1,000 Pakistani women killed for honour in 2011
By IANS,
London : Nearly 1,000 women and girls in Pakistan were victims of honour killings during 2011, a human rights group said.
Human rights situation in Bangladesh unsatisfactory: Amnesty
By IANS
Dhaka : Amnesty International has termed the human rights situation in Bangladesh unsatisfactory and says that it sees "new patterns of manipulating due process" by the present government that is conducting an anti-corruption drive.
Secretary general of the international body, Irene Khan, has also held the government responsible for new examples of human rights violations and for not addressing the matter.
UAE, Belarus discuss cooperation
By IANS/WAM,
Abu Dhabi : The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Belarus have held talks over bilateral cooperation and reviewed a number of important economic issues.
Bush’s visit cost Dubai $120 mln
ABU DHABI, January 15 (RIA Novosti) - The visit of U.S. President George Bush to Dubai cost the city $120 million as businesses closed down and ordinary life ground to a halt on Monday, the local Gulf News newspaper said.
Bush's visit to the United Arab Emirates took place among heightened security, and the local authorities made Monday a day off.
All the major motorways were closed in Dubai, along with two bridges across the bay, which divides the city into two parts, and the tunnel underneath.
UK closely monitoring events in Jordan
By IRNA,
London : The British government says it is closely monitoring “what is obviously a very fluid and evolving situation” in Jordan following the replacement of the government.
‘Floods maroon Pakistani villages as India releases Sutlej water’
By IANS,
Islamabad : Dozens of Pakistani villages have been submerged after India released the water from the Sutlej river, a media report said Sunday.
Holocaust is happening in Gaza
By IRNA,
Tehran : Government Spokesman described the Zionist regime actions in the occupied territories and Gaza as another holocaust and said the world is witnessing another genocide by the Zionist regime in occupied Palestine, especially in Gaza.
Gholam Hossein Elham in a press conference attended by foreign and domestic reporters here on Saturday, said, "This genocide comes from full frustration and distress of the Zionist regime." He added, "The crimes face the world with another test which is the test of defending innocent people's rights."
Resistance Pounds Iraqi Army
By Prensa Latina,
Baghdad : A resistance armed command killed four army soldiers and wounded seven others in an attack against a military patrol nearby Al Bubali city, in the western Iraqi province of Al Anbar on Friday.
The Iraqi troops had the support of US helicopters, and their crew members confirmed to have killed six fighters.
The Iraqi Army reported six dead and 13 wounded among its troops in a string of insurgent attacks in the last 12 hours.
Jordan’s king Abdullah holds talks with Palestinian President
By NNN-Petra,
Amman : Jordan's King Abdullah II has held talks with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on the Palestinian National Authority's (PNA) initiative to enhance Palestinian national unity as well as peace-making efforts.
King Abdullah reiterated that the call by Abbas for national dialogue must mark a starting point towards bolstering Palestinian national unity, enabling Palestinians restore their legitimate rights and establishing their viable independent state on the national soil.
Pakistan lost opportunity to find Al Qaeda: Clinton
By IANS,
Lahore : Visiting US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has said it was "hard to believe" no one in Pakistan's government knew the whereabouts of Al Qaeda leaders who have been using its territory since 2002, the Online news agency reported.
Nobody in the Pakistani government knows where the leaders of the Al Qaeda terrorists network are hiding. Pakistan has missed the chance to capture or kill the militant leaders, she told reporters in the Punjab provincial capital Thursday.
Bilawal urges youth to stay away from radical interpretation of Islam
By NNN-APP,
United Nations : Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has fervently called on the Pakistani youth to stay away—as far as possible—from the radical interpretation of Islam and try and spread its message of peace.
“The true interpretation of our religion is its message of peace,” he said in reply to a question at a crowded press conference that followed an impressive ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Iran, Eritrea presidents: Bullying powers unable to solve global crises
By IRNA,
Tehran : Iranian and Eritrean presidents said on Monday that the bullying powers are incapable of solving global crises.
"Solidarity and cooperation among independent, justice seeking and peace loving countries and nations are needed for settlement of global crises and problems," said President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and his Eritrean counterpart Isaias Afwerki in the first round of talks.
The two presidents stressed that Iran and Eritrea share very close stances on different regional and global issues.
Israel releases nearly 200 Palestinian prisoners
By KUNA,
Gaza : Israel on Monday released nearly 200 Palestinian prisoners in line with a previously reached understanding with the Palestinian authority of President Mahmoud Abbas.
Palestinian Television said buses boarding 198 released prisoners moved from the Israeli-manned checkpoint of Beitunya in the West Bank, in the direction of Abbas' headquarters in the town of Ramallah.
Thousands of cheering people are awaiting the returning prisoners at the compound of the main building of the Palestinian authority.
Nawaz Sharif rejects demand for his resignation
Islamabad: In a televised address to the nation Tuesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif rejected demands for his resignation and reiterated that his government...
Iraq blamed for increased asylum seekers
By DPA
Geneva : A five-year downward trend in asylum applications in industrialized countries was reversed in 2007, mainly due to an increased number of Iraqis seeking asylum, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said in Geneva Tuesday.
Some 338,000 new applications for refugee status were submitted last year in 43 industrialized countries, up 10 percent compared to 2006, when 306,300 asylum claims were registered, the lowest number in 20 years.
Third Russian plane heads to Yemen for evacuation
By IANS/RIA Novosti,
Moscow : A third Russian Emergencies Ministry plane has left Russia for Yemen to evacuate Russian and CIS nationals, the ministry reported Tuesday.
Renewed protest demonstrations in Tehran
By DPA,
Tehran: Renewed protest demonstrations started Monday in Tehran, just hours after the official endorsement of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's second presidential term, eye-witnesses said.
Thousands gathered between the two squares of Vali Asr and Vanak which connect central to northern Tehran, they said.
A large number of police and pro-Ahmadinejad voluntary Basij forces on motorbikes were trying to disperse the protestors but so far in vain, the witnesses added.
Abbas to meet Olmert who vows to escalate war against Gaza
By KUNA
Gaza : While Israeli radio announced the possibility of a meeting between its Premier Ehud Olmert and Palestinian National Authority (PNA) President Mahmoud Abbas later on this week, the Israeli official vowed to escalate the current military action against Gaza.
During a cabinet meeting on Sunday, Olmert said Israel's counter action against the launching of Palestinian missiles involved executing military operations, imposing stricter sanctions, implementing an anti missile system and re-enforcing Israeli areas around Gaza.
