision systems outfitted with smart rocket shells capable of striking enemy vital facilities at considerable distances, he stressed.
The Russian troops also continue receiving upgraded 2S19M2 Msta-SM self-propelled howitzers with the Ring automated fire control technology that allows "integration into the single tactical-level command and control system," the general said.
"Koalitsiya-SV multi-service force artillery systems have arrived for troops of Russia’s Western Military District. This system is unique. It features an unmanned combat compartment while the weapon’s aiming and loading processes are conducted without human participation," Matveyevsky noted.
Modern weaponry in Russia’s missile troops and artillery has grown from 25% to 60% since 2012, the general said.
Tornado multiple launch rocket systems
The Tornado-S multiple launch rocket system is a heavy upgrade of the Smerch multiple rocket launcher. The new weapon features increased range and fire accuracy capabilities. The Tornado-S also offers the possibility of introducing an individual flight assignment for each shell. The system is designated to strike enemy manpower, military hardware, stationary and mobile sole and multiple targets.
At the Army-2020 international arms show, Russia’s Defense Ministry signed contracts on the delivery of Tornado-S combat and transporter-loader vehicles and 122mm rocket projectiles to the troops.
The Tornado-G has been the first multiple launch rocket system to receive the automated aiming and fire control system that makes it possible to continuously track the combat vehicle during a march and open fire within the shortest time possible after its arrival at the position. Russian specialists have also created a single-piece high-explosive fragmentation shell for it: it uses a fuse with an altimeter, which allows regulating the altitude and detonating the projectile either at an altitude of several meters or upon hitting the ground.


tass--2020-11-18--Second wave of coronavirus does not push business activity down, says ministry

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
The second wave of the coronavirus has not pushed business activity substantially down @ @ @ @ @ Deputy Finance Minister Vladimir Kolychev told a conference on Wednesday .
Kremlin does not see @ @ @ @ @ support measures '' Judging by daily figures , we do not see the second wave @ @ @ @ @ in business activity across the economy , though it is notable in certain sectors , @ @ @ @ @ authorities have adjusted to the current environment in their policy , the deputy minister added @ @ @ @ @ the fact that economic authorities have adjusted to unexpected developments both in monetary policy and @ @ @ @ @ a certain role , relatively meaningful , '' he said .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. The second wave of the coronavirus has not pushed business activity substantially down across the Russian economy, Deputy Finance Minister Vladimir Kolychev told a conference on Wednesday.
Kremlin does not see the need for new business support measures
"Judging by daily figures, we do not see the second wave leading to any substantial decline in business activity across the economy, though it is notable in certain sectors," he said.
The authorities have adjusted to the current environment in their policy, the deputy minister added.
"We believe that the fact that economic authorities have adjusted to unexpected developments both in monetary policy and in budget policy has played a certain role, relatively meaningful," he said.


tass--2020-11-18--Russia records lowest daily coronavirus case tally since November 11

Russia ’ s coronavirus case tally grew to 1,991,998 , according to its data .
MOSCOW , November 18 .
@ @ @ @ @ coronavirus cases rose by 20,985 over the past day , the lowest figure since November @ @ @ @ @ center told reporters on Wednesday .
The lowest growth rates over the past day were @ @ @ @ @ , the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Region ( 0.6 % ) , Kalmykia and Tatarstan ( 0.7 @ @ @ @ @ 4,174 coronavirus cases were registered in Moscow over the past day , the lowest figure @ @ @ @ @ the start of the pandemic , 526,630 COVID-19 cases have been recorded in the capital @ @ @ @ @ , 2,215 new coronavirus cases were confirmed in St. Petersburg , 864 in the Moscow @ @ @ @ @ Nizhny Novgorod , 358 in the Sverdlovsk Region and 339 in the Arkhangelsk Region .
@ @ @ @ @ treatment in Russia .

