From import substitution to technological leadership: Denis Novikov, CEO of Apatit JSC, spoke about PhosAgro's IT transformation strategy at the Digital Chemistry forum on March 23, 2026.

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

Moscow. March 23, 2026. Denis Novikov, CEO of Apatit JSC (part of the PhosAgro Group), discussed PhosAgro's IT transformation strategy at the Digital Chemistry Forum, presenting key projects to automate the company's production, service, and corporate processes.

The expert discussion platform brought together representatives from Russia's largest chemical and oil and gas companies, as well as technology and telecommunications companies, industry media, and scientific organizations. The main topic was an introduction to innovative products from domestic developers and their successful implementation in the real economy.

Speaking at the plenary session, Denis Novikov, CEO of Apatit JSC, noted that the digital environment at the Group's enterprises is currently undergoing a profound transformation at both the software and hardware levels. These changes were prompted by the refusal of major foreign developers and suppliers to service and support their solutions.

The response to this challenge was a proprietary import substitution strategy, under which all critical system components are being upgraded with domestic equivalents. PhosAgro is also a pioneer in the industry in many areas, developing and implementing digital solutions that simply did not exist in the domestic software sector. For example, with government support, an automated production management system was put into commercial operation at the Cherepovets complex in 2025, and the pilot operation of an automated resource management system and a customer relationship management system will be completed in the first quarter of this year.

"Already at the development stage, we established much more stringent requirements for system security, flexibility, and functionality, as well as the implementation of artificial intelligence tools and technologies. At the same time, we continue to strengthen and expand our own infrastructure, implementing a project with our technology partner to build a third distributed data center," emphasized Denis Novikov, CEO of Apatit JSC. "And while at the initial stage, our goal was import substitution and digital sovereignty, today we can confidently say that we are moving to a qualitatively new level – achieving technological leadership. We have everything we need for this: experience, expertise, a team, as well as the political will and support of PhosAgro's management."

During thematic sessions, the company's functional managers discussed the specifics of this work in more detail. Deputy Director for Economic Security Sergey Cherkasov presented a report on the status of particularly significant government-supported projects, Director of the Project Office Department Andrey Nisanov discussed the progress of import substitution of the ERP system, and Director of the AI Solutions Development Department Maxim Samoilov discussed the integration of artificial intelligence technologies into the company's production, service, and corporate-wide business processes.

The forum also featured another Demo Day of the Industrial Competence Center (ICC) "Chemistry and Pharmaceuticals." Participants of the Industrial Competence Center, including customers, vendors, and developers, presented best practices for cooperation in software import substitution and digital transformation.

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China has introduced temporary price controls on gasoline and diesel fuel.

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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, March 23 (Xinhua) — Amid a sharp rise in international oil prices, China has introduced temporary price controls on gasoline and diesel fuel, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) announced Monday.

These measures, as noted in the agency's statement, are aimed at mitigating the consequences of the abnormal rise in oil prices on the international market, reducing the burden on consumers, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the economy and public welfare.

Gasoline and diesel prices will rise by 1,160 yuan (about $168) and 1,115 yuan per ton, respectively, on Monday, the state commission said. -0-

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Former French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin has died at the age of 88.

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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

Paris, March 23 (Xinhua) — Former French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin died on Monday at the age of 88, RTL radio reported.

L. Jospin served as Prime Minister from 1997 to 2002. He ran unsuccessfully for president in the 1995 and 2002 elections. He played an important role in the French Socialist Party and served as its First Secretary from 1981 to 1988 and 1995 to 1997.

In January of this year, L. Jospin underwent major surgery, after which he returned home to recover, local media reported. –0–

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China has offered condolences to the Republic of Korea over the deaths in the factory fire.

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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, March 23 (Xinhua) — China expresses deep condolences over the deaths in the fire in the Republic of Korea (ROK) and sincere sympathy to their families, and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular press conference on Monday.

A fire has reportedly broken out at an auto parts factory in Daejeon, South Korea. The incident left 14 people dead and at least 59 injured. -0-

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Vladimir Putin congratulated Kim Jong-un on his re-election as Chairman of State Affairs of the DPRK.