Pakistan withdraws foreign cases against Bhutto’s widower
By Xinhua
Islamabad : Pakistan's anti-corruption body on Friday decided to withdraw the foreign cases against Co-Chairman of Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Asif Ali Zardari, signaling a major step for him to take office in the upcoming new government.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) of Pakistan will send senior prosecutors to Geneva and London to seek withdrawal of the foreign cases against Zardari, local TV channel Dawn News said.
Iraq suicide car bomb kills U.S. soldier, wounds 20
By Xinhua,
Baghdad : A suicide truck bomb hit a U.S. patrol base Sunday in northern Iraq, killing one U.S. soldier and wounding 20 others, U.S. military said.
A suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device exploded near a patrol base in the northern Tamim province, killing one U.S. soldier and wounding 18 Americans as well as two Iraqi contractors, said a brief military statement.
The casualties were taken to a military hospital, it said.
Tamim has a mixed population of Arabs, Kurds and Turkomen, with the oil-rich city of Kirkuk as its capital.
Iran’s president warns against ‘new game’ in nuclear dispute
By DPA
Tehran : Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned the world powers against a "new game" in their nuclear dispute with his country, the Fars news agency reported Friday.
"Put an end to this game, but if you want to start a new game, you should know that if our nation decides something, then it will definitely be put into practice without the slightest concession," Ahmadinejad was quoted as saying.
India-Pakistan joint panel to push release of prisoners
By IANS,
New Delhi : Four retired Indian judges Tuesday began their six-day visit to Pakistan to discuss ways of expediting the release of either country's nationals imprisoned in the other's country.
They will visit jails in Karachi, Rawalpindi and Lahore to meet Indian prisoners lodged there.
The judges will also participate in the second meeting of the India-Pakistan Joint Judicial Committee and discuss modalities for early release of prisoners in both countries.
Ahead of the meeting, Pakistan has decided to release 54 Indian fishermen as a goodwill gesture.
Iraq aims to boost security in Basra
By Xinhua
Baghdad : Fresh from a fierce clash with militias in Basra, Iraqi Prime Minister unveiled a plan to boost security and win hearts and minds of the locals.
The seven-point program in Basra includes boosting security forces in Basra by recruiting 10,000 new troops, restoring services, imposing a strict check on vehicles without licences, building new houses for the poor and turning government-owned palaces into tourist destinations.
Maliki, who just returned from the southern city, also said the six-day security operation against Shiite militias was a "success."
Iraqis move to Kurdish north to escape Baghdad violence
By SPA
Arbil, Iraq : Iraqis living in and around Baghdad have increasingly been fleeing the violence to seek sanctuary in the Kurdish autonomous region in the relatively quieter north, Arbil's governor told the press on Sunday, according to dpa.
"The improvement of security in Baghdad has not prompted displaced people living in the Kurdish region to return to their hometowns in central Iraq," Governor Nozad Hady said.
"On the contrary, the numbers of settlers has increased lately
from 12,000 families to 16,000," he said.
Iran condemns global silence over Gaza situation
By IANS/RIA Novosti,
Moscow : Iran has condemned the international community's indifference to the Israeli regime's aggression against the Gaza Strip, Press TV reported.
Iranian spokesman: No talks on enrichment suspension in Geneva nuclear talks
By Xinhua,
Tehran : Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Hassan Qashqavi said Sunday that there was no word of suspending uranium enrichment in the recent nuclear talks in Geneva, the official IRNA news agency reported.
"We can talk about common points and should not pay attention to baseless media propaganda," Qashqavi was quoted as saying.
Some western media have reported that Iran was asked to suspend its uranium enrichment activities in the high-level talks between six world powers and Iran over its controversial nuclear programs in Geneva, Switzerland, on July 19.
Iran seeks Malaysia’s help in beefing up its Tourism Industry
By NNN-Bernama,
Kuala Lumpur : Iran is seeking Malaysia's expertise in developing its tourism industry back home, Malaysian Tourism Minister Azalina Othman Said said Tuesday.
To this end, the minister urged the private sector in Malaysia to undertake more joint ventures with their Iranian counterparts.
D-8 countries should also find ways to boost the industry among themselves, she told reporters on the sidelines of the Sixth Summit of the Group of Eight Islamic Developing Countries (D-8) here.
71 prisoners killed in attack in Iraq
Baghdad : At least 71 prisoners were killed Monday when militants attacked a bus convoy transferring them to another jail in Iraq's Babil province,...
Israeli farmer wounded by Palestinian fire in Gaza — spokesman
By KUNA
Gaza : An Israeli farmer was wounded Wednesday morning when armed Palestinians opened fire near the Gaza Strip border.
The Jerusalem Post newspaper quoted an Israeli army spokesman as saying "armed Palestinians opened fire towards a number of farmers working in the Ein Hashlosha settlement located near the Gaza Strip border." An Israeli ambulance took the farmer who sustained light injuries to a nearby clinic for treatment, while the rest of the farmers left the area under volley of gunfire, the spokesman added.
Saudi Finance Minister sign OIC preferential tariff scheme
By NNN-SPA,
Jeddah : Saudi Minister of Finance Dr Ibrahim bin Abdulaziz Al-Assaf has signed a protocol on preferential tariff scheme pertaining to preferential trade system (PRETAS) among member states of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) in line with the 10-year action programme adopted by the third extraordinary Islamic Summit in Mecca in 2006.
Pakistan lodges protest over Karzai comments
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Pakistan Monday lodged a strong protest over Afghan President Hamid Karzai's comment Sunday that his country's war against terror could well be fought on its neighbour's territory.
The foreign office summoned the Afghan envoy and lodged a strong protest over Karzai's remarks that Afghan troops could be sent to Pakistani territory to fight the militants, TV channel Dawn News said.
Anupam Kher wraps up ‘The Head Hunters Calling’ shoot
Mumbai : Veteran actor Anupam Kher, who has been in the news for lambasting Aamir Khan on his "intolerance" remark, has wrapped up his...
Security offensive kill 20 militants in Pakistan
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : At least 20 militants were killed by security forces in northwestern Pakistan's tribal region Friday, Dawn News channel reported.
The security forces fired artillery shells at militant hideouts in Bajaur tribal agency and killed 20 militants, the report said, adding that six security men were killed in three days of clashes in the region.
The security forces intensified their offensive against militants in Bajaur tribal district Thursday, killing dozens of militants, Dawn newspaper said Friday.
Pakistan ready for a South Asian Non-Nuclear Treaty: Zardari
By IANS,
New Delhi : Signalling a radical departure from Pakistan's nuclear doctrine, President Asif Ali Zardari Saturday said his country will never be the first to use nuclear weapons and expressed readiness to accept a South Asian Non-Nuclear Treaty.
"I am against nuclear warfare altogether," Zardari replied, when asked if Pakistan would adopt the policy of no-first-use of nuclear weapons.
