SPbGASU students were recognized at the "Tourist Code" competition.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

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Finalists of the competition

From March 5th to 7th, the 5th International Competition "Tourism Code of My Country, City, Town, or District – PRO-Tourism" was held in Moscow. This project aims to create and develop new tourist routes and promote and develop the tourism industry in Russia. Students from SPbGASU participated in the competition for the first time.

This year, the competition received over 1,000 applications from 86 regions. The competition was held in two stages. The in-person semi-final round featured 450 selected entries from 74 federal regions.

SPbGASU was represented by students from the Urban Planning Department, Maria Kuznetsova, Gleb Ivanov, and Anastasia Leontyeva, under the guidance of Mikhail Vilensky, PhD in Architecture and Associate Professor of the Urban Planning Department. Their work was presented in the "Scientific and Industrial Tourism" category.

The project defenses took place at the Moscow University of Humanities and Technology – Moscow Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering (MGTU-MASI). The contestants presented their projects to a panel of experts, including tourism and hospitality industry specialists. Maria Kuznetsova presented her project "Sosnovo: Where the Myths of the Kalevala Become Reality" at the in-person stage.

Our students' work proposes a new settlement model based on a tourism and recreational framework. This idea encourages peripheral areas to develop not only for recreation but also for tourism. The concept can be replicated in other communities with similar potential.

Following the competition, the SPbGASU student project was among the winners and awarded a second-degree diploma.

The competition program was packed with not only professional events but also cultural activities: participants were given a tour of MSTU-MASI, visited the Kremlin, the Izmailovo Estate, and the Rossiya National Center. The awards ceremony took place at Gostiny Dvor.

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.

Sunday Joy

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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Khodynka Field Park invites you to an Easter-themed concert. The event will take place on the main square.

Visitors will be treated to performances by the choirs of the Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh, including a children's Orthodox choir, a family instrumental ensemble, and a string quartet of soloists from the chamber orchestra.

The performers will present a festive program, which will include compositions dedicated to Easter.

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 Grigorenko: Russia has recorded a reduction in the number of inspections by the end of 2025.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

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Since the beginning of 2025, inspectors have conducted 273,000 inspections across Russia. This is 20,000 fewer inspections than in 2024, when temporary partial restrictions on inspections were in effect. Meanwhile, thanks to the implementation of a risk-based approach and digital tools, the effectiveness of inspections continues to improve. This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko during a summary of the country's oversight and regulatory activities for 2025.

"The main outcome of 2025 in the area of control and supervision was the final transition to a risk-based approach for scheduling inspections. This assumes that an inspection is conducted only if the inspector has information that there is a high probability that regulations are being violated at the facility. In other cases, control measures are replaced, whenever possible, with preventive visits. Because the primary goal is not to record violations, but to prevent them. This has significantly increased the effectiveness of inspections. Currently, inspections scheduled using a risk-based approach are showing an 88% effectiveness rate. By comparison, before the reform of control and supervision activities in 2019, this figure was below 40%. Moreover, the number of inspections has decreased by 5.6 times compared to 2019, while the level of citizen protection remains at the required level," commented Dmitry Grigorenko.

The second important outcome of 2025 is related to the digitalization of control and oversight. Thanks to the "Inspector" mobile app and the introduction of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into control activities, more opportunities for remote inspections have emerged. Thus, 51,000 inspections were conducted using the "Inspector" mobile app in 2025, a 25-fold increase from the previous year. UAVs also became more frequently used in inspections and preventative maintenance in 2025: the number of inspections using UAVs increased 68-fold (6,800), while the number of preventative maintenance activities increased 1.9-fold (2,700).

Also, at the direction of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko, a mechanism for "automatic fines" was developed, including for the sale of expired goods. The bill passed its first reading in the State Duma on February 11. It proposes a mechanism similar to the system of fines for traffic violations. If the labeling system (GIS MT) detects the sale of an expired product, a fine will be issued automatically.

Also, starting in 2025, pre-trial appeal options were expanded. This service on Gosuslugi now covers all possible grounds for appeal across all types of government oversight. At the same time, the number of complaints about inspections in the overall structure of appeals decreased last year, accounting for only approximately 16% of the total (7,000). Complaint review time also decreased: by 1.4 times (an average of 8 business days).

Digitalization remains the primary focus for regulatory and oversight activities in 2026. Artificial intelligence technologies must be integrated into at least three departmental information systems. 25% of all activities, including preventive measures, must be conducted remotely, without in-person interaction. Where possible, at least 10% must be conducted using UAS.

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.

Rosneft supported the Reindeer Herders' Day in Yamal.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

The main national holiday of the indigenous peoples of the North – Reindeer Herders’ Day – was held in Yamal with the support of Rosneft subsidiaries – Kharampurneftegaz and RN-Purneftegaz.

