India awaiting Pakistan response on list of most wanted
By IANS,
Mumbai : India Tuesday said it was waiting for a response from Pakistan over the extradition of 20 most wanted criminals who are said to be in that country and underlined that the international community was firmly behind New Delhi in the wake of the Mumbai attack.
“We issued a demarche (Monday). We are waiting for a response from Pakistan,” External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said here.
"International community is behind us, including the newly elected US president Barack Obama," said Mukherjee.
Assad peace plan detached from reality: US
By IANS/RIA Novosti,
Washington: Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's proposed peace plan is far from reality and proves again that he must resign from his post, the US has said.
Concern over violence in Libya weighs down US stocks
By DPA,
New York : Higher oil prices and continued concern about violence in Libya pushed down major US stock indices Wednesday.
Radical cleric Abu Hamza awarded life imprisonment in US
New York : A US court Friday awarded life imprisonment to radical cleric Mustafa Kamel Mustafa, also known as Abu Hamza, who was found...
Iran hails progress in Bushehr nuclear power plant construction
By RIA Novosti,
Tehran : A top Iranian nuclear official said on Tuesday that Tehran was satisfied with the ongoing construction of the Islamic Republic's first nuclear power plant, currently being built by Russia in the south of Iran.
Russia is building the $1 billion Bushehr facility under a 1995 contract. The project is subject to UN monitoring following Iran's refusal to halt its uranium enrichment program and Western suspicions that Tehran is seeking to build nuclear weapons.
US military drops weapons in areas held by IS in Iraq
Baghdad: Volunteer forces in Iraq fighting against the Islamic State (IS) terrorists said US military aircraft dropped weapons in areas held by the terrorist...
Two Chinese engineers missing in Pakistan
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Two Chinese engineers have been missing since Friday in the troubled northwest Pakistan, an official of the Chinese embassy said here Sunday.
A search operation has been launched to trace the engineers who were found missing along with their driver and security guard, both Pakistanis, the official said.
The two engineers are from Zhongxing Telecommunication Equipment Company (ZTE) in Pakistan.
The duo disappeared in Lower Dir district of North West Frontier Province where they had gone for a routine check of equipment.
India announces $450 mn fresh assistance for Afghanistan
By IANS,
New Delhi : Unfazed by the July 7 attack on its mission in Kabul, India Monday announced fresh assistance of $450 million for the reconstruction of Afghanistan as the two countries vowed to fight the menace of terrorism jointly.
“It was an attack on the friendship between India and Afghanistan. We will fight it unitedly and with determination,” Prime Minister Manmohan Sigh said after holding talks with Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai here.
Prince Charles reiterates importance of Mideast real estate sector
JEDDAH, Feb 24 (KUNA) -- Prince Charles of Wales reiterated here on Sunday the great importance of real estate sector in the Middle East not at the financial level, but in other areas like social and cultural ones.
In a recorded message before participants in the Jeddah Economic Forum (JEF), Prince Charles reviewed his vision on the development of urban centres through what he called "critical mix" between the post and heritage.
Four dead, 30 hurt in Pakistan blast
By IANS,
Islamabad : Four people were killed and 30 injured Monday in an explosion in Pakistan's Swat region.
The bomb blast occurred near a security checkpoint in Shangla of Swat valley in North West Frontier Province, Xinhua reported.
According to an eyewitness, a suicide bomber blew himself up near a security check post, Geo TV said.
Pakistan has been hit by a string of explosions.
On Friday, a suicide bomber detonated a car stuffed with explosives in a busy market of Peshawar, killing 53 people and injuring over 100.
US considering ‘other military options’ in Iraq
Washington: The US government is considering "other military options" in Iraq, a media report said here Thursday.
President Barack Obama is considering air strikes or...
Programme for Pakistani unemployed postgradutes
By NNN-APP
Islamabad : The government has asked the unemployed postgraduates from across the country to submit their applications for National Internship Programme (NIP) for the ongoing year.
All those who have completed sixteen years of education from a recognized university or degree awarding institution can apply for the programme, an official told APP here Friday.
He said that the scheme besides keeping the fresh graduates engaged in creative work is aimed at providing financial help to them.
Gaza-Israel flare-up dampens truce prospects
By DPA,
Tel Aviv : A Hamas militant was killed by an Israeli airstrike after Palestinian militants showered southern Israel with rockets Wednesday, dampening prospects of a renewed ceasefire between the two sides.
By Wednesday evening, more than 70 rockets and mortar shells were launched from Gaza, causing no injuries but damage to homes and widespread panic in the Israeli town of Sderot and elsewhere.
Out of boom and bust in Dubai
By Shabtai Gold, DPA,
Cairo/Dubai : Dubai was the glitz, the glamour and the good life for many. The buildings were the fanciest, newest and tallest. The emirate had little water, but the champagne flowed freely.
The city state's leaders, and the tourists and investors who flocked for the gold rush came to expect nothing but the best.
‘Mubarak not terminally ill’
By IANS,
Cairo : Former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak's health is not stable, but he is not dying, a source close to the leader has said.
Abu Dhabi signs refinancing agreement with Dubai
Abu Dhabi : The Abu Dhabi finance department and the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sunday announced the signing of an...
700 Taliban fighters killed in Pakistan: Rehman Malik
By IANS,
Islamabad : About 700 militants have so far been killed in the ongoing military operation in northern Pakistan, Interior Minister Rehman Malik said Monday, saying the operation would "continue till elimination of the last terrorist".
Talking to media here after returning from the US, Malik said about "700 militants have been killed and 20 security personnel martyred" in the anti-Taliban offensive in Malakand division, the Daily New reported.
Israeli airstrike on southern Gaza kills one Palestinian
By Xinhua,
Gaza : One Palestinian was killed and three wounded on Wednesday afternoon in an Israeli airstrike on a metal workshop in southern Gaza Strip, Palestinian medics and witnesses said.