He was addressing the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit here via vidoeconferencing from Islamabad.
Former Pro-Musharraf party deserts him on judges issue
By KUNA,
Islamabad : Deserting President Pervez Musharraf, the former ruling party Sunday admitted that the President made a mistake by ousting judges of the higher court and went to the extent of offering help in resolving the judicial crisis, apparently creating friction at the heart of the government.
Karzai seeks Pakistan’s cooperation in war on terror
By IANS,
Kabul : Afghan President Hamid Karzai Monday termed terrorism as the common enemy of Afghanistan and Pakistan and sought firm anti-terror support from Islamabad.
Iran rejects Israeli accusations over Bulgaria blast
By IANS/RIA Novosti,
Moscow : Iran Thursday rejected Israeli claims of Tehran's involvement in Wednesday's bus blast in Bulgaria which killed six Israelis.
Report: Pakistan gov’t strikes peace deal with local Taliban
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : The provincial government in northwestern Pakistan and local Taliban on Wednesday reached a peace agreement, under which Taliban will stop suicide attacks and the army will be gradually withdrawn from the Swat valley, local media said.
Under the 15-point deal, the local Taliban will give up militancy and will accept the writ of the federal and provincial governments in return for implementation of Shariah law, or Islamic law, in some area, the News Network International (NNI) news agency said.
India to be ‘cautious’ vis-a-vis Pakistan
By IANS,
New Delhi : India will take "cautious and incremental steps" in the peace process with Pakistan because of past experiences, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said Thursday.
265 killed in Malaysian traffic accidents during Eid Al-Fitr holidays
By NNN-Bernama,
Kuala Lumpur : A total of 265 people were killed in traffic accidents during the recent holidays for the Muslim Eid Al-Fitr festival which saw millions of Malaysians making their way to their home towns to spend the holidays with their families.
However, Royal Malaysia Police Traffic Division chief Abdul Aziz Yusof said the increase in the death toll in the police operation conducted in conjunction with the festive period -- Ops Sikap XX -- which ended last Sunday, did not reflect the failure of the operation.
Arab League supports Iraqi forces’ capabilities to keep peace, security
By NNN-KUNA,
Stockholm : Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa has affirmed it was imperative to boost the capabilities of the Iraqi forces in their endeavour to restorel peace, security and stability in the country.
Addressing the conference on the international covenant on Iraq Thursday, Moussa pledged the readiness of the Arab League to take part in the progress of the political process in that country, while underscoring the role of the United Nations in helping Iraq get up on its feet.
NATO campaign aimed at ousting Gaddafi – Russian NATO envoy
By IANS/RIA Novosti,
Moscow: NATO operations in Libya are only aimed at bringing down the Gaddafi regime, Russian ambassador to NATO Dmitry Rogozin said Tuesday.
ISAF soldier killed in Afghanistan fighting
By KUNA,
Kabul : A soldier of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) was killed during fighting in southeastern Afghanistan, the military said on Monday.
Without giving further details, ISAF's press office said the clash occurred in Afghanistan's southeastern province of Khost.
Expressing grief over the death of the soldier and offering condolences to his family and friends, ISAF spokesperson Captain Mike Finney said "This soldier's life was taken while helping bring peace and security to Afghanistan.
EU, Arab Ministers Look at Relations
By Prensa Latina
Rome : The European Union and Arab League began a conference in Malta Monday to discuss economic relations, cooperation and other issues.
The ministers' will also discuss Israel-Palestinian relations, the situation in Lebanon and the US occupation of Iraq.
The government of Malta convened the meeting which also involves the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, the Palestinian Authority, Egypt, Spain, Italy and Morocco.
Sheikh Hasina, Khaleda Zia may meet without pre-conditions
By IANS,
Dhaka : The battling ex-premiers of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia, have agreed to meet and talk without pre-conditions after the Eid-ul-Fitr festivities, a lawyer said.
If they sit together and talk, "not only their personal differences will be resolved, but the country will also be relieved of the current political crisis", Rafiq-ul-Haq, who has been defending both of them in law courts, was quoted as saying Saturday.
Pakistan responsible for most polio cases: WHO
Islamabad:The World Health Organisation (WHO) has held Pakistan responsible for nearly 80 percent of polio cases reported globally.
"The situation is primarily due to a...
US security agreement poses threat to Iraq”s neighbors — Syrian leader
By KUNA,
Damascus : The security agreement between Baghdad and Washington poses a threat to countries neighboring Iraq, said Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad on Sunday.
Addressing the opening of the second regular session of the Arab Interim Parliament (AIP), he said Iraq's stability was vital for regional security and this could only be achieved by ending "foreign occupation" and reaching national conciliation, thereby guaranteeing the country's independence and sovereignty.
Honour your pledges, Pakistan urges international community
By IANS,
Islamabad: Claiming that as a front line state in the war against terror it had suffered a lot economically, Pakistan Monday called upon the international community to fulfil its pledges for the relief and rehabilitation of the civilians affected by the military's anti-Taliban operations in the country's northwest.
Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani made the remarks while chairing a meeting here to review the progress on the relief and rehabilitation activities for the internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Hamas condemns Israel’s move to close Gaza crossings
By NNN-KUNA,
Gaza : Hamas has strongly condemned Israel's decision to close down all border crossings with the Gaza Strip, describing this as a violation of the Egyptian-sponsored truce.
"Closing down the crossings is an indication of Israel's bad intentions," said Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zahri in a statement Wednesday.
"Hamas calls on all relevant parties to pressure Israel into committing to the agreement and guaranteeing its continuation," he said, alluding to the truce sponsored by Egypt, which had come into effect in the Gaza Strip on Thursday.
Massive hunt launched to capture runaway prisoners in Afghanistan
By IANS,
Kandahar : A massive hunt began Saturday to capture hundreds of prisoners including Taliban after they managed to escape from a prison in southern Afghanistan following an attack by dozens of insurgents, officials said.
The commando-style attack, carried out by suicide bombers and other militants using small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades, broke through the entrance of Kandahar province's main jail late Friday night.
Caretaker minister says we did our job of holding fair polls
By APP
Lahore : Caretaker Punjab Minister for Law & Parliamentary Affairs, Mahmood Sheikh, felicitated the nation and leaders of all political parties on holding of national elections, and observed that the caretaker set-up had fulfilled its promise of holding free and fair elections.
In a statement issued here Tuesday, he said that the results will definitely pave the way for strengthening of democratic norms in the country.
Two killed in Dubai warehouse inferno
By IANS
Dubai : At least two people were killed and one seriously injured after two explosions at a fireworks store early Wednesday morning touched off fire in about 50 warehouses in the Al Quoz area here.