Russia’s coronavirus case tally grew to 1,991,998, according to its data.
MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. Russia’s coronavirus cases rose by 20,985 over the past day, the lowest figure since November 11, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Wednesday.
The lowest growth rates over the past day were recorded in the Dagestan Republic, the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Region (0.6%), Kalmykia and Tatarstan (0.7%).
Some new 4,174 coronavirus cases were registered in Moscow over the past day, the lowest figure since October 28. Since the start of the pandemic, 526,630 COVID-19 cases have been recorded in the capital.
Over the past day, 2,215 new coronavirus cases were confirmed in St. Petersburg, 864 in the Moscow Region, 432 in the Nizhny Novgorod, 358 in the Sverdlovsk Region and 339 in the Arkhangelsk Region.
Now 456,528 people are undergoing treatment in Russia.


tass--2020-11-18--Russia’s upper house approves use of armed forces in Nagorno-Karabakh

`` To grant consent to the president of the Russian Federation to send military servicemen the Russian Armed Forces with @ @ @ @ @ and special equipment to Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10 , 2020 , in accordance with @ @ @ @ @ president of the Republic of Azerbaijan , the prime minister of the Republic of Armenia @ @ @ @ @ Russian Federation of November 9 , 2020 , in order to ensure compliance with the @ @ @ @ @ hostilities and other hostile actions from the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides to prevent mass civilian @ @ @ @ @ civilian facilities , '' reads the resolution approved by the Federation Council on Wednesday .
@ @ @ @ @ President Vladimir Putin , Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed @ @ @ @ @ complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10 .
The Russian leader said the Azerbaijani @ @ @ @ @ the positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region @

"To grant consent to the president of the Russian Federation to send military servicemen the Russian Armed Forces with the necessary weapons, military and special equipment to Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10, 2020, in accordance with the joint statement by the president of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the prime minister of the Republic of Armenia and the president of the Russian Federation of November 9, 2020, in order to ensure compliance with the agreements on the cessation of hostilities and other hostile actions from the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides to prevent mass civilian casualties and significant damage to civilian facilities," reads the resolution approved by the Federation Council on Wednesday.
On November 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10. The Russian leader said the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides would maintain the positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region.


tass--2020-11-18--Crimea sees highest COVID-19 death toll this week

SIMFEROPOL , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Crimea recorded the highest death toll among patients with a confirmed coronavirus infection @ @ @ @ @ the regional department of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday .
`` Over the past week we had a significant number of 42 deaths @ @ @ @ @ high mortality rate over the entire period .
The whole October , 75 lethal cases @ @ @ @ @ November , '' Penkovskaya said .
The key cause of deaths in the Black Sea @ @ @ @ @ disease , she noted .
Since the start of the pandemic , 12,733 cases of @ @ @ @ @ been registered in Crimea , more than 200 patients have died and another 8,275 people @ @ @

SIMFEROPOL, November 18. /TASS/. Crimea recorded the highest death toll among patients with a confirmed coronavirus infection this week, Head of the regional department of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing Natalya Penkovskaya said on Wednesday.
"Over the past week we had a significant number of 42 deaths. This is a record high mortality rate over the entire period. The whole October, 75 lethal cases were registered and 81 in November," Penkovskaya said.
The key cause of deaths in the Black Sea Peninsula is a concurrent cardiovascular disease, she noted.
Since the start of the pandemic, 12,733 cases of the novel coronavirus infection have been registered in Crimea, more than 200 patients have died and another 8,275 people have recovered.


tass--2020-11-18--Aeroflot to resume flights to Iran starting November 18

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
Aeroflot resumes flights to Tehran ( Iran ) from November 18 , the @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday .
Flights will be performed twice a week .
Aeroflot to restart flights @ @ @ @ @ 19 '' Aeroflot resumes flights to Tehran from November 18 , 2020 .
Flight SU0512 @ @ @ @ @ twice a week , on Wednesdays and Sundays .
Return flight SU0513 will operate on @ @ @ @ @ the statement said .
Entry of foreign citizens is allowed in accordance with the visa @ @ @ @ @ for tourism , Aeroflot noted .
`` Up-to-date information on flight schedules and services can @ @ @ @ @ s website .
To book flights , visit Aeroflot ’ s website or an Aeroflot @ @ @ @ @ company said .
Flights between Russia and Iran have not been resumed officially as of @ @

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. Aeroflot resumes flights to Tehran (Iran) from November 18, the company said in a statement on Wednesday. Flights will be performed twice a week.
Aeroflot to restart flights to Hong Kong from November 19
"Aeroflot resumes flights to Tehran from November 18, 2020. Flight SU0512 Moscow - Tehran will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays. Return flight SU0513 will operate on Thursdays and Sundays," the statement said.
Entry of foreign citizens is allowed in accordance with the visa policy terms except for travel for tourism, Aeroflot noted.
"Up-to-date information on flight schedules and services can be found on Aeroflot’s website. To book flights, visit Aeroflot’s website or an Aeroflot ticket office," the company said.
Flights between Russia and Iran have not been resumed officially as of yet.


