January 16, 2026 Why The Mask Format Proved Stronger Than Classic Reality Shows

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The Masked Singer format, on which the Russian "Mask" is based, attracts attention not only with its vocal performances, but also with its built-in detective element.

The viewer is literally invited to become a participant in the process: deciphering the participant's identity, collecting clues, comparing clues, and constructing their own theories. As a result, viewing ceases to be passive. It becomes an intellectual game that continues off-air.

Unlike most reality shows, which focus solely on talent or the drama of personal stories, the format of "The Mask" adds a distinct cognitive challenge for the audience. Viewers don't simply evaluate performances, but are engaged in the process of analysis and guessing. This maintains attention and encourages return to new episodes. This is why "The Mask" has aired for seven seasons on NTV, consistently achieving strong ratings.

The new season premieres on February 8 at 8:20 PM. Don't miss it.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

We invite you to the first Open Day of 2026 at the State University of Management.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Official website of the State –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

On January 25, the State University of Management will host an Open Day, where everyone can get a closer look at the life of the first managerial university.

Representatives from the rector's office will tell the audience about the history and achievements of SUM, admissions staff will highlight changes to the admissions process, and student groups will present creative performances.

From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, everyone will be able to receive consultations from representatives of institutes and departments, get acquainted with student clubs, learn about pre-university training, the career guidance system, and the SUM infrastructure, participate in activities, and join a campus tour.

Pre-registration is required to participate in the Open Day, and a passport is required to enter the premises.

The meeting program is available at this link, and current news can be found in a special Telegram channel for applicants.

Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 01/25/2026

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

A truck departed from the Chinese city of Yinchuan to Bishkek for the first time in the “TIR bonded services” mode.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

YINCHUAN, January 16 (Xinhua) — A truck carrying 500 boxes of fresh-cut flowers departed the Yinchuan Comprehensive Bonded Zone in Yinchuan, capital of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, on Thursday under the TIR (International Road Freight) system. It will arrive in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, in a week.

Meanwhile, this was the first batch of Chinese goods sent abroad under the “TIR bonded services” regime.

TIR is an international system that simplifies the transport of goods between countries. Under this system, cargo is sealed at the starting point of the route and inspected only upon arrival at the destination. At intermediate border crossings, border crossing officers merely verify the TIR carnet data and the customs stamp on the vehicle. This reduces transit time and mitigates potential risks associated with administrative customs procedures and cargo damage. China joined the TIR Convention in July 2016.

Han Jia, deputy head of the Yinchuan Comprehensive Bonded Zone, said that with the support of Yinchuan Customs, the zone has recently launched operations in the formats of "TIR bonded services" and "TIR cross-border e-commerce."

“Thanks to this, goods can be delivered by trucks under the TIR system from the Yinchuan Comprehensive Bonded Zone to 78 countries that are part of this system,” he said. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The Vice Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China will attend the annual meeting of the WEF and visit Switzerland.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, Jan. 16 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will attend the 2026 World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos from Jan. 19 to 22 and visit Switzerland, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Friday.

According to the Chinese diplomat, the trips of He Lifeng, who is also a member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, will take place at the invitation of the WEF and the government of the Swiss Confederation. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Ordos accelerates integration with the world

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

In 2025, the total number of incoming and outgoing passengers at Ordos Airport in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region exceeded 70,000, reaching 75,508,000, an increase of 91.7% year-on-year. The number of flights exceeded 600, an increase of 99.7%. Of these, the number of incoming passengers amounted to 37,395,000, while the number of outgoing passengers amounted to 38,113,000. The number of foreign tourists reached 54,237,000. The number of incoming passengers on specific days, months, and throughout the year was the highest in the past five years.

Since the beginning of 2025, passenger traffic through Ordos Airport has continued to grow, and the composition of passengers has become more diverse, encompassing not only business people, students and workers, but also tourists from 44 countries, such as the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, the United States, Germany and Japan.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

RUDN University medical students completed a training program at a Chinese university

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia

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Students from the RUDN University School of Medicine completed a short-term study and exchange program at Shandong Second Medical University in Weifan, China. The students were fully immersed in the clinical environment and learned about healthcare in China, where cutting-edge technology and the centuries-old traditions of Eastern medicine harmoniously blend.