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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

Moscow, March 23 (Xinhua) — Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Kim Jong-un on his reelection as Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). The corresponding telegram was published on the Kremlin website on Monday.

“Dear Comrade Kim Jong Un, please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your re-election as Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea,” it reads.

"The decision of the Supreme People's Assembly deputies clearly demonstrates unanimous public support for your policy of effectively addressing the socioeconomic challenges facing the DPRK and protecting its sovereignty and legitimate interests in the international arena," Vladimir Putin emphasized.

"Russia highly values your personal contribution to strengthening the friendly and allied ties between our countries. And we will, of course, continue to work closely together to further develop the comprehensive strategic partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang. This undoubtedly serves the fundamental interests of our peoples," the president noted.

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China's Foreign Ministry called for a return to dialogue and negotiations regarding the war in the Middle East.

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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, March 23 (Xinhua) — China strongly urges relevant parties in the Middle East to immediately cease military operations, return to dialogue and negotiations, and not continue a war that should never have happened, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular ministry press conference on Monday.

The Chinese diplomat made the statement in response to a question after the US side threatened to "strike and destroy" Iranian power plants if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened within 48 hours.

Lin Jian noted that the war raging in the Middle East is spreading beyond the region. If hostilities continue and the situation escalates again, the entire region will find itself in an irreparable situation.

"The use of force will only lead to a vicious circle," a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman commented. -0-

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China's Foreign Ministry: US-Japan relations should not be directed against a third party

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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, March 23 (Xinhua) — The development of bilateral relations between the United States and Japan should contribute to peace and stability in the region, and not be directed against third countries or harm the interests of other countries, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday.

The Chinese diplomat made this statement at a regular departmental press conference, commenting at the request of journalists on the negative reviews from Japanese internet users about Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit to the United States.

"We have taken note of the comments made by some Japanese media, experts, and the public regarding S. Takaichi's visit to the United States, including her reaction when US President Donald Trump mentioned Japan's surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in her presence," Lin Jian said, adding that he would not comment on the critical comments made by Japanese internet users regarding the visit. -0-

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Two people were killed and 14 others injured in a road accident in China's Guizhou province (detailed version 1)

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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

Guiyang, March 23 (Xinhua) — Two students were killed and 14 others injured in a traffic accident in southwest China's Guizhou Province on Monday morning, local authorities said.

The incident occurred around 7:00 a.m. in Hezhang County, Bijie City. Two of the injured were taken to the hospital and are in serious but stable condition.

According to the Hezhang County People's Government Press Office, an overloaded minibus carrying students collided with a heavy truck parked on the side of the road.

The 49-year-old minibus driver, surnamed Zhang, was detained by police. A preliminary investigation ruled out suspicions that he was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

According to the Ministry of Emergency Management of the People's Republic of China, the Industrial Safety Commission of the State Council of the People's Republic of China has taken over the investigation of this accident.

The ministry called for a swift determination of the cause of the tragedy and for those responsible to be held accountable. Furthermore, the Ministry of Emergency Management, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Public Security have dispatched a joint task force to the scene to lead the response.

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The 2026 Volleyball Championship matches have started at KAMAZ.

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

The first matches of the group stage of the Volleyball Championship as part of the 2026 KAMAZ PJSC Spartakiad have been played.

The competition, organized at the initiative of the company's trade union, was dedicated to the 55th anniversary of the KAMAZ PJSC trade union and the 35th anniversary of the ASM RF Trade Union. The opening ceremony took place in the gymnasium of the V.D. Potashov Technical College. Ildar Shamilov, Chairman of the auto giant's trade union, wished the teams a fair fight and exciting competitions.

"This year, 15 friendly teams will take to the volleyball court—fifteen vibrant groups combining strength, agility, and the will to win. Each team is part of a large union family, and today we will see how the spirit of competition and camaraderie creates a special atmosphere for a sporting celebration. May the game be fair, the emotions vibrant, and the victories well-deserved. The union has always supported and will continue to support initiatives that strengthen our community. Sport unites, builds character, and teaches teamwork—qualities that are also important in everyday work," noted KAMAZ union leader Ildar Shamilov.

