Bharat Bandh To Delay Domestic Fliers

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Bharat Bandh has paralyzed the entire nation as transport services all over the country has been stopped. Not only the bus, train and the metro railway services but many domestic flights were called off in the wake of the Bharat Bandh.
The Airlines have canceled major domestic fliers moving in and out of …. Read the original article  : Bharat Bandh To Delay Domestic Fliers.

Mumbai Bandh Disrupts Normal Life

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The streets of Mumbai is wearing an almost unrecognizable and deserted look today as the nationwide bandh in retaliation to the hike in the prices of fuel by the UPA government began in the city along with the rest of the country. The nationwide strike has been called by the opposition …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chandrababu among many arrested in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N. Chandrababu Naidu and leaders of Left parties were arrested while holding protests against price hike here Monday.

Naidu was taken into custody along with several TDP leaders and activists when they staged a road block in the busy Ameerpet area.
Tension prevailed as Naidu’s supporters tried to resist … Original article on : Chandrababu among many arrested in Hyderabad.

Bharat Bandh Puts Delhi On Hold

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Bharat Bandh has put the capital city of Delhi on hold. Reportedly, BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) leader Vijay Jolly along with his followers were detained by the police in their custody after they blocked incoming traffic on Monday to make Bharat Bandh a successful one.
Earlier today Karol Bagh Metro called off all … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bharat Bandh Puts Delhi On Hold.

Bandh In Bangalore Hits IT Companies

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The IT companies across the city if Bangalore is going to be effected in a major manner due to the ‘Bharat Bandh’ which has been called by the opposition parties in order to protest against the hike in fuel prices by the UPA government. Large number of IT companies which includes … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bandh In Bangalore Hits IT Companies.

Bharat Bandh Today

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- With the aim of showcasing their opposition to the ‘hefty’ increase in the prices of petroleum products by the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, the opposition parties have called for a nation-wide ‘Bharat Bandh’ today. The 12-hour bandh which has been issued by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bharat Bandh Today.

2 police troopers killed in ambush in Russia’s restive Ingushetia

2 police killed in Ingushetia
ROSTOV-ON-DON, Russia – Russian officials say two police troopers have been killed in an ambush in the restive Caucasus republic of Ingushetia.

A spokesman for the republic’s Interior Ministry says a convoy of two ministry trucks came under automatic weapons and grenade fire on Sunday night. Two police troopres died and another … Read more : 2 police troopers killed in ambush in Russia’s restive Ingushetia.

Nepalese PM struck secret deal with Prachanda before resigning

KATHMANDU – Nepalese Prime Minister Madhav Kumar struck a secret agreement with Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) (UCPN-M) chairman Prachanda on the basic principles of the new constitution and the peace process, before his resignation.

According to Nepali Congress party’s former lawmaker Amresh Kumar Singh, who has been involved in numerous informal talks with the … Read more : Nepalese PM struck secret deal with Prachanda before resigning.

Opposition’s ‘Bharat bandh’ against fuel price hike paralyses normal life

NEW DELHI/ KOLKATA/ MUMBAI – Normal life in many parts of the country has been disturbed on Monday following a nationwide ‘bandh’ called on by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Left parties against the Congress-led UPA government’s decision to hike fuel prices.

Parties taking part in the shutdown also include, the Janata Dal (United), …. Original source  : Opposition’s ‘Bharat bandh’ against fuel price hike paralyses normal life.

Komorowski wins Polish presidential election

WARSAW – Acting president Bronislaw Komorowski has been elected as the new president of Poland. He defeated Jaroslaw Kaczynski by a narrow margin in the second round of elections, which took place Sunday.

According to an exit poll, Komorowski got around 52 percent vote whereas Kaczynski got around 48 percent. The final official results will be … Read more : Komorowski wins Polish presidential election.

Israeli defence minister to meet Palestine PM

TEL AVIV – Israeli Defence Minister Ehud Barak will meet Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad Monday to discuss the ongoing indirect Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, Israel Radio reported.
There was no indication where the meeting, the first between the two men since February, would take place.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who leaves Monday for … Read more : Israeli defence minister to meet Palestine PM.

US celebrates its 234th Independence Day with fireworks and festivals, hot dogs and heat

Fireworks to follow sun-scorched July 4 festivals
NEW YORK – The nation’s largest fireworks show lit up the sky in a burst of red, white and blue over the Hudson River straddling New York and New Jersey on Sunday, a scene that …. Read the original article  : US celebrates its 234th Independence Day with fireworks and festivals, hot dogs and heat.

French ministers resign after spending scandals

PARIS – Two French government ministers resigned over scandals which included a 12,000-euro ($15,000) bill for cigars and a 117,000-euro private jet trip, the Elysee Palace said late Sunday.

President Nicholas Sarkozy had accepted the resignations of Alain Joyandet, secretary of state for cooperation, and Christian Blanc, in charge of a new transport system for Paris, … Read : French ministers resign after spending scandals.

Venezuela accuses US of unfairly attacking Chavez, rejects Clinton’s criticism on human rights

Venezuela rejects US accusations of rights abuses
CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuela’s top diplomat accused U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton of attacking his country for seeking Latin American unity and opposing U.S. influence in international affairs.
He said she has “an obsession” with nations that stand up to Washington.
“This new attack against our country … Read more »»».

Puerto Rico panel to investigate clash between police and protesters outside Capitol

Puerto Rico panel to probe Capitol clash
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico has launched a probe of last week’s violent clash between police and demonstrators at the Capitol, the U.S. island territory’s civil rights commission said Sunday.

Judge Crisanta Gonzalez will lead a commission made up of members appointed by the governor as it investigates … Original article on : Puerto Rico panel to investigate clash between police and protesters outside Capitol.

Taking on increasingly tough Afghan fight, Petraeus rejects defeatism: ‘We are in this to win’

Petraeus takes over Afghan fight, vows to win it
KABUL, Afghanistan – “We are in this to win,” Gen. David Petraeus said as he took the reins of an Afghan war effort troubled by waning support, an emboldened enemy, government corruption and a looming commitment to withdraw …. Original source  : Taking on increasingly tough Afghan fight, Petraeus rejects defeatism: ‘We are in this to win’.

Germany’s Bavaria bans smoking in pubs, beer tents _ even at Oktoberfest

German state bans smoking at Oktoberfest
BERLIN – Smokers heading to Germany’s famous annual beer festival, Oktoberfest, will be stuck lighting up outside after voters Sunday supported a total smoking ban in Bavarian for restaurants, bars, cafes and beer tents.

Although voter turnout for the referendum was relatively low, at 37.7 percent, a full 61 percent of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Germany’s Bavaria bans smoking in pubs, beer tents _ even at Oktoberfest.

Exit polls in Polish presidential election show Komorowski as likely winner

Exit polls in Polish election give Komorowski edge

WARSAW, Poland – Exit polls in Poland’s presidential election show Bronislaw Komorowski with a slight edge over the late president’s identical twin brother, Jaroslaw Kaczynski.
An exit poll released Sunday by the TNS OBOP institute predicted Komorowski winning 53.1 percent of the vote, and Kaczynski winning 46.9 percent.
A separate …. Source article  : Exit polls in Polish presidential election show Komorowski as likely winner.