A huge explosion a little after 7 a.m. at the fireworks warehouse in the area, reportedly illegal, was followed by another explosion an hour later.
The dead are believed to be security guards working in nearby buildings, according to sources, and their nationalities are yet to be ascertained.
Dubai trade fair concludes
By IANS/WAM,
Dubai : An international trade fair that saw participation of companies from across the Middle East has ended here.
Arab League welcomes signing of dialogue agreement between Fatah, Hamas
By NNN-KUNA
Cairo : The Arab League has welcomed the signing of an agreement for dialogue by Fatah and Hamas on the basis of the Yemeni initiative, describing this agreement as "a positive step" towards healing the rift in the ranks of Palestinians.
10 Iranian Revolutionary Guards held in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : Ten Iranian Revolutionary Guards have been arrested by the Frontier Corps (FC) after they crossed into Pakistan looking for suspected Jundullah terrorists involved in a terror attack in Iran, a media report said.
Security personnel arrested the Iranian guards from Jhodar town, 60 km south of Mashkhel area in Washuk district, Daily Times reported Tuesday.
The Revolutionary Guards had travelled two kilometres into Pakistan during a search operation against suspected Jundullah terrorists Monday.
Remains of 12 people arrive in Beirut
By KUNA,
Beirut : The remains of 12 people handed over by Israel were delivered to the Lebanese capital on Wednesday by the International Red Cross, constituting the first shipment of remains.
The 12 include seven Hezbollah fighters who were killed in the July 2006 war, as well as the remains of the Palestinian Dalal Al-Maghrebi.
Sources told media that the five Lebanese prisoners had been handed over to the Red Cross, and would also be taken to Lebanon.
Pakistan may allow US military trainers: US media
By IANS,
Islamabad: Pakistan may invite US military trainers back "as early as April or May" but it has ruled out allowing US drones into the country again, Geo News reported citing US media.
US drone attack kills eight in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : Eight people were killed Monday night in a US drone attack in northwest Pakistan, Xinhua reported.
Bangladesh recalls Mujib’s ‘homecoming’ 36 years ago
By IANS,
Dhaka : Fresh from last month's poll victory of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh Saturday observed the anniversary of the "historic homecoming" of its founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, from a Pakistani prison in 1972.
In a hark-back to the days immediately after it separated from Pakistan, the Awami League (AL) that Mujib helped found in the Pakistan era, its front organisations and various socio-political organisations undertook elaborate programmes to mark the day.
Pakistan’s assaults on Taliban leave Swat residents stranded
By DPA,
Islamabad : Pakistani forces expanded their offensive in the Taliban stronghold of Swat Saturday as a humanitarian crisis intensified with thousands of civilians stranded on the battlefield.
The UN's refugee agency has estimated that up to 200,000 people have fled the former tourist haven in recent days.
Pakistani military announced "a full-scale operation" Friday, the day after Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani called for national unity as the troops were ordered "to eliminate the terrorists".
Israel not serious in peace process – PLO
By NNN-KUNA
Gaza : A Palestinian official has charged that Israel's stepped-up attacks on the Gaza Strip and the West Bank reflected Tel Aviv's attempts in undermining the peace efforts between Israel and Palestine.
Afghan troops kill 17 suspected Taliban insurgents
By NNN-Xinhua,
Kabul : Afghan troops backed by the international forces eliminated 17 suspected Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan's southern Zabul province, a local official said.
The mop-up occurred in Shar-e-Safa district on Friday, in which17 Taliban militants were killed and three others were captured, Faridullah Khan, a senior police officer in Zabul provincial capital Qalat, told Xinhua on Saturday.
There were no casualties on Afghan and the international troops, Khan stressed.
Taliban militants have yet to make comment.
More than 2 mln new jobs through 7000 small industrial units in Pakistani province...
By NNN-APP
Lahore : Punjab provincial government plans to provide 2.5 million to 3 million jobs to skilled workers by establishing 7000 small industrial units in all the districts of the province under cluster development program.
Talking to a delegation of skilled workers here Thursday, Punjab Minister for Commerce and Investment, Mian Muhammad Shafiq said that as a result of prudent economic policies, Punjab is now the centre of attraction for foreign and local investors.
Battle in southern Afghanistan leaves 35 dead
By KUNA,
Kabul : Fierce fighting broke out in southern Afghanistan when scores of Taliban insurgents attacked an Afghan Army convoy on the main highway south of the capital on Thursday.
Afghan officials said that the Taliban were beaten back by soldiers and police officers and that 35 insurgents were killed, including several foreign fighters, and five captured.
The battle came as NATO's secretary general, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, warned of critical danger to Afghanistan, with foreign fighters and terrorists from different countries trying to destabilize the country.
Neighbours voice support for Iraq’s security
By DPA,
Amman : Iraq's neighbouring countries have pledged their support for the restoration of security to the violence-torn country.
According to a joint communique, issued at the end of a one-day ministerial meeting in the Syrian capital Thursday, the participating countries agreed to "cooperate bilaterally or collectively and to take all necessary measures to prevent terrorists" from using their territories as bases for mobilization, training or financing.
12 Taliban fighters killed in Afghanistan
By Xinhua,
Kabul : A dozen Taliban fighters were killed by security forces when they entered a hospital in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province, a statement said Thursday.
"The incident occurred Wednesday when a group of Taliban militants entered a hospital in Saroza district," the government statement said.
The statement said the Taliban fighters had secretly brought one injured commander along with three others for medical treatment.
Six more insurgents were captured by the police during the operation.
Israel blames Palestinians for shots near Athens embassy
Jerusalem: Israel has blamed "Palestinian incitement" for a shooting near its embassy in Athens, Greece, early Friday, despite Greek police not yet disclosing more...
Protesters vow to disrupt Wilders’ anti-Islam speech in Berlin
Berlin, Oct 2, IRNA - Numerous political and civic groups have vowed to protest against Dutch Islamophobic politican Geert Wilders who is to address...
Pak-India tension reduced with positive developments in last 48 hours
By KUNA,
Islamabad : The Indo-Pak tension, which led to threats of possible war between the two adversaries, has reduced with positive developments within the last 48 hours, said an official here on Tuesday.
Federal Foreign Minister, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, in a policy statement, telecast live on televisions, cited contacts made by the US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Chinese officials, and also the meeting between officials of the military of the two sides and of higher Pakistani officials with US authorities in Washington.
UAE launches ‘Aviation Encyclopedia’
By IANS/WAM,
Abu Dhabi : The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched an avivation encyclopedia to enhance and strengthen the knowledge and professional awareness in most aviation aspects.
