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Sergey Krivovichev, Director General of the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, became a laureate of the Sberbank Science Prize in the Physical World category on December 11, 2025.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

Moscow. December 11, 2025. Sergey Krivovichev, Director General of the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences (KSC RAS), was awarded the Sber Scientific Prize in the Physical World category.

The awards ceremony was held in Moscow. It was attended by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Chernyshenko, Minister of Healthcare of the Russian Federation Mikhail Murashko, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Valery Falkov, President and Chairman of the Executive Board of Sberbank Herman Gref, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences and Rector of the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology Alexander Kuleshov, and others.

In 2025, the Sber Science Prize received 290 applications—almost triple the number from the previous year. The majority of the works—214—were in three main categories: "Physical World," "Life Sciences," and "Digital Universe." The "AI in Science" category for young scientists received 76 applications. Most of the applications came from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Nizhny Novgorod, Samara, Tomsk, and Kazan.

The 2025 prize fund exceeded 100 million rubles. Each laureate in the main categories received 30 million rubles. Young scientists using artificial intelligence in their research received 5 million rubles in the "AI in Science" category, as well as 1 million rubles for cloud computing for their future work.

"Our scientific award is a way to say thank you to people who have dedicated themselves to science. It's a way to inspire the many young scientists who have embarked on this important path. I know of no more meaningful work than that of a scientist. Science is a very complex endeavor. It requires remarkable talent, but most importantly, perseverance. You have to try 99 times and not give up, so that the hundredth attempt succeeds. Our award is a way to support these people in this hard work and show that we believe in them," emphasized Herman Gref, President and Chairman of the Executive Board of Sberbank.

For the development of fundamentally new approaches in Earth sciences, including the theory of anion-centered complexes and methods of information-entropy analysis for understanding mineral-forming processes and creating new mineral-like materials, Professor Sergei Krivovichev, Director General of the Federal Research Center Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences and Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, was recognized as the best in the Physical World category.

These studies address both fundamental questions of mineralogy—such as the relationship between the composition, crystal structure, and properties of minerals—and applied problems related to the creation of new mineral-like materials. The use of information theory has provided new insights into the mechanisms governing the formation and transformation of minerals throughout Earth's history, the diversity of mineral species, and their chemical and structural complexity.

The award was presented to the head of the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences by the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Valery Falkov.

"First of all, I would like to thank the Sber team and German Oskarovich for such a wonderful gift to Russian scientists. I would also like to thank the members of the scientific award committee for choosing me as this year's laureate in the Physical World category. This underscores the importance of mineralogy and geochemistry for our country," noted Sergey Krivovichev, accepting the award. "The Kola Peninsula is an amazing place, home to numerous rich mineral deposits and a number of outstanding mining companies, with whom we have very strong ties. But I would especially like to single out and thank PhosAgro, our center's main industrial partner, with whom we are implementing a number of very important scientific, industrial, and educational projects."

The creation of a Research Center for the detailed study of the material composition of mineral raw materials and further improvement of the efficiency of apatite-nepheline ore processing at the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, funded by PhosAgro, significantly expanded research capabilities in the field of technological mineralogy. Opened in the Akademgorodok of the Kola Science Center in March 2024, the company invested over 500 million rubles in its construction and equipment.

The development of the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, which celebrated its 95th anniversary this year, has historically been closely linked to the Apatit Mining and Processing Plant. The company, now part of the PhosAgro Group, traditionally utilizes cutting-edge developments from KSC researchers. For example, in recent years, scientists from the KSC Mining Institute have developed a unique seismicity monitoring and rock burst warning system, the SIGMA GT, for Apatit. They are also working on the design of Apatit's mine workings, optimizing quarry walls, and solving surveying problems related to ensuring the most complete extraction of minerals from the ore body. A significant portion of their work is related to beneficiation—KSC scientists are constantly testing new flotation reagents. Environmental issues are also a significant focus of the joint work between KSC scientists and Apatit specialists.

"On behalf of PhosAgro, I congratulate Sergey Vladimirovich on this well-deserved award. This is a prestigious recognition of the contributions of the team at the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences to the development of mining, geology, and geochemistry—critical scientific disciplines that underpin the development of the domestic chemical industry. We are proud that our joint projects are a significant part of this extensive and important work, and we are confident that it will continue," noted Alexander Gilgenberg, CEO of PhosAgro.

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.

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The Imakan epic of the Hezhe people in China has been added to the UNESCO Representative List.