Salt Lake City government decides not to participate in boycott of Arizona businesses

Salt Lake City government won’t boycott Arizona

SALT LAKE CITY – The Salt Lake City Council has decided not to boycott Arizona businesses over the state’s toughest-in-the-nation immigration law.
Salt Lake City does about $21 million in business with Arizona firms each year and was urged to join a growing boycott of the state by the Los … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Salt Lake City government decides not to participate in boycott of Arizona businesses.

Biden asks Iraqi leaders to form own government

BAGHDAD – US Vice President Joe Biden Sunday attempted to bring more urgency to negotiations on the formation of an Iraqi government during a surprise visit to the country.

In separate talks with former prime minister Iyad Allawi and present incumbent Nuri al-Maliki, he urged the two to bring stability to the country, according to local …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Thai government extends state of emergency in 18 provinces and capital, lifts in 5

Thailand extends state of emergency
BANGKOK – The Thai government on Tuesday extended for three months a state of emergency in the capital and 18 provinces in the wake of bloody, anti-government demonstrations that pushed the country close to chaos. But the special law was lifted in five provinces.

The Cabinet agreed that there remained “situations that …. Original source  : Thai government extends state of emergency in 18 provinces and capital, lifts in 5.

More Indian Americans contesting polls this year

WASHINGTON – With the rise of ‘desi power’, as people of Indian origin call themselves, a record number of Indian Americans are running for public office this year.
In addition to Nikki ‘Randhawa’ Haley, who brushed aside allegations of marital infidelity and an ethnic slur to become the Republican nominee for governor in South …. Read the original article  : More Indian Americans contesting polls this year.

Thai government extends state of emergency

BANGKOK – The Thai government extended its state of emergency in Bangkok and 18 other provinces Tuesday for three months on the recommendation of military officials.

It decided to end the state of emergency in five provinces – Si Sa Ket, Nan, Kalasin, Nakhon Pathom and Nakhon Sawan – saying security conditions there had improved, while …. Read the original article  : here.

Sri Lanka opposition protests constitutional changes

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s main opposition party staged a protest Tuesday against proposed constitutional reforms that would enable the president to stand for a third term.

United National Party legislators carried placards and chanted slogans at parliament.
“President Mahinda Rajapaksa is trying to remain in power forever,” party leader Ranil Wickremesinghe said.
Rajapaksa’s United People’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka opposition protests constitutional changes.

Cabinet reshuffle likely this month

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is likely to reshuffle his cabinet before the monsoon session of parliament later this month, informed sources said Tuesday, a day after Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar asked that his ministerial burden be reduced.
The top government source, however, refused to say what kind of changes Manmohan Singh … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cabinet reshuffle likely this month.

Protesters force UN workers to stay in office in Sri Lanka, demand probe of wartime abuses end

Sri Lankans protest at UN office over abuse probe

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Protesters at the U.N. building in the Sri Lankan capital forced U.N. workers to stay in their office Tuesday to demand the world body end its investigation of rights abuses alleged during the country’s civil war.
Hundreds of national flag-waving men marched to the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Protesters force UN workers to stay in office in Sri Lanka, demand probe of wartime abuses end.

Dark reasons for India’s exit from Nepal passport deal?

KATHMANDU – Less than three months after Nepal’s coalition government cancelled a contract with India to print Nepali passports – a deal which would have allayed India’s growing security concerns – there are indications of dark motives behind the termination.

India’s state-owned Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd’s contract to print four million machine-readable …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mock twitter account targets Medvedev

LONDON – Russian President Dmitry Medvedev is being targeted by a mock twitter account lampooning him.

Just days after Medvedev sent his first microblog from twitter’s offices in California last month, an account called ‘KremlinRussia’ appeared – and swiftly drew more than 1,000 followers, The Telegraph reported.
By Monday, it featured 130 tweets, most of …. Original article  : Mock twitter account targets Medvedev.

India an important partner: Chinese premier

BEIJING – Premier Wen Jiabao has said that China regards India as an important strategic partner and the two countries would “take care of each other’s core interests and major concerns”.
“We will work with India to maintain high-level visits and take care of each other’s core interests and major concerns,” Wen said Monday …. Read the original article  : here.

Rights group: Israeli settlements control more than 42 percent of the West Bank

Israeli settlements cover 42 percent of West Bank

JERUSALEM – Jewish settlements control more than 42 percent of the West Bank, and much of that land was seized from Palestinian landowners in defiance of an Israeli Supreme Court ban, an Israeli human rights group said Tuesday.
The group’s findings echo what other anti-settlement activists have claimed in …. Original source  : Rights group: Israeli settlements control more than 42 percent of the West Bank.

Obama, Netanyahu to focus on getting Israelis, Palestinians to begin direct peace talks

Obama, Netanyahu to focus on peace talks
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu head into a White House meeting with the same goal: restarting face-to-face peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
Netanyahu on Sunday endorsed the U.S. call for direct talks between the two parties. That was just days …. Original source  : Obama, Netanyahu to focus on getting Israelis, Palestinians to begin direct peace talks.

Once a quiet, withdrawn teen, Alvin Greene emerges from obscurity to take on powerful senator

Once a withdrawn teen, man now takes on senator

MANNING, S.C. – Alvin Greene was a quiet, withdrawn high school student who rarely took chances or put himself in uncomfortable situations. Now, the 32-year-old unemployed military veteran is running against one of South Carolina’s most powerful senators.
Little information has emerged about Greene, who came from obscurity … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Once a quiet, withdrawn teen, Alvin Greene emerges from obscurity to take on powerful senator.

Wisconsin senator among Dems in unexpectedly close races as GOP spreads Senate playing field

Feingold faces unexpectedly tough race
WASHINGTON – Add Russ Feingold to the list of Senate Democrats who find themselves in unexpectedly tough races, the latest evidence of the GOP’s success in widening the playing field that President Barack Obama’s party has to defend.
The Wisconsin Democrat faces a wealthy political newcomer with early backing from … Read more »».

Protesters try to storm UN office in Sri Lanka, upset over probe of alleged wartime abuses

Sri Lankans try to storm UN office for abuse probe

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Protesters at the U.N. building in the Sri Lankan capital forced U.N. workers to stay in their office Tuesday to demand the world body end its investigation of rights abuses alleged during the country’s civil war.
Hundreds of national flag-waving men marched to … Read more »»».

Several Tibetans on way to celebrate Dalai Lama’s birthday detained in Nepal’s capital

Tibetan exiles detained by police in Nepal

KATMANDU, Nepal – Dozens of Tibetan exiles on their way to take part in a celebration for the Dalai Lama’s birthday were detained by police on Tuesday in the Nepalese capital.
Police stopped vehicles to check for the exiles, and an Associated Press reporter saw at least 22 Tibetans detained …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Shiv Sena lauds opposition unity during shutdown

MUMBAI – The Shiv Sena Tuesday lauded the unity of opposition parties and the spontaneous public support that led to the success of the nationwide shutdown against the rise in fuel prices and said a similar spirit had been been seen during the post-Emergency days.
In an editorial in the party mouthpiece Saamna, …. Original article  : Shiv Sena lauds opposition unity during shutdown.