Mo'aweya Hassanein, chief of emergency and ambulance services in the Palestinian health ministry told reporters that one Palestinian was killed and three wounded in the Israeli air raid on Rafah town in southern Gaza Strip.
France, Israel and US Involved in Betancourt Rescue
By Prensa Latina,
Madrid : Israeli, French and American secret services were involved in the operation to free Ingrid Betancourt and other hostages from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), a Spanish newspaper said Sunday.
According to La Vanguardia daily, which cited an Israeli secret service source, Mossad, the US, and French intelligence services used time, patience and money to rescue Betancourt.
Court reserves order on giving Musharraf FIA report
Islamabad : The special court trying Pakistan's former president Pervez Musharraf for treason Friday resumed hearing in the case and reserved its order on...
Pakistan can’t develop drone technology on its own
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistan right now does not have the capability to develop drone technology indigenously, a minister said.
Four die in Afghanistan suicide attack
By IANS,
Kabul : At least four people were killed Wednesday when a suicide bomber drove a minibus packed with explosive into a NATO military base in Aghanistan's Khost province, said officials.
Pakistani forces kill 14 militants in trial offensive
By IRNA,
Rawalpindi : Pakistani security Forces continued offensive in the tribal region of Bajaur Agency on Friday, killing at least 14 militants, and injuring another eight, police said.
The security officials said that troops pounded the suspected hideouts of militants and Taliban fighters in Nawagai areas of Charmang, Chinar, Kohi and Banda area, some 40 kilometers north-west of the agency headquarters Khar and inflicted heavy losses to them.
Fatah vows to continue peace talks to meet int’l demand
By Xinhua
Ramallah : The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) would continue peace talks with Israel as it was an international demand, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah movement said on Thursday.
"There is an international insistence on the negotiations so the Palestinians can open the Israeli aggressions, including the settlements, for discussions," Ahmed Abdel Rahman told Voice of Palestine radio.
Ex-model who is to be caned can appeal: Malaysian PM
By IANS,
Kuala Lumpur : Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak Tuesday struck a conciliatory note on the impending first-ever caning of a Muslim woman, an ex-model who was found drinking in public. He said she could appeal against the punishment and the authorities might consider.
Responding to what The Star newspaper called "international media frenzy", Razak said Kartika Sari Dewi Shukarno still had the avenue to appeal against the Pahang state Syariah (Islamic) court's decision to cane her for consuming alcohol.
Hasina says, city polls rigging charges will be probed
Dhaka : Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Wednesday the allegations of large-scale rigging during the city corporation elections will be properly investigated.
Her...
Bangladesh for boosting bilateral trade with Ghana
By Xinhua,
Dhaka : Bangladesh President Prof. Dr Iajuddin Ahmed Wednesday underscored the need for frequent exchange of business and official delegations and holding trade fairs to boost bilateral trade and economic relations between Bangladesh and Ghana.
He made the suggestion when newly appointed non-residential Ambassador of Ghana to Bangladesh John Bentum-Williams presented his credentials to him here, private news agency UNB reported.
Pakistani forces retake emerald mines from Taliban
By IRNA,
Islamabad : Pakistani security forces have retaken emerald mines from Taliban after heaving shelling in Swat valley, killing 35 militants, local media reported Wednesday.
Taliban had occupied extremely precious stone mines of ‘lapis lazuli’ near Mingora, main city in Swat, in February shortly after a peace deal was signed to end violence in the country.
Iraq’s PM arrives in Mosul to direct offensive against Al-Qaeda in Iraq
By NNN-SPA,
Baghdad : Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki took personal charge Wednesday of a military operation to rout al-Qaida in its last major stronghold, even a tenuous cease-fire took hold over Baghdad's embattled Shiite Sadr City slum.
The campaign in the northern city of Mosul was the third by al-Maliki in two months as he attempts to stamp out Shiite militants and Sunni extremists.
But even as al-Maliki directed operations against al-Qaida in Iraq, extremists probably belonging to the organization used a young girl strapped with explosives to kill an Iraqi
Arrest warrant issued against Musharraf
By IANS,
Islamabad: A court has issued a warrant for the arrest of former president Pervez Musharraf on charges that he was aware that former premier Benazir Bhutto was to be assassinated.
US prevented Pakistan from blocking India at IAEA
By IANS,
Islamabad : Thanks to the US, Pakistan's attempts to block India's efforts to secure a country-specific safeguards agreement from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have "come to a grinding halt", a widely respected commentator wrote Monday.
Six children killed in Syria mortar shelling
Damascus: At least six children were killed Thursday in renewed mortar shelling on several areas of the Syrian capital Damascus.
Four mortar shells landed at...
Yasin Malik arrested amid protests over refugees
Srinagar : Separatist leader Muhammad Yasin Malik was arrested here Friday amid protests against the proposal to grant citizenship rights to refugees from West...
PLO’s Central Council elects Abbas as President of Palestine State
By NNN-KUNA,
Ramallah : Mahmoud Abbas has been elected by the Central Council of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) as President of the State of Palestine.
Speaker of the Palestine Legislative Council Saleem Al-Zanoun told a press conference here that Abbas was elected despite the opposition of one member.
Abbas' election took place following nomination by 75 council members who called for a vote, he said.
The PLO Central Council commenced a two-day meeting Sunday to discuss the progress of negotiations with the Israelis and inter-Palestinian conciliation.
Indian minorities urged to benefit from government schemes
Jeddah : A well-known scholar and academic called on Indian expatriates to play a vital role in creating proper awareness among the beneficiaries about...
Lebanese cabinet ramate over whether attending Arab summit
By Xinhua
Beirut : Lebanese cabinet has not decided whether to participate in the upcoming Arab summit in Damascus, and postponed the decision till March 25, the same day scheduled for presidential elections, local As Safir daily reported on Wednesday.
The cabinet on Tuesday held a meeting which lasted six hours and ended at dawn Wednesday. The report quoted a government source as saying that there were different points of view among ministers, some are with participation and some are against, but all minister agreed to meet on March 25 for the final decision.
