Political News – Weekly Newsletter for March 1-7, 2011

Monday, March 7, 2011

Manmohan Singh lauds Mukherjee, says budget meets economic challenges

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Monday praising Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said the Union Budget meets all the challenges that the economy faces today including sustaining high growth rates.

He said that adequate provisions have been made for infrastructure and social sector as well as agricultural development.

“It is important to curb … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh lauds Mukherjee, says budget meets economic challenges.

Berlusconi back on trial as tax fraud court case resumes

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi will be put on trial again as tax fraud court case resumes in Italy.

It is the first of four upcoming court cases that will train an intense spotlight on his private life and business practices, reports the Guardian.

However, the prime minister is not expected to be …. Original source : Berlusconi back on trial as tax fraud court case resumes.

US, allies discuss no-fly zone over Libya

WASHINGTON – The US was weighing options of declaring a no-fly zone over Libya in response to its growing unrest, media reports said.

US officials Sunday talked to European and NATO allies about the measure, which would aim to prevent airstrikes against the civilian uprising, The New York Times said.
A UN diplomat …. Original article : US, allies discuss no-fly zone over Libya.

Didn’t discuss Karmapa issue with US envoy: Dalai Lama’s Office

DHARAMSALA – The controversy over the 17th Karmapa did not figure in a meeting between US Ambassador Timothy J. Roemer and Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, the latter’s office here said Monday.

“Neither side raised the issue of the Karmapa at all during the meeting,” an official statement quoting Tibetan spiritual leader’s private secretary …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Didn’t discuss Karmapa issue with US envoy: Dalai Lama’s Office.

Outgoing French foreign minister rejects blame

PARIS – French Foreign Minister Michele Alliot-Marie has defended her track record, saying that she was the victim of a media campaign as she announced her resignation.

“Although I have the feeling of not having committed an error, I have decided to resign from my role as European affairs and foreign minister,” she wrote in … Read more »».

US puts on hold Bangladesh ties over Yunus harassment

DHAKA – The US officials have told Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina that “there will be no further high-level diplomatic interaction” until the “harassment” of Grameen Bank founder Muhammad Yunus ends, a media report claimed Monday.

This could include Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s impending visit to Dhaka after she completes her India visit in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US puts on hold Bangladesh ties over Yunus harassment.

Berlusconi’s ‘bunga bunga’ party girls ’scared of catching AIDS from him’

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s party women were terrified of contracting AIDS and other sexually-transmitted diseases from him, new evidence has revealed.

The claims, based on text messages sent between the women, cast further doubt on the prime minister’s insistence that the ‘bunga bunga’ parties at his villas in Milan and Sardinia were nothing …. Source article : Berlusconi’s ‘bunga bunga’ party girls ’scared of catching AIDS from him’.

Canada pre-empts Gaddafi plan to withdraw millions from banks

TORONTO – Canada imposed sanctions on Libya in a swift Sunday night move after reports that embattled Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi and his family were planning to withdraw millions of dollars held in Canadian banks.

SNC-Lavalin, which made headlines in India in 2009 after being named a Kerala power scam, will be one of … Original article on : Canada pre-empts Gaddafi plan to withdraw millions from banks.

Not army’s job to float parties: Omar

JAMMU – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has denounced reports suggesting the army is seeking to float political parties in Jammu and Kashmir with the help of counter-insurgency leaders.

“The issue about former militants floating a political party in the state has been blown out of proportion. It has been projected as if the ministry of …. Original source : Not army’s job to float parties: Omar.

Not army’s job to float parties: Omar

JAMMU – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has denounced reports suggesting the army is seeking to float political parties in Jammu and Kashmir with the help of counter-insurgency leaders.

Stone-throwing protests unfortunate: Kashmir governor

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra, in his address to the state legislature at the start of the budget session Monday, termed as unforunate the stone-throwing protests of last summer and also stressed the need for India-Pakistan dialogue.

Vohra regreted the “loss of life”. It was a reference to the four-month long … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Stone-throwing protests unfortunate: Kashmir governor.

