Saturday, December 20, 2008
International
TOP STORIES as of 0900 HKT -- 21 December, 2008
U.S. MAY DOUBLE TROOP STRENGTH IN AFGHANISTAN
Up to 30,000 additional U.S. troops could be sent to Afghanistan
next year, roughly doubling the number already there, military
officials said Saturday. Some 20,000 of the additional personnel
would be combat troops, said Col. Gregory Julian, spokesman for
U.S. forces in Afghanistan.
IRAQ'S FIRST TRY AT LAW TO KEEP FOREIGN TROOPS FAILS
After heated arguments, the Iraqi parliament turned down the
first draft of a bill Saturday that would have allowed foreign
troops, including British forces, to remain in Iraq after
December 31.
TERROR-DEVASTATED MUMBAI HOTELS TO REOPEN
Two luxury hotels in Mumbai are due to partially reopen Sunday
less than a month after being caught up in the terror attacks on
the Indian city in which more than 160 people died. The tower
wing of the Taj Mahal Palace and the Oberoi-Trident both
suffered extensive damage during three days of sieges and fierce
fighting.
IRAQI MILITARY 'PLOTTERS' RELEASED FROM JAIL
Iraqi Interior Minister Jawad al-Bolani said the recent arrests
of military and security officers linked to Saddam Hussein's
Baath Party were based on fabricated charges and rebutted
implications that those seized were plotting to overthrow the
government.
PALESTINIAN MILITANT KILLED IN ISRAELI AIRSTRIKE
A Palestinian militant was killed Saturday during an Israeli
airstrike, Palestinian sources said.
BECKHAM PRESENTED AS AN AC MILAN PLAYER
David Beckham revealed that he has missed playing football "at
the highest level" after being presented as an AC Milan player
ahead of his three-month loan deal from the Los Angeles Galaxy.
6.5-MAGNITUDE QUAKE OFF JAPANESE COAST
A strong earthquake centered about 90 miles off Japan's east
coast, measuring a 6.5 magnitude, was recorded by seismologists
at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) on Saturday.
OBAMA TEAM DISCUSSES NEW STIMULUS PLAN
Senior Democratic congressional staffers met Friday with senior
aides from President-elect Barack Obama's transition team to
discuss the broad outlines of an economic stimulus package.l
BUSINESS
BANKING GROUP HYPO SLASHES WORKFORCE
German financial giant Hypo Real Estate said Saturday it planned
to halve its 1,800 strong workforce by 2013 as part of
cost-cutting measures. The banking group received €50 billion
($70 billion) in emergency government funding in October.
BUSH ANNOUNCES $13.4B AUTO BAILOUT
U.S. President George W. Bush has announced a short-term $13.4B
rescue plan from federal loans to aid ailing U.S. automakers.
The money will come from the $700 billion fund set aside to
bailout Wall Street firms and banks in October.
MEXICAN AUTOMAKERS LOOK FOR BAILOUT
Mexicans welcomed Friday's report that U.S. automakers will get
federal money to help them survive the economic crisis, but
industry here is already talking about a possible bailout for
the Mexican market as well.
News Alert!
Canadian auto industry gets bailout too
12/20/08 02:25 PM, EST
Canada will provide roughly $3.3 billion in aid to its automotive
sector, officials announced Saturday, honoring a previous pledge to
provide 20 percent of what the U.S. government offered automakers.
Breaking News
6.5-magnitude earthquake detected 145 kilometers (90 miles) off
Japan's east coast, U.S. Geological Survey reports.
International
TOP STORIES as of 1000 GMT -- 20 December, 2008
U.S. TO SEND MORE TROOPS TO AFGHANISTAN
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates has signed a deployment
order to move an additional 3,000 troops to Afghanistan next
year, U.S. military officials said.
IRAQI MILITARY 'PLOTTERS' RELEASED FROM JAIL
Iraqi Interior Minister Jawad al-Bolani said the recent arrests
of military and security officers linked to Saddam Hussein's
Baath Party were based on fabricated charges and rebutted
implications that those seized were plotting to overthrow the
government.
BAMA TEAM WORKING ON NEW STIMULUS PLAN
Senior Democratic congressional staffers met Friday with senior
aides from President-elect Barack Obama's transition team to
discuss the broad outlines of an economic stimulus package.
GOVERNOR DENIES TRYING TO SELL OBAMA'S SEAT
The U.S. state governor who allegedly tried to sell the vacant
Senate seat of President-elect Barack Obama denied any
wrongdoing. "I have done nothing wrong ... I have on my side the
most powerful ally there is, and it is the truth," he said Friday.
U.S. NORTHWEST BRACES FOR WINTER STORM
After blanketing parts of the Southwest with snow, a major
winter storm headed eastward late Thursday with new strength,
the National Weather Service said.
GROUP AIMS TO NULLIFY CALIFORNIA GAY MARRIAGES
Sponsors of the California ballot measure that banned same-sex
marriage are seeking to nullify thousands of marriages performed
between gay and lesbian couples.
