Will wait, watch Nitish moves: Paswan

NEW DELHI – In view of the rift between Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) leader Ram Vilas Paswan has adopted a wait-and-watch approach on the developments in the poll-bound state.

“We have to see whether Nitish Kumar is enacting an electoral drama. Otherwise, why this sudden …. Original source  : Will wait, watch Nitish moves: Paswan.

Talks with PM on ULFA now Monday evening (Second Lead)

GUWAHATI – A meeting between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the Assam-based Citizen’s Forum to explore possibilities for peace talks with the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) has been rescheduled for Monday evening.
“The meeting is now rescheduled at 6.45 p.m. We have been conveyed about the fresh timing from the Prime …. Source article  : Talks with PM on ULFA now Monday evening (Second Lead).

Chhattisgarh to install GPS devices to ensure food reaches poor

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh will install GPS devices to track the movement of vehicles carrying subsidised rice for the poor in efforts to ensure effective implementation of the Rs.1,000 crore annual food security scheme, an official said Monday.

The Global Positioning System (GPS) devices will be installed in about 600 vehicles that supply subsidised rice for …. Original source  : Chhattisgarh to install GPS devices to ensure food reaches poor.

Bhopal report ready with Anderson extradition recommendation

NEW DELHI – The ministerial panel on the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy has recommended in its report to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that former Union Carbide chief Warren Anderson’s extradition be sought from the US, Home Minister P. Chidambaram, who heads the group, said Monday.
“We have dealt with all the issues, compensation, legal … Read more »»».

Nitish Kumar, Sushil Modi avoid each other at function

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi avoided each other at an official function Monday, though the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) leader later chose to play down the rift between the two parties.

Both Nitish Kumar and Sushil Modi were present a function organised for the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak arrests TTP mastermind behind Benazir’s 2007 Karachi rally bomb blast

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani security officials have claimed arresting a Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operative who is said to be the mastermind of the suicide attack which targeted former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s rally in Karachi in October 2007.

An Interior Ministry spokesman confirmed Azmatullah’s arrest, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bhopal gas tragedy: More money for victims, clean-up by state govt

NEW DELHI – The reconstituted Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister P Chidambaram on Bhopal gas tragedy on Monday concluded its meeting after finalising recommendations for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s review

According to sources, the ministers have decided that Rs ten lakh will be given to those who lost their lives in …. Source article  : Bhopal gas tragedy: More money for victims, clean-up by state govt.

Report: Iran bans 2 IAEA inspectors from entering Iran over ‘false’ report

Iran bans 2 IAEA inspectors from entering Iran

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran said Monday it has banned two U.N. nuclear inspectors from entering the country because they disclosed to the media the contents of a “false” report on the country’s disputed nuclear program before the U.N. nuclear watchdog reviewed it.
A report posted on the Web site … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Report: Iran bans 2 IAEA inspectors from entering Iran over ‘false’ report.

Bhopal panel to submit report Monday

NEW DELHI – The ministerial panel on the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy is due to submit its report to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh later Monday with key recommendations on addressing the wrongs in the 25-year-old disaster that killed thousands.
The Group of Ministers (GoM), led by Home Minister P. Chidambaram, met for four sessions … Original article on : Bhopal panel to submit report Monday.

Dodd negotiates Wall Street regulation bill with both eyes on crucial 60 votes

Dodd: Defending a Senate bill against all comers
WASHINGTON – It was near the end of a long day and Sen. Christopher Dodd, in his shirt sleeves with 1,900 pages of proposed financial regulations stacked in front of him, had been scanning the hearing room of the House Financial Services Committee.
There were … Read more »»».

West Bengal Left Front begins 34th year in power

KOLKATA – Routed in a series of elections that have raised questions about its future, West Bengal’s Communist-led Left Front government Monday stepped into the 34th year of its uninterrupted reign.
The 33rd anniversary comes two days after Front major Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) pressed its ministers to speed up development work and … Read more »»».

Alliance with JD-U will be intact: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Monday said its alliance with the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) will be “intact” despite differences with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

“We are meeting today (Monday) to sort out the issues with the JD-U and not to aggravate it. Our alliance with the JD-U would be intact,” party spokesman …. Read the original article  : Alliance with JD-U will be intact: BJP.

GoM on Bhopal gas tragedy to submit its report to PM today

NEW DELHI – The reconstituted Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister P Chidambaram will submit its report on Bhopal gas tragedy to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today.
The final report will decide on recommending the government on the nature of compensation package that should be handed out to the victims of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : GoM on Bhopal gas tragedy to submit its report to PM today.

India-China martial arts meet at Shaolin temple

BEIJING – Martial arts experts from China and India met at the Shaolin Temple, famous as one of the holy sites of the art of Kung fu, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Twelve Indian martial arts experts from the Nithya Chaithanya Kalari Indian martial arts training centre, founded in …. Read the original article  : India-China martial arts meet at Shaolin temple.

Conservative candidate wins Colombia presidential poll

BOGOTA – Conservative candidate Juan Manuel Santos won Colombia’s presidential runoff by a landslide Sunday.

With nearly 60 percent of the vote counted, he had 69 percent of the vote, against fellow finalist Antanas Mockus, a former Bogota mayor who had been a huge underdog in the second-round vote.
Santos, 58, a former defence minister, had …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Conservative candidate wins Colombia presidential poll.

No winner in Polish presidential elections: Exit poll

WARSAW – Exit polls suggested that there would be no clear winner in Sunday’s Polish presidential election, requiring a second round of voting.

None of the candidates got above 50 percent support as needed to win outright Sunday.
Bronislaw Komorowski of the centre-right Civic Platform party got nearly 46 percent support, exit polls conducted by TVN …. Source  : No winner in Polish presidential elections: Exit poll.

Protesters stop Israeli ship from unloading at Port of Oakland in picket against blockade

Protesters at Port of Oakland picket Israeli ship

OAKLAND, Calif. – Hundreds of protesters condemning Israel’s recent raid on an international flotilla bound for Gaza are picketing at the Port of Oakland, where an Israeli ship is due to arrive.
The demonstrators gathered Sunday to prevent the incoming ship from being unloaded. The dock’s day shift of …. Source article  : Protesters stop Israeli ship from unloading at Port of Oakland in picket against blockade.