Baghdad to lift curfew after Sadr’s ceasefire call
By Xinhua
Baghdad : The curfew imposed on Baghdad will be lifted Monday morning, Iraq's state TV said on Sunday.
The curfew will be over at 6 a.m. (0300 GMT) Monday morning, the al-Iraqiya TV station said, adding a traffic ban will continue in three Shiite neighborhoods controlled by followers of cleric Muqtada al-Sadr.
The curfew was announced Thursday night. It should have ended Sunday morning but was extended Saturday night.
The removal of the rule came after Sadr ordered his Mahdi Army to stand down on Sunday.
UAE gives second instalment for UN food aid in Gaza
By IANS
Abu Dhabi : The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has released the second instalment of the $4 million assistance to a UN food aid programme in the Gaza Strip, WAM news agency reported.
Karen Abu Zayd, commissioner-general of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), said: "UNRWA is thankful to UAE's President Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed for the generous gift."
The fund is being given by the Khalifa Bin Zayed Foundation.
"The money will help us feed thousands of refugee families in Gaza," Karen said, adding, UAE has been a strong supporter of the UNRWA.
Palestinian forces arrest 8 Hamas members in West Bank
By Xinhua
Ramallah : Palestinian security forces arrested eight members of Islamic Hamas movement Friday night in West Bank, Hamas said on Saturday.
According to a statement issued by Hamas, the detentions took place in the cities of Jenin and Tulkarem.
The security forces, loyal to President Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah, have been arresting Hamas leaders and members in the West Bank in response to the Islamic movement's takeover of Gaza by force in June.
Fatah accuses Hamas of doing the same against its members in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip.
Clashes continue across Iraq, many killed
Baghdad : Fierce clashes continued in Iraq as security forces launched airstrikes against Sunni militants across several provinces in the country, security and medical...
UAE signs MoU with Bangladesh
By IANS/WAM,
Dubai : The United Arab Emirates has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bangladesh to develop cooperation in the field of air transport between both countries.
U.S embassy official found dead at residence: Police
Islamabad, Jan 28, IRNA ,An officer of the American embassy in Islamabad was found dead at his residence on Monday, a police investigator said.
Mr. Keith Ryan, 36, was hit by a bullet at his head and was found dead at his residence in F-7 sector of the capital, Abdul Qadir, investigation officer of the local police station said.
An American embassy confirmed Keith Ryan's death and said, "There will be a full investigation".
"However, there does not appear to have been any foul play," the statement said.
Malaysia a glorious Islamic country, says Sheikhul Al-Azhar
By Khairul Anuar Muhammad Noh, NNN-Bernama
Kuala Lumpur : Malaysia is a glorious Islamic country because its people shun racism and are not blindly obsessed, said Sheikh of Al-Azhar Dr Sheikh Muhammad Sayyid Tantawi.
"I pray to God for Malaysia to continue to be a peaceful, safe and progressive country and for the love and caring to persist among its people as well as be protected against any ill-doings, he said in an interview with Bernama yesterday.
He spoke in Arabic and was translated by Religious Advisor to the Prime Minister, Tan Sri Dr Abdul Hamid Othman.
Iranian, Pakistani institutions sign MoU on cooperation
By IRNA,
Islamabad : The Tehran-based Forum on Proximity among the Islamic Schools of thought and International Islamic University of Islamabad inked Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation in the fields of educational and research, a IIUI statement said.
The International Islamic University was represented by Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui while Iranian side was represented by Hojatoleslam Ali Asghar Owhadi, Deputy Chairman of the Forum on Proximity among Islamic Schools of Thought for cultural affairs.
Kosovo passes new constitution amid uncertainty over its future
By DPA,
Pristina : Kosovo's President Fatmir Sejdiu Sunday signed a series of laws putting the new constitution into effect, saying it was rounding off the self-proclamation of independence from Serbia, but the territory still remains shrouded in diplomatic and legal uncertainty.
"We reached a historic moment to complete the process of completing our statehood," Sejdiu said after signing 41 laws under the new constitution, which was passed by parliament two months ago. The ceremony was attended by representatives of more than 40 countries which have recognized Kosovo.
Egypt criticizes Israeli settlement expansions
By NNN-KUNA
Cairo : Egypt criticized on Wednesday the Israeli government's settlement expansion and its plan to build hundreds of new settlements in Eastern Jerusalem and the West Bank.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmad Abu Gheit told the press the Israeli politics go against all efforts to reach peace and justice, as was pledged to be achieved by year end by the US.
Abu Gheit referred to the recent report of Israeli "Peace Now" on increasing settlement activities since the Nablus conference.
US asks citizens to stay alert in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad: The US Saturday asked its citizens visiting Pakistan to "maintain extra vigilance" in the wake of recent violent protests in Muslim countries against an anti-Islam movie.
Barak-Fayad meeting to be strictly security-focused
By KUNA
Gaza : Hamas said Wednesday the meeting of Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak and Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayad, to be held Wednesday evening, will be strictly security-focused.
Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhom said in a press release issued here that the meeting aims to develop relations between the two sides to implement the "critical" security plans.
Bangladesh plans to construct its proposed longest bridge by 2014
By Xinhua,
Dhaka : Construction of the proposed Padma Bridge, to be the longest one in Bangladesh, will start in 2011 and be completed in three years to connect the southwest region with capital Dhaka, The Daily Star reported on Wednesday.
Bangladesh's Communications Minister Syed Abul Hossain was quoted by the leading English newspaper as saying that the process to appoint a consultant to finalize the design of the bridge will be completed by this month.
And then the tender will be floated, the minister told reporters here on Tuesday.
Benazir workers beat pro-Musharraf former leader
By KUNA
Islamabad : The angry workers of assassinated former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto Monday assaulted pro-Musharraf former provincial leader with shoes and kicks as security personnel stood by watching in what apparently has been termed as ventilation of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) on Bhutto murder.
International conference on woman’s health to be organized in Jeddah
By SPA
Jeddah : In the presence of wife of Prince Khalid al-Faisal, the Governor of Makkah region, Princess al-Anaud bint Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Saud, and more than 300 female physicians and specialists of woman's health, an international conference on the woman's health will be inaugurated here tomorrow.
Head of the conference's organizing scientific committee Dr Bisar said the conference will be organized by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Researches Center in Jeddah under the patronage of the International Roche Medical Group.
Abu Dhabi investors buy into downtown Berlin
By Clive Freeman, DPA
Berlin : First it was Potsdamer Platz which was redeveloped, after the communist Berlin Wall was cleared off it. Now, it is the turn of the heart of former West Berlin, near the war-ruined Memorial Church and Zoo Railway Station, to attract investors.
Abu Dhabi and other emirates investors plan to plough millions of euros into a major revamp of what used to be the central business district of West Berlin in the bad old days of division.