Composition of the delegation:

Elena Valeryevna Kaverina — Associate Professor, Department of Public Health, Healthcare and Hygiene; Varvara Mamontova — 4th-year student, General Medicine program; Alexander Ovchinnikov — 4th-year student, General Medicine program; Nina Osipyan — 4th-year student, General Medicine program; Serafima Koroleva — 4th-year student, General Medicine program; Mokhinabonu Rakhimova — 4th-year student, General Medicine program; Anna Litvinova — 4th-year student, General Medicine program; Anastasia Levdonskaya — 4th-year student, General Medicine program; Natalia Skurikhina — 4th-year student, General Medicine program; Valery Komarov — Master's student, Healthcare Management program.

Immersion in practice

The student exchange program was opened by RUDN University Vice-Rector for International Affairs Li Shibao and Vice-President Wang Chenggao, who emphasized the importance of global cooperation for the development of medicine. Elena Kaverina, Associate Professor of the Department of Public Health, Healthcare, and Hygiene, delivered a speech on behalf of RUDN University, expressing hope for the development of partnerships.

"This was our first visit to China. It was a wonderful, enriching trip, during which we not only learned about the medical care system but also learned a great deal about the country's culture and traditions. Our students had a unique opportunity for intensive practical work," said Elena Kaverina.

The training course was comprehensive and covered key areas of medicine. At the ophthalmology center, students learned about VR technologies in education and the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) methods to treat eye diseases. At the oncology center, they explored modern treatment methods, including deep hyperthermia for tumors.

At the TCM center, the students visited a museum where they learned about the foundations, history, and methods of traditional medicine. They then not only saw how these methods are applied in practice but also tried acupuncture, massage, ear acupuncture with magnetic balls, and other procedures. The delegation also visited a pharmacy to observe its operations and the dispensing process.

At the university hospital, the students visited various departments. They examined patients with doctors, learned about the clinic's operations, and attended lectures. At the dental center, they observed procedures and attended a master class on proper teeth cleaning using several techniques.

The delegates learned a wealth of useful information in the diagnostic and trauma departments. In the obstetrics and gynecology department, they witnessed a birth and saw how TCM techniques (herbal infusions and steam applied to various parts of the body) are used to relieve patients' pain. They also attended a master class on cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the simulation center. The students also visited a medical device manufacturer whose gloves are exported in large quantities to Russia.

Cultural Bridge

In addition to the intensive curriculum, the students enjoyed a deep immersion in Chinese culture. They visited the University History Museum, temples, traditional villages, and the Zhinzhou Museum with its ancient artifacts. The highlight was a master class at the cultural center, where RUDN students, together with Chinese preschoolers, created paintings using ancient pyrography and woodcut techniques. The students returned with a wealth of impressions and new knowledge.

"I remember absolutely every day because each one was filled with unforgettable emotions! Lectures in hospitals, hands-on training on medical equipment, Chinese massages, excursions. And even the free days, which felt like a week-long vacation," says Varvara Mamontova.

"The trip was wonderful. We visited various medical institutions, where we learned about Chinese medicine. The local students and teachers were very friendly and eager to share their knowledge," says Nina Osipyan.

"What impressed me most was the scale and equipment of the clinics, as well as the integration of traditional approaches into modern treatment. It's a unique experience that expands horizons," said Alexander Ovchinnikov.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Record attendance: With the support of Rosneft, Nikas Safronov's exhibitions were successfully held in India.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

With the support of Rosneft, exhibitions by People's Artist of Russia Nikas Safronov were held in India to great acclaim. The immersive project, titled Dream Vision, became one of the most high-profile cultural events of the season, attracting record numbers of visitors and generating widespread public response.

The project was presented at two of India's largest cultural centers. The first exhibition was held in New Delhi at the Lalit Kala Akademi, a national arts academy, from December 7 to 21, 2025, and the second at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Mumbai from December 30, 2025 to January 16, 2026.

The Dream Vision exhibition was recognized as the most visited and resonant one in India in the last 60 years. Huge queues of visitors formed daily at the exhibition.

One hundred of Nikas Safronov's finest works were on display in India, including a series of paintings created specifically for the Indian public. The artist's canvases featured picturesque architectural views of Moscow and St. Petersburg alongside images of the Taj Mahal and other iconic Indian landmarks. The paintings traced the evolution of Safronov's artistic language—from classical painting and symbolism to his signature Dream Vision style, which gave the exhibition its name. His unique technique allows the artist to create multi-layered paintings that blur the boundaries between reality and fiction.