PoK PM bats for India, says Pak not ready to seek Kashmir resolution

ISLAMABAD – In an unexpected shift of strategy, Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider has asked the Gilani government not to link the controversial Kashmir issue with the renewed deliberations with India.

Haider said that instead of linking the resolution of Kashmir issue with the ongoing negotiations with India, the government should first … Read more >>.

Mass. lt. governor feels ill after marching in 5 parades in heat, hospitalized in good spirits

Mass. lt. governor hospitalized, in good spirits
BOSTON – The lieutenant governor has been hospitalized after marching in several parades in 90-degree heat over the Independence Day weekend and becoming ill.
Lt. Gov. Tim Murray, who marched in five parades during a busy three-day holiday weekend, felt under the weather and decided to seek medical … Original article on : Mass. lt. governor feels ill after marching in 5 parades in heat, hospitalized in good spirits.

Power failure leaves British royal entourage in dark

TORONTO/WASHINGTON – A two-hour power outage in Toronto Monday left Britain’s royal entourage in the dark, as Queen Elizabeth II was wrapping up her visit to Canada.

The electricity went out after an explosion at the Hydro One power station, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported, leaving parts of the city sweltering in 40 degree Celsius … Original article on : Power failure leaves British royal entourage in dark.

Clinton calls on Russia to meet its cease-fire commitments in former Soviet state of Georgia

Clinton criticizes Russia for occupying Georgia
TBILISI, Georgia – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton rebuked Russia on Monday for failing to live up to the cease-fire agreement it signed nearly two years ago to end the fighting in this small former Soviet state.
She asserted that Russia is occupying parts of Georgia and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama to speak on export promotion, hear latest on oil spill

Obama to highlight commitment to export promotion

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama will spend part of his day on export promotion as well as the Gulf oil spill.
In the morning, after his regular daily briefing and meeting with senior advisers, Obama will give remarks in the East Room on his administration’s commitment to export promotion to …. Read the original article  : here.

Discrepancies in voters’ list lead to walkout

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Congress-led opposition in Kerala Wednesday walked out of the state assembly, protesting against the widespread discrepancies in the voters’ list published last week.

The local bodies elections are likely to be held in September.
Seeking an adjournment motion, Congress member V.D. Satheesan accused officials of NGO Union – which is linked to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian army steps up patrols to check massive street protests in restive Indian Kashmir

Army presence soars amid deadly Kashmir protests

SRINAGAR, India – Indian troops patrolled tense, curfew-bound cities in Kashmir on Wednesday in a show of force to help quell increasingly violent street protests.
Patrols in Srinagar, Kashmir’s main city, and the key town of Baramulla marked the first time in nearly two decades the army was called in …. Read the original article  : Indian army steps up patrols to check massive street protests in restive Indian Kashmir.

Sri Lankan protesters vow hunger strike to force UN to halt wartime abuses probe

Sri Lankan protesters vow hunger strike against UN

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lankan protesters threatened hunger strikes and nationwide demonstrations Wednesday if the United Nations doesn’t halt its investigation into possible abuses committed during the final bloody months of the civil war here.
The threats came a day after hundreds of demonstrators led by a government [..] Read the original article: here.

Manmohan Singh presides over Cabinet security meet on Kashmir

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Wednesday called for a Cabinet Committee on Security meeting to assess situation in Kashmir.

The meeting will decide on the mandate for the army, which has been called into the Valley to assist the state administration in maintaining law and order as all …. Read the original article  : here.

Federal government flexes its muscle in battle with Arizona over new state immigration law

Feds vs. state again in suit against Arizona law

PHOENIX – The federal lawsuit against Arizona’s tough new immigration law focuses heavily on a question that has been in the spotlight repeatedly the past decade and dates back to the Founding Fathers: The right of the government to keep states from enacting laws that usurp federal … Original article on : Federal government flexes its muscle in battle with Arizona over new state immigration law.

Hawaii gov. vetoes same-sex civil unions bill, ending months of speculation, emotional debate

Hawaii governor vetoes same-sex civil unions bill

HONOLULU – Hawaii’s governor ended months of speculation by vetoing contentious civil unions legislation that would have granted gay, lesbian and opposite-sex couples the same rights and benefits that the state provides to married couples.
Republican Gov. Linda Lingle’s action on Tuesday came on the final day she had to … Read more >>.

Nitish’s final report card Friday

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will release the final report card Friday on his government’s performance ahead of assembly polls in October-November.

The over 100-page report card in Hindi, English and Urdu will mainly highlight communal harmony and schemes for the development and welfare of minorities, Maha Dalits and women, an official source said. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nitish’s final report card Friday.

Nepal’s ousted king gets unexpected birthday gift

KATHMANDU – On his 63rd birthday Wednesday, Nepal’s deposed king Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah received an unexpected gift from the political parties who failed to form a new government within the deadline laid down by President Ram Baran Yadav.

The growing hostility among the three major parties is a shot in the arm for the ousted …. Read the original article  : Nepal’s ousted king gets unexpected birthday gift.

Indian origin peer quits House of Lords

LONDON – Four British peers, including Indian origin metal magnate Lord Bagri, have resigned from the House of Lords as a new law comes into force Wednesday.

The new law stipulates that in order to sit in either house of parliament, people should be registered in Britain for tax purposes.
A fifth peer, eminent architect Lord …. Source  : Indian origin peer quits House of Lords.

Sri Lankan protesters press demands for UN to halt probe into alleged wartime abuses

Sri Lankan protesters continue sit-in against UN

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – A small group of protesters continued to demonstrate in front of the U.N. compound in Sri Lanka’s capital Wednesday, demanding the world body scrap its probe into alleged rights violations during the country’s bloody civil war.
A sit-in continued overnight in front of the U.N offices …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sri Lankan protesters press demands for UN to halt probe into alleged wartime abuses.

Sri Lankan protesters besiege UN compound demanding halt to probe of alleged wartime abuses

Sri Lankan protesters besiege UN compound
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Protesters still are demonstrating outside the U.N. offices in Sri Lanka to force the world body to cancel its probe into alleged rights violations during the civil war.

The sit-in protest in front of the secure compound in the capital Colombo lasted through the night into Wednesday … Read more : Sri Lankan protesters besiege UN compound demanding halt to probe of alleged wartime abuses.

Hawaii governor vetoes measure aimed at boat tours that feed, observe sharks

HI gov. vetoes bill aimed at banning shark feeding

HONOLULU – Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle has vetoed legislation that would have banned shark feeding, including by boat tours that offer a close-up look at sharks.
In her veto message Tuesday, Lingle said the bill violated the state constitution by addressing more than one subject.
The measure initially dealt …. Read the original article  : Hawaii governor vetoes measure aimed at boat tours that feed, observe sharks.