Turks protest against Israel in Istanbul
Istanbul: Istanbul's streets were brimming Sunday as around 1,000 pro-Palestinian Turks demonstrated against Israel's latest round of airstrikes on Gaza, which have left over...
India, Pakistan reiterate commitment to normal trade ties
New Delhi : The chief executive of Pakistan's trade development authority Tuesday reaffirmed the Pakistani government's resolve to establish "normal trading relations" with India.
S.M....
Turkey fears new wave of Syrian Kurdish refugees
Ankara : Despite a two-day lull in the arrival of Syrian Kurds in Turkey, Ankara fears a new wave of refugees if jihadis from...
Palestinian gunman kills eight in Jerusalem seminary
By DPA
Tel Aviv : A Palestinian gunman entered a Jewish religious seminary in Jerusalem Thursday night, made his way to the library and opened fire in all directions, killing eight students before being shot dead, the police said.
Nine students were wounded in the attack, three of them seriously.
Initial reports that there had been two gunmen, and one had fled the scene, proved to be incorrect.
Jerusalem police chief Aharon Franco said the gunman had arrived at the seminary, located in a West Jerusalem suburb, shortly before 9 p.m.
Deposits, assets in Islamic banks exceeds USD 500 bln — official
By KUNA,
Kuwait : The volume of deposits and assets in Islamic banks currently exceeds USD 500 billion and are expected to reach USD one trillion by 2012, said Chairman of Kuwait Banks Association Abdulmajeed Al-Shatti on Monday.
The official was speaking at the inauguration of the forum entitled "Development and Finance in the Islamic World: Between Islamic Development Agencies, Kuwait and International Financial Institutions," held at the Arab Organizations Headquarters on the sidelines of the Fourth World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF).
Lebanon in turmoil as Hezbollah takes west Beirut
By AFP,
Beirut : Hezbollah fighters, their guns blazing, seized control of west Beirut on Friday after three days of deadly street battles with pro-government foes pushed Lebanon dangerously close to all-out civil war.
The United States warned that the Shiite movement must be held accountable for the violence and said it was working with Lebanon's neighbours and the UN Security Council on steps to do so.
Iraqi PM calls for regional anti-terror cooperation
By NNN-KUNA,
Baghdad : Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has called for regional cooperation among neighbouring countries to fight terrorist organisations at the frontier areas.
Al-Maliki made the call during a meeting Tuesday with visiting Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Murat Ozcelik.
Al-Maliki voiced Iraq's dismay over the rebel PKK's "terrorist acts" against Turkey.
He called for putting in place bilateral agreements between Iraq and Turkey in the security, military and economic fields in the interest of both countries.
Gayoom appeals to Maldivians to eschew violence
By IANS
Colombo : Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who narrowly escaped an assassination attempt, has appealed to his countrymen to eschew violence and live in peace and harmony.
"We should never resort to violence," Gayoom said Tuesday after a knife attack at north Thiladhunmathi Atoll Hoarafushi from which he was saved by the timely intervention of a 15-year-old boy scout.
A statement issued by the Maldivian government said Gayoom called upon all members of society, irrespective of political and other differences, to live in peace and harmony.
India’s Bahrain mission awaiting judgement on compensation claim
By Aroonim Bhuyan, IANS,
Dubai : For over a year now, the Indian embassy in Bahrain has been awaiting a court judgement on a compensation claim it had filed for the death of 16 Indian workers in a fire that broke out in a labour accommodation camp in that country two years ago.
"We are keenly following the case and are awaiting the judgement on the compensation claim for a total of 1.6 million Bahraini dinars ($4.2 million) we had filed for the 16 Indian workers who had died in the fire," India's Ambassador to Bahrain Balkrishna Shetty told IANS from Manama.
Sudan, Chad sign new peace deal
By Xinhua
Dakar (Senegal) : Sudanese President Omar Hassan al-Bashir and Chadian President Idriss Deby have signed a peace deal here to end years of hostility between the two neighbouring countries.
Thursday's deal, the latest in a series of peace agreements aimed at pacifying their troubled relations, commits both nations to implement past accords that have so far failed to help end violence in the area.
Hyderabad residents protest at US consulate against Israel
By IANS,
Hyderabad : Tension prevailed at the US consulate here Friday as around 1,000 people staged a demonstration protesting Israel's air strikes on Palestinians in Gaza.
About six protestors were injured as police caned the crowd that tried to barge into the newly-inaugurated consulate building in the high-security Begumpet neighbourhood.
About 1,000 protestors belonging to the minority cell of the ruling Congress party gathered outside the consulate, raising slogans against Israel's action and demanding a halt to the strikes.
Five killed in Afghanistan twin blasts
Kabul: At least five people were killed and three injured as two roadside bombs went off in Afghanistan's Kandahar province, an official said Sunday.
The...
Australia welcomes unity government deal in Afghanistan
Sydney : Australia Tuesday welcomed the Afghanistan unity government agreement between Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai and Abdullah Abdullah.
The two candidates in Afghanistan's presidential election have...
Pakistan, US want to eliminate terrorism: Ambassador Haqqani
By NNN-APP,
Islamabad : Pakistan’s Ambassador to United States Hussain Haqqani said on Sunday that Pakistan and US wanted to jointly eliminate terrorism from the region.
Talking to PTV, he said both the countries have a joint goal that the threat of Al-Qaeda and terrorists should be removed from the region and the world.
He said it was also desire of the US that terrorist activities should be put to end as Pakistan citizens had been facing the menace for the last many years.
Rallies banned in Islamabad amid fears of terror attacks
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : The government has banned rallies in the federal capital here in the coming two months amid fears of terror attacks.
Staging of processions, demonstrations and gatherings of five or more persons, which are likely to disrupt peace, have been banned, News Network International (NNI) news agency quoted District Magistrate of Islamabad Amer Ali Ahmed as saying.
The use of loudspeakers and sound amplifiers, except for prayers, has been prohibited within the limits of the capital.
After Obama win, Arabs ready for change in Middle East
By Rasha Saad, DPA,
Cairo : In a region where the presence of the US cannot be more evident in political life, Egyptian political forces are hopeful that the victory of Barack Obama in the American presidential race will bring to their part of the world the "change" he vowed.
Essam al-Erian, a senior leader of the Muslim Brotherhood movement, described Obama's victory as "historical".
"Obama's victory is a historical moment for the US and can be historical for the whole world," al-Erian said.
Hezbollah regretted over firing the Lebanese helicopter
By NNN-SANA,
Beirut : Hezbollah on Friday expressed regret over the martyrdom of the Lebanese officer, First Lieutenant Samer Hanna after his helicopter was fired by unidentified gunmen while flying over a Lebanese village.