Ex-defense minister wins Colombia presidential runoff in route over eccentric outsider

Ex-defense minister wins Colombia vote in a rout

BOGOTA, Colombia – Juan Manuel Santos, who as defense minister badly weakened leftist rebels, has won Colombia’s presidential runoff in a rout.
With 75 percent of polling stations reporting, Santos has 69 percent of the votes against 28 percent for former Bogota Mayor Antanas Mockus, an eccentric outsider and … Read more : Ex-defense minister wins Colombia presidential runoff in route over eccentric outsider.

Fearing for their lives, ethnic Uzbeks in Kyrgyzstan refuse calls to return to their homes

Ethnic Uzbeks refuse to go home in Kyrgyzstan

SURATASH, Kyrgyzstan – Thousands of ethnic Uzbeks massed on the border between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan refused to return home Sunday, saying they feared for their lives after violent pogroms and didn’t trust Kyrgyz troops to protect them.
Associated Press reporters saw some 50 Kyrgyz troops, many in armored transport …. Source  : Fearing for their lives, ethnic Uzbeks in Kyrgyzstan refuse calls to return to their homes.

Obama sets White House meetings with Saudi king, Israeli prime minister in upcoming weeks

Obama sets meetings with Saudi, Israeli leaders
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s latest White House meeting with Israel’s prime minister is set for July 6 – more than a month after their last one was scuttled at the last minute.
Obama and Benjamin Netanyahu (neh-ten-YAH’-hoo) had planned talks on June 1. But that fell apart …. Original source  : Obama sets White House meetings with Saudi king, Israeli prime minister in upcoming weeks.

With history, cultural ties, Haiti wraps itself in Brazilian green and yellow for World Cup

Haitians rival Brazilians in love for the Selecao

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Screams of joy sweep through the broken Haitian capital and a few celebratory gunshots echo off the rubble. Is it a new president? A returning hero? No, Brazil just scored in the World Cup.
Haitians love Brazilian soccer like almost nothing else, a half-century-old histoire d’amour …. Source article  : With history, cultural ties, Haiti wraps itself in Brazilian green and yellow for World Cup.

BJP ministers likely to boycott cabinet meeting

PATNA – With the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) set to meet in New Delhi to decide its future with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, BJP ministers are likely to boycott a cabinet meeting here Tuesday.

A day after the BJP said its alliance with the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) was intact, the BJP ministers in Bihar are … Read more >>>.

Security forces patrol near Thai Buddhist temple as slain Thai protest leader mourned

Police patrol as slain Thai protest leader mourned

BANGKOK – Security forces converged on a Buddhist temple in Thailand’s capital where thousands of mourners were expected to pay their final respects Tuesday to a renegade general assassinated at the height of last month’s anti-government protests.
Police feared the cremation of Maj. Gen. Khattiya Sawasdiphol, shot in the …. Read the original article  : here.

Tea party movement split on which candidate to support in Utah Republican Senate primary

Tea party split in Utah Republican Senate primary
SALT LAKE CITY – Utah tea party supporters united in May to achieve one goal: defeat three-term U.S. Sen. Bob Bennett at the Republican state convention.
They succeeded in that, but settling on his successor has proved harder.
Illustrating how fractured the tea party movement is … Read more >>.

Jerry Brown’s campaign tale of frugality overlooks his $1.8 million home, with view of SF Bay

Brown’s tale of frugality omits $1.8 million home

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – When he takes to the campaign trail in California, Jerry Brown is fond of reminding voters that he shunned the governor’s mansion in Sacramento in favor of a rented apartment during his first tour in the executive office.
Brown also likes to say he lived in …. Source  : Jerry Brown’s campaign tale of frugality overlooks his $1.8 million home, with view of SF Bay.

Correction: Thailand Politics story

Correction: Thailand Politics story
BANGKOK – In a June 8 story about Red Shirt protest leaders, The Associated Press erroneously reported the name of one of men who was granted bail. He is Karun Hosakul, not Karun Hongsakul.
…. Source  : Correction: Thailand Politics story.

France’s ex-1st lady holds NY forum on women’s causes from sex slavery to prisoners’ babies

Remade in NY: French ex-1st lady has new life
NEW YORK – As first lady of France, Cecilia Sarkozy sat in a desert tent with Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi, winning the release of five Bulgarian nurses and a Palestinian doctor sentenced to death on charges of injecting children with HIV.
Three years later, she’s a …. Read the original article  : here.

Obama expanding shes incremental changes for gays, finds tepid response from activists

Obama inches toward gay agenda
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is chipping away at his long list of promises to gay voters but has yet to earn the full-throated backing of the reliably Democratic voting bloc.
The Obama White House has accomplished more than any other on gay rights, yet has drawn sharp criticism from …. Read the original article  : Obama expanding shes incremental changes for gays, finds tepid response from activists.

Obama meeting with gay activists at White House in bid to win gay community’s support

Obama meeting with gay activists at White House
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is meeting with grass-roots gay activists in the White House to remind them of all the things his administration has accomplished for them.
Obama and Vice President Joe Biden planned to meet Tuesday evening in the East Room with the group. Obama … Original article on : Obama meeting with gay activists at White House in bid to win gay community’s support.

Neb. city’s new ban on hiring illegal immigrants could be costly even if it never takes effect

Neb. city votes to restrict illegal immigration

FREMONT, Neb. – The eastern Nebraska city of Fremont will likely join Arizona at the center of the national debate about immigration regulations after voters approved a ban on hiring or renting property to illegal immigrants, but an expected court challenge could keep the measure from ever taking effect.
The … Read more >>.

CPI-M, Congress activists clash for regional supremacy in West Bengal

ISLAMPUR – Activists of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and the Congress party clashed at Sujali village near Islampur in West Bengal in a bid to assert their influence in the area.

The violent clash took place on Monday in which rival supporters even resorted to firing at each other and the police.

Kamal Nath … Read more »».

Assam delegation urges PM to revive peace talks with ULFA

NEW DELHI – A six-member delegation of All Assam Convention for Revival of Talks’ has met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and asked him to revive peace talks between the Government and the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA).

The delegation also discussed the possible release of jailed ULFA leaders to boost peace talks.

Addressing … Read : Assam delegation urges PM to revive peace talks with ULFA.