The traditional village of Kharampur has become a magnet for reindeer herders and fishermen from camps throughout the Purovsky District, as well as residents of nearby towns. The customs and secrets of the indigenous peoples of the North, who use sleds to travel across the winter tundra, are carefully passed down from generation to generation to young mushers. Race participants demonstrated their reindeer sled technique and skill along the route, and the race for first place became the festival's most spectacular event.

The national flavor and beauty of northern traditions were enhanced by Nenets songs and distinctive dances performed by folk groups. Craftswomen in vibrant traditional winter clothing, called yagushki, competed in a national costume contest. Judges assessed not only the practicality but also the intricacy of the beaded embroidery patterns on traditional winter coats and handcrafted belts. In warm tents, guests were treated to the bounty of Yamal's natural beauty—venison, fish, taiga tea, and berries.

The festive program also included a themed quiz dedicated to the history and culture of their native land. Participants of all ages answered questions about folk traditions and everyday life, nomadic routes, the symbols and meanings of ornaments, and Nenets folklore and legends.

Rosneft places special emphasis on creating conditions for the sustainable socioeconomic development of the northern territories. Social projects cover a wide range of areas, from promoting the development of reindeer herding farms to supporting educational, cultural, and sporting events. The Company's enterprises actively support initiatives that promote the preservation of the cultural heritage of indigenous ethnic groups and strengthen interethnic dialogue.

Reference:

Rosneft companies have implemented numerous social and charitable projects in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug aimed at developing ethnic communities and associations. Among them is the revival of the ethnic settlement of Kharampur. Thanks to Rosneft's assistance, Kharampur has become a cultural center for the Forest Nenets. Rosneft workers built a clubhouse, a library, and 20 permanent cottages in the village, styled after a traditional chum (tent). A boarding school was also built in the village, where children of reindeer herders and fishermen study their native language and traditional crafts. With the support of RN-Purneftegaz, scientists from the National Research University Higher School of Economics developed a series of educational materials for teaching the Forest Nenets language in elementary grades.

Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft March 17, 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.

China will provide emergency humanitarian aid to Iran, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq.

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, March 17 (Xinhua) — China has decided to provide emergency humanitarian aid to Iran, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq, hoping it will help ease the dire humanitarian situation facing local residents, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday.

"The ongoing conflict has led to serious humanitarian disasters for the people of Iran and other countries in the region. China expresses its deepest sympathy and moral support to the people of the countries concerned," the diplomat said at a regular press briefing.

China will continue to do its utmost to promote peace and ceasefire, ensure an early restoration of regional peace and stability, and prevent the further spread of the humanitarian crisis, he 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.

China and the United States are in contact regarding the date of Donald Trump's visit, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.

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, March 17 (Xinhua) — China and the United States are in communication regarding the date of U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to China, but there is no further information on the matter at this time, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said at a press conference on Tuesday.

Earlier, some media reported that D. Trump stated that his visit to China could be postponed if China does not assist in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz.

“We have taken note that the American side has publicly clarified the relevant media reports, calling them completely erroneous,” Lin Jian said, adding that the American side emphasized that the visit is not related to the situation around the Strait of Hormuz. -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.

More than 150 shut-off valves on the capital's gas pipelines were replaced in 2025.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Scheduled modernization of shut-off devices on gas pipelines continues in Moscow. In 2025 alone, specialists from Mosgaz JSC replaced 153 shut-off devices. This was reported inMoscow's urban infrastructure complex.

Shut-off valves are a key safety element in the gas distribution network. They allow for the rapid isolation of pipeline sections for repair, maintenance, or reconstruction without shutting down the entire system. The new devices are equipped with electric drives, allowing for remote control from Mosgaz JSC's central control room. This automation speeds up emergency response, enables the prompt containment of potential accidents, and reduces risks to consumers. As a result, the infrastructure becomes more reliable, technologically advanced, and resilient to external factors.

A significant portion of the work was completed in the Troitsky and Novomoskovsky administrative districts, where new residential neighborhoods and social facilities are rapidly developing. Here, specialists updated 50 devices.

All installed shutoff devices are entirely Russian-made, certified, and designed for a service life of over 40 years. They are suitable for gas pipelines of varying pressures (from low to high) with pipe diameters ranging from 50 to 700 millimeters. The reconstruction planning took into account the specific characteristics of the area, the building density, and the pipeline parameters. This allowed the work to be carried out without disconnecting residents from the gas supply.

During installation, welded joints, tightness, corrosion protection, and all fasteners were thoroughly checked. The quality of welded joints was monitored by a mobile laboratory from the Moscow Gas Service, and the installation progress was continuously monitored by the dispatch service.