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

New Delhi, December 11 (Xinhua) — The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage decided at its 20th session to transfer the Imakan epic of the Hezhe (Nanai) people of China from the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

At the same time, considering the effectiveness of the protection of this heritage, the committee decided to include the program for the protection of the Imakan epic in the Register of Best Practices for the Safeguarding of Intangible Heritage.

As a reminder, in 2024, three Chinese elements, including textile technologies of the Li people, were transferred from the List of Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding to the Representative List. The Imakan epic became another example of China's success in protecting intangible heritage. This is also the first time an element has been transferred between lists while simultaneously being included in the Register of Best Practices for Safeguarding Intangible Heritage.

"Imakan" is an ancient oral tradition passed down from generation to generation by the Hezhe ethnic group. The narrative is told in the Nanai language and includes both poetry and prose. The epic tells the story of the Hezhe people and their folk heroes, fishing and hunting customs, rituals, and moral norms. The tradition has been preserved from century to century, fulfilling such functions as documenting history, educating the younger generation, and providing community recreation.

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.

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V. Zelensky announced the first meeting with the American side on the document on the restoration of Ukraine.

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

Kyiv, December 11 (Xinhua) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on social media on Thursday night the first meeting of the Ukrainian-American group, which will work on a document on Ukraine's recovery and economic revival.

According to him, the US was represented at the talks, which took place online, by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, and BlackRock CEO Larry Fink.

V. Zelensky noted that the main topics of discussion at the meeting were key objects, mechanisms, and visions for Ukraine's post-war reconstruction.

He also announced that official Kyiv had already prepared its proposals regarding the latest version of the peace plan. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that overall security will determine the country's economic situation and shape its business climate.

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.

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China and Kazakhstan are ready to strengthen literary cooperation.

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, December 11 (Xinhua) — A memorandum of understanding on cooperation was signed between the Chinese Writers' Union (CWU) and the Kazakhstan Writers' Union in Beijing on Wednesday, the Wenyi Bao (Literature and Art) newspaper, affiliated with the CWU, reported.

This document was signed during the international literary conference “Kazakh and Chinese Writers”, held at the cultural center of Kazakhstan in Beijing.

According to the document, the writers' unions of the two countries agreed to maintain close cooperation through such branded events as the International Youth Poetry Festival and the International Symposium of Sinologists on Literary Translation, as well as the Belt and Road Literary Network and other mechanisms.

In addition, the two sides will deepen the mechanism for mutual visits between writers from the two countries, promote cooperation in the field of mutual translation and publication of literary works, and jointly organize literary forums and academic seminars.

The event also featured a dialogue between representatives of young writers, poets and editors from the two countries, who discussed a number of issues related to literary ties between the two countries, etc. -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.

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December 9, 2025

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

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#Ecotrends. The second life of things: how upcycling helps reduce waste

Upcycling is the process of transforming old, unwanted items into new, useful objects. Instead of throwing away old clothes, furniture, or household items, upcycling gives them a second life, conserving resources and reducing waste.

According to the UN, 1.3 billion tons of products are thrown away globally each year, and a significant portion of this waste includes items that could be recycled or reused. For example, textiles are one of the most polluting materials: over 90% of textiles in landfills could be recycled but instead end up in landfills. Upcycling helps reduce the need to create new products, which in turn reduces the carbon footprint of production.

Examples of upcycling include creating stylish furniture and decor from unwanted or recycled materials, as well as turning old clothing into fashionable accessories. This approach helps reduce waste that would otherwise end up in landfills and decreases the need for new materials.

Why is this important?

Upcycling helps conserve resources—less new materials, such as textiles or wood, are needed, reducing resource extraction and energy consumption. According to the Global State of Waste Report 2021, textiles and paper account for over 20% of all global waste. Upcycling these materials significantly reduces waste volume. Upcycling fosters creativity and innovation by giving old things new meaning and functionality.

Upcycling isn't just a trendy fad, but a real step toward reducing waste and preserving the planet. Less waste and more creative solutions are at the core of this trend.

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.

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December 8, 2025: Eco-Friendly Packaging: New Year's Gifts That Care for the Environment

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: New Year's Gifts That Care for the Environment

Winter is especially inspiring. And it's so wonderful when we show care not only for our loved ones but also for nature. Holiday gift wrapping looks beautiful, but after the celebration, it turns into mountains of trash. So, we've found and compiled packaging options for you that are not only more original but also more environmentally friendly than standard packaging. And you probably already have almost everything you need at home.