BJP disappointed with Bhopal panel report

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party has expressed its displeasure over the Group of Ministers (GoM) report on the 1984 Bhopal gas disaster.

Party spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain demanded an explanation from the Congress on the safe passage given to former Union Carbide chief Warren Anderson.

‘There is no mention of who helped Anderson get …. Source  : BJP disappointed with Bhopal panel report.

Top US general in Afghan war apologizes for profile in which he accused ambassador of betrayal

Top general in Afghan war apologizes for profile
WASHINGTON – The top U.S. war commander in Afghanistan apologized Tuesday for an interview in which he said he felt betrayed by the man the White House chose to be his diplomatic partner, Ambassador Karl Eikenberry.
The article in this week’s issue of Rolling …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Top US general in Afghan war apologizes for profile in which he accused ambassador of betrayal.

US commander in Afghanistan apologizes for article that paints him as critical of White House

US commander in Afghanistan apologizes for article

KABUL, Afghanistan – The top U.S. commander in Afghanistan has apologized for a magazine profile in which he criticizes the U.S. administration.
An article out this week in “Rolling Stone” magazine depicts Gen. Stanley McChrystal as a lone wolf on the outs with many important figures in the Obama administration … Original source on Gaea Times at : US commander in Afghanistan apologizes for article that paints him as critical of White House.

UN Security Council reform inevitable: Brazil

RIO DE JANEIRO – The structure of United Nations Security Council reflects the reality of 65 years ago and a reform in the world body is inevitable, Brazilian Foreign Minister Celso Amorim has said.

The UN Security Council should make changes to reflect the current global situation as its structure reflects the reality of 65 …. Source  : UN Security Council reform inevitable: Brazil.

Colombia president-elect gets congratulations from Venezuela, Ecuador, hinting at better ties

Correa warms to Colombia’s president-elect

BOGOTA, Colombia – Colombia’s president-elect was congratulated by Venezuela on Monday while a friendly phone call from Ecuador’s president suggested the prospect of re-established ties between the neighbors.
Juan Manuel Santos won Sunday’s runoff by the largest margin in modern Colombian history: 69 percent against 28 percent for Antanas Mockus, an eccentric …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Colombia president-elect gets congratulations from Venezuela, Ecuador, hinting at better ties.

Neb. town, angered by influx of meatpacking workers, approves illegal immigration restrictions

Neb. town votes to restrict illegal immigration

FREMONT, Neb. – Voters in the eastern Nebraska city of Fremont on Monday approved a ban on hiring or renting property to illegal immigrants, the latest proposal in a series of immigration regulations taken up by communities around the country.
About 57 percent of voters in Fremont supported the proposal, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Neb. town, angered by influx of meatpacking workers, approves illegal immigration restrictions.

Preliminary results show Neb. city supporting illegal immigration restrictions

Neb. city voting on illegal immigration rules

FREMONT, Neb. – Preliminary results show many voters in the eastern Nebraska city of Fremont support a ban on hiring or renting property to illegal immigrants.
With about 50 percent of votes counted, about 59 percent of residents were supporting the measure in Monday’s special election. Full results were not …. Read the original article  : here.

Nevada Senate candidate Sharron Angle hires national media firm for Sen. Harry Reid race

Nevada’s Angle campaign hires national media firm

LOS ANGELES – Nevada Senate candidate Sharron Angle has hired another key player for her campaign against Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.
Angle’s TV and radio ads will be crafted by national Republican media firm BrabenderCox.
Angle is a tea party favorite and the firm has a record of working with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nevada Senate candidate Sharron Angle hires national media firm for Sen. Harry Reid race.

Former union minister Digvijay Singh dies in London

NEW DELHI – Former union minister and Lok Sabha MP from Bihar Digvijay Singh passed away in a hospital in London, a member of his personal staff said here Thursday. He was 54.

“He died at the St. Thomas Hospital London,” his aide S.K. Mishra said.
Digvijay Singh, a former Janata Dal-United (JD-U) leader, won …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former union minister Digvijay Singh dies in London.

Manali-Leh highway to shut June 28

SHIMLA – The Manali-Leh highway will be closed June 28 when United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi visits Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district, an official said Thursday.
“Sonia Gandhi is coming to lay the foundation stone of Rohtang Tunnel in the Solang Valley,” Deputy Commissioner B.M. Nanta told IANS on telephone from Kullu town. …. Read the original article  : Manali-Leh highway to shut June 28.

2 damaged candidates in Illinois Senate race after revelation of exaggerated military claims

Navy exaggerations damage Ill. Senate candidate

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Republican Mark Kirk has stepped on a political landmine of his own creation, leaving him as damaged as his Democratic opponent in the race for an Illinois Senate seat once held by President Barack Obama.
Kirk, a 21-year veteran in the Navy Reserve, was caught exaggerating his military … Read : 2 damaged candidates in Illinois Senate race after revelation of exaggerated military claims.

Complicated portrait of Blagojevich emerges from FBI tapes played at corruption trial

Shades of Blagojevich come through in FBI tapes
CHICAGO – A complicated picture of Rod Blagojevich is emerging from FBI tapes being played at the former Illinois governor’s corruption trial.
His former chief of staff, John Harris, has been on the stand all week and is expected to be called again Thursday. But it’s the … Read more >>.

Relief greets Obama’s choice of Gen. Petraeus as new Afghanistan war commander

Relief greets Obama pick for new war commander
KABUL, Afghanistan – America’s Afghan and international allies embraced the choice of Gen. David Petraeus to run the war in Afghanistan, hoping the architect of the Iraq surge will seamlessly pursue the strategy laid down by his predecessor and smooth over divisions that led to his …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Canadian PM issues unqualified apology to kin of Air India victims

TORONTO – Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Wednesday issued an unqualified apology to the relatives of the victims of the Air India plane bombing of 1985.

The powerful and emotional apology was issued on the 25th anniversary of the tragedy in Toronto.

“I will make no attempt to make any sense of it. This was …. Read the original article  : here.

PM Harper’s Kanishka crash apology stirs strong emotions among Indo-Canadians

Surrey (British Columbia, Canada)/TORONTO – Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s apology about the Air India disaster reverberated across the country, stirring strong emotions among a new generation of Indo-Canadians.