Mosgaz JSC annually performs comprehensive maintenance on all of the capital's shutoff valves. Specialists inspect actuators and threaded connections, assess the condition of metal structures and protective coatings, and, if necessary, perform adjustments, lubrication, and replacement of components. Digital technologies and modern diagnostic systems enable the early detection and elimination of potential malfunctions.

The updated shutoff valves improve the safety and reliability of gas supply, help the network cope with growing loads, and ensure its stable operation in the context of the city's active development.

The projects being implemented in the capital to develop and modernize the engineering infrastructure are in line with the goals and objectives of the national project Infrastructure for LifeMore information about Russia's national projects and the capital's contribution can be found atspecial page.

Get the latest news quickly on official Moscow messaging channels. MAX AndTelegram.

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.

Ebru

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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The State Darwin Museum invites you to a master class on water painting. Ebru paintings are unique because each stroke of an awl or comb creates a unique image. This event will give you the opportunity to feel like an artist, express your creativity, and experience the aesthetic pleasure of the creative process.

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.

Funny jellyfish

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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The State Darwin Museum invites children to the workshop "Funny Jellyfish."

Under the facilitator's guidance, children will create jellyfish figurines from fuzzy wire, felt, and other materials. The finished creations can be used as keychains or decorations for a child's room.

This activity helps develop fine motor skills, imagination, spatial thinking and sense of taste.

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 Onega-2050 Project: A new student expedition to the North has concluded.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

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Kiy Island

As part of the real-world project work that SPbGASU students undertake during their studies, projects are being developed for various parts of Russia. For example, work began in February on a commission from the administration of the Onega Municipal District in the Arkhangelsk Region.

As part of the large-scale initiative "Concept for the Reconstruction of the Historic Center and the Development of Tourist Infrastructure in the City of Onega," a new architectural expedition was held for first-year master's students in the Department of Architectural Design, led by Associate Professor Alexandra Eremeeva. According to Alexandra, "the research topic is highly relevant, addressing the key challenges of contemporary urban development policy—the search for effective mechanisms for the revival of small historical settlements in northern Russia."

The expedition was organized at the request of the Onega city administration as part of the university's "Project-Based Learning" program, which initially gave it a practice-oriented focus. Significant support for the project came from Mikhail Aleksandrovich Mamoshin, a native of Onega, a graduate of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, an academician of the Russian Academy of Arts, the Russian Academy of Architects and Construction Sciences, and the International Academy of Architecture in Moscow, and an Honored Architect of Russia.

Preparations for the expedition began in mid-2025 and included not only theoretical research but also productive business contacts. With the assistance of Mikhail Mamoshin, a working meeting was held in St. Petersburg with Vera Ponomareva, head of the Onega Municipal District of the Arkhangelsk Region, which allowed for the alignment of academic goals with the municipality's real-world needs. As a result, the students arrived on site with preliminary design concepts, rather than blank slates.

As Alexandra Eremeeva notes, "We are combining the development of the historic center and tourism in the Onega District. The town of Onega has deep roots in Pomor culture, and our goal is to use this heritage to improve the quality of life for residents and develop the district's tourism appeal. The two-year project will conclude with the defense of theses in June 2027, and the current expedition is a crucial step in gathering feedback from the local community, whose opinions are crucial for future work."

The expedition's program was very comprehensive. The district administration prepared a long itinerary that allowed for a deep appreciation of the local character. A key part of the expedition was the in-kind survey of the design sites. The cultural program included visits to the Onega Historical and Memorial Museum, Kiy Island, and the village of Vorzogory, home to a unique wooden architectural complex. These impressions and the collected materials will form the basis for further work.

Expedition participants: Master's students Valeria Trepykhalina, Angelina Savitskaya, Arina Tikhonova, Alexander Grekov, Sofya Galkina, Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural Design Alexandra Eremeeva, Head of the Onega District Vera Ponomareva, Master's student Svetlana Bryukhanova, employees of Mikhail Mamoshin's workshop Evgeniya Saenko and Alexey Matveenko (postgraduate student at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering)

The expedition included Alexey Matveenko, a graduate student in the Department of Architectural Design, whose research focuses on the architectural features of cultural centers. This provided the trip with additional research depth.

"The project's practical significance for the town of Onega is undeniable. The results of the two-year project will be shared with the administration for potential practical use. Furthermore, a series of scientific publications and presentations at relevant conferences are planned. Thus, the Onega-2050 project serves as a shining example of the successful symbiosis of education, science, and the real-world goals set by the municipality, confirming that student design can be an effective tool for the socioeconomic development of small towns," notes Alexandra Eremeeva.

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.