The Kazakh government has allocated over $2 million to preserve the Caspian Sea.

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

Almaty, February 24 /Xinhua/ — The Kazakh government has allocated 1.1 billion tenge (2.21 million U.S. dollars) from its reserves for the comprehensive study and preservation of the Caspian Sea, the Cabinet of Ministers' press service reported on Tuesday.

The decree on the allocation of funds to the Kazakh Scientific Research Institute of the Caspian Sea was signed by the country's Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov.

According to the press service, the funds were allocated for the purchase of equipment for marine monitoring, as well as for equipping hydrobiological and hydrochemical laboratories.

“This will allow the research institute to move to comprehensive monitoring directly in the sea, including systematic observations of hydrometeorological and biological environmental parameters, and to expand the scientifically based base on processes in the Kazakh part of the sea,” the statement said. –0–

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The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced preparations for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to China.

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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, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning briefed the media on Tuesday on preparations for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to China on Feb. 25-26.

At a regular press conference, Mao Ning noted that this is Merz's first visit to China since taking office as Chancellor. During the visit, Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet with Merz, and Premier Li Qiang will hold talks with him to exchange views on bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest.

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 global governance system "seriously ignores" the interests and needs of countries in the Global South, according to a report from the Xinhua think tank.

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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, February 24 (Xinhua) — The global governance system "seriously ignores" the interests and needs of countries in the Global South, according to a report released Tuesday by the Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with the Xinhua News Agency.

The rapid rise of the South is “the most striking characteristic of our times,” says the report, titled “Upholding International Justice and Coping with Global Turbulence—China’s Solution to Global Governance.”

"Today, the Global South accounts for over 40 percent of global economic output. It accounts for approximately 80 percent of global economic growth, becoming a key force in protecting international peace, promoting global development, and improving global governance," the report states. "Amid global changes unseen in a century, relations between East, West, North, and South are undergoing historic shifts characterized by a shift in relative power."

However, for a long time, the global governance system “has seriously ignored the interests and needs of countries in the Global South in agenda setting, rule making and resource allocation,” the document notes.

"Development issues in the Global South have been 'diluted,' blurred, or marginalized, leading to a marked lack of representation and systemic inequity," the document states. "In international economic organizations such as the IMF and the World Bank, the voice and influence of countries in the Global South on decision-making are significantly less than their share of the world's population and economic productivity."

“Developed countries tightly control the global value chain, keeping countries in the Global South at its lowest end,” the document says.

As emerging market and developing economies collectively rise, greater representation of the Global South and the redress of historical injustices have become “an inevitable trend of our time,” the report says. –0–

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China supports all efforts to achieve peace in the wake of the Ukrainian crisis.

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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, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Tuesday that China's position on the Ukrainian crisis is consistent and clear, adding that China supports all efforts aimed at achieving peace.

Noting that the door to dialogue has finally opened in the Ukrainian crisis and all parties are continuing negotiations, Mao Ning emphasized that dialogue and negotiations remain the only correct way to resolve this crisis.

At a regular press conference, the Chinese diplomat expressed hope that all parties would seize this opportunity to reach a comprehensive, lasting and binding peace agreement.

"China will continue to cooperate with the international community to continue to play a constructive role in promoting a political solution to the crisis," the official spokesperson added. -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.

Mikhail Oseevsky at the Polytechnic: meeting with the rector and the "Omnivorous" team

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Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

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A Rostelecom delegation, led by the company's president, alumnus, and Honorary Doctor of our university, Mikhail Oseevsky, visited Polytechnic University. The highlight of the visit was a meeting with the "Omnivorous" team.

SPbPU Rector Andrey Rudskoy held a working meeting with Mikhail Oseevsky. They discussed future cooperation and outlined plans for the implementation of promising joint projects. Mikhail Oseevsky was also awarded the Andrei Grigoryevich Gagarin Commemorative Medal.

Then, the Rostelecom president met with the Omnivores team. They are participants in the international Robot Battle championship: semifinalists in 2023, bronze medalists in 2024, and2025 winnersAt the championship, they are competing with the Honey Badger robot. This robot is a showcase of the children's engineering skills, as it requires knowledge in all areas, from modeling and computer design to milling, metal welding, and soldering. The "Omnivores" do all of this themselves. 80% of the Honey Badger's production process is autonomous, thanks to a laboratory opened in the Polytech Tower with the support of SKB System Engineering. The project's general partner is PJSC Rostelecom.

During the meeting, the "Omnivores" showed Mikhail Oseevsky the lab and explained in detail all the stages of robot development and creation. They also demonstrated their capabilities and shared their plans for 2026.

"Preparations for the 'Battle of the Robots,' the re-equipment, and refinement of the Medoyed are being carried out under the personal supervision of Mikhail Eduardovich," Andrey Rudskoy emphasized. "I express my deep gratitude to him for his connection with the alma mater and his support of our initiatives—research, cultural, and youth projects."

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.

Escalating tensions in the Middle East are in no one's interests, says China's Foreign Ministry

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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, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Tuesday that escalating tensions in the Middle East is not in the interests of either side, commenting on reports that the United States is considering a limited military strike on Iran.

Answering a question on the matter at a regular departmental press conference, Mao Ning said China is closely monitoring the development of the situation and hopes that all parties will exercise restraint and resolve differences through dialogue. -0-

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China reacts to Panama's seizure of two canal ports

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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, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) — China will resolutely protect the legitimate rights and interests of its companies, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Tuesday in response to the Panamanian government's seizure of two Panama Canal ports operated by Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison.