“It means a lot,” said Romy Jassal, who was only seven at the time of the terrorist bomb explosion.

“I respect it, just in memory of those who [..] Read the original article: here.

Not in wildest dreams, says dad of new Australian PM

SYDNEY – The father of Julia Gillard, who became Australia’s first female prime minister Thursday, said he was elated but he had not anticipated “anything like this” in his wildest dreams.

John Gillard told reporters at his Adelaide home Thursday that he was “elated, excited, mindful of the enormous job ahead of binding the party together”. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hong Kong passes Beijing-backed electoral reforms that critics say will delay democracy

Hong Kong passes Beijing-backed electoral reforms

HONG KONG – Hong Kong legislators have approved Beijing-backed electoral reforms that critics say will delay democracy in this former British colony.
The proposals that expand Hong Kong’s 800-member leader selection committee to 1,200 people received 46 votes for and 13 against. Pro-democracy legislators who oppose the bill say the changes … Read more »».

Geelani booked under Public Safety Act

SRINAGAR – The crackdown on separatists in Jammu and Kashmir continued Thursday as hardliner Syed Ali Geelani was booked under the Public Safety Act while moderate Mirwaiz Umer Farooq was put under house arrest.

“Geelani has been booked for provocative speeches inciting youths to violence. We have booked him under the Public Safety Act. I have … Read more >>>.

Julia Gillard becomes Australia’s first female Prime Minister

CANBERRA J – Julia Gillard became Australia’s first female Prime Minister after Kevin Rudd stepped down in tears as the ruling Labour Party’s leader at the ballot meeting.

Governor-General Quentin Bryce will swear her in as the Prime Minister at 12.30pm (AEST).

Ms. Gillard was unanimously elected to the post.

Kevin Rudd became emotional as … Original source on Gaea Times at : Julia Gillard becomes Australia’s first female Prime Minister.

Jaswant Singh to rejoin BJP

NEW DELHI – Lok Sabha MP and former external affairs minister Jaswant Singh will rejoin the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) later Thursday, a party spokesman said.

He will be admitted into the party in the presence of senior leader L.K. Advani and party president Nitin Gadkari, spokesman Ramnath Kovind told IANS.
Jaswant Singh’s reinduction into the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

CEOs of Disney, Boeing, Hewlett-Packard join NYC mayor to advocate for immigration reform

NYC mayor, major CEOs lobby for immigration reform

NEW YORK – Chief executives of several major corporations such as Boeing, Disney and Hewlett-Packard are joining New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg to form a coalition advocating for immigration reform.
Their goals include a path to legal status for all undocumented immigrants now in the United States.
The group includes …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CEOs of Disney, Boeing, Hewlett-Packard join NYC mayor to advocate for immigration reform.

Thousands of Palestinians live in fear of being expelled as Israel tightens rules on movement

Fearing expulsion, Palestinians stay home
JENIN, West Bank – The Helou family is so worried about getting expelled to Gaza by Israeli authorities that they’re all but trapped in this West Bank town. They couldn’t even leave to get their disabled son the best possible surgery to let him walk.

Some 20,000 Palestinians in the West Bank …. Source  : Thousands of Palestinians live in fear of being expelled as Israel tightens rules on movement.

India to press Pakistan for anti-terror action

ISLAMABAD – The foreign secretaries of India and Pakistan will Thursday hold talks on all issues, including terrorism and Kashmir, the first such effort at their level after the Bhutan thaw to explore trust-building steps to revive the bilateral dialogue.
Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao will have delegation-level talks with her Pakistani counterpart Salman … Read more >>>.

Homeland Security to use unmanned surveillance aircraft along US-Mexico border

Homeland Security to use drones along border

WASHINGTON – The Homeland Security Department will use unmanned surveillance aircraft and other technological upgrades in its ongoing effort to protect the southern border of the United States.
The department said Wednesday it has obtained Federal Aviation Administration permission to operate unmanned planes along the Texas border and throughout the … Original article on : Homeland Security to use unmanned surveillance aircraft along US-Mexico border.

Divisions in Hong Kong pro-democracy camp widen in political reform debate

Hong Kong Democrats split in political reform vote

HONG KONG – A second Hong Kong Democrat defied his party Thursday and said he will vote against Beijing-backed political reforms, as divisions among the former British colony’s political opposition widened on the second day of debate on an election bill.
With the Chinese government preferring gradual changes to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Divisions in Hong Kong pro-democracy camp widen in political reform debate.

We are sorry, says Canada 25 years after Air India bombing

TORONTO – In a historic step on the 25th anniversary of the Air India bombing Wednesday, Canada formally accepted blame for the tragedy and apologised to the victim families.

“We are sorry… your pain is our pain… as you grieve so we grieve,” Prime Minister Stephen Harper told the victim families at a memorial service here. …. Original source  : We are sorry, says Canada 25 years after Air India bombing.

Australia’s ruling party ousts Kevin Rudd, installs first woman prime minister

Australia gets its 1st female PM as Rudd ousted

CANBERRA, Australia – A sudden revolt within Australia’s ruling party gave the country its first woman prime minister, who promised Thursday to safeguard her government’s reforms in education, health and industrial law.
Julia Gillard had been deputy to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd since their Labor Party swept to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Australia’s ruling party ousts Kevin Rudd, installs first woman prime minister.

Tulalip Tribes member Tracie Stevens to head National Indian Gaming Commission

Senate confirms new Indian gaming commission chair

WASHINGTON – The Senate has confirmed a member of the Tulalip Tribes in Washington state as chairwoman of the National Indian Gaming Commission.
Tracie Stevens most recently served as senior adviser to Assistant Interior Secretary for Indian Affairs Larry Echo Hawk. She also has worked in various capacities for her … Read more >>>.

Details of British-US Cold War intelligence-sharing pact made public

Details of Cold War intelligence pact published

LONDON – Details of the sweeping intelligence sharing pact struck between the United States and Britain at the dawn of the Cold War were made public for the first time Friday, laying bare the details of an unprecedented espionage arrangement.
The 1946 UKUSA agreement – a secret deal to not … Read more : Details of British-US Cold War intelligence-sharing pact made public.