Islamist leader rejects talks with the government
By NNN-SomaliNet
Mongadishu : The leader of the Somali opposition groups based in Asmara, Eritrea, Sheikh Sharif Sheik Ahmed said on Friday they would not open talks with the current Somalia transitional federal government until the Ethiopian forces are in the soil of the country.
Pakistan to subsidise 5.8 mn poor households
By IANS,
Islamabad : The Pakistani government, with assistance from the World Bank, is to provide "targeted subsidy" to 5.8 million poor households to enable them cope with rising food prices.
"The bank is likely to provide funds for 5.8 million households. Of them, one million will also be given training for skill development," Dawn reported Sunday.
Details of the subsidy would be revealed in the budget for 2008-09 (July 1-June 30) that would be presented to parliament at its session beginning Monday.
Iraqi troops seize weapons in Baghdad Shiite bastions
By Xinhua,
Baghdad : Iraqi soldiers seized Friday three large weapon caches in a mosque and a hospital during clearing operations in Shiite militia strongholds in Baghdad, the U.S. military said on Sunday.
Two caches containing more than 360 AK-47 assault rifles, 12 sniper rifles, anti-tank mines, 100 rocket-propelled grenade rounds and multiple RPG launchers, were seized from inside and just outside a mosque in the Shu'lah neighborhood in northern Baghdad, a military statement said.
Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf to be impeached
By Muhammad Najeeb, IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistan's ruling coalition Thursday decided to impeach President Pervez Musharraf following his failure to win the trust of the newly elected parliament and also to reinstate the judges he had sacked after declaring an emergency last November.
"Good news for democracy in Pakistan!" Asif Ali Zardari, co-chair of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) that leads the ruling coalition, declared as he addressed a news conference to announce the impeachment move.
UN approves Iran’s proposal on combat against trafficking antiquities
By IRNA,
Vienna : Iran's proposal on combat against trafficking antiquities was approved by the 17th session of UN Crimes Commission.
Iran's proposed resolution, passed during the last session of the commission, underlined the need for preserving antique objects as parts of the common human heritage.
It also said that serious measures should be taken to stop the organized groups trafficking the antiquities.
The five-day session, inaugurated in the Austrian capital city on Monday, concluded its work Friday evening.
PM’s Global Advisory Council of Overseas Indians meets in Delhi
By TCN News,
New Delhi: Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council of Overseas Indians consisting of sixteen eminent overseas Indians representing different disciplines from across the world met today in New Delhi.
Former Pakistan PM Gilani’s son booked for murder
Islamabad : Former Pakistan prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani's son has been booked in a murder case in Lahore after his security guard allegedly...
Suicide bombing kills four in Peshawar
By IANS,
Peshawar : At least four people were killed and 25 injured Monday morning when a suicide bomber struck near a police station in the outskirts of this Pakistani city, an official said.
The blast took place at 7.45 a.m. in Badhbeer, which is located in the outskirts of the North-West Frontier Province capital.
District Coordination Officer (DCO) Peshawar Sahibzada Anis said four people died in the blast, Geo News reported.
The blast was so powerful that a nearby mosque collapsed, Anis said, adding some people may be trapped under the rubble.
No anti-Iran activities from Iraqi soil: Al-Maliki
By IANS,
Tehran : Iraq Sunday said it would not allow its soil for anti-Iran activities, IRNA reported.
The assurance conveyed by visiting Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki came against the backdrop of a US proposal for an agreement which would allow it to maintain troops in Iraq and conduct military operations against neighbouring countries without seeking Baghdad's approval.
Voicing readiness of Baghdad to strengthen ties with Iran, al-Maliki told Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki all Iraqi groups emphasise strengthening ties with Iran in all fields.
Libya condemns Israeli raids into Gaza
By Xinhua
Tunis : The Libyan Ministry for Foreign Communication and International Cooperation Tuesday strongly condemned the Israeli raids on the Gaza Strip that killed 19 Palestinians earlier in the day, according to news reaching here Wednesday.
The ministry said in a statement that the massacres committed by the Israeli occupation forces in Gaza violated international law and the Charter of the United Nations, Libyan media reported Wednesday.
Libya urged the international community to immediately take action to stop the massacres committed by Israel.
Hamas police, Qaida-linked group clash in Gaza
By Xinhua,
Gaza : The police forces of Islamic Hamas movement clashed early Sunday morning with members of Army of Islam, an al-Qaida-linked group, in a southern Gaza City neighborhood, Hamas police said.
The police said in a statement sent to reporters that the police forces arrested early Sunday morning members of the Army of Islam organization in Sabra neighborhood in southern Gaza City, but the statement did not say how many members of the group were arrested.
UAE, South African army chiefs hold talks
By IANS/WAM,
Johannesburg: The army chiefs of United Arab Emirates (UAE) and South Africa Wednesday discussed bilateral defence relations and ways to strengthen them.
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques receives Indian Foreign Minister
By SPA,
Riyadh : The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud received at the Royal Court at Al-Yamamah Palace here today Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee and the accompanying delegation.
During the audience, Pranab Mukherjee conveyed to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques the greetings of Indian President Pratibha Devising Patil and the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. In turn, the King sent his greetings to the Indian President and the Prime Minister.
Jeddah meeting asserts need for oil production, refining investment
By NNN-KUNA,
Jeddah : The Jeddah Energy Meeting has stressed the importance of boosting investments in oil production and refining, as well as seeking other energy resources.
Saudi Oil Minister Ali Al-Nuaimi, reading a final communique at a news conference at the conclusion of the one-day meeting, said it was important to strengthen transparency in international stock markets as well as the development of legislation of investment funds.
Suicide attack kills two, injures 20 in Pakistan
By DPA
Islamabad : Two people were killed and 20 injured in a suicide attack at a security convoy in north-west Pakistan Saturday, as the police launched a probe into the bombing that left 42 people dead during a funeral Friday, officials said.