One of the most delicate and aesthetically pleasing ways to wrap a gift is to use fabric. The traditional Japanese technique of furoshiki can transform an ordinary piece of cloth into an elegant wrapper: a square scarf (or kitchen towel) is enough. This way, instead of becoming a waste, the packaging becomes a pleasant addition to the main gift.

Kraft paper looks equally cozy. Unlike most shiny wrappers, kraft paper is easily recycled or composted, and you can also skip the plastic tape and secure the paper with twine or cotton thread. The warm color of the paper is beautifully complemented by natural accents in the decor, such as dried flowers, spruce branches, pine cones, or dried orange slices.

Newspapers and any boxes left over from deliveries can be beautifully packaged. Newspapers are a very expressive material. Black and white stripes, large headlines, and vibrant illustrations transform the packaging into a mini-story. Some people look for an article that matches their interests, while others tie a newspaper bundle with twine and decorate it with a sprig of eucalyptus. It's simple and very heartwarming. And if you have any paper bags left over, you can easily use them in a similar way.

And, of course, glass jars. They're perfect for storing homemade cookies, nuts, or small souvenirs. A jar is a gift in itself, perfect for storing cereals or autumn preserves. You can also cover the lid with a piece of fabric and tie it with twine for a very stylish and festive look.

Decorations can also be eco-friendly. Pine sprigs, cinnamon, dried flowers, ribbons from old clothes, buttons, and small Christmas tree ornaments will help create a festive New Year's mood.

Switching to eco-friendly packaging will help create a special atmosphere: the feeling that a gift wasn't simply purchased, but created with care, thoughtfulness, and warmth. And may your New Year's gifts this year be not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. Do this for those you love and for the entire planet.

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.

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Japan and the United States conducted joint air exercises over the Sea of Japan.

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

TOKYO, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) — Japan's Defense Ministry said Thursday that the Air Self-Defense Force conducted joint exercises with the U.S. military over the Sea of Japan on Wednesday.

According to Japan's Joint Chiefs of Staff, six Japanese fighter jets—three F-35s and three F-15s—participated in the maneuvers along with two U.S. Air Force B-52 bombers. –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.

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China has called on Nexperia to send representatives to the country.

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, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) — China has asked the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs through the Dutch Embassy in China to implement the agreements reached with China during consultations so that Dutch semiconductor maker Nexperia can dispatch representatives to China as soon as possible, Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yadong said Thursday. -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.

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Xinjiang takes measures to ensure stable heating supply due to severe cold snap

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

URUMQI, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) — Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR) is bracing for heavy snowfall and a sharp drop in temperatures, imposing traffic restrictions and putting heating suppliers on high alert.

On Wednesday, the Xinjiang weather service raised its cold weather alert from orange to red, the highest level in China's four-tier weather warning system, after forecasting temperatures in western and northern Xinjiang to drop by 16 to 20 degrees Celsius.

In Altay County, a famous ski resort in northern Xinjiang, moderate to heavy snowfall has been observed since Tuesday evening. In Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, more than 12.1 mm of precipitation fell between Wednesday evening and Thursday morning.

To minimize traffic disruptions, the Urumqi city government mobilized more than 16,000 utility workers and deployed 1,900 snow removal vehicles before the morning rush hour on Thursday.

The region also suspended train service on major railway lines and imposed traffic restrictions on 84 road sections, 26 of which were open to traffic by Thursday morning.

Heating suppliers in Xinjiang have also taken various precautionary measures and initiated emergency measures to prevent indoor temperatures from dropping.

"We are on standby 24/7 to respond promptly to any heating system failures," said Ma Lei of Yining City's main heating company.

According to China's National Meteorological Center (NMC), Xinjiang has become the first stop in a cold wave that will bring widespread lower temperatures and herald the first major snowfalls in China this winter.

Snowfall will increase significantly on Thursday and Friday, with heavy snowfall or even blizzards likely in regions such as Shaanxi Province in northwest China, the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Shanxi and Hebei Provinces in northern China, and Henan Province in central China, the National Meteorological Center reported.

Meteorologists warn that this cold wave will affect vast areas and may be accompanied by a sharp drop in air temperatures and strong winds. Relevant agencies have been advised to take comprehensive precautions, and residents are advised to wrap up warm and exercise caution on the roads. -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.

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The Japanese Prime Minister's erroneous remarks about Taiwan have sparked growing opposition and criticism within the country, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

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, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) — Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks about Taiwan have not only sparked strong indignation among the Chinese people but also growing opposition and criticism from objective and rational people in Japan, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Thursday.

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.