Hundreds of Romanians try to storm palace presidential palace to protest austerity measures

Hundreds of Romanians try to storm palace
BUCHAREST, Romania – Dozens of Romanians have tried to storm the presidential palace to protest austerity measures.

Anti-riot police repelled those who tried to force their way past barricades into the 17th century palace.
Some 600 Romanians staged the protest Friday as the country’s top court was expected to rule whether … Original article on : Hundreds of Romanians try to storm palace presidential palace to protest austerity measures.

125,000 Bangladesh freedom fighters to get higher allowance

DHAKA – The Bangladesh government has announced higher allowance for 125,000 people who participated in the country’s freedom movement against Pakistan in 1971.
The amount is being raised from Taka 1,500 ($21.50) to Taka 2,000 from July 1, beginning of the next fiscal, State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Captain (retd) A.B. Tajul Islam …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 125,000 Bangladesh freedom fighters to get higher allowance.

Hong Kong passes 2nd set of electoral changes critics say boost undemocratic political system

Hong Kong votes to add elected legislative seats

HONG KONG – Hong Kong’s legislature on Friday agreed to add 10 elected seats, completing a set of Beijing-backed electoral changes that critics say reinforce the territory’s undemocratic political system.
The legislators approved the proposed changes by a vote of 46-12, concluding a three-day marathon debate. On Thursday, they … Read more : Hong Kong passes 2nd set of electoral changes critics say boost undemocratic political system.

Ex-Detroit Mayor Kilpatrick’s legal troubles could burden mother’s re-election bid to Congress

Congresswoman balances son’s troubles, campaign

DETROIT – U.S. Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick of Detroit is waging another re-election campaign while her son, Detroit’s former mayor, faces big legal trouble.
Already jailed for a probation violation, Kwame Kilpatrick was indicted this week on federal fraud and tax charges.
His problems could make his mother vulnerable in the Aug. 3 …. Read the original article  : here.

World leaders agree to disagree on best economic strategy to focus on other issues at summit

Leaders differ on how to nurture a global recovery

TORONTO – World leaders are having serious differences over the best way to nurture a fragile global economic recovery, so much so that they are agreeing to disagree in a variety of key areas to move on to other subjects.
Three days of talks are set to begin …. Read the original article  : World leaders agree to disagree on best economic strategy to focus on other issues at summit.

With jobs agenda stymied, congressional Democrats settle for short term fix for Medicare

Dems settle for Medicare fix as jobs bill falters

WASHINGTON – Congressional Democrats are looking for ways to salvage their election-year jobs agenda after the Senate failed to pass a bill extending unemployment payments.
Senate Democrats cut billions from the bill to attract enough Republican votes, but they fell three votes short Thursday of the 60 required …. Original article  : With jobs agenda stymied, congressional Democrats settle for short term fix for Medicare.

Arizona law revives immigration issue politicians had hoped to avoid in election year

Arizona law revives dormant immigration issue
TUCSON, Ariz. – With the scrawl of a pen, Republican Gov. Jan Brewer awakened a dormant – but politically explosive – issue of illegal immigration, sending shock waves across the political spectrum in an election year when both parties had hoped to sidestep …. Original article  : Arizona law revives immigration issue politicians had hoped to avoid in election year.

Majority of Australians blame Kevin Rudd for historic change

CANBERRA – A poll has revealed that one in two Australian people surveyed blamed former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd for the historic change in the country, while another one-third pointed a finger at the Labor Party.

Rudd stepped down as Prime Minister after Julia Gillard was unanimously elected to the post on Thursday.

The poll further … Read more : Majority of Australians blame Kevin Rudd for historic change.

G-20 Summit to deliberate on strong, sustainable and balanced growth: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Friday said the G- 20 Summit is expected to deliberate on a framework for strong, sustainable and balanced growth.

Prior to his departure to Canada, Dr Singh said: “India will participate in this exercise and project our expectations from the global economic and financial system, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : G-20 Summit to deliberate on strong, sustainable and balanced growth: PM.

Gillard assures Obama of Australia’s support for military campaign in Afghanistan

SYDNEY – On the first day as the Prime Minister of Australia, Julia Gillard telephoned US President Barack Obama to assure him that Australia will continue to support the military campaign in Afghanistan.

She assured Obama that Australia’s approach to the NATO-led coalition’s campaign would be the same as it was under former Prime … Read : Gillard assures Obama of Australia’s support for military campaign in Afghanistan.

Bihar bids goodbye to muscle-men, says Nitish

PATNA – Bihar is changing, and its youth no longer look up to ‘Bahubalis’ (muscle-men) as their role models, says Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Instead, the young admire people with clean records and those who have contributed positively to the society, the chief minister said on his blog.
The veteran politician said he had observed the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bihar bids goodbye to muscle-men, says Nitish.

Sushil Modi joins Nitish’s ‘Vishwash Yatra’

PATNA – Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi joined Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s ‘Vishwash Yatra’ Friday, indicating an end to the rift between their parties.

Nitish Kumar and Modi left for Aurangabad district as part of the programme ahead of assembly elections in October. The two are also slated to visit Gaya district later Friday, …. Source  : Sushil Modi joins Nitish’s ‘Vishwash Yatra’.

Gillard not to move into Australian PM residence

MELBOURNE – Australia’s new Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who lives in a simple brick bungalow near an Indian take-away, will not be moving into her official residence — for now.

Gillard said she would not move into the prime minister’s residence, The Lodge, till she was elected by the people. “I am very happy in my … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gillard not to move into Australian PM residence.

Manmohan to pitch for durable, balanced growth at G20

NEW DELHI – India will pitch for “durable, balanced and sustainable” global growth at the G20 summit in Toronto to meet its developmental goals, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Friday ahead of his departure for Canada where he will meet a host of world leaders.
“The (June 26-27) summit is expected to deliberate on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan to pitch for durable, balanced growth at G20.

Chidambaram clears release of four Pakistani prisoners

NEW DELHI – Ahead of his visit to Islamabad Friday, Home Minister P. Chidambaram set a positive tone by clearing the release of four Pakistanis in Indian prisons, reciprocating a goodwill gesture by Islamabad.
“The home minister has approved the release of four Pakistani prisoners as a gesture of goodwill,” the home ministry …. Source  : Chidambaram clears release of four Pakistani prisoners.