The suicide bomber rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into two paramilitary vehicles travelling near Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district that borders Afghanistan.
43 killed in Iraq violence
Baghdad : At least 43 people were killed on Saturday in a suicide car bombing and heavy clashes between the Iraqi security forces and...
Palestine very important point on OIC Summit agenda
By IRNA
Dakar : The lot of the Palestinian people in conflict with Israel is 'a very important point' on the agenda of the 11th Summit of the Organization of the Islamic Conference taking place in Dakar on March 13-14.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a very important point of the Dakar Summit, according to Senegalese press agency, APS.
"I think that a strong message will be delivered to support the Palestinian people's inalienable right to found its own state, on its own land, with East Jerusalem as capital," the OIC secretary general said.
Pakistan violates ceasefire in Kashmir
Jammu : The Pakistan Army fired at Indian positions along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir Sunday, violating a 2003 ceasefire,...
Jamia organises interactive session on West Asia, film screening on Afghanistan
By TwoCircles.net Staff Reporter,
New Delhi: The Subject Association of Academy of International Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia on Wednesday organized an Interactive Discussion on...
Thousands sign up for 2015 Dubai Marathon
Dubai: Regarded as one of the world’s leading marathons, the Dubai Marathon looks set to underline its position as the Arab world’s biggest mass...
Islamist militancy a threat in Bangladesh: US envoy
By IANS,
Dhaka : Islamist militancy continues to be a threat in Bangladesh, the US ambassador to this country has said, adding "we do have disturbing indications".
"We do have disturbing indications. There continues to be threat in Bangladesh and my government does believe that there is a threat (of Islamist militancy)," US ambassador in Dhaka James F. Moriarty told media.
He made the remark a day after former prime minister Khaleda Zia had said there were no such elements in Bangladesh, The Daily Star newspaper reported Monday.
Iraq heading towards overcoming challenges of reconstruction – PM
By NNN-KUNA,
Baghdad : Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has said that Iraq is heading now to face the challenge of reconstruction and investment after overcoming challenges of the issues of security and politics.
Al-Maliki said in a speech during the opening of Al-Najaf airport Sunday that his government and the Iraqi security forces succeeded in countering the challenge of terrorism in Iraq, pointing out that "if we have succeeded in the security file, we are better able to cope with the remaining challenges, including the challenge of reconstruction, services and the economy".
Pakistan to spend Rs.210 mn for gas infrastructure
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistan will spend Rs.210 million to lay infrastructure for supply of gas in Khyber Pakthunkhwa province.
World Bank to lend $400 mn for Pakistan’s education
By IANS,
Islamabad: The World Bank has approved a $400 million loan for development of Pakistan's education sector.
Indian found dead in UAE
Dubai : An Indian national was found dead on a boat in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a media report said.
The man, 30, identified...
Top Pakistani Taliban leadership eliminated: Malik
By IANS,
Islamabad : The top leadership of the Pakistani Taliban has been eliminated, says Rehman Malik, the prime minister's advisor on interior affairs.
Report: explosive-laden vehicles enter Pakistan’s capital
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Three explosive-laden vehicles have entered Pakistan's capital Islamabad, which could be used for terrorist attacks, local TV channel reported on Tuesday.
The security has been beefed up and search operation has been started to locate the vehicles, Geo TV said.
The warning from the intelligence agencies came three days after suicide bombers rammed an explosive-laden dumper into the gate of Marriott Hotel in Islamabad, killing 53 people and injuring 266 others.
Abu Dhabi to build new refinery
By IANS
Abu Dhabi : The emirate of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) plans to build a new oil refinery, according to the general manager of Abu Dhabi Oil Refining Company TAKREER, WAM news agency reported Monday.
The planned capacity of the new refinery would be 417,000 barrels per day (bpd) and it would be completed by 2013, Jasem Ali Sayegh said Monday while speaking at the ninth annual meeting of the Middle East Refining Conference in Abu Dhabi.
Triumphant Hasina takes oath as Bangladesh PM
By IANS,
Dhaka : Sheikh Hasina of the Awami League (AL), the daughter of Bangladesh's founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was Tuesday sworn-in prime minister for a second time following her landslide victory in last month's general election. She was premier previously 1996-2001.
Hasina, 61, took the oath of office from President Iajuddin Ahmed at a ceremony held at 6.45 p.m. at Darbar Hall in Bangabhavan, the presidential palace. She is the 12th prime minister.
Bhutto party set to name Pakistan PM candidate
By AFP
Islamabad : The party of slain opposition leader Benazir Bhutto was expected Thursday to nominate Pakistan's new prime minister to lead a parliament that could decide the fate of President Pervez Musharraf.
Pakistan People's Party vice-chief Makhdoom Amin Fahim is the frontrunner to be nominated by the party's MPs, who are meeting in Islamabad just over two weeks after the PPP scooped the most seats in parliamentary elections.
Pakistani hides inside car dashboard to enter Hungary
By DPA,
Budapest : Hungarian customs officers searching a Greek-registered Alfa Romeo car were surprised to find a man hiding in a "cramped, airless" cavity under the dashboard, officials said Friday.
Both the Greek driver and the man, a Pakistani citizen, were handed over to Hungarian police, spokesman for the Hungarian customs service Jeno Sipos told the state news agency MTI.
The officers became suspicious when they noticed the dashboard of the car entering Hungary from Serbia had been tampered with, although the driver said he had nothing to declare.
Federation, provinces working together for strong Pakistan: Nayyar
By NNN-APP,
DG Khan, Pakistan : Leader of the House in Senate, Senator Syed Nayyar Hussain Bukhari said on Saturday that federal government and provinces were working together for a strong Pakistan.
The Senator visited DG Khan on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari to express sympathies to Advisor to Chief Minister Sardar Zulfiqar Ali Khan Khosa, Punjab minister for local government Sardar Dost Muhammad Khosa, and MNA Sardar Saifuddin Khan Khosa.