tass--2020-11-18--Russian upper house to discuss use of armed forces abroad due to Karabakh mission

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
The Russian Federation Council ( upper house of parliament ) will consider the use of Russia ’ s armed forces abroad on Wednesday due to the address by Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the deployment of Russian peacekeepers to Nagorno-Karabakh , Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko told TASS on Wednesday .
`` Yes , this [ the consideration of the issue by the Federation Council ] is related to the president ’ s address regarding the deployment of a peacekeeping contingent [ to Nagorno-Karabakh ] , '' he said .
According to Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ makes a decision on the possibility of using the Russian Armed Forces outside the country at the suggestion of the Russian president .
According to the Federation Council ’ s regulations , the issue is discussed during a closed-door session , unless the upper house decides otherwise .
On November 9 , Russian President Vladimir Putin , Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10 .
The Russian leader said the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides would maintain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. The Russian Federation Council (upper house of parliament) will consider the use of Russia’s armed forces abroad on Wednesday due to the address by Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the deployment of Russian peacekeepers to Nagorno-Karabakh, Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko told TASS on Wednesday.
"Yes, this [the consideration of the issue by the Federation Council] is related to the president’s address regarding the deployment of a peacekeeping contingent [to Nagorno-Karabakh]," he said.
According to Russia’s Constitution, the Federation Council makes a decision on the possibility of using the Russian Armed Forces outside the country at the suggestion of the Russian president. According to the Federation Council’s regulations, the issue is discussed during a closed-door session, unless the upper house decides otherwise.
On November 9, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint statement on a complete ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh starting from November 10. The Russian leader said the Azerbaijani and Armenian sides would maintain the positions that they had held and Russian peacekeepers would be deployed to the region.


tass--2020-11-18--Zepp Launches a Premium Partner in Wellness

SHENZHEN , China , Nov. 18 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Zepp , a professional brand focused on digital health management , today hosted a live online streaming event to recap the Zepp E , as well as launch its latest wearable , the Zepp Z smartwatch .
Inspired by classic watch design , the Zepp Z seamlessly combines traditional craftsmanship and high-quality materials to create an elegant premium smartwatch .
The Zepp Z helps people take control of their physical and mental wellbeing , and improve their quality of life .
Made from a single piece of polished titanium alloy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and exceptionally strong , and the NTC nanotech coating makes it resistant to scratches .
The smooth texture and luxury feel of the classic crown design , with an engraved dial and buttons , transforms control of your smartwatch into an intuitive seamless experience .
With an Always-On Display , the Zepp Z enables you to check the time at a glance , and the handy Health Key lets you access your favorite health metrics instantly .
The 326 ppi display vividly reproduces a 100 % NTSC wide-color spectrum with an extraordinary level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your health markers 24/7 through advanced AI and biometric data technology .
Its BioTracker™ 2.0 PPG optical sensor monitors your heart rate and also gives abnormally elevated heart rate alerts .
Your blood-oxygen saturation ( SpO ) level is a useful health metric that the Zepp Z can measure from your wrist .
To help you easily understand your biometrics , the Zepp Z features the PAI™ Health Assessment System converts your health data into an intuitive single value after processing heart rate , activity and other health metrics .
The Zepp Z @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the deep , light and REM sleep periods , as well as awake time and afternoon naps between 11am-6pm , and interprets the characteristics to provide a sleep quality score .
Using self-developed algorithms , the Zepp Z monitors your stress levels .
Real-time sports settings monitor your heart rate through most exercise , providing you notifications regarding exercise levels , stages , and the heart rate zones you 're in while working out .
And when you 're on the move and need some music , the Zepp Z lets you control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Zepp Z can last for more than two weeks of typical daily use , and for more than 30 days with only basic use .
When wearing the Zepp Z , you can use voice commands to interact with Alexa on your mobile phone to control your smart home appliances , set alarms and timers , check the weather , and more .
The built-in offline voice assistant also supports 58 voice commands so you can interact with the Zepp Z and stay in control anytime and anywhere .
Zepp – with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ founded in Silicon Valley in 2010 and quickly became the go-to brand for athletes looking to improve their performance .
Now in 2020 , Zepp begins a new chapter with health as its mission , powered by the belief in the role human-centered technology can play in self-improvement , and realizing the potential of the Internet of Things powered by AI .
Zepp continuously develops new technologies , devices and apps to aid users with their personal health management .
The Zepp App itself is a platform for managing personal wellbeing and also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complementary line of branded smartwatches , bands , and wearables , with cloud services .
From 17th November 2020 , the Zepp Z , with its lightweight premium-feel metal body , digital health capabilities , and easily customizable watch face will first be available at Zepp 's official website ( www.zepp.com ) at a starting price of USD 349.