Tight security ahead of Gandhi’s visit

SHIMLA – Security has been tightened in Himachal Pradesh ahead of United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi’s trip to Kullu district Monday.
Gandhi, who also heads the Congress party, will lay the foundation stone of Rohtang Tunnel beneath the Rohtang Pass (13,050 feet), the gateway to Lahaul and Spiti district. She will then …. Original article  : Tight security ahead of Gandhi’s visit.

Left should not have withdrawn support to UPA on n-deal: Bardhan (Interview) (Repeating for all needing)

NEW DELHI – Communist Party of India (CPI) general secretary A.B. Bardhan now says the Left should not have withdrawn support to the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) in 2008 over the Indo-US nuclear deal and instead thought of a more “popularly convincing reason” for parting ways with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government.
He also …. Source article  : Left should not have withdrawn support to UPA on n-deal: Bardhan (Interview) (Repeating for all needing).

Malaysia bans political cartoons critical of government; artist vows to keep drawing

Malaysia bans political cartoons critical of gov’t

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysia banned three works of political cartoons that criticize the government, but one of the artists said Friday he was obligated to highlight issues other cartoonists would not.
The government said the cartoons in two books and a magazine posed a security threat.
Malaysia has banned dozens … Read more >>.

US visas pose ‘appallingly pervasive problem’

WASHINGTON – A day after India raised the issue of visas for Indian professionals and skilled workers, a senior US official acknowledged that visas posed an “appallingly pervasive problem” in science and technology cooperation.
“Visas have been an appallingly pervasive problem in science and technology cooperation,” said Dr John P Holdren, advisor to the … Read more >>>.

Most Aussies want to have beer with Oz PM Julia Gillard: Study

MELBOURNE – A survey has found that a majority of Australians would rather have a beer with new Prime Minister Julia Gillard than Opposition Leader Tony Abbott.

The exclusive Galaxy poll conducted nationwide showed that Gillard, 48, came way ahead of Abbott, 52, where personality traits were concerned.

“By a factor of around two to one she …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Most Aussies want to have beer with Oz PM Julia Gillard: Study.

Dick Cheney Hospitalized After Illness

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Dick Cheney, the former Vice President of United States who is counted among one of the most influential and strong Vice Presidents ever in the history of the United States politics, has once again been admitted to the hospital on Friday. The spokesman of Dick Cheney, Peter Long has said to …. Read the original article  : Dick Cheney Hospitalized After Illness.

AP Interview: US diplomat warns Turkey of eroding support, urges show of commitment to West

US: Turkey must demonstrate commitment to West
WASHINGTON – The United States is warning Turkey that it is alienating U.S. supporters and needs to demonstrate its commitment to partnership with the West.
The remarks by Philip Gordon, the Obama administration’s top diplomat on European affairs, were a rare admonishment of a crucial NATO ally.
“We think … Read more : AP Interview: US diplomat warns Turkey of eroding support, urges show of commitment to West.

World leaders moving to discussions of nuclear threats posed by Iran and North Korea

World summit turning attention to nuclear threats
HUNTSVILLE, Ontario – After failing to resolve their differences on economic strategy, world leaders are turning their attention to grappling with some of the globe’s toughest foreign policy problems.
President Barack Obama and other leaders of the Group of Eight countries meeting in Canada were to open their …. Read the original article  : World leaders moving to discussions of nuclear threats posed by Iran and North Korea.

SAARC meet begins

ISLAMABAD – Home ministers of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) began a meeting here Saturday.
The issue of counter-terrorism will top the conference agenda along with implementation of recommendations to enhance cooperation among member countries, Geo news reported.
Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik is chairing the conference, attended by Indian Home …. Read the original article  : SAARC meet begins.

Manmohan Singh leaves for Toronto to packed schedule

FRANKFURT – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh left for Toronto for the G-20 Summit Saturday and Sunday where he is also set to hold talks with a host of world leaders, including US President Barack Obama, and sign a bilateral nuclear cooperation pact with Canada.
The prime minister’s special aircraft Air India One had …. Source  : Manmohan Singh leaves for Toronto to packed schedule.

In NYC, Britain’s Prince Harry to visit UNICEF, throw out 1st pitch at Mets-Twins game

UNICEF, Mets on tap for British prince in NYC

NEW YORK – Britain’s Prince Harry showed he can shoot. On the second day of his U.S. visit, New Yorkers get to see his arm.
After firing an M4 rifle during a training exercise Friday at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Harry was scheduled to throw … Read more »»».

Pak asks Afghanistan to stop use of its soil for fanning insurgency in Balochistan

ISLAMABAD – In an apparent reference to India’s alleged role in fanning insurgency in Balochistan, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has asked Afghanistan to ensure that its territory is not used by any other country to destabilise Pakistan.
Talking to Afghan Foreign Minister Zalmai Rassoul, Gilani said both countries must work together to … Read more : Pak asks Afghanistan to stop use of its soil for fanning insurgency in Balochistan.

Now Russian president creates buzz with Twitter

TORONTO – “Met with David Cameron. Have agreed that we’ll continue to speak in person, not just online @number10gov…” It is no buddy chat online, but Russian President Dmitry Medvedev tweeting about his day’s engagements with world leaders at the G-8 summit Friday.

The Russian head of state, who was huddled with other G-8 leaders on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Now Russian president creates buzz with Twitter.

Afghanistan’s government reports explosion in the capital near embassies, offices

Afghan gov’t: Blast rocks Kabul’s diplomatic area

KABUL, Afghanistan – An explosion hit the Afghan capital Saturday morning in an area that is home to foreign embassies and government offices.
Zemeri Bashary, a spokesman for the Afghan Interior Ministry, said the blast occurred near the Afghan Foreign Ministry. A number of foreign embassies and offices of international …. Source  : Afghanistan’s government reports explosion in the capital near embassies, offices.

NKorea to elect new party leaders in possible campaign to elevate Kim Jong Il’s son as heir

NKorea to elect leaders amid succession campaign

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea said Saturday it will elect new party leaders at a rare meeting in September in what analysts say could be a move to strengthen a campaign to hand over power from supreme leader Kim Jong Il to his youngest son.
Kim, who suffered an … Read : NKorea to elect new party leaders in possible campaign to elevate Kim Jong Il’s son as heir.