Malaysian PM disapproves of protests by ethnic Indian group

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has criticised a banned organisation of Indians whose supporters courted arrest to demand withdrawal of a school book they say makes racist references to ethnic Indians.

The demonstration Sunday by the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) was “a deliberate move to create bad publicity for Malaysia …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Malaysian PM disapproves of protests by ethnic Indian group.

Vande Mataram slogans in Kashmir assembly

JAMMU – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators Monday shouted “Vande Mataram” in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly at the start of the budget session.

Sporting the national tricolor on their chests, they raised the slogans in unison, protesting against what they called was the Omar Abdullah government’s anti-national act of stopping party leaders from hoisting …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Vande Mataram slogans in Kashmir assembly.

Gilani vows to continue policy of reconciliation in Pak

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has expressed his resolve to continue his party’s reconciliation policy to make the country’s parliament and democratic institutions stronger.

Gilani also said that the country would not be able to afford mid-term or general elections in the prevailing circumstances, and stressed that the PPP would continue to play …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Gilani vows to continue policy of reconciliation in Pak.

Stalemate over Kashmir legislative council secretary

JAMMU – The appointment of a secretary to the Jammu and Kashmir legislative council – the upper house of the state legislature – has been tossed to Raj Bhavan, with two different people being appointed to the post.

Governor N.N. Vohra’s intervention has been sought in the matter as he is the constitutional head of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Stalemate over Kashmir legislative council secretary.

Canada sanctions freeze Gaddafi’s millions in its banks

TORONTO – Canada Sunday joined the UN and the US in imposing sanctions on Libya.

The sanctions Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced will freeze millions of dollars reportedly held by Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and his family in Canadian banks.
Asking the Libyan leader to step down immediately, the Canadian prime minister said Gaddafi “has …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Canada sanctions freeze Gaddafi’s millions in its banks.

Nearly 100,000 have fled Libya in past week: UN

GENEVA – Nearly 100,000 people have fled the unrest in Libya over the last week, according to the United Nations’ refugee agency UNHCR.

Most of the refugees have fled into neighbouring Tunisia and Egypt, which have come through popular uprisings of their own in the past months and are coping with uneasy government transitions.
“We … Read : Nearly 100,000 have fled Libya in past week: UN.

US reaching out to Libyan opposition: Clinton

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said the US was reaching out to Libya’s opposition as she renewed calls for Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi to step down.

The US government had been “reaching out to many different Libyans who are attempting to organize in the east and as the revolution moves westward … Read more >>.

Gaddafi’s favorite nurse returns to Ukraine

Kiev (Ukraine), Feb 28 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The favorite nurse of embattled Libyan leader’s Muammar Gaddafi has returned home to Ukraine, media reports said.

Galyna Kolotnytska, 38, was among 185 people who were evacuated by plane sent by Ukraine’s defence ministry to Libya Sunday.
Shortly after her arrival, the nurse went to see her daughter Tatyana, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gaddafi’s favorite nurse returns to Ukraine.

Libyan opposition forms national council

Moscow, Feb 28 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The opposition, struggling to oust embattled Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, has announced it has formed a national council in an effort to free the country of the dictator’s rule.

“The main aim of the national council is to have a political face … for the revolution,” Hafiz Ghoga, a spokesman …. Read the original article : Libyan opposition forms national council.

Bihar moves another step to weed out corruption

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s initiatives to check corruption are showing results.

Nearly 80 percent of 400,000 government officials, including Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) officers in Bihar, have submitted their assets details to the state government as per an official directive.
The remaining 20 percent officials are likely … Read more >>.

Libyan protesters defiant against Gaddafi’s security forces

CAIRO/TRIPOLI – Clashes continued across Libya Tuesday as forces loyal to leader Muammar Gaddafi fought to regain control over areas taken over by protesters.

Witnesses from around 25 km south of the capital Tripoli said tanks and anti-aircraft crews were deployed at all major intersections, activists reported in messages posted online.
Clashes continued in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Libyan protesters defiant against Gaddafi’s security forces.

