Cultural events to celebrate Navruz will be held in Tajikistan.

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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

Dushanbe, March 17 (Xinhua) — Cultural events dedicated to the holiday of Navruz will be held in Tajikistan from March 19 to 28, the Khovar news agency reported on Tuesday, citing the country's Ministry of Culture.

During the holidays, artistic and entertainment programs, as well as public walks and excursions, will be organized with the participation of artists.

Currently, active preparations for the celebrations are underway in the country's capital, Dushanbe: boulevards, avenues, and cultural and entertainment parks of the city are already decorated. –0–

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The 7th meeting of the Georgian-Belarusian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation was held in Tbilisi.

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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

Tbilisi, March 17 (Xinhua) — The 7th meeting of the Georgian-Belarusian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation was held in Tbilisi, where the parties discussed a wide range of bilateral economic cooperation issues. The Georgian Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development announced this on Tuesday.

At the meeting, Georgian Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Mariam Kvrivishvili noted the importance of trade and economic cooperation between Georgia and Belarus, and emphasized the current dynamics and prospects for further development of cooperation in various economic sectors.

Particular attention during the meeting was paid to the growth of mutual trade volumes, including the progress achieved within the commission in increasing the export of Georgian wine and other alcoholic beverages to the Belarusian market.

The parties also discussed opportunities for expanding cooperation in transport, agriculture, education, and healthcare. Particular emphasis was placed on cooperation in civil aviation and tourism.

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 Chinese Foreign Minister outlined the results of the 17th meeting of the China-Vietnam Steering Committee on Bilateral Cooperation.

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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

Hanoi, March 17 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday outlined the key outcomes of the 17th meeting of the China-Vietnam Steering Committee on Bilateral Cooperation.

Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, spoke about the results in an interview with Chinese media after attending a commission meeting and the first ministerial meeting of the China-Vietnam Strategic Dialogue mechanism in the "3:3" format on diplomacy, defense and public security in Hanoi.

According to the Chinese diplomat, the two sides agreed to strengthen strategic mutual trust, enhance high-level exchanges, expand the exchange of experience in public administration, continuously enhance governance capacity, and jointly explore ways to strengthen the Party and develop the country.

Wang Yi added that the two sides agreed to strengthen security coordination, deepen cooperation in areas such as cybersecurity, combating online gambling and telecom fraud, extradition of fugitives and asset recovery, and expand cooperation between the two countries' militaries in political work, joint exercises and training, and border and coastal defense.

As the head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry noted, the parties agreed to expand pragmatic cooperation, strengthen collaboration in areas such as economics, trade, investment, infrastructure, cross-border economic cooperation zones and smart ports, and promote cooperation in emerging areas such as scientific and technological innovation, the digital economy, and artificial intelligence.

The head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry noted that the parties agreed to strengthen people-to-people exchanges, enhance cooperation in areas such as culture, tourism, education, personnel training, and healthcare, and accelerate the implementation of Chinese aid projects to improve the well-being of Vietnamese citizens, making these projects tangible and accessible to the peoples of both countries.

He added that the two sides agreed to properly handle differences, effectively utilize maritime negotiation mechanisms, promote maritime cooperation in areas with low sensitivity, and make substantial progress in delimiting waters outside the Beibu Gulf estuary and jointly developing marine resources as soon as possible, so as to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea.

The parties agreed to strengthen coordination at multilateral forums, uphold genuine multilateralism, practice open regionalism, promote the common values of all humanity, and promote the development of the global governance system in a more just and equitable direction, Wang Yi 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.

US National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent resigned over Iran war

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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

WASHINGTON, March 17 (Xinhua) — US National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent announced on social media on Tuesday that he has decided to resign from his post, saying he "cannot in good conscience support the current war in Iran."

“Iran did not pose an immediate threat to our nation, and it is clear that we started this war under pressure from Israel and its powerful American lobby,” J. Kent wrote on social media.

In his letter to US President Donald Trump, J. Kent stated that at the beginning of this administration, senior Israeli officials and influential members of the American media “launched a disinformation campaign that completely undermined your ‘America First’ platform and sowed pro-war sentiment to push for war with Iran.”

J. Kent emphasized that he could not support sending the next generation “to fight and die in a war that does not benefit the American people and does not justify the cost in American lives.” –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 Chinese Foreign Minister stated that power politics has no future.

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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

HANOI, March 17 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday said power politics and unilateral bullying are unsympathetic and have no future, calling for stronger cooperation within multilateral mechanisms to safeguard peace and stability in Asia.

Concluding his visit to Vietnam, Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, noted in an interview with Chinese media that long-term peace and stability in Asia were not achieved easily and should be valued by all countries.

The international situation is currently undergoing profound changes, with regional conflicts spreading beyond their borders, the Chinese diplomat added, emphasizing that some major powers are arbitrarily resorting to force, posing a serious threat to world peace and stability.