Jordan urges enhanced EU, US roles for Mideast peace
By DPA,
Amman : King Abdullah II of Jordan Sunday urged the European Union (EU) and the US to work to reinvigorate peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
The monarch's calls, made during a meeting with a British parliamentary delegation on a regional fact-finding tour, backed such talks as a precursor to an independent Palestinian state.
Iraqi govt lifts curfew across Baghdad
By NNN-KUNA
Baghdad : The Iraqi government has decided to lift the curfew in Baghdad as of Monday morning, the operations command of the Baghdad Law Enforcement Plan said Sunday evening.
The decision takes effect as of 6am Monday, a senior police officer told KUNA here.
However, the curfew will remain in place as per vehicles only in Al-Shu'la and Al-Kadhemiya districts of Baghdad and the eastern city of Al-Sadr, the source pointed out.
Tide in Pakistan’s Swat has decisively turned: Army chief
By IANS,
Islamabad : The situation in Swat in Pakistan's troubled northwest, where the military is engaged in major anti-Taliban operations, has "decisively turned" in the security forces' favour, army chief Gen. Ashfaq Parvez Kiyani declared Thursday.
Over 400 held in Pakistan crackdown on lawyers, politicians
By IANS,
Lahore : Over 400 opposition activists across Punjab have been rounded up in a major crackdown by the police ahead of the lawyers' long march scheduled to start Thursday and sit-in planned in Islamabad next Monday.
The activists were detained Tuesday night and Wednesday while the police also raided the houses and offices of lawyers here, the Dawn News reported Thursday.
Malaysia: MAS success in raising US$126 million named ‘aircraft leasing deal of the year’
By NNN-Bernama,
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia : Malaysia Airlines success in securing finances worth US$126 million under the Japanese Operating Lease for seven ATR72-500s aircraft was named "Aircraft Leasing Deal of the Year - Asia" by Jane Transport Finance.
Working with BNP Paribas Corporate and Investment Banking ("BNP Paribas"), the JOL transactions were closed at a time when the global financial markets were in a crisis.
The success in securing the financing was especially significant in light of a very quiet Japanese equity market.
Abu Dhabi to host tourism summit
By IANS/WAM,
Abu Dhabi : The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) will hold its 13th global summit here in 2013, it was announced Monday.
Several militants killed in south and east Afghanistan
By Xinhua,
Kabul : The U.S.-led Coalition forces in Afghanistan killed several suspected militants and destroyed their hideouts in the troubled southern and eastern region, a press release of the military alliance issued here Tuesday said.
"Several militants were killed and one detained during two separate Coalition forces' operations to disrupt anti-government militant operations in Paktia and Helmand provinces on June 2," the press release said.
Lucknow doctor set to lecture surgeons in Pakistan
By IANS,
Lucknow : In a first, a Lucknow-based city suregon has been invited to deliver a series of lectures on surgery in Pakistan.
ISI has given feedback to India on Mumbai attacks: Gilani
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency has "given its feedback" to India about the Mumbai attacks, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said Friday, media reports said.
Gilani's remarks came shortly before US vice-president-elect Joe Biden arrived here for talks with the Pakistani leadership on the tensions with India in the wake of the carnage in Mumbai, reported Aaj TV.
Pakistan’s National Assembly convened over Sharif crisis
By Muhammad Sajjad, IANS,
Islamabad : The Pakistan government has convened a session of the National Assembly Saturday to discuss the crisis arising from the Supreme Court decision barring former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and his brother Shahbaz Sharif from contesting elections.
The federal cabinet took the decision at a meeting here Friday.
The session has been convened at a time when the protests against the court decision and the imposition of Governor's Rule in Punjab appeared to be gaining momentum.
Political observers believe the session could be stormy.
Pakistani bank offers interest-free loans for Haj, Umrah
By IANS,
Karachi: Pakistan's leading Islamic bank Wednesday announced interest-free loans for the Haj and Umrah for those wishing to pay in instalments after performing the pilgrimage.
Towards this, Meezan Bank Ltd. has signed an agreement with leading tour operator Universal Express Pvt. Ltd. for providing Haj and Umrah travel facilitation during 2010.
As part of the deal, the travel packages will be available at Meezan Bank's 201 branches in 54 cities across Pakistan to help customers in performing the holy pilgrimmage, Online news agency reported.
Spanish parliament votes to extend Libya operations
By IANS,
Madrid : The majority of Spanish parliamentary parties voted Tuesday to extend the country's participation in NATO's Libya operation by two months.
Suspected Pakistani spy arrested at Delhi airport
By IANS,
New Delhi: A suspected Pakistani spy was arrested from the Indira Gandhi International Airport here early Sunday, a home ministry official said. He has been handed over to Delhi Police for investigations.
"The spy has been identified as Sayeed and has been handed over to Delhi Police's Special Cell," a police source added.
A home ministry official said: "It is still not clear what he was doing in India. We are trying to ascertain his antecedents."
‘Five months’ jail for hugging girlfriend excessive’
By IANS,
Kuala Lumpur : A high court judge in Malaysia has ruled that sentencing a person to five months in jail for hugging his girlfriend was "excessive".
Justice Abdul Rahim Uda allowed a 29-year-old rubber tapper's appeal that his jail sentence be reduced and ordered him to be fined RM1,500 (approx. $ 450) instead.
"They were boyfriend and girlfriend. The five months jail sentence is excessive. Because of this, no one will dare to date our young women," he said in his order Monday.
UN probe into Benazir killing on Ban’s agenda in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : A decision on instituting a UN probe into the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto is likely to be taken during the visit of the world body's chief, Ban Ki-moon, who arrived here Wednesday.
During the visit, Ban will meet President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani before announcing his decision on the probe, which Pakistan requested after its own investigations and those by Scotland Yard failed to make headway.
Pakistan will pay the UN $5 million as seed money for the commission, the Dawn newspaper reported Wednesday.