Obama to host African leaders in August

TORONTO – US President Barack Obama will host African leaders from countries celebrating 50 years since independence in August, an administration official said.
Obama, whose father was from Kenya, announced the White House celebration during a meeting with African leaders at the Group of Eight (G8) summit in Huntsville, Canada.
“I’ll be 49 in …. Read the original article  : here.

India pleased yet guarded on nuke group’s stand

NEW DELHI – Indian officials noted with satisfaction the statement issued by the Nuclear Suppliers’ Group (NSG) on the prospect of civil nuclear cooperation with it but were wary about the stance taken by the 46-member body on the proposed China-Pakistan nuclear deal,
Indian officials, who were closely watching the developments of … Original source on Gaea Times at : India pleased yet guarded on nuke group’s stand.

We endorse India-Pakistan dialogue: US

WASHINGTON – The United States has expressed its appreciation for the increasing dialogue between Pakistan and India, saying it’s in their self-interest and larger US interest to reduce tensions through talks.
“Just as we’ve said many, many times, we appreciate and certainly endorse increasing dialogue between Pakistan and India,” State Department spokesman Phillip … Original source on Gaea Times at : We endorse India-Pakistan dialogue: US.

Publicly funded elections starting in Hawaii despite potential legal questions

Big Island launching publicly funding elections

HONOLULU – Hawaii is moving forward with its test run of publicly funded political campaigns this election year, despite a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling against a similar setup in Arizona.
The state’s experiment with publicly funded elections starts with this fall’s Hawaii County Council contest.
According to the Campaign Spending Commission, …. Original article  : Publicly funded elections starting in Hawaii despite potential legal questions.

Ecuadorean President Correa offers to mediate guerrilla conflict in Colombia

Correa offers to mediate Colombia conflict
OTAVALO, Ecuador – Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa said Friday that he would be happy to try to mediate an end to Colombia’s long-running conflict with leftist rebels.
He also said in an interview with The Associated Press that he’d be pleased to attend the Aug. 7 inauguration of Colombian …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Appeals court panel upholds decision against German Tennis Federation in lawsuit against ATP

Court rejects ATP appeal by German Tennis group

DOVER, Del. – A federal appeals court on Friday rejected a challenge from the German Tennis Federation to a court decision that cleared the way for the ATP Tour’s tournament restructuring.
A three-judge panel of the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia affirmed a 2008 federal jury … Read more : Appeals court panel upholds decision against German Tennis Federation in lawsuit against ATP.

The G-8 Muskoka Summit: Saving Lives Through the New G-8 Maternal and Child Health Initiative

The Muskoka Initiative:  Under Canada’s leadership, the G-8 has launched the Muskoka Initiative on maternal and child health (MCH), a comprehensive and integrated approach to accelerate progress towards Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5, which seek to reduce by two-thirds the under-five child mortality rate, and reduce by three quarters the maternal mortality ratio, respectively.  …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Memorandum from the President to the Secretary of Health and Human Services Regarding H.R. 3962

SUBJECT:Providing Stability and Security for Medicare Reimbursements
I have today signed into law H.R. 3962, the "Preservation of Access to Care for Medicare Beneficiaries and Pension Relief Act of 2010", which averts a 21.3 percent reduction in the Medicare physician fee schedule and replaces it with a 2.2 percent increase through November 2010.  By this memorandum, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Memorandum from the President to the Secretary of Health and Human Services Regarding H.R. 3962.

G8 pledges $7.3 bn for poor countries

HUNTSVILLE – World leaders and donor groups have pledged $7.3 billion in aid by 2015 to reduce child mortality and save women in poor countries from dying in childbirth, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Friday.

The leaders of the Group of Eight (G8) industrial economies have pledged $5 billion, while non-members such as New Zealand, …. Source article  : G8 pledges $7.3 bn for poor countries.

Home ministers’ meeting ‘immensely promising’: Pakistani media

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistani media have welcomed the bonhomie between India and Pakistan following the meeting of their home ministers, but expressed apprehension that the warmth may fizzle out if both countries do not move beyond their entrenched demands.

Indian Home Minister P. Chidambaram reached Pakistan Friday to attend the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Home ministers’ meeting ‘immensely promising’: Pakistani media.

Sudarsanam seventh lawmaker to die in 13th Tamil Nadu assembly

CHENNAI – Congress lawmaker D. Sudarsanam is the seventh member of the 13th Tamil Nadu assembly to have died during the tenure (2006-2011) of the state legislature.

The Congress Legislative Party leader died in a hospital in Coimbatore Saturday night following cardiac arrest. He was attending the first World Classical Tamil Conference there.
Besides Sudarsanam, …. Source article  : Sudarsanam seventh lawmaker to die in 13th Tamil Nadu assembly.

Guinea holds first free election after era of army rule

Guinea holds first free election
CONAKRY, Guinea – Guinea on Sunday held its first free election since independence more than half a century ago, a vote many hope will finally end decades of harsh military rule and launch a new democratic era.

On the eve of the ballot, the country’s powerful junta leader vowed to ensure fairness … Read more >>.

Yeddyurappa faces tough assembly session from Monday

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa faces the most difficult assembly session in his two-year rule as it starts Monday in the backdrop of the Lok Ayukta (ombudsman) resigning over “the government’s indifference to fighting corruption”.

The resignation by N. Santosh Hegde, a retired Supreme Court judge, a year ahead of completion of his five-year …. Source article  : Yeddyurappa faces tough assembly session from Monday.

Honour killings: Chickens of identity politics come home to roost (Comment)

Even a decade ago, khap panchayats – the caste-based village councils with their kangaroo courts functioning mainly in Haryana – were virtually unknown, and sporadic “honour killings” were reported only from northwest Pakistan. Now, these make headline news in India almost every day.

To understand this regressive phenomenon, it may be necessary to go back to … Read more >>.

Carla Bruni may get to see Taj Mahal later this year

TORONTO – When French President Nicolas Sarkozy visited the Taj Mahal in 2008, he was overawed by the monument of love, but could not show it to his then friend and now First Lady Carla Bruni.
This cherished moment is likely to be realised later this year, as Sarkozy has accepted Prime Minister Manmohan …. Source  : Carla Bruni may get to see Taj Mahal later this year.