He recalled that this year marks the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This year and next, China and Vietnam will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) informal economic leaders' meetings, and Vietnam will assume the co-chair role of the Lancang-Mekong cooperation mechanism. The Chinese Foreign Minister stated that China, as an important force for world peace, stability, and justice, is ready to work with Vietnam and other countries to strengthen coordination and cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as APEC, ASEAN, and the Lancang-Mekong cooperation, to safeguard their common home—Asia, to jointly advance the building of an Asia-Pacific community, and to set an example in advancing the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind.

During his visit to Vietnam, Wang Yi attended the first ministerial meeting of the China-Vietnam Strategic Dialogue Mechanism in the “3 3” format on diplomacy, defense and public security and co-chaired the 17th meeting of the China-Vietnam Steering Committee on Bilateral 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.

Financial news: March 18, 2026. JSC "KAVKAZ.RF" will hold a deposit auction.

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Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

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Parameters:

The deposit auction date is March 18, 2026. The placement currency is RUB. The maximum amount of funds placed (in the placement currency) is 200,000,000. Placement period, days – 99. The date of depositing funds is March 18, 2026. The date of return of funds is June 25, 2026. The minimum placement interest rate, % per annum is 14.65. Terms of the conclusion, urgent or special (urgent). The minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in the placement currency) is 200,000,000. The maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1. Auction form, open or closed (Open).

The basis of the Agreement is the General Agreement. Schedule (Moscow time). Preliminary bids from 11:00 to 11:10. Competitive bids from 11:10 to 11:15. The cutoff percentage or the auction's invalidity may be determined by 11:30. Additional terms

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.

Dmitry Patrushev and the head of the Republic of Karelia, Artur Parfenchikov, discussed the development of the agro-industrial complex and environmental issues in the region.

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Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

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Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with the Head of the Republic of Karelia, Artur Parfenchikov. The main topics discussed were the development of the agro-industrial complex, rural areas, and ensuring the region's environmental well-being.

Dairy farming continues to develop in the Republic of Karelia. Progress is also being made in aquaculture. By the end of 2025, the region confirmed its status as the country's leader in trout production, with over 33,000 tons raised. Furthermore, the harvesting of niche aquatic bioresources achieved record levels for the region.

Improving the quality of life in rural areas remains a priority for the region. From 2020 to 2025, approximately 750 million rubles were allocated from the federal budget for rural development activities, with over a billion rubles allocated this year. In 2026, comprehensive projects will cover three key communities: Kostomuksha, Olonets, and Sortavala.

Dmitry Patrushev and Artur Parfenchikov also discussed the implementation of the national project "Environmental Well-Being." They also focused on the progress of waste management reform in the northern region, specifically the creation of modern infrastructure through 2030.

The meeting also addressed the issue of upgrading municipal solid waste containers and developing container sites. The leadership of the Republic of Karelia is currently working to optimize garbage truck logistics and improve waste collection. This is especially important for remote areas. Dmitry Patrushev noted the need to expedite this work to ensure the comfort of residents throughout the region.

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.

March 17, 2026. New dates for visa-free Danube cruises: Spring 2027. Discover the Danube with the "Sozvezdie" on an exclusive route from Belgrade on the CruceNova. A 35% prepayment locks in the price with the maximum seasonal discount!

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Source: Infoflot Cruise Center – Infoflot Cruise Center –

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Dear friends,

As part of the "Discovering the World with Sozvezdie" project, we are introducing new Danube cruises on the modern CruceNova motor ship, which will run from March to May 2027.

This exclusive visa-free route, starting and ending in Belgrade, is specially designed for Russian tourists: all you need is a passport to travel to the heart of the Balkans.

Direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg to the capital of Serbia will save you from tedious transfers.

Spring is a wonderful time to explore the Danube: nature is awakening, there are still few tourists, and the sun already gives off a soft warmth.

In just 8 days, you will discover the rich history and unique culture of Serbia:

Get to know Belgrade, one of the oldest cities in Europe; see the picturesque banks of the Danube come alive after winter; stroll through cozy provincial towns; visit medieval monasteries and fortresses; sample national cuisine and experience the famous Balkan hospitality.

Throughout the cruise, the CruceNova will be exclusively at the disposal of Sozvezdie Cruise Line guests. On board, you'll experience a unique, intimate atmosphere in the company of like-minded people passionate about cruising and travel.

Discover the Danube with the "Constellation" on cruises from Belgrade:

An all-inclusive package tour with a maximum of services: a cruise with accommodation in a cabin of your choice, full board meals and an unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage package, excursions along the route, port fees, transfers, and medical insurance; support, care, and attention from the group leader and accompanying staff from Sozvezdie throughout the entire itinerary – an informational chat with preparation before the cruise, meeting tourists at Belgrade airport, support throughout the tour program, and assistance with any questions onboard; service is fully Russian-language – excursions, and an onboard newspaper in Russian.