Hugo Chavez: Salvadoran man detained in Venezuela being sent to Cuba to face bombing charges

Venezuela to send detained Salvadoran to Cuba

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuela plans to extradite a Salvadoran man wanted by Cuba as a suspect in a series of bombings, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez announced Tuesday.
Chavez didn’t say exactly when Francisco Chavez Abarca would be sent to Cuba, Venezuela’s closest foreign ally. The socialist leader made the announcement …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

3 killed as Indian security forces fire on rock-throwing Kashmiris protesting alleged abuses

3 die as Indian forces fire on Kashmiri protesters

SRINAGAR, India – Indian forces opened fire on hundreds of rock-throwing protesters in Kashmir killing three people as authorities re-imposed a curfew in the region’s main city amid increasingly violent demonstrations against alleged human rights abuses.
Security forces initially used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators, a police …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 3 killed as Indian security forces fire on rock-throwing Kashmiris protesting alleged abuses.

Hawaii governor vetoes same-sex civil unions measure, ending weeks of deliberation

Hawaii gov. vetoes same-sex civil unions bill

HONOLULU – Hawaii’s governor on Tuesday vetoed legislation that would have permitted same-sex civil unions, ending months of speculation on how she would weigh in on the contentious, emotional debate.
Republican Gov. Linda Lingle’s action came on the final day she had to either sign or veto the bill, which … Original article on : Hawaii governor vetoes same-sex civil unions measure, ending weeks of deliberation.

Judges order 2 Pa. newspapers to delete stories; 1 later reverses course, citing free speech

Judges order 2 Pa. newspapers to delete stories

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – Two newspapers want a state judge to overturn an order requiring them to delete archived stories and other information about two defendants, cases that touch on the potential for media censorship.
The Centre Daily Times and The Daily Collegian student newspaper at Penn State were …. Read the original article  : here.

Vice President Joe Biden heading to Los Angeles, ‘Tonight Show’ for chat with Jay Leno

Leno’s ‘Tonight Show’ to host Joe Biden
BURBANK, Calif. – Vice President Joe Biden is headed to Jay Leno’s stage.
The Friday appearance will be Biden’s first stop on NBC’s “The Tonight Show” since he took office in January 2009. He was a guest in 2007, and stopped in after he accepted the Democratic vice …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Vice President Joe Biden heading to Los Angeles, ‘Tonight Show’ for chat with Jay Leno.

AP source: Obama to bypass Senate in recess to appoint doctor opposed by GOP to run Medicare

AP source: Obama filling Medicare post sans Senate
WASHINGTON – A White House official says President Barack Obama will use the congressional recess to bypass the Senate and appoint Dr. Donald Berwick to oversee Medicare and Medicaid. Berwick is an expert on patient care who’s drawn fire from Republicans.
The official disclosed the so-called recess …. Source article  : AP source: Obama to bypass Senate in recess to appoint doctor opposed by GOP to run Medicare.

In NYC, Queen Elizabeth praises UN’s aims for peace, then places wreath at ground zero

Queen addresses UN, places wreath at ground zero

NEW YORK – Queen Elizabeth II challenged the United Nations to fight global dangers by “waging” peace, then entered ground zero on Tuesday for the first time to honor the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks.
Back in New York after more than three decades, the 84-year-old British monarch … Read more : In NYC, Queen Elizabeth praises UN’s aims for peace, then places wreath at ground zero.

Kadapa district named after YSR

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh government Thursday renamed Kadapa district as YSR district on the birth anniversary of late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, who was popularly known by his initials.

The state government issued a notification, renaming the native district of YSR.
Ignoring objections from the opposition parties and using the powers under Andhra Pradesh …. Original article  : Kadapa district named after YSR.

Army in Srinagar a deterrent: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Thursday said the army was deployed in Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir as a “deterrent”, with the police and paramilitary forces maintaining the law and order there.
“The army has been kept ready. The purpose of deployment of the army was a deterrent effect. Police and paramilitary … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Army in Srinagar a deterrent: Chidambaram.

Spy swap talk grows (Lead, Changing dateline)

WASHINGTON – Ten Russian spy suspects are expected to be arraigned Thursday afternoon in a joint appearance in a New York federal court, fuelling discussion about a possible swap with espionage suspects held in Russia.

Five of the Russian suspects were transferred Wednesday from Boston and Virginia to New York, the Los Angeles Times reported, where … Original article on : Spy swap talk grows (Lead, Changing dateline).

Strict curfew seals streets in most parts of tense Indian Kashmir after protest violence

Kashmir streets under army lockdown to end protest

SRINAGAR, India – Indian-controlled Kashmir was under lockdown Thursday as tens of thousands of soldiers patrolled the streets to enforce a rigid curfew aimed at ending weeks of violent anti-government protests.
Shops and schools were closed, streets ringed with barbed wire and roadblocks were deserted, the region’s nearly 60 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Strict curfew seals streets in most parts of tense Indian Kashmir after protest violence.

Embarassed US security officials searching for missing guns from Netanyahu’s luggage

NEW YORK – Four guns belonging to the personal bodguards of Israel’s prime minister have gone missing after arriving in New York, deeply embarrassing American officials.

The search for those four 9 mm semi-automatic Glock 17 pistols now “is priority No. 1 in American law-enforcement,” a Port Authority police official told The New York Post.

“They [the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Embarassed US security officials searching for missing guns from Netanyahu’s luggage.

Cameron to visit India to develop “special relationship”

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron will lead a senior cabinet delegation to New Delhi later this month to build what he called a new “special relationship” with India in an attempt to boost trade.
According to The Telegraph, Cameron will accompanied by Foreign Secretary William Hague, Chancellor George Osborne and Business Secretary …. Original article  : Cameron to visit India to develop “special relationship”.

Turkey’s high court OKs referendum on constitutional reforms, disappointing opposition

Turkish court OKs holding referendum on reforms

ANKARA, Turkey – Turkey’s highest court has given the go-ahead for a September referendum on a series of government-backed constitutional reforms by rejecting an opposition request that the measures be canceled.
The Constitutional Court made slight adjustments, however, to two measures that the secular opposition feared would increase the Islamic-oriented …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Turkey’s high court OKs referendum on constitutional reforms, disappointing opposition.

Opposition leader hospitalised after brawl in Italian parliament

Rome, July 8 (IANS/AKI) An opposition politician was admitted to hospital here after a heated debate on funding new youth centres turned violent in the lower house of the Italian parliament.

Italy of Values leader Franco Barbato was left with a bruised and bloody eye Wednesday, allegedly after being punched in the face.
“My right …. Original source  : Opposition leader hospitalised after brawl in Italian parliament.

Obama set to boost Democratic Senate candidates, talk jobs in Missouri, Nevada

Obama as campaigner in chief in Missouri, Nevada
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is talking to voters again about jobs and the economy. But he’s also concerned with two jobs in particular: Senate seats for Democrats in Missouri and Nevada.
Obama is combining a couple of economy-focused events Thursday and Friday with a campaign swing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama set to boost Democratic Senate candidates, talk jobs in Missouri, Nevada.

Andhra Pradesh remembers YSR on birth anniversary

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah led the state in paying tributes to his predecessor Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy on his birth anniversary Thursday.