UN Chief Supports Independent Mideast Mediation Proposal
By SPA
United Nations : United Nations head Ban Ki-Moon is aware and generally supportive of an idea to involve a range of current leaders and former heads of state in attempts to move forward the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, the United Nations said Thursday.
“He is certainly aware of it and supports all efforts towards that goal,” Ban’s spokeswoman Michele Montas said.
PM: no Cambodian troops to be sent to Afghanistan, Iraq
By NNN-APP,
Phnom Penh : Prime Minister Hun Sen refused on Wednesday to send Cambodian de-miners to Afghanistan and Iraq as requested by the United Nations.
The Cambodian made the remarks during a ground-breaking ceremony of the renovation of the National Road No. 62 linking from the central province of Kampong Thom and the northern province of Preah Vihear on Wednesday.
Russia to hold WTO talks in Saudi Arabia
By RIA Novosti,
Riyadh : A regular two-day round of talks on Russia's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) will begin on Monday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Russia, the only major economy outside the WTO, has been seeking membership in the organization since 1993. So far, Moscow has concluded bilateral talks with over 60 states, but still needs to complete discussions with two WTO members - Saudi Arabia and Georgia.
"Our aim is to push the negotiations forward and to bring them to an end if possible," Russia's chief WTO negotiator Maxim Medvedkov said.
Iraqi, U.S. troops kill 9 gunmen in northern Iraq
By Xinhua
Baghdad : An Iraqi force backed by U.S. special forces killed nine gunmen and detained eight others during a raid targeting al-Qaida cell near the town of Tal Afar in Nineveh province, the U.S. military said on Thursday.
UAE, Saudi Arabia have maximum Indian workers
By IANS,
New Delhi : Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) account for the maximum number of Indians working in the Gulf, the government said Wednesday.
Pakistan suicide blast kills six
By IANS,
Islamabad : Six people were killed and several injured Thursday in a suicide blast in Pakistan's North West Frontier Province (NWFP).
The suicide attack took place at Rasooldar hotel in Tank district's Jandola area, Geo News reported.
Pakistani smuggler executed in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh: A Pakistani has been executed in Saudi Arabia for smuggling large quantity of heroin.
Kamran Ghulam Abbas was found guilty of smuggling drugs in...
India offers to reduce negative trade list with Bangladesh
By IANS,
Dhaka : The Indian envoy to Bangladesh has offered to reduce the number of negative items on the bilateral trade list to facilitate commerce between the two neighbours.
High Commissioner Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty has also mooted joint investments to boost bilateral trade between the two South Asian countries to offset the trade balance that is at present heavily tilted in New Delhi's favour.
The negative trade list, already reduced from 700 to 400 items, could be shortened further, New Age newspaper said.
America repeating 9/11 in Pakistan every day: Pak MP
By IRNA,
Berlin : A former Pakistani minister and prominent lawmaker lambasted the ongoing deadly US military air strikes on Pakistani territory, comparing them to the September 11, 2001 terror attacks in America.
Speaking at a conference on the situation in Pakistan in Berlin Wednesday evening, Tehmina Daultana accused the US of "repeating 9/11 in Pakistan every day."
"Our people are dying, our women are dying, our children are dying and our poor people are dying. It's the US drones which kill Pakistanis," she said.
Number of Palestinian victims of Israeli assult on the rise
By NNN-KUNA,
Gaza : Israel continued Wednesday, for the 12th day in a row, its assault on the Gaza Strip, killing so far some 660 Palestinians and injuring over 3,000 others.
Local radio stations quoted Palestinian medical sources as saying on Wednesday that 225 of the killed Palestinians were children and 79 were women. They added that many of the injured were in critical condition.
On Wednesday, Israeli planes fired several rockets at the multi-storey Taqwa Mosque in the Sheikh Radhwan district, destroying it and killing and injuring a number of Palestinians.
Pakistan Army aircraft crashes near Quetta
Islamabad:A training aircraft of the Pakistan Army crashed in the country's Balochistan province leaving both the pilots critically injured, Geo News reported Saturday.
The incident...
US admonishes Israel, criticizes Hamas over attacks
By DPA,
Washington : The United States has urged Israel restraint in its military operations in the Gaza Strip, but simultaneously offered sharp criticism of Hamas, the organization effectively governing the salient.
White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe said Israel needs to avoid civilian deaths in its operations against Hamas. But, in the same statement, Johndroe also lambasted Hamas for its attacks on Israel and its support for terrorism.
All 168 aboard Iranian plane killed in crash
By IANS,
Tehran : All 168 people on board an Iranian airliner which crashed shortly after takeoff from here Wednesday were killed, police and health ministry officials confirmed.
The fully-laden three-engine Tupolev plane, carrying 153 passengers and 15 crew memebrs, crashed around 11.30 a.m. near Jannat-abad village in northwestern Qazvin province.
"The 7908 Caspian flight crashed 16 minutes after its takeoff from the International Imam Khomeini Airport (IKIA) Tehran," said Iran's Aviation Organisation spokesman Reza Jafarzadeh.
US military warns of Al Qaeda return to Afghanistan
BY DPA,
Washington: Al-Qaeda's presence in Afghanistan would return if the Taliban regains control of the country, the top US military officer warned Wednesday, saying the consequences of US and NATO mission failing would be "grave".
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Michael Mullen, said the Taliban has established shadow governments in many of Afghanistan's provinces, adding that denying the possible return of Al Qaeda "ignores both the recent past and the evidence we see."
"The cost of failure is then grave," Mullen told the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Probe hints at ‘political’ angle in border guards’ mutiny
By IANS,
Dhaka : The Bangladesh government's probe into the mutiny by its border guards in February hints at a `political' angle, but makes no mention of foreign involvement or militant links in the rebellion that left 81 people dead.
A few Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) personnel established political contacts during the run-up to the ninth general election last year to air their grievances. They planned an agitation after failing to gain any support, says a report by retired official Anisuzzaman Khan.