Blair signed deal to train Gaddafi’s special forces during visit to Libya in 2007

LONDON – Tony Blair had reportedly signed a deal with Libya to train Colonel Muammar Gaddafi’s special forces and supply him with NATO secrets, during his last foreign trip to Africa as British Prime Minister in May 2007.

According to The Telegraph, the two leaders had agreed to co-operate on defence matters in a range …. Original article : Blair signed deal to train Gaddafi’s special forces during visit to Libya in 2007.

Parliament disrupted over 1984 killings, caste census, farmers’ plight (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Ruckus by opposition MPs over various issues, including the plight of farmers in Madhya Pradesh, the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, caste census and phone tapping, led to disruptions in both houses of parliament Tuesday.

Opposition members sought to raise the killing of Sikhs in Rewari district of Haryana in the anti-Sikh riots in … Read more »».

JPC members from Rajya Sabha to be named

NEW DELHI – The 10 Rajya Sabha members for the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe the spectrum scam and the telecom policy are to be announced Tuesday.

Their nomination will complete the JPC, which has 20 Lok Sabha members.
The Rajya Sabha representatives in the JPC are likely to be P.J. Kurien, Abhishek [..] Read the original article: here.

Opposition stages walkout in Kashmir assembly

JAMMU – Opposition legislators walked out of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly Tuesday after staging noisy protests in the house.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members, including its president and legislature party leader Mehbooba Mufti, wanted Speaker Mohammad Akbar Lone to accept their adjournment motion and discuss the situation in the Valley where it alleged that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Opposition stages walkout in Kashmir assembly.

Haryana’s lop-sided job quota raised in Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI – Describing it as a “new face of reservation”, Communist Party of India-Marxist member Brinda Karat Tuesday raised the issue of 67 percent quota for men in jobs in Haryana and said the state government was depriving women of a level playing field.

“This is a new face of reservation, the 33 percent … Original source on Gaea Times at : Haryana’s lop-sided job quota raised in Rajya Sabha.

Telangana protestors bring daily life to rail tracks

HYDERABAD – From cooking and eating to shaving and playing games, they carried out their daily routine along the railway tracks. It was a unique protest in Telangana as people demanding separate statehood to the region in Andhra Pradesh squatted on the tracks to bring the movement of trains to a halt Tuesday.

Men and …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Parliament disrupted over 1984 killings, caste census, phone tapping

NEW DELHI – Ruckus by opposition MPs over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, caste census and phone tapping disrupted question hour in both houses of parliament Tuesday.

Opposition members sought to raise the killing of Sikhs in Rewari district of Haryana in the anti-Sikh riots in 1984. The issue surfaced after a Sikh organisation claimed to …. Source : Parliament disrupted over 1984 killings, caste census, phone tapping.

West considering military action against Gaddafi over use of chemical weapon fears

LONDON – The Western leaders, including British Prime Minister David Cameron are reportedly considering ordering military action against Colonel Muammar Gaddafi amid fears that the Libyan dictator could use chemical weapons against the pro-democracy protestors in his own country.

Cameron has disclosed that he would not rule out “the use of military assets” as Britain …. Source article on Gaea Times at : West considering military action against Gaddafi over use of chemical weapon fears.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 12

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon Tuesday as opposition members sought to raise the issue of the killing of Sikhs in Rewari district of Haryana in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

As soon as the house met, opposition MPs of the Bharatiya Janata Party along with those of ally Shiromani …. Read the original article : Rajya Sabha adjourned till 12.

Berlusconi claims he no longer has a cellphone

Milan, March 1 (IANS/AKI) Italy’s scandal-mired premier Silvio Berlusconi, who currently faces four trials, has told supporters that he gave up his mobile phone to evade police surveillance.

“Be aware that your prime minister no longer has any kind of cell phone because he is subjected to every kind of wiretapping,” Berlusconi Monday told …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi claims he no longer has a cellphone.

Tunisian minister quits

TUNIS – Tunisia’s industry and technology minister has quit government, state TAP news agency reported.