The exhibitions were distinguished by their high technological level and were built on the synergy of classical painting and modern multimedia solutions: light, sound, video installations, LED screens, and digital technologies.

In New Delhi, all the works were displayed across eight halls on two floors of the Academy of Arts, covering a total exhibition space of approximately 1,300 square meters. At the entrance, guests were greeted by decorative elephant sculptures hand-painted using traditional Russian techniques. Visitors were treated to over 400 meters of LED screens featuring augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and immersive interaction throughout the exhibition. Furthermore, decorative solutions using robotics and animatronics were integrated into the exhibition space. Each hall also featured individual sound and aroma themes.

In Mumbai, visitors were greeted at the entrance by large-format LED screens, creating the effect of transitioning from real space to a world of images. A special highlight was the work that combined traditional Russian patterns—motifs of Gzhel, Khokhloma, and Palekh—with Indian cultural codes. Nikas Safronov created a Hindu mandala installation specifically for this museum, which came to life inside the gallery's enormous dome and revealed the project's key idea: the unification of Eastern and Western cultures.

The exhibitions in New Delhi and Mumbai were attended by art critics, curators, collectors, cultural figures, representatives of government and diplomatic circles, and leading media outlets. The project became a significant event not only in India's artistic but also in its social life. It received high praise from the Indian Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the exhibition was personally visited by the country's Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

Safronov's series of paintings, created specifically for the Indian public, attracted particular attention from art critics. They called these works "a subtle and intellectual dialogue of cultures, in which Russia speaks to India in the language of images and emotions." These works are an artistic declaration of respect and admiration for India, its history, philosophy, religious tradition, mythology, and architecture.

Rosneft supports significant cultural projects in Russia and abroad and is actively involved in developing cultural ties between Russia and India. This summer, with the Company's support, the Festival of India was held at Manezhnaya Square in Moscow, featuring folk crafts and national treats, and performances by renowned Indian art groups. In October 2024, Olympic champion Tatyana Navka's ice show toured to great acclaim in Ahmedabad, India, with Rosneft's support. "The Love Story of Scheherazade," featuring world-renowned figure skating stars, was the first ice show to be held in India.

Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft January 16, 2026

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Anastasia Maikova: "Every stage of my life is connected with the Polytechnic University."

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

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Every year in early July, the Polytechnic University honors its gold medalists—graduates who not only graduated with honors, but also consistently earned straight A's throughout their studies and distinguished themselves in academic and social activities. This summer, among the honorees was Anastasia Maikova, a graduate of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics, and Trade—the latest subject of our "Persona" column.

How can kindergarten influence your choice of university, what kind of student do you need to be to receive government and presidential scholarships, why Anastasia loves Soviet cinema, and why she travels the Golden Ring every summer—all this and much more. Read the interview with the now Polytechnic graduate student.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The Babiš government received a vote of confidence in the lower house of the Czech parliament.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

Prague, January 16 (Xinhua) — The coalition government led by Andrej Babiš, leader of the ANO (Action of Dissatisfied Citizens) movement, received a vote of confidence in the Chamber of Deputies (lower house of parliament) of the Czech Republic on Thursday. This gives the coalition constitutional legitimacy to govern the country.

A coalition comprising ANO, President Babiš's party, and the political movements Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) and Motorists for Ourselves received 108 votes in the 200-seat parliament. Babiš hailed the unity of his coalition after the vote.

According to the Constitution of the Czech Republic, the new government must appear before the Chamber of Deputies within 30 days of its appointment to receive a vote of confidence.

The vote took place after 26 hours of debate, the longest in the country's history, according to the CT24 news channel's website.

A. Babiš won the parliamentary elections last October and was sworn in as prime minister last December. –0–

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Xi Jinping: China and Canada should be partners

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, Jan. 16 (Xinhua) — China and Canada should be partners characterized by mutual respect, common development, mutual trust and cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday.

Xi Jinping made the statement during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Beijing.

According to Xi Jinping, the essence of Chinese-Canadian trade and economic relations is mutual benefit and win-win, with each side benefiting from cooperation. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.