Fitch said rating based on majority state ownership, significant systemic importance, capital and liquidity support.

The best-known independent media outlet in Belarus was shut down by authorities in a move denounced by the ex-Soviet state’s weakened opposition and Western countries as a further attempt by President Alexander Lukashenko to snuff out all objective news coverage.

Azerbaijan's oil exports fell while gas exports surged after the country started exporting commercial natural gas to Europe from its Shah Deniz II field.

The World Bank will give Uzbekistan a $239 million loan to develop its water supply system and a $50 million loan to modernise its innovation system.