Minister Mohamed Afif Chelbi resigned from the government Monday.
Ousted Tunisian president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali’s prime minister Mohamed Ghannouchi quit Sunday as continuing protests demanded a change in government, AKI reported.
Ben Ali was forced out of power after … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tunisian minister quits.

2G scam: Manmohan Singh to move motion for JPC in Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, will move a motion for the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the 2G scam in Rajya Sabha after which the full list of all members – from both houses – will be announced.

On Wednesday, the government gave up its earlier plan for a 21-member panel and …. Original article on Gaea Times at : 2G scam: Manmohan Singh to move motion for JPC in Rajya Sabha.

US freezes Libyan assets

WASHINGTON – The US has frozen at least $30 billion in Libyan government assets as part of efforts to loosen besieged strongman Muammar Gaddafi’s grip on power.

The $30 billion is the largest amount ever blocked under any sanctions programme, David Cohen, Treasury Department’s acting under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, said announcing the … Read more >>.

Shutdown in Andhra district to protest police firing

HYDERABAD – There was a total shutdown in Andhra Pradesh’s Srikakulam district Tuesday, a day after two people were killed when police fired at a crowd protesting against a thermal power plant.

Buses of the state-owned Road Transport Corporation (RTC) went off the roads while shops, business establishments and educational institutions remained closed following a …. Original article : Shutdown in Andhra district to protest police firing.

Berlusconi ‘may have paid for boob and lip jobs of ‘bunga bunga’ girls’

LONDON – Prosecutors in Milan, who accuse Silvio Berlusconi of abuse of office and sleeping with an under-age prostitute, believe that the prime minister paid for cosmetic surgeries of young women who attended his infamous ‘bunga bunga’ parties.

Italian prosecutors think that at least seven women in his inner circle were given money for operations to … Original article on : Berlusconi ‘may have paid for boob and lip jobs of ‘bunga bunga’ girls’.

$30 bn in Libyan assets frozen in US

WASHINGTON – The US has frozen at least $30 billion in Libyan assets since enacting sanctions to punish embattled leader Muammar Gaddafi for the violent crackdown on protesters, a US official said.

David Cohen, the Treasury Department’s acting under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, said Monday the financial action was the largest of its …. Original article on Gaea Times at : $30 bn in Libyan assets frozen in US.

India, Africa must stick together: Top UN envoy (Interview, With Image)

NEW DELHI – Ahead of a crucial round of negotiations on reform of the UN Security Council next month, Cheick Sidi Diarra, the top UN envoy for Africa, says India and the 53-nation continent should “stick together” through twists and turns to realise their long-standing quest for permanent seats on the global high table.

“It’s … Read more »».

Two more flights bring back 600 Indians from Libya

NEW DELHI – Two special Air India flights carrying around 600 Indians fleeing violence-torn Libya arrived at the the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi in the early hours Tuesday to an emotional homecoming.

Most Indians had harrowing tales to recount of being without food and water for days or their belongings snatched in …. Original article : Two more flights bring back 600 Indians from Libya.

President Obama to Award 2010 National Medal of Arts and National Humanities Medal

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On Wednesday at 1:45 PM, President Obama will award the 2010 National Medal of Arts and National Humanities Medal to 20 honorees in the … Read more >>>.

Presidential Proclamation???Read Across America Day, 2011

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READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY, 2011

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Hidden in the pages of books are extraordinary worlds and characters …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–Read Across America Day, 2011.

White House Conference on Bullying Prevention Set for March 10

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WASHINGTON – On Thursday, March 10, President Obama, the Department of Education, and the Department of Health and Human Services will welcome students, parents, …. Original article on Gaea Times at : White House Conference on Bullying Prevention Set for March 10.

Presidential Memorandum???Administrative Flexibility

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MEMORANDUM FOR THE HEADS OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES

SUBJECT: Administrative Flexibility, Lower Costs, and Better Results for State, Local, and Tribal Governments

Over the last … Original article on : Presidential Memorandum–Administrative Flexibility.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, 3/1/2011

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James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

See below for answers to questions (marked with an asterisk) posed in the briefing that required follow up.

*Governor Bush …. Source : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, 3/1/2011.