Stops along the route:

Belgrade is a city with a unique character, located at the picturesque confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Here, Austro-Hungarian architecture coexists with the heritage of socialist Yugoslavia, and Roman ruins coexist with monuments of the Ottoman era.
Novi Sad is the second largest city in Serbia and has been dubbed the “Serbian Athens” for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. A walk through the old town and the powerful Petrovaradin Fortress will give you vivid impressions of visiting the real “pearl of the Danube”.
Smederevo is a city at the confluence of the Danube and the Great Morava, where one of the most significant monuments of Serbian national history is located – the Smeredevo Fortress. A walk through its territory allows you to literally touch history, and from the ramparts you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Danube and its opposite bank.

Golubac is one of the most picturesque and memorable stops on the Danube route. Approaching the medieval fortress by water, as if growing out of the rocks above the Danube, is an unforgettable sight.
Kladovo is the eastern gate to the majestic Djerdap Gorge (Iron Gate), one of the main natural attractions of Europe. Passing through the gorge is always the highlight of any Danube cruise, when one of the most stunning panoramas in all of Europe opens up from the deck of the ship.
Veliko Gradiste is the starting point for an excursion to Viminacium, taking you back 2000 years to when the Danube was the northern border of the Roman Empire. Among the thermal baths, residential buildings and unique artifacts, ancient history comes to life before your eyes.

CRUISE PROGRAM AND ROUTE MAP

About the CruceNova:

The journey along the Danube will take place on a modern and comfortable motor ship, ready to accommodate up to 194 guests.

The spacious lobby, bright cabin and public area interiors, and panoramic restaurant and lounge create a relaxing and cozy atmosphere. All cabins feature French balconies offering stunning river views and unobstructed views.

The sun deck is perfect for relaxing outdoors. Here, while comfortably lounging in a sun lounger, you can admire the changing river scenery.

Also available on board are a fitness room, sauna, souvenir kiosk and library.

The TwinCruiser's special design, with the engine separated from the passenger compartment, ensures a particularly quiet and enjoyable journey.

Accommodation in a cabin of the selected category; three meals a day, including soft drinks (water, tea, coffee); an unlimited drinks package from 09:00 to 24:00 (wine, sparkling wine, beer, soft drinks, juices, mineral water), as well as daily replenishment of water in the cabin (1 liter per person per day) and water for excursions (0.5 liters per person per excursion); excursion services according to the cruise program; support of the Russian group from the cruise company "Sozvezdie"; comfortable bus transfers as per the program; medical insurance for passengers up to 64 years of age inclusive (only for citizens of the Russian Federation); on-board newspaper in Russian.

The "Constellation" promotion locks in profits:

A maximum seasonal discount of up to 13% applies to bookings from March 17 to May 1, 2026. Cruise prices on our website include the current early booking benefit. To secure the seasonal discount (fixed in euros), simply make a 35% deposit and the remaining balance no later than 60 days before the cruise.

Please note; this information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

New episode of the podcast "Contemporary Art: Instructions for Use" March 17, 2026.

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Source: Winzavod Center for Contemporary Art – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

New podcast episodeContemporary Art: A User's Guide— a regular program on Channel One, where art historians, critics, and artists discuss how to view and understand contemporary art.

The theme is post-war art, what was happening in artistic life, what themes, plots and events were, the Thaw and its end.

In the second episode, host Sofia Trotsenko, founder of the Winzavod Center for Contemporary Art, discusses 1950s modernism with curator Irina Gorlova, former head of the Tretyakov Gallery's Department of Contemporary Art.

They will discuss exhibitions of Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock in Moscow, as well as heroes of that time: George Costakis and his collection of Russian avant-garde, the art of Oleg Tselkov, Yuri Zlotnikov, Nikolai Vechtomov, Oscar Rabin, and other masters.

March 19, broadcast time: 00:10

You can watch the first episode with Viktor Misianofollow the linkand listen on platformsYandex MusicAndApple Podcast 

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A podcast about contemporary art will appear on Channel One on March 5, 2026.

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Source: Winzavod Center for Contemporary Art – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

On March 9, Channel One will launch a new podcast, "Contemporary Art: A User's Guide," as part of the "Podcast.Lab" project. Hosted by Winzavod Center for Contemporary Art founder Sofia Trotsenko.

The podcast's guests include prominent artists, curators, art historians, and, most importantly, eyewitnesses to and participants in key artistic events of the second half of the 20th century. The first episode features curator and art theorist Viktor Misiano, founder of the Art Magazine. He will serve as a guide to the universe of contemporary Russian art and answer the most popular questions: why contemporary art often seems complex and how to understand it.

The podcast covers the period from post-war art to the present day. Episodes include stories about the Picasso exhibition in Moscow, the American art exhibition in Sokolniki Park, Nikita Khrushchev's scandalous destruction of the Manege exhibition, the Bulldozer Exhibition, the historic Sotheby's auction in Moscow, and other events that shaped the contemporary art scene.

Guests will discuss how to learn to "read" contemporary art, how it existed underground in the 1960s, why the 1970s became a decade of bold artistic experimentation, what distinguished new artistic movements, how nonconformist artists had to fight for the opportunity to show their work to a wider public, and much more.

Podcast.Lab – intellectual discussions after midnight with the most knowledgeable experts and leading speakers on Channel One and on the website 1tv.ru.

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.