The first round featured seven matches, featuring representatives from the automobile plant, foundry, engine plant, axle plant, and other KAMAZ divisions. The final matches are scheduled for the end of March.

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RUDN University celebrated its 66th birthday with friends

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Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia

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Exactly one year ago, RUDN University students and graduates met in the Kremlin Palace for the university's anniversary. Today, everyone returned to congratulate their alma mater on its anniversary.

The lobby is bustling. Guests are looking for familiar faces. On either side are photo booths, where members of the RUDN University cheer-hop team pose. One of them effortlessly does a cartwheel. Suddenly—a clang! The waiter drops crystal glasses.

The girls smile and chorus, "For luck!" The man nods in response. Near the banner, graduates of the Faculty of State and Civil Engineering embrace and reminisce about their student years.

"I remember the student theater. It was truly unifying. We staged the play 'Cosmonaut,' and I played a pop star with that nickname. Theater helped me open up and find my creative spirit—it was invaluable," recalls Ivan Antonov, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Class of 2015.

"I was drawn to sports at RUDN. I played tennis, and every Sunday at 7 a.m. we'd go to practice. It instilled discipline and fostered team spirit. I still play, and every time I step on the court, I think of the university," said Dinara Aksyanova, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Class of 2015.

Near the panoramic windows, a man smiles and tells his friend how his foreign friends taught him how to cook exotic dishes.

"We lived in a dorm with foreigners, helped them with their studies, introduced them to our culture, and they taught me how to cook Indian-style meat with spices. That's how I learned to eat spicy dishes. Now I love cooking both meat and beans Indian-style. My family loves this cuisine too," shared Stanislav Senokop, Engineering Faculty, Class of 1992.

At the main staircase, four graduates from Afghanistan recall how they learned Russian.

"The highlight of RUDN University was the Russian language classes in my first year. I came from Afghanistan, and the language was difficult. But the teachers did everything they could to get us talking. There was a lot of homework… but I learned Russian," said Zaki Akhmat Gafuri, Law Faculty, Class of 1989.

There are just a few minutes left before the concert begins. The hall darkens, and guests take their seats. The host appears on stage with his partner, Rudnyasha. Exactly one year ago, the digital girl was born and became the co-host of the anniversary concert. And today, she stands before the audience!

The first act is a fashion show from RUDN Fashion Lab. Students wear vibrant ethnic outfits from Africa, Asia, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Russia. The girls take to the stage in dresses in shades of pink, lilac, and yellow. Their looks are completed with headbands embroidered with flowers, scarves with geometric patterns, and silk umbrellas. The boys are dressed in black suits with gold thread, blue shirts, and white trousers.

"I couldn't stop smiling because I thought it was so unique. Then I thought, 'Why didn't we go to concerts when we were students?'" recalls Alisa Matvienko, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Class of 2014.

The RUDN University KVN team's performance drew laughter from the audience after just fifteen seconds. The team joked about studying and science. A resounding "bravo" from the audience proved that the guys deservedly advanced to the Major League.

Next up is the RUDN University EthnoFest. The number opens with breakdancing, then African dancers in orange and blue costumes pick up the rhythm. Then, Indian girls wow the audience with expressive facial expressions and gold embellishments on their outfits.

The "Night at RUDN" performance immersed the audience in a Middle Eastern atmosphere of mystery and magic. The lights were dimmed. A dancer with flaming candles on her headdress and a vocalist dressed in a costume reminiscent of Aladdin's entered the stage.

Then a soloist appears on stage, performing a famous Italian lullaby and asking the audience to sing along to the line: “Ninna, Nanna, Ninna, O.”

The concert concludes with the university's anthem, as is tradition. All performers take the stage, joined by RUDN University President Vladimir Filippov, who sings alongside the students.

The audience doesn't lag behind. They rise from their seats and sing along to the familiar lines. A couple in the audience begins to dance. The man turns to his companion: "I kept thinking—should I go or not? It was worth it," he smiles.

"I come to the concert every year, and this one stood out from the rest. It was more interesting, without the long announcements. The concert was wonderful: very unobtrusive and everything followed one after another. They showcased models, our Russian culture, and national diversity," shared Lyubov Ushakova, Faculty of Medicine, graduating in 1983.

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.