White House Releases First Comprehensive Federal Report on the Status of American Women in Almost 50 Years

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Report Released on First Day of Women’s History Month

WASHINGTON – Today, the White House released a new report entitled Women in America: Indicators of … Read more >>>.

Rajya Sabha passes motion for forming JPC (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – The process of forming a joint parliamentary committee to probe the 2G spectrum scam was completed Tuesday with the Rajya Sabha nominating 10 of its members to the panel.

The committee has 20 Lok Sabha members who were nominated last week.
A Joint Committee of the Houses consisting of 30 …. Original source : Rajya Sabha passes motion for forming JPC (Roundup).

Five states to go to polls in April-May (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, Assam and West Bengal will go to polls in April and May in the biggest popularity contest since the 2009 Lok Sabha election, it was announced Tuesday.

Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi said some 150 million voters will be eligible to take part in the elections that will … Original source on Gaea Times at : Five states to go to polls in April-May (Second Lead).

BJP keen on MNS as part of alliance in Maharashtra

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tuesday favoured Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) of Raj Thackeray as part of a broad electoral coalition against the ruling Congress-NCP alliance in Maharashtra but said a decision would depend on the wishes of its partner Shiv Sena.

“We want to prevent division of votes in Maharashtra. … Read more »»».

Five states to go to polls in April-May

NEW DELHI – Elections will be held to elect new assemblies in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, Assam and West Bengal in April and May, the Election Commission announced Tuesday.

Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi said that while Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry will have a single phase polling on April 13, Assam will see …. Original article : Five states to go to polls in April-May.

Election dates for five states announced

NEW DELHI – The Election Commission Tuesday announced elections to assemblies in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, Assam and West Bengal in April and May.
…. Read the original article : Election dates for five states announced.

Telangana supporters paralyse rail traffic for separate state (Third Lead)

HYDERABAD – Intensifying the movement for separate statehood to Telangana, protesters in Andhra Pradesh Tuesday paralysed rail transport in Hyderabad and nine other districts of the region.

Massive protests on the tracks rocked most of the villages and gave train passengers a harrowing time.
Barring minor incidents, the day-long protest was by and large peaceful. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Telangana supporters paralyse rail traffic for separate state (Third Lead).

CBI searches Suresh Kalmadi’s bank lockers in Pune

PUNE – A CBI team from New Delhi Tuesday started search of former Commonwealth Games chief Suresh Kalmadis bank lockers here, an official source said.

We have opened two bank lockers as part of the investigations. But we do not have any details so far, an official told IANS.
The lockers were opened in the [..] Read the original article: here.

Varun’s wedding reception cancelled

NEW DELHI – The high profile wedding reception of the Bharatiya Janata Partys young MP Varun Gandhi has been cancelled due to the death of his maternal grandmother, mother Maneka Gandhi said Tuesday.

The young Gandhi, 30, will tie the knot with Kolkata fashion designer Yamini Roy, who is in her mid-20s, March 6 in … Read more : Varun’s wedding reception cancelled.

German minister Guttenberg resigns after plagiarism row (Second Lead)

BERLIN – German Defence Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg resigned Tuesday, after he became embroiled in a plagiarism scandal over his PhD.

“I informed the chancellor (Angela Merkel) in a very friendly conversation that I will withdraw from my political offices and asked for a discharge,” Guttenberg said.
“It is the most painful step in my … Read more : German minister Guttenberg resigns after plagiarism row (Second Lead).

3 flights daily to bring Indians home from Libya

NEW DELHI – With Indians continuing to flee violence-hit Libya, India Tuesday said it has made arrangements for three daily special flights from Tripoli and is firming up other arrangements to bring home its nationals living in the north African country.

Arrangements have since been finalised with Libya to receive three special flights daily …. Read the original article : 3 flights daily to bring Indians home from Libya.

Talks with ULFA significant: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday said peace talks with the banned United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) here last month were very significant.

Addressing the media here after releasing his ministry’s progress card for February, Chidambaram said: “The ULFA leaders had met me on February 10. They met the prime minister … Read more >>>.