The popular leader died in a helicopter crash Sep 2 last year.
“A heartfelt remembrance of the winner of people’s hearts. Our government will work every second to ensure that your …. Read the original article  : here.

Former UK envoy says Blair exaggerated Iran’s role in Iraq

LONDON – Britain’s former ambassador to Iran, Sir Richard Dalton, has accused former Prime Minister Tony Blair of making “a series of very bad decisions” about the legality of invading Iraq in 2003.

Sir Richard, who was in the job between 2003 and 2006, said Blair assumed Iran would be hostile to the war, but had … Read : Former UK envoy says Blair exaggerated Iran’s role in Iraq.

Sri Lankan minister begins hunger strike against UN probe on wartime abuses

Sri Lankan minister fasts against UN rights probe

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – A Sri Lankan cabinet minister started a hunger strike Thursday in front of the U.N. office after the world body refused to halt its investigation into alleged human rights abuses during the country’s civil war.
Buddhist monks chanted blessings and some 100 national flag-waving supporters …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sri Lankan minister begins hunger strike against UN probe on wartime abuses.

Jyoti Basu’s Man Friday now a loner

KOLKATA – Every alternate day Joy Krishna Ghosh visits Indira Bhavan and spends a long time in the room where Jyoti Basu spent his later years. Ghosh, the Man Friday of the late Communist patriarch for 33 years, would reminisce about his days with the legendary politician.

Having spent an eventful three decade first as Jyoti … Read more >>>.

Anti-UN protestors to go on hunger strike in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – Protests outside the UN office in Sri Lanka against a human rights abuse enquiry entered the third day Thursday, as some demonstrators decided to go on a hunger strike.

An estimated 100 supporters of the National Freedom Front (NFF) led by cabinet Minister Wimal Weerawansa are involved in the pro-government protests against the … Read : Anti-UN protestors to go on hunger strike in Sri Lanka.

Indefinite curfew continues in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – An indefinite curfew, enforced with the army’s assistance following violent protests that led to four deaths two days ago, continued Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital Srinagar and other major towns of the valley.
Seventeen columns of army soldiers conducted flag marches Wednesday to restore order in Srinagar which witnessed one …. Read the original article  : here.

Musharraf prepares to storm Pakistan politics

Islamabad, July 8 (IANS/EFE) Former president and ex-chief of Pakistan Army Pervez Musharraf has secured himself a launchpad for his return to the country from his exile in London: a political party which is founded with the desire of bringing about “a great change”.

“We are happy. There is still a lot of work to do, … Read : Musharraf prepares to storm Pakistan politics.

Bikinis will be as racy as it gets in Asbury Park, NJ; city rejects topless beach proposal

Asbury Park, NJ, nixes proposal for topless beach

ASBURY PARK, N.J. – The Jersey shore city best known for Bruce Springsteen says it doesn’t need any additional exposure: Asbury Park shot down a proposal Wednesday night to allow women to go topless on one of its beaches.
After hearing a report from City Attorney Fred Raffetto that …. Original article  : Bikinis will be as racy as it gets in Asbury Park, NJ; city rejects topless beach proposal.

US Senate could vote this month on bill letting Native Hawaiians form their own government

Deal struck on Native Hawaiian recognition

HONOLULU – A measure allowing Native Hawaiians to form their own government could come to a vote in the U.S. Senate this month following a deal with Hawaii’s Republican governor.
U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye and Gov. Linda Lingle said Wednesday they’ll support the bill after changes are made to clarify that … Original source on Gaea Times at : US Senate could vote this month on bill letting Native Hawaiians form their own government.

Statement by the Press Secretary on S. 1660, S. 2865, S.J.Res. 32

On Wednesday, July 7, 2010, the President signed into law:
S. 1660, the “Formaldehyde Standards for Composite Wood Products Act,” which establishes national air emission standards for formaldehyde in domestic and imported composite wood products;

S. 2865, the “Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act of 2009,” which reauthorizes the Congressional Award Program; and
S.J.Res. 32, which recognizes the 60th … Read : Statement by the Press Secretary on S. 1660, S. 2865, S.J.Res. 32.

Leftist who lost close presidential vote says he will run for Mexican president again in 2012

Mexico leftist presidential candidate to run again

MEXICO CITY – The leftist politician who narrowly lost Mexico’s last presidential election says he will run again in 2012.
Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador cried fraud after he lost the 2006 presidential race to conservative Felipe Calderon and he still refuses to recognize Calderon as president.
Lopez Obrador was the candidate … Original source on Gaea Times at : Leftist who lost close presidential vote says he will run for Mexican president again in 2012.

Judge’s gay marriage rulings in Mass. could have broad impact if they’re upheld on appeal

DOJ reviews Mass. rulings on fed gay marriage ban

BOSTON – A judge’s rulings in Massachusetts that the federal law banning gay marriage is unconstitutional could have implications far beyond the state if they’re upheld by a higher court after an appeal by the Obama administration, legal experts say.
U.S. District Judge Joseph Tauro said the law, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Judge’s gay marriage rulings in Mass. could have broad impact if they’re upheld on appeal.

Gadkari’s remark ‘obnoxious, obscene’, says Congress

NEW DELHI – The Congress hit out at Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Nitin Gadkari Friday, saying he should go to a psychiatric facility for the “obnoxious” remark that the ruling party was treating parliament attack convict Afzal Guru as its “son-in-law”.

“Obscenity, obnoxiousness, obtuseness should not be dignified by a response. It is very … Read more >>>.

Congress slams Gadkari over Afzal Guru ’son-in-law’ remarks

NEW DELHI – The Congress on Friday critisized Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Gadkari for taunting it over the delay in hanging Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru.

“It is very obvious that Gadkari has lost his mind completely. The BJP should take pity on him and deposit him into a psychiatric facility. The man needs …. Original source  : Congress slams Gadkari over Afzal Guru ’son-in-law’ remarks.

BJP divided over attending Omar’s all-party meet

JAMMU – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is divided over attending an all-party meet convened by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah next week to discuss the deaths of civilians and clashes in the Kashmir valley.

With 11 legislators, it is the fourth largest party in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly. Though it is critical of the National … Original source on Gaea Times at : BJP divided over attending Omar’s all-party meet.

NKorea says imprisoned American is receiving medical treatment after he tried to kill himself

NKorea: Imprisoned American tried to kill himself
SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea said Friday an American imprisoned for illegally entering the reclusive country has tried to kill himself.
Aijalon Mahli Gomes, from Boston, attempted to commit suicide and was being treated at a hospital, the North’s official Korean Central News Agency reported, citing information … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NKorea says imprisoned American is receiving medical treatment after he tried to kill himself.

Defeated South Carolina Republican accuses GOP leaders of caving in to demagoguery

GOP leaders let demagogues set tone, lawmaker says
WASHINGTON – Too many Republican leaders are acquiescing to a poisonous “demagoguery” that threatens the party’s long-term credibility, says a veteran GOP House member who was defeated in South Carolina’s primary last month.
While not naming names, 12-year incumbent Rep. Bob Inglis suggested in interviews …. Original article  : Defeated South Carolina Republican accuses GOP leaders of caving in to demagoguery.