SHENZHEN, China, Nov. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Zepp, a professional brand focused on digital health management, today hosted a live online streaming event to recap the Zepp E, as well as launch its latest wearable, the Zepp Z smartwatch. Inspired by classic watch design, the Zepp Z seamlessly combines traditional craftsmanship and high-quality materials to create an elegant premium smartwatch. The Zepp Z helps people take control of their physical and mental wellbeing, and improve their quality of life.
Premium design creates a modern classic
Made from a single piece of polished titanium alloy, the Zepp Z is incredibly lightweight and exceptionally strong, and the NTC nanotech coating makes it resistant to scratches. The smooth texture and luxury feel of the classic crown design, with an engraved dial and buttons, transforms control of your smartwatch into an intuitive seamless experience.
With an Always-On Display, the Zepp Z enables you to check the time at a glance, and the handy Health Key lets you access your favorite health metrics instantly. The 326 ppi display vividly reproduces a 100% NTSC wide-color spectrum with an extraordinary level of detail.
An all-round wellness partner
The Zepp Z tracks your health markers 24/7 through advanced AI and biometric data technology. Its BioTracker™ 2.0 PPG optical sensor monitors your heart rate and also gives abnormally elevated heart rate alerts.
Your blood-oxygen saturation (SpO 2 ) level is a useful health metric that the Zepp Z can measure from your wrist.
To help you easily understand your biometrics, the Zepp Z features the PAI™ Health Assessment System converts your health data into an intuitive single value after processing heart rate, activity and other health metrics.
The Zepp Z can also monitor your sleep status through the deep, light and REM sleep periods, as well as awake time and afternoon naps between 11am-6pm, and interprets the characteristics to provide a sleep quality score.
Using self-developed algorithms, the Zepp Z monitors your stress levels.
Your smart fitness companion and assistant
Real-time sports settings monitor your heart rate through most exercise, providing you notifications regarding exercise levels, stages, and the heart rate zones you're in while working out. And when you're on the move and need some music, the Zepp Z lets you control your favorite tracks on your phone.
The Zepp Z can last for more than two weeks of typical daily use, and for more than 30 days with only basic use.
When wearing the Zepp Z, you can use voice commands to interact with Alexa on your mobile phone to control your smart home appliances, set alarms and timers, check the weather, and more. The built-in offline voice assistant also supports 58 voice commands so you can interact with the Zepp Z and stay in control anytime and anywhere.
Zepp – with you every moment
The Zepp brand was founded in Silicon Valley in 2010 and quickly became the go-to brand for athletes looking to improve their performance. Now in 2020, Zepp begins a new chapter with health as its mission, powered by the belief in the role human-centered technology can play in self-improvement, and realizing the potential of the Internet of Things powered by AI. Zepp continuously develops new technologies, devices and apps to aid users with their personal health management.
The Zepp App itself is a platform for managing personal wellbeing and also connects sister-brand Amazfit, which offers a complementary line of branded smartwatches, bands, and wearables, with cloud services.
From 17th November 2020, the Zepp Z, with its lightweight premium-feel metal body, digital health capabilities, and easily customizable watch face will first be available at Zepp's official website (www.zepp.com) at a starting price of USD 349.


tass--2020-11-18--SDLG to Showcase Brand New Product Series at bauma CHINA 2020

SHANGHAI , Nov. 18 , 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As Asia 's largest and most important event for the construction industry , bauma CHINA 2020 will take place as planned from November 24 to 27 .
SDLG will jointly exhibit 21 units brand new products together with VOLVO .
Dubbed as the best equipment line-up ever , SDLG would show wheel loaders , excavators , motor graders , compactors and backhoe loader to demonstrate the segmented , differentiated , as well as the customized product range , which can be applied in different working conditions , while its excellent after market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points to show to the audience .
Specifically , SDLG will bring its new generation H series wheel loaders with upgraded performance to meet the growing demand in the market .
In addition , visitors will also be able to check different excavator models covering mini excavators , compact excavator , middle and big size excavator models with versatile functions .
As for the road machinery , it has showed two more new compactor models and the biggest size motor graders to increase its adaptability to multiple job sites .
While its backhoe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of that , SDLG will host a series of ceremonies including virtual signing ceremony with overseas partners , e.g .
the order covering 1,000 units equipment from Russia and the partnership agreement to provide the product solution for open mining exploit with key account clients in Kazakhstan on the Day 1 of bauma CHINA 2020 .
During the exhibition , SDLG will enrich the visitors ' experience through global live streams , virtual showroom , as well as engagements with audiences both online and offline .
And most importantly , do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Real Machine , which will be unveiled to the Live Stream Viewers on the Thanksgiving Day !
As a member of the Volvo Group , SDLG has made its name by providing global customers with reliable products and services .
At bauma CHINA 2020 , SDLG will be at the grand joint stand B54 and C50 to welcome its visitors worldwide .