G20 heads for compromise on budget cuts and growth

TORONTO – The leaders of the world’s 20 most powerful developed and developing economies (G20) looked to be heading for agreement on how to strike a balance between cutting their budget deficits and boosting growth, at a summit Saturday in Toronto.
Ahead of the summit, diplomats had said that the US, European Union and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : G20 heads for compromise on budget cuts and growth.

Manmohan Singh meets UK PM, seeks assurances to ensure global fiscal recovery

TORONTO – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, met his British counterpart David Cameron on Saturday, and told him that India would like to see the international community make continued and concerted efforts to ensure global economic recovery.

The bilateral meeting, which took place …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan Singh meets UK PM, seeks assurances to ensure global fiscal recovery.

Tamil Nadu Congress lawmaker Sudarsanam dead

CHENNAI – Congress lawmaker D. Sudarsanam died following a cardiac arrest Saturday night in Coimbatore, where he was attending the first World Classical Tamil Conference, hospital authorities said. He was 67.

The Tamil Nadu Congress Legislative Party leader was admitted to the Kovai Medical Centre and Hospital in Coimbatore, some 500 km from here, after he …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kyrgyzstan votes in key referendum that interim government hopes will legitimize its power

Kyrgyzstan votes in key referendum after violence

OSH, Kyrgyzstan – The people of violence-wracked Kyrgyzstan voted Sunday on a new constitution that the interim government hopes will legitimize the power it seized after a deadly uprising.
The Central Asian nation was on high security alert for the vote, deploying almost 8,000 police officers and an equal number … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kyrgyzstan votes in key referendum that interim government hopes will legitimize its power.

US extends wartime shield over South Korea

TORONTO – The US agreed Saturday that it would take command of South Korean forces in the case of an outbreak of war until at least 2015, a nod to growing tensions on the Korean peninsula.
The decision came during a meeting between US President Barack Obama and South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak on … Read : US extends wartime shield over South Korea.

Statement by the President on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

Today we celebrate the anniversary of the United Nations’ Convention Against Torture, one of the foremost international human rights documents.  The United States was a leader in the document’s drafting, and remains dedicated to supporting its principles at home and abroad. 

I continue to believe that brutal methods of interrogation are inconsistent with our values, undermine …. Original source  : Statement by the President on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.

Conference Call Briefing by Ben Rhodes, Mike Froman, Ambassador Jeff Bader, and Danny Russel

PRESS BRIEFING
BY BEN RHODES, DEPUTY NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR
FOR STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS;
MIKE FROMAN, DEPUTY NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR
FOR INTERNATIONAL ECONOMICS;
AMBASSADOR JEFF BADER, SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR
ASIAN AFFAIRS AT THE NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL;
AND DANNY RUSSEL, DIRECTOR FOR ASIAN AFFAIRS
AT THE NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
 
Via Conference Call

6:10 P.M. EDT
 
     MR. HAMMER:   Thank you, everybody, for holding on.  I know …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Armed mob breaks up political rally in Mexico; 3 dead, 6 wounded

Attack on Mexico political rally kills 3, wounds 6

ZINACANTAN, Mexico – A mob armed with clubs, stones and guns attacked a political rally in southern Mexico on Saturday, sparking hours of clashes that left three people dead and six more wounded.
Municipal police officer Mario Lopez said the attack in the town of Nachig, in Chiapas …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Armed mob breaks up political rally in Mexico; 3 dead, 6 wounded.

Fiorina courts Latino voters but key supporter differs with her on immigration policy

Fiorina courts Latinos in California Senate race

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Republican Senate candidate Carly Fiorina is making a new pitch to Latino voters with a Spanish-language website.
But her chief supporter at a Saturday launch, former U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez, has sharply differing views from Fiorina on immigration.
Fiorina supports Arizona’s immigration law, which Gutierrez called an … Read more : Fiorina courts Latino voters but key supporter differs with her on immigration policy.

Europe proposes UN Security Council reforms: Sarkozy

TORONTO – Europe’s most powerful states have proposed concrete reforms to the UN Security Council to give developing powers more say, the French president said Saturday at a Group of Eight (G8) summit in Canada.

The council has five permanent members with veto powers: Britain, China, France, Russia and the US. Other major states, such as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Europe proposes UN Security Council reforms: Sarkozy.

Oil spill cast shadow over Obama-Cameron meet

TORONTO – US President Barack Obama and new British Prime Minister David Cameron held their first bilateral meeting Saturday in Canada, overshadowed by tensions over BP Plc’s ongoing oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
The leaders flew together by helicopter from the secluded resort of Huntsville, Ontario, site of the Group of Eight … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oil spill cast shadow over Obama-Cameron meet.

Remarks by President Obama and President Hu Jintao of the People’s Republic of China Before Bilateral Meeting

Intercontinental Downtown Hotel
Toronto, Canada
 
4:45 P.M. EDT
 
     PRESIDENT HU:  (As translated.)  Your Excellency, Mr. President, I am very pleased to see you again.  If I remember correctly, this is our sixth meeting. 
 
In April this year, you and I had a very good meeting in Washington, D.C., and reached important agreement on growing the China-U.S. relationship.  … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Remarks by President Obama and President Hu Jintao of the People’s Republic of China Before Bilateral Meeting.

Washington state authorities search for father, toddler after car found on remote logging road

Father, toddler daughter reported missing in Wash.

PORT ANGELES, Wash. – Washington state authorities say they’re searching for a 21-year-old man and his toddler daughter after finding their abandoned car stuck on a remote logging road.
Clallam County Undersheriff Ron Peregrin says Jared Egnew took 1-year-old Madison Egnew for a drive Friday night to calm her down. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Washington state authorities search for father, toddler after car found on remote logging road.

Remarks by President Obama and President Lee Myung-Bak of the Republic of Korea After Bilateral Meeting

Intercontinental Downtown Hotel
Toronto, Canada
4:16 P.M. EDT
 
     PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, I just had an excellent discussion with President Lee and his team.  Obviously we are marking the 60th anniversary of the Korean War and the extraordinary friendship and alliance between our two countries.  And when I last visited the Republic of Korea, President Lee shared with … Read : Remarks by President Obama and President Lee Myung-Bak of the Republic of Korea After Bilateral Meeting.