The Lebanese party called for referring the matter to judiciary which will assume its responsibility in this domain and not giving unjustified interpretations to an act without facts.
Ahmadinejad inaugurates new legislative session in Iran
By DPA,
Tehran : President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad inaugurated Tuesday the new legislative session of the Iranian parliament which will once again be dominated by conservatives.
Conservative factions won almost 70 percent of the 290 seats in the March and April voting, with the rest going to reformists and independents.
With two begums free, Dhaka in poll mode
By IANS,
Dhaka : Bangladesh's military-backed interim government has mounted efforts to bring together the two battling begums - former prime ministers Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina who have been provisionally freed from detention - to prepare for the December parliamentary polls.
"We will bring the two leaders across the table to create an atmosphere of trust and a new mode in politics," Commerce and Education Adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman told reporters after Zia, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson, was Thursday released on bail after more than a year's imprisonment.
Bangladesh government has to decide – poll or agitation
By IANS,
Dhaka : Elections or mass agitation - only a last minute compromise could halt Bangladesh's swing between the two extremes with former prime minister Khaleda Zia's deadline for accepting her demands ending Wednesday evening.
Zia and her Islamist allies have threatened to boycott the Dec 18 elections. Their demands include a two-month deferment of the already delayed poll to facilitate the return of Muslims who have gone on Haj and return only in the third week of January.
Maldives court denies deportation of Pakistani criminals
Colombo: A Maldives court has denied ordering the deportation of two Pakistanis caught by police in the biggest drug bust in the history of...
Hamas ready to study any cease-fire initiative
By Xinhua
Gaza : The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) is ready to study any cease-fire proposal "that can secure the restoration of the Palestinian people's rights," a spokesman for the movement said on Monday.
"Hamas clearly says that the problem was not at the Palestinian side or with the resistance because we are the side that falls under aggression," the spokesman Fawzi Barhoom told reporters in Gaza.
Barhoom's remarks came in response to French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner's offer to mediate between Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire.
Palestine: Hamas welcomes European parliament pressure on Israel
By NNN-IRNA
Gaza : Hamas on Friday welcomed a European Parliament resolution calling for an end to Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip.
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri said in a statement that Hamas welcomes the initiative taken by the European Union for an end to the Israeli blockade on the Gaza Strip.
"Regarding the call for an end to rocket fire, we maintain that the problem lies in the Israeli occupation, aggression and siege of our people. Hamas is ready to examine any initiative that can put an end to Israeli aggression."
UN Reports Three Murders in Sudan
By Prensa Latina
United Nations : The World Food Program expressed dismay Tuesday, because of the murder of three drivers working for this UN organization in Sudan, in the distribution of humanitarian help.
The crimes occurred in two separate attacks, one in the western province of Darfur and another in the south of Sudan, said WFP representative in Sudan Kenro Oshidari Tuesday.
This situation is totally unacceptable, said Oshidari, who called to immediately stop the attacks against the WFP personnel.
US concerned about security in Sudan after ICC move
By AFP,
Washington : The US government has said it is bolstering security for its staff in Sudan after moves by an international prosecutor to arrest Sudanese President Omar al-Beshir raised concerns of a violent backlash.
Washington on Monday stopped short of giving its backing to the efforts by the top prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC), a tribunal US officials oppose for fear it might prosecute US troops overseas for political reasons.
Arabs, Europeans criticise Israeli settlement policy
By DPA,
Amman: European and Arab parliamentarians ended a two-day meeting Sunday by urging Israel to freeze all settlement activity in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, which they said is wrecking trust with the Palestinians and "jeopardising" a two-state solution.
"The continuing expansion of settlements is destroying trust among partners, undermining the authority of the Palestinian negotiators and prejudging the outcome of the final negotiations," said a communique adopted by the sixth plenary session of the Euro-Med Parliamentary Assembly (EMPA).
Top Taliban leader arrested in Pakistan
By NNN-PTI
Islamabad : A top Taliban leader believed to be close to Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden and part of the inner core of Mullah Omar's coterie has been arrested in Lahore where he had come to 'collect' funds.
Mullah Obaidullah Akhund, a former defence minister in the Taliban's Majlis-e-Shura or executive council, was recently arrested along with two Afghan nationals by intelligence agencies in Lahore, the Daily Times reported today.
Pakistan and UK agree on support against extremism and terrorism
By SPA,
Birmingham : Pakistan and the United Kingdom have commonality of interest on a range of issues to tackle extremism and terrorism through economic and social development and uplift of the tribal areas.
Addressing a joint press conference after meeting members of the British Muslim community in UK’s third largest city on Friday evening, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and his British counterpart David Miliband noted the complexity of the issue and said it could be settled through sustained efforts by all the stakeholders.
Ties with Pakistan essential to fight terror: US
By IANS,
Islamabad : The US has said its relationship with Pakistan was "essential" in the fight against terror. The ties were, however, "complicated and difficult" at times.
Larijani: Iran believes in fair, logical dialogue
By IRNA,
Tehran : "The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes negotiations in principle and of course believes that any talks should be held within a fair framework and in a logical course," said Larijani in a meeting with Algerian ambassador to Tehran Mohammad al-Assin Waraqi here on Saturday.
Somewhere in his remarks, Larijani said Iran and Algeria share common interests in different domains especially in the political field and the grounds can be exploited in a good manner given close stances held by the two sides officials.
Implementing Doha Agreement articles guarantees harnessing internal crises – Hezbollah
By IRNA,
Beirut : Lebanese Parliament's Hezbollah Fraction announced here Wednesday implementing articles of Doha Agreement would guarantee harnessing internal crises.
According to IRNA correspondent in Beirut, Hezbollah fraction representatives emphasized in their Wednesday session, presided by Speaker Muhammed Ra'd, that implementing the rest of the articles of Doha Agreement and accelerating the trend of establishing of the national reconciliation government urgently are bare necessities.
Six militants killed in Pakistan’s Swat valley
By DPA,
Islamabad : Pakistani security forces killed six Taliban militants in Swat valley, officials said Wednesday, as thousands of people displaced by a government offensive returned to their homes in parts of the district.
The clash took place in the Kabal area, one of the former bastions of the guerrilla fighters, located near Swat's main town of Mingora.
"Six terrorists were killed and several others wounded in the intense gunfight," a security official in the region said on condition of anonymity. "Troops did not suffer any casualties."
Qatar reliable source of energy for India: Mukherjee
New Delhi : President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday said India deeply values Qatar "as a reliable source of energy" and it was time that...