Nepal seeks Paul, the oracle

KATHMANDU – After he finishes predicting the winner of the World Cup, would Paul, the octopus, now revered as Paul, the oracle, like to take up a new assignment?

Nepal, lying in another part of the hemisphere, wants the new star of World Cup 2010 and the biggest attraction of Germany’s Oberhausen town to make forecasts …. Original article  : Nepal seeks Paul, the oracle.

Election Commission Rules Out Early Polls

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- CPI-M (Communist Party of India) have praised the decision of Election Commission which on Wednesday announced that the 2011 Assembly Elections would be held in June next year as scheduled. Biman Bose who happens to be the politburo member for the party told the media that the decision to fix the dates … Read more »»».

Election Commission Takes Over Parliamentary Committee

ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN (GaeaTimes.com)- The Election Commission of Pakistan have asked the parliamentary committee to take a step back from the ongoing investigation for the educational qualifications of the lawmakers. Reportedly, the Election Commission said that it shall take over the case from the parliamentary committee and will deal it in their own way.
Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan …. Source  : Election Commission Takes Over Parliamentary Committee.

BJP to focus on situation in Manipur in Parliament

IMPHAL – Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swara,j has said that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would focus on what she called “the pathetic situation” of Manipur during the ensuing Monsoon Session of Parliament.

“For last many days, Manipur has been disturbed and suffering in many ways. Therefore, my party unit wanted us … Original source on Gaea Times at : BJP to focus on situation in Manipur in Parliament.

Egg thrown at Australian PM

SYDNEY – An egg was thrown at Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard in the Australian city of Perth Friday morning. The missile, however, missed its target and instead hit a security officer.

Police have arrested a 55-year-old man for the incident.
The egg attack took place at the entrance of ABC studios at 9.30 a.m. when … Read more >>>.

Gadkari alleges Congress treating Afzal Guru as its “son-in-law”

DEHRADUN – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari has asked the center to stop treating Parliament attack case convict Afzal Guru as the son-in-law of the Congress party.

Addressing a party rally here on Thursday, Gadkari said: “I want to ask the Congress leaders if Afzal Guru is their son-in-law. It is a party full … Read : Gadkari alleges Congress treating Afzal Guru as its “son-in-law”.

UN rules out reopening Benazir assassination inquiry report despite Pak’s objection

NEW YORK – The United Nations (UN) has ruled out reopening of the inquiry report over former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination following Islamabad’s objection.
Talking to journalists here, Farhan Haq, associate spokesman for the UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon said that the agency would soon reply to Pakistan’s objections over the commission’s … Read : UN rules out reopening Benazir assassination inquiry report despite Pak’s objection.

Oz PM’s positive body language comparable to Maggie Thatcher: Expert

MELBOURNE – A body language and communications expert has described Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s body language as perfect in terms of poise, humility and humour while getting her message to the people of the country across.

Michael Kelly said Gillard’s poise suggests the mark of woman who is “relishing” her new role, and says comparisons …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Malaysia wants economic pact with India by end 2010

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has revealed that his country would like to have a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) with India signed by the end of this year.
The Star quoted Razak as saying that he would like to see the CECA made official by the time his …. Original article  : Malaysia wants economic pact with India by end 2010.

Official says at least 5 killed, nearly 100 wounded in blast in Pakistani tribal area

Official: Large blast kills at least 5 in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A government official says at least five people were killed and nearly 100 wounded in a large explosion in a Pakistani tribal area bordering Afghanistan.
Local administrator Noor Mohammad said the blast struck a commercial area in Yakaghund village in the Mohmand tribal region on Friday. … Read more >>>.

Indian-American offered to raise $1 mn for Senate seat

WASHINGTON – US prosecutors have alleged that an Indian American supporter of Democratic Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr told him he would raise $1 million in return for then Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich naming Jackson to the Senate.
The allegation, made Thursday during Blagojevich’s federal corruption trial in Chicago, was the first time prosecutors publicly …. Source article  : Indian-American offered to raise $1 mn for Senate seat.

UN closes office in Sri Lanka over protests

COLOMBO – The UN closed its office in Sri Lanka and recalled its head to New York for consultations as government-sanctioned protests against an investigation into alleged war crimes went into their third day, a UN office spokesman said Friday.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Thursday said it was “unacceptable” that Sri Lankan authorities have failed …. Read the original article  : UN closes office in Sri Lanka over protests.

Queen appoints new governor general of Canada

TORONTO – Queen Elizabeth, who is also the sovereign of Canada, Thursday appointed David Johnston as the new governor general of the country.

A known academic and lawyer, Johnson will take office Oct 1. An alumnus of Cambridge and Harvard universities, he is currently vice chancellor of Canada’s University of Waterloo near here.
Johnson will replace … Original source on Gaea Times at : Queen appoints new governor general of Canada.

Obama names Preeta Bansal on body to make government work better

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has named Indian American lawyer, Preeta D. Bansal, as Vice Chair of an administrative reform body described as a “public-private partnership designed to make government work better”.
The appointment of Bansal, currently the General Counsel and Senior Policy Advisor for the Office of Management and Budget, and nine other …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama names Preeta Bansal on body to make government work better.

Breakaway faction of Suu Kyi’s former party receives permit to contest Myanmar elections

Suu Kyi party renegades register for elections

YANGON, Myanmar – A new party formed by renegade members of detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s disbanded party has received a permit to participate in Myanmar’s first elections in two decades, state media reported Saturday.
The National Democratic Force will join 37 other new political parties and five …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Breakaway faction of Suu Kyi’s former party receives permit to contest Myanmar elections.

Pillar of Shame: Memorial of 16,000 worn shoes blames U.N for Srebrenica failures

Srebrenica memorial to point finger at UN
SARAJEVO, Bosnia-Herzegovina – Phillip Ruch’s monument to Srebrenica is a huge jumble of worn shoes, more than 16,000 of them, each pair representing a victim of Europe’s worst massacre since World War II.

Seen from afar it will spell out U.N. in gigantic letters.
The “Pillar of Shame” is to be …. Source  : Pillar of Shame: Memorial of 16,000 worn shoes blames U.N for Srebrenica failures.

After Sri Lanka, UN under fire in Nepal

KATHMANDU – After Sri Lanka, where a minister is leading protests against alleged UN interference, the world body is now under fire in Nepal, where the prime minister has accused it of trying to derail the Himalayan republic’s fragile peace process.

An unusually strong outburst came from Nepal’s caretaker Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, who objected …. Source article  : After Sri Lanka, UN under fire in Nepal.

Train, road services hit during Bihar strike

PATNA – A strike called by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) to protest against the hike fuel prices hit train and road services in Bihar Saturday.

RJD and LJP activists stopped over a dozen long-distance trains at Patna, Gaya, Jehanabad, Hajipur, Bhagalpur and Darbhanga railway stations as part of their shutdown. …. Read the original article  : here.