It is military, not martial – clerical error in act rectified

NEW DELHI – It was a “clerical error” irrelevant in a democratic India. The government Tuesday substituted the words “martial law” with “military law” in an act that came into force seven years ago to facilitate transfer of foreign prisoners from the country.

Home Minister P. Chidambaram Tuesday enacted the correction in the Repatriation …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Presidential Proclamation???Death of Army Corporal Frank W. Buckles, the Last Surviving American Veteran of World War I

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Death of Army Corporal Frank W. Buckles,
the Last Surviving american Veteran of World War I

- – - – - – -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF …. Original article : Presidential Proclamation–Death of Army Corporal Frank W. Buckles, the Last Surviving American Veteran of World War I.

German minister resigns in plagiarism row

BERLIN – German Defence Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg resigned Tuesday, after he became embroiled in a plagiarism scandal last month.

Guttenberg had been under increasing political pressure following revelations that more than 100 pages of his 475-page doctoral thesis had been copied from other works without citation.
Bayreuth University, which gave Guttenberg top marks for …. Source article : German minister resigns in plagiarism row.

Message from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Zimbabwe

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TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:

Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Message from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Zimbabwe.

Notice from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Zimbabwe

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NOTICE

CONTINUATION OF THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO ZIMBABWE

On March 6, 2003, by Executive Order 13288, the President declared a national emergency and blocked … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Notice from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Zimbabwe.

Nominations Sent to the Senate

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NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:

Walter A. Barrows, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Railroad Retirement Board for a term expiring August 28, … Read more »».

Nominations Sent to the Senate

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NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:

Felicia C. Adams, of Mississippi, to be United States Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi for the term of … Read more »»».

Nominations Sent to the Senate

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NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:

S. Amanda Marshall, of Oregon, to be United States Attorney for the District of Oregon for the term of four …. Source : Nominations Sent to the Senate.

President Obama Names Three to Serve as U.S. Marshals

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WASHINGTON- Today, President Obama nominated Clayton D. Johnson, Alfred Cooper Lomax, and Charles F. Salina to serve as U.S. Marshals.

“I am pleased to nominate … Read more >>>.

President Obama Nominates Felicia C. Adams to Serve as U.S. Attorney

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WASHINGTON- Today, President Obama nominated Felicia C. Adams to serve as a U.S. Attorney.

“Felicia Adams has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to justice throughout her … Original source on Gaea Times at : President Obama Nominates Felicia C. Adams to Serve as U.S. Attorney.

President Obama Names Three to the United States District Court

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WASHINGTON- Today, President Obama nominated Nannette Jolivette Brown, Wilma Antoinette Lewis, and Nancy Torresen to United States District Court judgeships.

“I am proud to nominate … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : President Obama Names Three to the United States District Court.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney and Federal Chief Performance Officer and the Deputy Director for Management at the Office of Management and Budget Jeff Zients, 3/2/2011

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James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

1:15 P.M. EST

MR. CARNEY: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Before we get started on taking your questions on other …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney and Federal Chief Performance Officer and the Deputy Director for Management at the Office of Management and Budget Jeff Zients, 3/2/2011.

Remarks by the President on Shooting of American Service Members in Germany

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Location:

James S. Brady Press …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Remarks by the President on Shooting of American Service Members in Germany.

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.J.Res. 44

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On Wednesday, March 2, 2011, the President signed into law:

H.J.Res. 44, which provides FY 2011 appropriations through Friday, March 18, 2011,for continuing projects and …. Source : Statement by the Press Secretary on H.J.Res. 44.

Remarks By The First Lady At “Let’s Move” Healthier U.S. School Challenge Program Conference Call

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Via conference call … Read more >>.

Remarks by the President Awarding the 2010 National Medal of Arts and National Humanities Medal

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East Room … Original source on Gaea Times at : Remarks by the President Awarding the 2010 National Medal of Arts and National Humanities Medal.

Remarks by the President on Shooting of American Soldiers in Germany

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James S. Brady Press …. Original source : Remarks by the President on Shooting of American Soldiers in Germany.