Brown renews call for end to Gaza violence
By Xinhua,
London : British Prime Minister Gordon Brown Sunday renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
In an interview with the BBC, Brown said: "What we have to do almost immediately is to work harder than we have done for an immediate ceasefire."
He said he had spoken to Israel's Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on three occasions in the past few days and attempted to talk to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and others in the region on how to stop the violence immediately.
Three killed in Pakistan car bomb attack
By IANS,
Islamabad : At least three people were killed and 15 policemen were injured Thursday night when a suicide car bomb hit a police check-post in northwest Pakistan, a media report said.
Judgment reserved in Shakil Afridi case
By IANS,
Islamabad: Paksistan's Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR) Saturday reserved its judgment and is expected to rule March 15 on Shakil Afridi, the doctor who...
Six more Palestinians killed in Israeli air strike; death toll rises to 58
By NNN-KUNA
Ramallah : Six Palestinians were killed on Saturday in an Israeli air raid targeting an under-construction mosque and a police station in Khan Yunis in Rafah in Gaza Strip.
An Israeli jet fired three rockets at the mosque and the police station, leaving six Palestinians dead and several others injured, while the mosque was destroyed, Palestinians sources were quoted as saying.
Hamas-linked sources said a bodyguard of Mahmoud al-Zahar, a Hamas leader, was killed in armed clashes going on in northern Gaza Strip.
18 killed, 86 injured in attacks across Iraq
By IANS,
Baghdad : At least 18 people were killed and 86 injured Friday in separate attacks across Iraq, police sources said.
Seven people were killed and 48 injured when a car bomb exploded in the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk. The car bomb went off near the house of the deputy governor of the Salah al-Din province, a source from the Kirkuk police said.
Police discovered another car bomb that was parked nearby and defused it before it went off.
India, Pakistan to launch cross-LoC trade, discuss terror
By Manish Chand, IANS,
New York : In a major step aimed at easing the recent strain in ties, India and Pakistan Wednesday decided to launch trade between divided parts of Kashmir from Oct 21 and agreed to hold a special meeting next month to address New Delhi's concerns about the bombing of its embassy in Kabul.
30,000 monitoring personnel mobilized for Pakistan’s elections
By SPA
Islamabad : Nearly 30,000 members of civil society and grassroots organizations are being mobilized to monitor polling in virtually all the 272 constituencies of the National Assembly (Lower House of Parliament) of Pakistan to be held on February 18, a top civil society leader said.
This is happening for the first time in Pakistan's history.
13 of family killed in Afghan accident
By IANS,
Kabul : Thirteen members of a family, including women and children, were killed and three injured when a mini-bus plunged into a river in northeast Afghanistan's Takhar province Sunday, an official said.
"The incident happened in Farkhar district. As a result, 13 people, including women and children, lost their lives and three others sustained injuries," the governor of Farkhar district, Mawlawi Abdul Aziz, told Xinhua.
All the victims belonged to the same family, he said.
Sarkozy arrives in Saudi Arabia, starting 1st Gulf tour
By Xinhua
Riyadh : French President Nicolas Sarkozy arrived in the Saudi capital on Sunday to start his first tour to the Gulf region since coming into office, which will also take himto Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Sarkozy was greeted at the airport by Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdel-Aziz. The two leaders will later discuss bilateral ties and regional issues, including the Iranian nuclear issue and the Middle East peace process.
Pentagon: 140,000 troops in Iraq, 32,000 in Afghanistan after July
By KUNA
Washington : A senior Pentagon official said late Monday the US expects to keep 140,000 troops in Iraq after the withdrawal of five combat brigades in July, roughly 8,000 US troops more than pre-surge levels.
Lieutenant General Carter Hamm, director of operations for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said during a Pentagon briefing that the number of US forces in Afghanistan is expected to increased to an record-high of about 32,000 troops by late summer, up from 28,000 troops currently stationed there.
Pakistan, US to ink supply route agreement
By IANS,
Islamabad: Pakistan and the US will sign an agreement to formalize the supply route for NATO troops in Afghanistan, the government said Thursday.
Israeli strike on Gaza mosque kills 11
By DPA,
Gaza City : An Israeli airstrike on a mosque in the northern Gaza Strip late Saturday afternoon killed 11 people and wounded 50, 24 of them seriously, Palestinian sources reported.
An Israeli military spokesman had no immediate comment on the report, which comes on the eighth day of an Israeli offensive, mainly conducted through aerial attacks on the Gaza Strip.
A second airstrike on Rafah, at the southern end of the Strip, killed four people, Palestinians said, bringing the death toll from Israeli operations Saturday to 19 Palestinians.
Israeli army arrests 10 in Gaza raid
By Xinhua,
Gaza : Israeli forces arrested 10 Palestinians during a raid carried out in southeast Gaza Stripafter midnight, Palestinian security sources and witnesses said on Saturday.
The witnesses said that at least seven tanks and four bulldozers rolled into the eastern territories of Rafah city after midnight and withdrew early in the morning.
Refugees in Pakistan’s northwest face inappropriate aid distribution
By IANS,
Islamabad : Refugees fleeing the Pakistani military's anti-Taliban operations in the country's troubled northwest face a familiar sub-continental malaise: inappropriate distribution of aid.
One telling instance of this is the distribution of wheat and not flour among the refugees. This forces them to sell the wheat at rock bottom prices to millers and then purchase flour from them at exorbitant rates so they can feed themselves and their families.
Turkey mine disaster toll touches 282
Istanbul: The toll in Turkey's coal mine disaster near Soma town has reached 282, making it the country's worst industrial disaster in history, Energy...
Three held in Britain after pig’s head kept near Muslim centre
By IANS,
London: Two men and a woman have been arrested in Britain after a pig's severed head was left at the doors of a Muslim place of worship, the Daily Mail reported Friday.
Tallest Pakistani woman can stay on in Britain
By IANS,
London : British authorities have rejected an asylum bid by one of the world's tallest women - a Pakistani who claims her height makes her a target of abuse in her home country.