SHANGHAI, Nov. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As Asia's largest and most important event for the construction industry, bauma CHINA 2020 will take place as planned from November 24 to 27. SDLG will jointly exhibit 21 units brand new products together with VOLVO. Dubbed as the best equipment line-up ever, SDLG would show wheel loaders, excavators, motor graders, compactors and backhoe loader to demonstrate the segmented, differentiated, as well as the customized product range, which can be applied in different working conditions, while its excellent after market support & service are also the key points to show to the audience.
Specifically, SDLG will bring its new generation H series wheel loaders with upgraded performance to meet the growing demand in the market. In addition, visitors will also be able to check different excavator models covering mini excavators, compact excavator, middle and big size excavator models with versatile functions. As for the road machinery, it has showed two more new compactor models and the biggest size motor graders to increase its adaptability to multiple job sites. While its backhoe loader comes with multiple configurations.
On top of that, SDLG will host a series of ceremonies including virtual signing ceremony with overseas partners, e.g. the order covering 1,000 units equipment from Russia and the partnership agreement to provide the product solution for open mining exploit with key account clients in Kazakhstan on the Day 1 of bauma CHINA 2020.
During the exhibition, SDLG will enrich the visitors' experience through global live streams, virtual showroom, as well as engagements with audiences both online and offline. And most importantly, don't forget the the long-awaited Super Prize- A Real Machine, which will be unveiled to the Live Stream Viewers on the Thanksgiving Day!
As a member of the Volvo Group , SDLG has made its name by providing global customers with reliable products and services. At bauma CHINA 2020, SDLG will be at the grand joint stand B54 and C50 to welcome its visitors worldwide.


tass--2020-11-18--UN allocates $100 mln to fight hunger

UN allocates $100 mln to fight hunger

UNITED NATIONS , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
The United Nations has allocated $ 100 mln to prevent hunger , @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ 675 mln in donations to combat novel coronavirus outbreak '' The United Nations released $ @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday to stave off the risk of famine in seven countries most at risk @ @ @ @ @ by conflict , economic decline , climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic , '' the @ @ @ @ @ Lowcock , head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs , said @ @ @ @ @ split between Afghanistan , Burkina Faso , the Democratic Republic of the Congo , Nigeria @ @ @ @ @ , which would get the biggest tranche of $ 30 million , '' the office @ @ @ @ @ statement , `` a further $ 20 million had been set aside for Ethiopia , @ @ @ @ @ already fragile situation . ''

UNITED NATIONS, November 18. /TASS/. The United Nations has allocated $100 mln to prevent hunger, particularly caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a statement.
WHO calls for $675 mln in donations to combat novel coronavirus outbreak
"The United Nations released $100 million of emergency funding on Tuesday to stave off the risk of famine in seven countries most at risk from a hunger epidemic fueled by conflict, economic decline, climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic," the statement reads.
"Mark Lowcock, head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said $80 million would be split between Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, South Sudan and Yemen, which would get the biggest tranche of $30 million," the office said.
According to the statement, "a further $20 million had been set aside for Ethiopia, where droughts could worsen an already fragile situation."


tass--2020-11-18--Missile attack kills three military servicemen in Damascus suburb - agency

MOSCOW , November 18 .
/TASS/ .
At least three Syrian military servicemen have been killed in an Israeli missile @ @ @ @ @ , the Syrian Arab News Agency ( SANA ) reported .
According to the news @ @ @ @ @ wounds .
Syria ’ s air defenses intercepted several missiles before they hit their targets @ @ @ @ @ that the attack had come from the Golan Heights .
The Israel Defense Forces said @ @ @ @ @ the Iranian Quds Force and Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria '' were hit after @ @ @ @ @ placed `` by the Alpha Line to hit Israeli troops .
`` .