Readout of Vice President Biden’s Call with Ukrainian President Yanukovych

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Vice President Biden spoke with President Viktor Yanukovych of Ukraine today to discuss our common agenda following the meeting of the U.S.-Ukraine Strategic Partnership … Original source on Gaea Times at : Readout of Vice President Biden’s Call with Ukrainian President Yanukovych.

Statement by the President on the Assassination of Shahbaz Bhatti

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I am deeply saddened by the assassination of Pakistan’s Minister for Minority Affairs Shahbaz Bhatti today in Islamabad, and condemn in the strongest possible …. Read the original article : Statement by the President on the Assassination of Shahbaz Bhatti.

Readout of John Brennan’s call with President Salih

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President Salih called Assistant to the President John Brennan this morning to convey his regret for misunderstandings related to his public remarks that Israel …. Source article : Readout of John Brennan’s call with President Salih.

Statement by the President on Passage of Further Continuing Appropriations Amendments, 2011 (H.J.RES.44)

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I’m pleased that Democrats and Republicans in Congress came together and passed a plan that will cut spending and keep the government running for … Read more »».

Sibal moves motion for JPC in Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI – Communications Minister Kapil Sibal Tuesday defended the government and focussed on the flawed policies framed under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as he moved a motion in the Rajya Sabha to set up a Joint Parliamentary Committee to probe the 2G spectrum scam.

“A joint committee of the two houses consisting …. Original article : Sibal moves motion for JPC in Rajya Sabha.

Oman urged not to use excessive force against protesters

LONDON – The rights group Amnesty International has called on the Omani authorities not to use excessive force against the anti-government protesters.

The call comes after two people were reportedly killed when police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at the protesters over the weekend, Iran’s official IRNA news agency reported.
“The Omani security … Read more : Oman urged not to use excessive force against protesters.

Remarks by President Obama and President Calder??n of Mexico at Joint Press Conference

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East Room

***Please note the correction to the President’s remarks below.

1:17 P.M. EST

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Good afternoon. I am delighted to welcome my friend and partner, … Read more >>>.

Press Briefing by the Director of the National Economic Council Gene B. Sperling and Communications Director Dan Pfeiffer, 3/3/2011

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James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

3:18 P.M. EST

MR. PFEIFFER: Thanks, everyone. Sorry we're late. This briefing is, as I think was indicated in the …. Read the original article : Press Briefing by the Director of the National Economic Council Gene B. Sperling and Communications Director Dan Pfeiffer, 3/3/2011.

Readout of President Obama’s Video Teleconference with President Karzai and National Security Council Meeting on Afghanistan and Pakistan

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President Obama spoke with President Karzai yesterday via video teleconference. The two leaders spoke for approximately one hour and discussed a number of topics, …. Original article : Readout of President Obama’s Video Teleconference with President Karzai and National Security Council Meeting on Afghanistan and Pakistan.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts

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WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key Administration posts:

Danny Glaser, Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing, … Read more >>>.

President Obama Announces Key Administration Post

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WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individual to a key Administration post:

Eric S. Edelman, Member, Board of … Original article on : President Obama Announces Key Administration Post.

Statement by Vice President Biden on Today’s Budget Meeting with House and Senate Leaders

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“We had a good meeting, and the conversation will continue.”

… Original article on : Statement by Vice President Biden on Today’s Budget Meeting with House and Senate Leaders.

FACT SHEET: Enhancing U.S.-Mexico Cooperation

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Mexican Trucks:

President Obama and President Calderón today announced that Mexico and the United States have found a clear path to resolving the cross-border long-haul … Read more >>>.

President Obama to Honor Stanley Cup Champion Blackhawks at White House

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First Lady Michelle Obama to Join NHL, USA Hockey in Hosting Youth Clinic

WASHINGTON—On Friday, March 11, at 3:00 p.m. ET, President and Mrs. Obama [..] Read the original article: here.

Statement by President Obama on the Retirement of Senator Daniel Akaka

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“Danny Akaka answered the call to serve right after high school by joining the Army Corps of Engineers during World War II. When he … Original source on Gaea Times at : Statement by President Obama on the Retirement of Senator Daniel Akaka.