Indian foreign ministry on Twitter

NEW DELHI – The Indian foreign ministry has also succumbed to the charms of the little bird. It has created a Twitter account and got several followers already.

In probably the first effort by a government ministry to harness the new age internet tools, the Twitter account was created Thursday, which initially had only two posts. …. Read the original article  : here.

Assam scam will be raised in parliament: BJP

GUWAHATI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday said the multi-million financial scam involving swindling of government funds by a clique of politicians-bureaucrats-militants-contractors in Assam will be raised in parliament.

“We would like this very serious matter relating to corruption to be heard in parliament. Our MPs would like to debate the issue during the upcoming …. Original article  : Assam scam will be raised in parliament: BJP.

Campaigning with Texas Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Bill White: A run through Pecos

Democrat Bill White charms West Texas for votes

PECOS, Texas – Bill White is canvassing off-the-beaten-track places in Texas to woo voters in his already monthslong gubernatorial race against incumbent Rick Perry.
White recently went to West Texas and ran through the streets of Pecos, a legendary Wild West frontier town on the edge of the Chihuahuan …. Read the original article  : here.

Tony Blair meets Kosovo’s Tony Blairs!

LONDON – On a visit to Kosovo, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair met nine boys who were named after him.

Parents named their newborns after Blair to thank him for his role in leading the international community to intervene to stop repression of the ethnic-Albanian majority.

The group of young Tony Blairs sang Michael Jackson … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tony Blair meets Kosovo’s Tony Blairs!.

Nirupama Rao to meet Dalai Lama

DHARAMSALA – Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao is to meet Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in McLeodganj, the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile, here Saturday, an official said.

Officials of the external affairs ministry here said the foreign secretary had no other programme.
“A meeting between the Dalai Lama and Rao has been scheduled at his …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nirupama Rao to meet Dalai Lama.

North Korea shows readiness to resume nuclear talks

SEOUL – North Korea Saturday vowed to continue its efforts for denuclearisation through international talks, but warned of “retaliation” if provoked.

The state-run Korean Central News Agency report came hours after the UN Security Council deplored the sinking of a South Korean warship without directly condemning North Korea.
“The DPRK (North Korea) will make consistent … Read : North Korea shows readiness to resume nuclear talks.

British fugitive kills himself in standoff with police after weeklong manhunt

UK fugitive kills himself after police move in

LONDON – British police say a fugitive has killed himself after police moved in to arrest him following a weeklong manhunt.
Police in northeast England say a man fitting the description of 37-year-old Raoul Thomas Moat, was found alongside a riverbank. Police surrounded him, and a hourslong standoff ensued.
The … Original article on : British fugitive kills himself in standoff with police after weeklong manhunt.

Farooq meet Chidambaram, seeks help for Omar

NEW DELHI – New and Renewable Energy Minister Farooq Abdullah met Home Minister P. Chidambaram here Saturday and sought help for his son and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to tide over the crisis in Jammu and Kashmir.
Officials at the Jammu and Kashmir House, the official state guest house here, told IANS that the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Foreign ministry to adopt social marketing tools, soon

NEW DELHI – The Indian foreign ministry is shortly coming to a social networking tool near you.

The public diplomacy division of the external affairs ministry will soon launch a new portal, which will be the springboard for entry into social networking platforms like Facebook and Twitter, officials told IANS.
This will probably be the …. Source  : Foreign ministry to adopt social marketing tools, soon.

David Miliband accuses Gordon Brown of lacking “moral seriousness” as PM

LONDON – The Labour leadership candidate David Miliband has made his most outspoken attack on former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, saying he lacked the “moral seriousness” he had promised and lost the trust of the people.

According to The Telegraph, Miliband accused Brown, the man he is bidding to replace as Labour leader, of failing … Original source on Gaea Times at : David Miliband accuses Gordon Brown of lacking “moral seriousness” as PM.

Gilani calls US to adopt approach fair and non-discriminatory towards Pak

ISLAMABAD – While admitting that trust deficit between Pakistan and the United States still existed, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has urged Washington to adopt a fair and non-discriminatory approach towards Islamabad.

During a meeting with US Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Senator Carl Levin, and member of the committee Jack Read here, Gilani stressed that …. Source  : Gilani calls US to adopt approach fair and non-discriminatory towards Pak.

Reaction to UN war crimes probe unwarranted: Ban tells Colombo

COLOMBO – A hunger strike by a former Sri Lankan minister against a UN investigation into alleged war crimes entered its third day here Saturday as UN chief Ban Ki-moon urged the government to “normalise” the situation outside the UN office in Colombo.

Government supporters began protesting outside the UN office in Colombo Tuesday. Wimal Weerawansa, …. Source article  : Reaction to UN war crimes probe unwarranted: Ban tells Colombo.

Trains stopped in Bihar to enforce shutdown

PATNA – Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) workers Saturday halted trains and blocked roads in several places across Bihar to enforce their statewide shutdown to protest the fuel price hike and rising prices.

Police said several long distance trains were stopped and roads blocked. Buses, trucks and other vehicles kept … Read : Trains stopped in Bihar to enforce shutdown.

Obama calls Abbas, favours direct Palestine-Israel talks

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama called up Palestinian National Authority (PNA) Chairman Mahmoud Abbas and discussed ways to “advance to direct talks” towards building peace between Palestine and Israel, the White House said.
Obama, in the phone talk Friday, expressed his “strong support” for Abbas’ leadership on behalf of the Palestinian people, and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama calls Abbas, favours direct Palestine-Israel talks.

Bandh was a political and tactical mistake (Comment)

It took only a day for the communists to switch from gloating over the “success” of the recent all-India bandh to offering explanations for their disruptive act.
To the charge that the shutdown cost the country “thousands of crores”, Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat said that the “cry was being … Read more >>>.

‘US reaching out to Muslims to end negative perceptions’

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is reaching out to Muslims across the world in an attempt to change what a person charged with the effort says is a widely-held negative narrative about Islam and terrorism.
“We’re going out and hearing from people who are doing innovative and creative things. We’re lifting up their …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Curfew lifts in most parts of Indian Kashmir but separatist strike closes shops in region

Curfew lifts in most of Kashmir, but strike called

SRINAGAR, India – A rigid curfew was lifted from most of Kashmir on Sunday, but shops and businesses remained shut after separatists called for a strike to protest Indian rule in the Himalayan region.
Curfew-like restrictions were imposed in some areas of Srinagar, the main city in Indian … Original article on : Curfew lifts in most parts of Indian Kashmir but separatist strike closes shops in region.

Fidel Castro makes rare public appearance

HAVANA – A Cuban website published photographs over the weekend of revolutionary leader Fidel Castro making his first public appearance since he resigned as president in mid-2006.

The official Cubadebate website ran five photographs taken by Castro’s son, Alex, during a visit Wednesday to the National Scientific Research Centre.
The former president, 83, commemorated the 45th …. Original source  : Fidel Castro makes rare public appearance.

Most MPs against women’s bill: Sharad Yadav (Interview)

NEW DELHI – Continuing his opposition to the Women’s Reservation Bill, Janata Dal-United (JD-U) president Sharad Yadav says that 90 percent of MPs are against the bill that seeks to set aside a third of all seats in India’s legislatures for women.
“If there is no party whip, 90 percent of the MPs will … Read more »».