Pakistani court bans A.Q. Khan’s free movement
By IANS,
Lahore: The Lahore High Court (LHC) Monday banned the free movement of Abdul Qadeer Khan, the scientist who mentored Pakistan's nuclear programme but was later accused of proliferating the country's nuclear technology, a media report said.
During the hearing on a petition seeking a ban on Khan's free movement, the government contended that he had violated an agreement governing his release from house arrest last year by giving an interview to a foreign media outlet that had put national integrity in jeopardy, Online news agency reported, quoting a private TV channel.
Iraq Curfew after Lethal Blast
By Prensa Latina,
Baghdad : A curfew has been imposed in Baquba, north Iraq, after a blast killed three and wounded three others, while tension and arrests prevail in other regions.
Ground Force Commander Ali Ghidan said the curfew is aimed at controlling the city after an explosive vested suicide bomber detonated near a police station in al-Sharqi, central Baquba.
The blast hit a caravan with Diyala Governor Raad al-Mulla and Chief of Operations Abdelkareem al-Rubaie, yet all the victims were civilians.
Israel arrests over 20 Palestinians during crackdown in W Bank
By Xinhua,
Ramallah : Israeli forces arrested more than20 Palestinians in the West Bank city of Nablus early Monday, including a Hamas woman lawmaker, businessmen and students, security sources said.
The detentions were part of a crackdown that Israel launched against civil institutions and charities alleged to be linked with Hamas.
The Israeli forces rolled into the city at 3:00 a.m. local time (0000 GMT), and broke into tens of houses and conducted search operations, according to the sources.
Economy, Taliban resurgence in Pakistan top Obama’s priorities
By Arun Kumar, IANS,
Washington : Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama says, if elected, turning around the economy and energy independence would be his priorities, besides stabilising Afghanistan and checking resurgence of the Taliban and Al Qaeda in Pakistan.
"[The] top priority may not be any of those five. It may be continuing to stabilise the financial system. We don't know yet what's going to happen in January," he told CNN Friday when asked to pick from taxes, health care, education, energy policy and immigration.
UN Security Council to discuss Gaza
By DPA,
New York : The UN Security Council was due to meet late Saturday at UN headquarters in New York to discuss the Middle East conflict, hours after Israeli troops launched a ground offensive into the Gaza Strip.
Details of the hastily arranged, closed-door meeting were not available.
The Security Council has been unable to reach agreement on the violence since an Israeli bombing campaign began Dec 27, in response to stepped up rocket fire toward southern Israel by Gaza militants.
Tunisian beach attack gunman trained in Libya: Report
Tunis: The Tunisian gunman who allegedly shot dead 38 tourists at the resort town of Sousse crossed into Libya earlier this year to receive...
Al Qaeda using Pakistan to rebuild leadership: US
By Arun Kumar, IANS,
Washington : Al Qaeda has used tribal areas of Pakistan to rebuild its leadership and replace killed or captured fighters, and has forged regional alliances with militants in Africa, according to the US State Department.
A cease-fire negotiated by Pakistan in early 2007 gave Al Qaeda leaders "greater mobility and ability to conduct training and operational planning, particularly that targeting Western Europe and the United States," its annual terrorism report said.
Czech Republic pushes for direct, quick Iran-US talks
By IANS,
Berlin : The Czech Republic, which holds the rotating presidency of European Union (EU), has stressed direct and swift talks between Iran and the US to engage the two countries in rapproachment process, IRNA news agency reported Monday.
"I hope very much there will be soon direct and intensive talks between Washington and Tehran," Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg has said in an interview with Germany's Handelsblatt business newspaper.
Bush presses China to use influence in Sudan
By DPA,
Beijing : US President George W. Bush Monday urged China to use its influence on the Sudanese government to help resolve the humanitarian crisis in Sudan's Darfur region.
Chinese leaders should make use of their relations with Sudanese President Omar Hassan Al-Bashir, who was recently accused by the International Criminal Court of genocide and war crimes, Bush told US broadcaster NBC in Beijing.
"My attitude is, is if you got relations with Mr. Bashir, think about helping to solve the humanitarian crisis in Darfur," Bush said.
German chancellor reiterates need for public support of Afghanistan mission
By IRNA
Berlin : German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday reaffirmed the need for public support of Germany's military mission in Afghanistan.
Merkel said in her weekly podcast that the issue of whether Afghanistan can develop normally with strengthened state structures or whether "it becomes again an ungovernable country is of essential importance for the Federal Republic (of Germany)."
"If terrorists are trained in Afghanistan, it poses a threat to the whole free western world," she added.
Israel’s Olmert says peace accord with Palestinians unlikely in 2008
By SPA,
Al-Quds city (Jerusalem) : Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert says he doesn't believe a peace accord can be reached with the Palestinians in 2008, the Associated Press reported.
Speaking to the parliament's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, Olmert says the status of Jerusalem is unlikely to be resolved that quickly.
I don't believe that understandings that will include Jerusalem can be reached this year, he said Monday, according to a participant in the meeting. There is no practical chance of reaching an overall understanding on Jerusalem.
Saudi Prince Muqrin appointed second-in-line to throne
Riyadh: The Saudi Royal Court Thursday announced that Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz was appointed as the second-in-line to the throne.
The royal decree, broadcast by...
Pegged to dollar, Gulf currencies have depreciated: report
By IANS
Dubai : Currencies of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member-states have depreciated by over 37 percent in nominal terms since 2002 because they are pegged to the US dollar, according to a new report.
The report, published by NCB Capital (NCBC), the investment subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's National Commercial Bank, stated that the most appropriate policy response would be to change the peg to a basket of currencies, simultaneously accompanied with a small one-time revaluation to offset part of the sharp loss in value of local currencies.
Arab, South American foreign ministers conclude two-day meeting
By NNN-KUNA
Buenos Aires : The Arab foreign ministers and their South American counterparts concluded their two-day meeting here to prepare for the upcoming summit scheduled to be held in Qatar later this year.
The foreign ministers agreed that the next Arab-South American summit, the second since the 2005 Brazil summit, be held in Qatar in the fourth quarter of the year at a date to be proposed later.
10 injured in post-poll clashes in Bangladesh
Dhaka : At least 10 people, including three policemen, were injured in Chittagong district of Bangladesh as supporters of a former councillor and a...
Pakistan presidential spokesman dismisses rumor on Musharraf’s resignation
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : A Pakistani presidential spokesman on Wednesday dismissed rumors on President Pervez Musharraf's resignation, saying the rumors are "unsubstantiated."
"President Musharraf is not resigning," presidential spokesman Rashid Qureishi told private Dawn TV channel. "President Musharraf has been very supportive of the government."
Qureishi said that the unsubstantiated rumors have caused plunge of the stock market.