Remarks by the President at DSCC Reception at the Fontainebleau Resort in Miami, Florida

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Fontainebleau Resort
Miami, Florida

5:44 P.M. EST

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Fired up!

THE PRESIDENT: Fired up! (Applause.) Hello, Miami! (Applause.)

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Yes, we can!

THE PRESIDENT: Yes, we can. (Applause.) … Read more : Remarks by the President at DSCC Reception at the Fontainebleau Resort in Miami, Florida.

Conference Call on Vice President Biden’s Upcoming Trip to Finland, Russia and Moldova

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Via Teleconference

1:06 P.M. EST

MR. VIETOR: Thank you very much. Thank you, guys, for getting on today. We appreciate it. We were just hoping to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Conference Call on Vice President Biden’s Upcoming Trip to Finland, Russia and Moldova.

Remarks by the President at Miami Central High School in Miami, Florida

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Miami Central High School
Miami, Florida

4:00 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: Hello, Rockets! (Applause.) Thank you! (Applause.) Thank you, everybody. (Applause.) Everybody, have a seat, have a [..] Read the original article: here.

White House Announces 2011 White House Easter Egg Roll Date and Theme

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The President and First Lady announced today that this year’s White House Easter Egg Roll will be held on Monday, April 25, 2011 with … Read more : White House Announces 2011 White House Easter Egg Roll Date and Theme.

Remarks by the President to Student Overflow in Miami, Florida

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Miami Central High School
Miami, Florida

3:39 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: What’s up, Rockets? How are you? (Applause.) Well, thank you. It is great to see all … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Remarks by the President to Student Overflow in Miami, Florida.

Remarks by the President During a Classroom Tour in Miami, Florida

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Miami Central High School
Miami, Florida

3:25 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you so much, everybody. Look, I could not be prouder of you. I couldn’t be …. Original source : Remarks by the President During a Classroom Tour in Miami, Florida.

Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Jay Carney Aboard Air Force One en route Miami, Florida

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Aboard Air Force One
En Route Miami, Florida

2:00 P.M. EST

MR. CARNEY: First of all, I think we all need to take note of this historic … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Jay Carney Aboard Air Force One en route Miami, Florida.

Presidential Proclamation???150th Anniversary of the Inauguration of Abraham Lincoln

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A PROCLAMATION

President Abraham Lincoln is revered in American history as the leader who held together a fractured country and liberated millions from slavery. His … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation–150th Anniversary of the Inauguration of Abraham Lincoln.

Presidential Proclamation???National Consumer Protection Week

NATIONAL CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK, 2011
A PROCLAMATION

Each day, families across America navigate complex financial decisions, from buying a home or car to paying off a loan or using a credit card. Consumer education is vital to protecting American families and preserving economic health in the United States. When fully informed about the potential risks in …. Read the original article : Presidential Proclamation–National Consumer Protection Week.

Presidential Proclamation???Save Your Vision Week

SAVE YOUR VISION WEEK, 2011
- – - – - – -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Across America, millions of men and women experience vision loss or are affected by low vision or blindness. During Save Your Vision Week, we reinforce the importance of routine eye care and remind all Americans … Read : Presidential Proclamation–Save Your Vision Week.

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 662

On Friday, March 4, 2011, the President signed into law:

H.R. 662, the “Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011,” which provides funding for programs funded from the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for the period from March 5, 2011 through September 30, 2011; and extends the authority to make expenditures from the HTF for HTF-financed programs through …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 662.

Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/4/11

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NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:

Eric S. Edelman, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the United States Institute of …. Original source : Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/4/11.

President Obama Signs Connecticut Disaster Declaration

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The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of Connecticut and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts … Read : President Obama Signs Connecticut Disaster Declaration.

Background on the President’s Trip to Miami Central Senior High School

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On Friday, the President will visit Miami Central Senior High School (miamicentral.dadeschools.net/index.html) with former Governor Jeb Bush and Secretary Duncan to discuss how … Read more : Background on the President’s Trip to Miami Central Senior High School.