MOSCOW, November 18. /TASS/. At least three Syrian military servicemen have been killed in an Israeli missile attack on a Damascus suburb, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported.
According to the news agency, another soldier suffered wounds. Syria’s air defenses intercepted several missiles before they hit their targets, SANA said, adding that the attack had come from the Golan Heights.
The Israel Defense Forces said in a tweet that "the Iranian Quds Force and Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria" were hit after improvised explosive devices had been placed "by the Alpha Line to hit Israeli troops.".


tass--2020-11-17--Putin: Turkish support for Baku in Karabakh geopolitical consequence of USSR’s collapse

MOSCOW , November 17 .
/TASS/ .
Turkey ’ s siding with Azerbaijan in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict can be seen @ @ @ @ @ the collapse of the former Soviet Union , Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ , Turkey ’ s role , it is well known , it has been repeatedly @ @ @ @ @ Turkish side has never made any secret of that : they have been unilaterally supporting @ @ @ @ @ in an interview with the Russian media aired by the Rossiya-1 and Rossiya-24 television channels @ @ @ @ @ can I say ?
It is a geopolitical consequence of the collapse of the former @ @ @ @ @ Russian leader stressed that Azerbaijan is an independent sovereign state which has the right to @ @ @ @ @ likes .

MOSCOW, November 17. /TASS/. Turkey’s siding with Azerbaijan in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict can be seen as a geopolitical consequence of the collapse of the former Soviet Union, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday.
"As for Turkey, Turkey’s role, it is well known, it has been repeatedly said in Azerbaijan and the Turkish side has never made any secret of that: they have been unilaterally supporting Azerbaijan," Putin said in an interview with the Russian media aired by the Rossiya-1 and Rossiya-24 television channels. "Well, what can I say? It is a geopolitical consequence of the collapse of the former Soviet Union."
The Russian leader stressed that Azerbaijan is an independent sovereign state which has the right to choose its allies as it likes.


tass--2020-11-17--Hainan holds large-scale tourism, food products and shopping festival

HAIKOU , November 17 .
/TASS/ .
The Hainan Tourism , Food and Shopping Festival with the participation of all Hainan cities and counties kicked off with a large-scale promotion of various goods on November 13 in Haikou at the Mova Plaza shopping center .
The event will be the largest shopping-related event in the province this year , according to www.hinews.cn .
The festival , the news outlet notes , creates an atmosphere of a shopping festival in the province , and also contributes to the implementation of a project to turn Hainan into an international center for tourism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online and offline promotions is placed on events to promote duty free goods , cars , offers in the field of catering , household appliances and various electronics .
The organizers managed to attract a large number of participants to the festival , which , according to the news outlet , should bring the volume of retail sales of consumer goods in the province to about 200 billion yuan ( over $ 30 billion ) by the end of 2020 .
By 2025 , the Chinese government intends to create an `` international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hainan .
In order to do so , the `` Eastern Hawaii '' with their unique natural landscapes , thick rainforests and great climate will establish a developed network of hotels , which blend perfectly with white sandy beaches stretching along the coastline .
The combination of an exotic subtropical nature and a modern eco-friendly infrastructure will boost tourist inflow to the island from the most distant parts of the world .

HAIKOU, November 17. /TASS/. The Hainan Tourism, Food and Shopping Festival with the participation of all Hainan cities and counties kicked off with a large-scale promotion of various goods on November 13 in Haikou at the Mova Plaza shopping center. The event will be the largest shopping-related event in the province this year, according to www.hinews.cn.
The festival, the news outlet notes, creates an atmosphere of a shopping festival in the province, and also contributes to the implementation of a project to turn Hainan into an international center for tourism and consumption. The main emphasis during online and offline promotions is placed on events to promote duty free goods, cars, offers in the field of catering, household appliances and various electronics.
The organizers managed to attract a large number of participants to the festival, which, according to the news outlet, should bring the volume of retail sales of consumer goods in the province to about 200 billion yuan (over $ 30 billion) by the end of 2020.
By 2025, the Chinese government intends to create an "international center for tourism and consumption" on Hainan. In order to do so, the "Eastern Hawaii" with their unique natural landscapes, thick rainforests and great climate will establish a developed network of hotels, which blend perfectly with white sandy beaches stretching along the coastline. The combination of an exotic subtropical nature and a modern eco-friendly infrastructure will boost tourist inflow to the island from the most distant parts of the world.