However, 7ft-2in tall Zainab Bibi will be allowed to stay on because the British home ministry is considering further claims from her lawyers, the Mail on Sunday reported.
Bangladesh: CA opens celebration of 400-year anniversary of Dhaka
By NNN-BSS,
Dhaka : A three-year celebration of 400-year anniversary of `Dhaka Amar Dhaka' will kick off on Nov 28.
Chief Adviser of Bangladesh caretaker government Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed will inaugurate the programme at 3 pm on the day at the southern plaza of Jatiya Sangsad.
Elaborate programmes have been chalked out to celebrate the anniversary, an official handout said here today.
Besides a daylong function on November 29, there will be programmes at the government and private levels to celebrate the grand anniversary of Dhaka.
“Nuclear programmes in the Middle East in the shadow of Iran”, an IISS dossier
By KUNA,
London : If Tehrans nuclear programme is unchecked, there is reason for concern that it could in time prompt a regional cascade of proliferation among Tehrans neighbours, according to a warning by the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) here Tuesday.
Launching a new dossier "Nuclear Programmes in the Middle East in the shadow of Iran", IISS Director General and Chief Executive Dr John Chipman said that for some states, such as Saudi Arabia, an Iranian nuclear weapon would present "a direct and dire threat".
Man carrying sleeping daughter sparks online fundraising campaign
Beirut : An online fundraiser has raised more than $100,000 for a refugee from Syria and his daughter after sharing moving pictures of the...
Egypt blocks YouTube over anti-Islam film
By IANS,
Cairo: A court in Cairo has ordered popular video sharing website YouTube to be blocked for hosting the controversial film "Innocence of Muslims", state media reported.
Tributes by UN officials mark passing of Palestinian poet
By NNN-UNNS,
Ramallah : Senior United Nations officials in the Middle East have joined their voices to those paying tribute to the late Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, who was laid to rest Wednesday.
The UN’s Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO), Robert Serry, sent his condolences to the Palestinian people following the death of the 67-year-old writer who died on Saturday.
Mr. Darwish passionately voiced the aspirations of the Palestinian people for justice, freedom and statehood with eloquence and artistry, said Mr. Serry.
Portal to search for acting talents in UAE
By IANS/WAM,
Abu Dhabi: Entertainment company Imagination Abu Dhabi launched an online portal to tap acting talents in the region.
The UAE citizens and Arab expatriates can now apply for auditions of films at www.emiratifilmstar.com.
The portal will be in English and Arabic and will help the casting directors to scout for new faces and established actors.
US to demand immediate opening of Iranian nuclear site: Report
By DPA,
Washington : The world powers led by the US will insist in a meeting Thursday with an Iranian delegation that Tehran immediately open its newly revealed nuclear plant to international inspectors, the Washington Post reported online.
The existence of the second Iranian nuclear facility was revealed Friday in an announcment by US President Barack Obama, who joined with leaders from Britain and France to accuse Tehran of concealing from UN inspectors the plant, which is believed to be intended for enriching uranium.
Pakistani fashion retailers eye e-commerce to woo Indian markets
By Shilpa Raina,
Karachi : Pakistan might not yet have granted India the long-promised most favoured nation (MFN) status but that hasn't dampened the enthusiasm...
Pakistani minister indicates int”l conspiracy against countrys nuclearassets
ISLAMABAD, Jan 16 (KUNA) -- Pakistani Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Senator Nisar A. Memon Wednesday said there is an international conspiracy against Pakistans nuclear assets.
The Minister added that perpetrators were making efforts to derail the democratic process.
Talking to media delegations from different small cities, Memon said that right from the beginning of the year 2007, efforts were underway to derail the democratic system in Pakistan.
Plea against ‘black warrants’ dismissed in Pakistan
Islamabad : An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Pakistan on Friday dismissed a petition against the "black warrants" of two convicts who had been sentenced...
Dhaka steps up vigilance along border with India as bombs, explosives seized
By NNN-APP,
Dhaka : Bangladesh Monday put all border outposts of paramilitary Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) on high alert with neighbouring India as police retrieved a powerful bomb on a timer and two hand bombs in southwestern bordering district of Jessore on Monday.
Explosive experts were called in immediately to defuse them, police guarding the spot said.
Hyderabad to host international seminar on Prophet Muhammed
Hyderabad : An international seminar on the life and ways of Prophet Muhammed will be held here from February 21 to February 23.
Eminent Islamic...
MQM tables bill on autonomy for Pakistan’s provinces
By IANS,
Islamabad : The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), which has just been inducted into Pakistan's ruling coalition, has tabled a bill on greater autonomy for the country's provinces but it is unclear whether the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) that leads the ruling alliance would support the measure when it comes up for voting.
Shooting rampage: US soldier moved out of Afghanistan
By IANS,
Washington : The US soldier who was accused of killing 16 civilians in Afghanistan has been transferred out of the country, the Pentagon said Wednesday.
US Muslims: Obama’s use of Hussein in oath sends message
By Anindita Ramaswamy,
Washington, Jan 20 (DPA) Muslim Americans view Barack Obama's intention to use his middle name - Hussein - during the reciting of the oath of office as a sign that he's heeded their call for greater inclusion.
Promptly at noon (1700 GMT) Tuesday, Obama will lay one hand on the Bible used by president Abraham Lincoln in 1861 and swear to "preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States" as the country's 44th president and first African American in the job.
U.S. military vehicle crashes with civilian car injuring 4 in Afghan capital
By Xinhua,
Kabul : Four civilians were injured while two of them in critical condition as one U.S. military vehicle hit a civilian car in the Afghan capital Kabul on Wednesday.
"It occurred in the rush hour in the morning when a U.S. bullet-proof vehicle possibly from the Special Force hit a civilian car in Bagh-e-Bala area wounding four on board and two of them were inserious condition," Xinhua's reporter said after visiting the site.
Eye witnesses at the site, he added, blamed the reckless driving of the soldiers for the incident.