Mao Ning confirmed at a regular press conference that China's position on issues related to ports in Panama is clear. According to the Chinese diplomat, the relevant company issued a statement reserving all rights, including legal action. -0-

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February 24, 2026: A Box Office Classic: How "The Tale of Tsar Saltan" Conquered the Big Screen

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

"The Tale of Tsar Saltan" had great potential from the very beginning—it's a work familiar to everyone since childhood and part of our cultural code. I believe it's important for Russian fairy tales to receive modern visualization, as artificial intelligence will soon be able to generate any plot in a wide variety of interpretations. And it's far from certain that this interpretation will be one that is close to our spirit and meaning. Therefore, while we have the opportunity to tell and present classics in a rich, professional cinematic language, we must do so. Billions in box office receipts are proof that audiences haven't grown tired of fairy tales and that there's no such thing as "too many" if they're made with talent." Tina Kandelaki, Deputy General Director of Gazprom-Media Holding

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RUDN University hosted the first Moscow Olympiad for schoolchildren in Arabic.

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Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia

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The written round of the final stage of the Moscow Arabic Language Olympiad for Schoolchildren was held at RUDN University. The competition was organized by the Center for Pedagogical Excellence.

This is the first time the International School of Arabic Language Studies has been held and aims to identify and support students studying a foreign language that is uncommon in the school curriculum. RUDN University, a university with a strong position in the fields of language and international education, has been chosen as the venue for the final stage.

In the 2025/26 academic year, 278 applications were submitted for participation in the Olympiad. Following the qualifying round, 87 participants advanced to the final round. The written round tested students' proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, and the specific features of the Arabic script.

Arabic for the Future Diplomat

"I've been studying Arabic since I was six. This is my first time at RUDN University—it's a very large university, with a distinctly international atmosphere. I've already met new students, and I've worked with some of them before in extracurricular activities. I plan to pursue a career in languages—I want to become a translator or a diplomat, and Arabic will definitely help me on that path," says Yaromir Luchshev, 9th-grade student, School No. 1259, Moscow.

The qualifying round of the Olympiad was organized online on the Sirius platform; the assignments are available on the Olympiad's official website.

The competition finals will take place on March 14: participants will face an oral round, which will include working in pairs, describing images, and completing communicative tasks in Arabic.

The Olympiad, held at RUDN University, is part of the university's systematic efforts to develop language education and support talented youth.

Marzhanat Abduragimova, Head of the Department for Work with Talented Youth and Applicant Support at RUDN University:

"RUDN University has been collaborating with the Center for Pedagogical Excellence for several years now. When we received the offer to host the first Moscow Arabic Language Olympiad for schoolchildren at the university, we agreed without hesitation. At RUDN University, Arabic is studied not only in programs such as Linguistics, Foreign Regional Studies, and International Relations, but also in virtually all faculties—Arabic is available as part of the optional Translator program. A high level of proficiency in foreign languages, particularly Arabic, is today a significant competitive advantage for applicants and students planning a career in the international arena."

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How the welders of the future are being trained: Polytechnic University's experience presented in Karelia

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Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

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The Institute of Forest, Mining, and Construction Sciences (IFMCS) of Petrozavodsk State University held the 3rd scientific and practical seminar, "Welding in the Republic of Karelia: Challenges and Solutions." The event brought together welding equipment manufacturers, welding specialists, faculty, and undergraduate and graduate students interested in developing modern technologies and training personnel. The Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials, and Transport of SPbPU was represented at the seminar by Irina Ivanova, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Materials Physics and Technology, and Boris Belov, a graduate student.

Irina Ivanova presented a report titled "On the Experience of Training Welding Specialists at the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials, and Transport of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University." She outlined the strategy for developing the higher education system in the context of the country's scientific and technical policy, emphasizing the transition to an innovative system for training personnel for multidisciplinary, knowledge-intensive manufacturing.

The associate professor presented a detailed presentation of the welding training system at IMMiT, which includes four undergraduate programs and a three-tier structure (bachelor's, master's, and doctoral). The presentation emphasized the feasibility of considering this system as a unified system, as well as the possibility of students obtaining a welding qualification as part of the "Priority 2030" project.

Irina Ivanova highlighted key areas for developing educational activities: employer-focused program design, aligning training with labor market demands, and collaboration with partner organizations. She placed particular emphasis on collaboration with the "Welding" Scientific and Technical Training Center of the National Agency for Welding Control (NAKS), which provides modern equipment and participates in research, as well as with the Belarusian-Russian University, where students undergo internships and advanced training.

"Science-intensive, high-tech manufacturing places high demands on the teaching of technological disciplines," noted Irina Ivanova. "With an eye on the future, we are adapting our welding educational programs to meet the country's modern technological development requirements. One way to improve the efficiency and quality of education is to gradually transition to a welding production specialty while maintaining the positive experience of the two-tier system."

An important aspect of the report was the emphasis on the role of scientific and pedagogical schools as a tool for continuity and the preservation of traditions. A key feature of the training is the active involvement of students in research activities in areas such as advanced welding technologies in extreme conditions, underwater welding and cutting, the development of new materials, and computer modeling of thermal and diffusion processes. Students master these innovative methods in the Laboratory of Lightweight Structural Materials.

A report by IMMiT graduate student Boris Belov (supervised by Irina Ivanova) on computer and physical modeling in arc welding confirmed the integrated approach to solving welding problems. A graduate of IMMiT's bachelor's and master's programs, Boris Belov, who now lives and works in Petrozavodsk, emphasized the importance of digital twins for optimizing technological processes and training personnel skilled in modern modeling tools.

"It's important to ensure a comprehensive approach to solving welding problems—from applied engineering modeling of structures to fundamental research in the field of welding processes," Irina Ivanova concluded.

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.