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Zaitsev examines the history of the diplomatic relations between the USSR and the Republic of Iceland. Regular relations between the two countries began in Jun 1926, proceeding at the time through the mediation of Denmark, which, under the Act of Union between Denmark and Iceland of Nov 30, 1918, retained the functions of defending the island and conducting foreign affairs. The process of the establishment of direct diplomatic relations between the USSR and Iceland began in the middle of 1942 with contacts in London between Soviet Ambassador I. M. Maisky and Icelandic Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary Petur Benediktsson. The analysis of the positions of the USSR and Iceland made through their mediation confirmed their mutual interest in the establishment of direct diplomatic relations. Adapted from the source document.

The personal reflections of a former Russian Ambassador to the Republic of Iceland describe lessons learned about the country, including its propensity for earthquakes. The weak state of Russia's relationship with Iceland is examined, along with the structure of the Althing (Parliament), & circumstances surrounding Iceland's 1944 declaration of independence. Emphasis is placed on the importance of fishing grounds to Icelanders & the country's prosperity. Conflicts with Russia centered on Iceland's uncontrolled fishing in the Barents Sea & a ban on Russian vessels entering Icelandic ports with redfish catches from the Irminger Sea. The search for solutions to these problems & the settlement of fishing disputes are related, noting that it led to the development of bilateral relations in other areas, & a resumption of reciprocal visits by foreign ministers that dealt with a broader range of international problems. Special attention is given to the realization of the Northern Research Forum intended to improve the coordination of development programs for Russia's northern regions & its neighbors. Adapted from the source document.

Zaitsev pays tribute to the distinguished Soviet diplomat & foreign minister Andrei Andreevich Gromyko (1909-1989) on the centenary of his birth by relating some episodes from his work as an aide & then a section head under Gromyko commencing in July 1979, seeking to show a livelier side of the man portrayed by many as a "dry-as-dust individual." He describes his early days in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including his service as night duty officer, trying to decide whether an incoming call was sufficiently important to awaken the minister. Being able to anticipate the minister's questions with correct & ready answers was never easy; it just became less difficult. Gromyko did not drink or smoke & made every effort to keep himself physically fit. He had an enormous capacity for work & reading, & he wrote External Expansion of Capital: History and Modern Times (1982), for which he was awarded the USSR State Prize. The author treasures a gift edition of the book inscribed to him by Gromyko. Adapted from the source document.

Purpose. This research aims to investigate how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can strategically leverage key performance indicators (KPIs) to enhance their performance and competitiveness in the dynamic business landscape. Through a multifaceted research methodology, including secondary data analysis, case studies, comparative analysis, and future trends analysis, the study seeks to address the specific challenges faced by SMEs and provide actionable insights for optimizing performance through KPI utilization.
Results. The findings of this research reveal the intricacies of SME performance challenges, ranging from financial constraints to operational complexities. Through a comprehensive examination of theoretical foundations and real-world case studies, the study demonstrates successful strategies used by SMEs in effectively utilizing KPIs. The comparative analysis identifies patterns and distinctions in KPI deployment across industries, enriching the understanding of tailored approaches. The forward-looking future trends analysis anticipates advancements in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and technological tools that will shape the landscape of SME performance measurement.
Scientific novelty. This research contributes to the field by offering a nuanced exploration of challenges faced by SMEs and the transformative potential of KPIs within their unique operational environments. The comparative analysis and future trends exploration add a novel dimension, providing a forward-looking perspective on the evolving landscape of KPI utilization in SMEs. The research pioneers an investigation into emerging technologies and methodologies, positioning itself at the forefront of anticipating future trends in SME performance measurement.
Practical value. The practical value of this research lies in its provision of actionable insights for SME leaders, policymakers, and researchers seeking to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of SMEs. By synthesizing theoretical foundations with real-world examples, the study offers practical guidance on addressing challenges and optimizing performance through KPI utilization. The exploration of tools, technologies, and future trends equips SMEs with the knowledge needed to navigate the intricate business landscape effectively.

The paper raises a question of weapon transfer to Myanmar over the past 2 years. In such dynamic process India was one of the key weapon suppliers to Myanmar military junta. The article describes the political reasons of Indian cooperation with military government of Myanmar in the field of arms transfer. The potential risks of such cooperation are also indicated. The paper highlights the statistical information related to weapons transfer from India to Myanmar.

«Geochemical functions» is a new free Add-In to MS Excel for geochemists and mineralogists. It implements useful functions for routine operations in geochemical and mineralogical calculations: abundance normalization, calculations of empirical formula coeffi cients from chemical and EMPA analyses, statistical operations with partial and unequal data.