Stop bickering, Malaysian PM tells ethnic Indian politicians

KUALA LUMPUR – “Stop the internal bickering and change with the times,” Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak Sunday told the leadership of the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) – the largest party of ethnic Indians in the country.

“Do not fight and destroy MIC, that’s my plea to you,” he told the 3,000 delegates and observers …. Read the original article  : Stop bickering, Malaysian PM tells ethnic Indian politicians.

Chinese credit firm declares US worse risk than China in first report on government debt

Chinese credit firm says US worse risk than China
BEIJING – A Chinese firm that aims to compete with Western rating agencies declared Washington a worse credit risk than Beijing in its first report on government debt Sunday amid efforts by China to boost its influence in global markets.
Dagong International Credit Rating Co.’s verdict …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Oz Govt. reconsidering Rudd’s concept of ‘Asia-Pacific community’

CANBERRA – Australian Government is making progress in the proposal made by former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd to create a new Asia-Pacific community, which aimed to bring together the United States, Australia and Asian nations in a new forum.

Foreign Minister Stephen Smith has said that the ‘Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ is considering if the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz Govt. reconsidering Rudd’s concept of ‘Asia-Pacific community’.

Nepal crisis deepens as parties fail to name new PM

KATHMANDU – The crisis gripping Nepal since the fall of its first Maoist government in 2009 deepened Sunday with the parties continuing to trade charges and failing to name a new prime minister.

The 25 parliamentary parties need to come up with a new consensus government by Monday to replace the caretaker government of Prime Minister … Original article on : Nepal crisis deepens as parties fail to name new PM.

PM urges Mehbooba Mufti to attend Kashmir meeting

SRINAGAR – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has called Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti and urged her party to attend the all-party meeting called Monday by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over the violence in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Yes, the prime minister called her Saturday night and urged her to reconsider her party’s decision … Original source on Gaea Times at : PM urges Mehbooba Mufti to attend Kashmir meeting.

Stooped, but smiling Fidel greets workers in first photos of public outing since illness

New photos show smiling Fidel Castro out in public
HAVANA – New pictures of Fidel Castro show the stooped but smiling former leader venturing out to meet with workers at a Cuban scientific think tank – the first to show him in public since he got sick four years ago.
Previously, Cuba had … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Stooped, but smiling Fidel greets workers in first photos of public outing since illness.

Japan voting for upper house begins

TOKYO – The stakes are high for Japan’s ruling Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) in Sunday’s upper house elections, as polls opened to voters.

The party and its ally need to win 56 seats to control the chamber.
The DPJ currently holds 116 seats, and its junior partner, the People’s New Party, six seats. Half of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Guinea presidential runoff due Aug. 1

Guinea presidential runoff due Aug. 1
CONAKRY, Guinea – Guinea’s Supreme Court says a runoff vote to choose the country’s next president will be held Aug. 1.

The second round had originally been scheduled July 18, but the Supreme Court has needed more time to sort through fraud complaints.
Court spokesman Robert Guilao made the announcement in a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Guinea presidential runoff due Aug. 1.

Fidel Castro shown in rare public appearance in new photos posted on Web by Cuban journalists

New photos of smiling Fidel Castro posted on Web
HAVANA – New photographs of a smiling, tracksuit-clad Fidel Castro greeting workers at a scientific think tank were posted on the blogs of two Cuban journalists and a media website Saturday, offering a rare glimpse of the reclusive revolutionary leader in a public … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Fidel Castro shown in rare public appearance in new photos posted on Web by Cuban journalists.

Seventh lawsuit filed over Ariz. immigration law, first to object to police training materials

Seventh lawsuit filed over Ariz. immigration law

PHOENIX – A seventh challenge filed to block enforcement of Arizona’s tough new immigration is the first legal objection to training materials designed to teach police officers how to enforce the law.
The lawsuit, filed Friday in federal court, says the training materials are “so vague and ill-defined that they … Read more >>>.

DNC panel recommends fewer superdelegates in 2012 presidential nominee selection process

Democrats look to shift delegate balance
WASHINGTON – Democrats have taken an initial step toward limiting the influence of so-called independent superdelegates in choosing the party’s presidential nominee in 2012.

A Democratic National Committee panel is recommending a reduction in the number of superdelegates, from 20 percent of the total number of delegates to 15 percent.
The full … Read more >>.

1.1 million people rally in Barcelona in favor of greater Catalan autonomy within Spain

Catalans rally for greater autonomy within Spain

BARCELONA, Spain – More than a million people gathered Saturday in northeastern Barcelona to demand greater regional autonomy for Catalonia and protest a recent court ruling forbidding this prosperous region from calling itself a nation.
City government spokesman Manuel Campillo said police had counted 1.1 million people at a vast …. Source article  : 1.1 million people rally in Barcelona in favor of greater Catalan autonomy within Spain.

How much is that doggie in the window? San Francisco may tell pet stores to stop selling

San Francisco hits nerve with pet sale ban idea

SAN FRANCISCO – As Philip Gerrie tells it, the idea of banning pet sales in San Francisco started simply enough, with a proposal to outlaw puppy and kitten mills.
West Hollywood, Calif. had done it, with little fanfare. Why not the city of St. Francis, patron saint of … Original source on Gaea Times at : How much is that doggie in the window? San Francisco may tell pet stores to stop selling.

Foreign diplomats get Chinese lessons

BEIJING – A total of 31 diplomats from 16 countries attended the first Chinese language programme that included classes on culture, opera, paper cutting, calligraphy and shadow boxing.

The study programme concluded Saturday, Xinhua reported citing the Chinese Language Council International.
The programme, which started Feb 27 with a two-hour class every Saturday, attracted 31 diplomats … Read : Foreign diplomats get Chinese lessons.

Iran says death by stoning sentence for woman convicted of adultery under review

Iran to review woman’s stoning verdict
TEHRAN, Iran – The lawyer for an Iranian widow sentenced to be stoned to death for an adultery conviction expressed cautious optimism Saturday after Iran said it will review the decision, which has drawn international condemnation.

Human rights activists and other officials, however, warned that Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, a 43-year-old mother … Read : Iran says death by stoning sentence for woman convicted of adultery under review.

Bihar shutdown over price hike affects normal life

PATNA – A state-wide shutdown spearheaded by the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD)-Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) combine in Bihar against the hike in fuel prices disrupted normal life here on Saturday with RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan courting arrest … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bihar shutdown over price hike affects normal life.

Gaza aid ship to sail from Greece to Egypt instead of to Gaza, Greek foreign ministry says

Greece says Gaza aid ship to sail to Egypt

ATHENS, Greece – A ship commissioned by a Libyan charity organization is set to leave shortly for the Egyptian port of al-Arish, and not for Gaza, as originally planned, a Greek foreign ministry spokesman says.
“They are set to leave very soon for al-Arish. … We confirmed their …. Source article  : Gaza aid ship to sail from Greece to Egypt instead of to Gaza, Greek foreign ministry says.