BELGIAN GOVERNMENT OFFERS RESIGNATION
Belgium's Prime Minister Yves Leterme has offered his
government's resignation amid a row over the break-up of the
stricken Fortis bank, according to national media reports.
Leterme is en route to the Royal Palace to offer his
resignation, state TV reported.
BUSH STARTS AUTOMAKERS' BAILOUT
President George W. Bush announced a short-term $13.4B rescue
plan for ailing U.S. automakers. "In the midst of a financial
crisis and a recession, allowing the U.S. auto industry to
collapse is not a responsible course of action," Bush said.
BUSINESS
MEXICAN AUTOMAKERS LOOK FOR BAILOUT
Mexicans welcomed Friday's report that U.S. automakers will get
federal money to help them survive the economic crisis, but
industry here is already talking about a possible bailout for
the Mexican market as well.
LABOR UNIONS PRAISE OBAMA PICK
Labor unions praised U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's
selection to head the Labor Department, California Congresswoman
Hilda Solis.
MONEY WOES HITS WORLD'S RICHEST LEAGUE
The falling value of the pound against the euro might be good
for British exporters, but for the country's football clubs it's
a kick in the teeth.
Friday, December 19, 2008
International
TOP STORIES as of 0900 HKT -- 20 December, 2008
GOVERNOR DENIES TRYING TO SELL OBAMA'S SEAT
The U.S. state governor who allegedly tried to sell the vacant
Senate seat of President-elect Barack Obama denied any
wrongdoing. "I have done nothing wrong ... I have on my side the
most powerful ally there is, and it is the truth," he said
Friday.
BELGIAN GOVERNMENT OFFERS RESIGNATION
Belgium's Prime Minister Yves Leterme has offered his
government's resignation amid a row over the break-up of the
stricken Fortis bank, according to national media reports.
Leterme is en route to the Royal Palace to offer his
resignation, state TV reported.
BUSH STARTS AUTOMAKERS' BAILOUT
President George W. Bush announced a short-term $13.4B rescue
plan for ailing U.S. automakers. "In the midst of a financial
crisis and a recession, allowing the U.S. auto industry to
collapse is not a responsible course of action," Bush said.
IRAQI SHOE THROWER WINS HEARTS IN IRAN
The Iraqi journalist who hurled his shoes at President George W.
Bush has won some hearts in neighboring Iran, where one cleric
dubbed the act "the shoe intifada (rebellion)."
TSVANGIRAI THREATENS TO HALT ZIMBABWE TALKS
The man who would be Zimbabwe's prime minister under a
power-sharing pact said Friday his party will withdraw from
efforts to implement the unity government unless 42 abducted
members of his party are freed by New Year's Day.
PROTESTS IN GREECE AFTER SECOND TEEN IS SHOT
Thousands of youths have demonstrated in central Athens in a
dramatic flare-up of violence after a teen was shot and wounded
earlier in the week. Greece has suffered simmering anger since
the death of another teen sparked anger about the economy,
education and jobs.
GATES ASKS FOR GUANTANAMO CLOSURE PLANS
Defense Secretary Robert Gates has asked Pentagon staff to draw
up plans for shutting the U.S. prison camp at Guantanamo Bay,
Cuba, a Pentagon spokesman said.
RICHEST FOOTBALL LEAGUE FEELS CASH CRUNCH
The falling value of the pound against the euro might be good
for British exporters, but for the country's football clubs it's
a kick in the teeth. Buying talent from mainland Europe has
proved popular for the clubs, but the slumping pound is making
euro stars more expensive.
BUSINESS
LABOR UNIONS PRAISE OBAMA PICK
Labor unions praised U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's
selection to head the Labor Department, California Congresswoman
Hilda Solis.
NEW ZIMBABWE $10B NOTE BUYS BREAD
Zimbabwe's central bank introduced a $10 billion note worth less
than 20 U.S. dollars, as the once-prosperous southern African
nation battles against spiraling hyperinflation.
POLAROID FILES FOR CHAPTER 11
Polaroid Corp. announced it was filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
protection.
FRANKEN ASSUMES FIRST LEAD IN MINNESOTA SENATE RACE
FRANKEN ASSUMES FIRST LEAD IN MINNESOTA SENATE RACE
Former comedian and political activist Al Franken has opened his first
lead in the hotly contested U.S. Senate race in Minnesota over
incumbent Norm Coleman, according to reports.
News Alert!
Commentary: Caroline Kennedy would fight for N.Y. in the Senate
12/19/08 01:32 PM, EST
I was named schools chancellor in New York City in 2002, shortly after
Mayor Michael Bloomberg won control over the city's school system.
Breaking News Fri., December 19, 2008
Florida Authorities Identify Remains as Missing Toddler Caylee Anthony
[2:03 p.m. ET]
Breaking News: Blagojevich insists he is innocent
CHICAGO (AP) - Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich said Friday he is not
guilty of any criminal wrongdoing and plans to stay on the job. In his
first substantial statement since his arrest on corruption charges
last week, Blagojevich said he will fight until he takes his "last
breath."
Obama to introduce labor, trade chief picks Friday
President-elect Barack Obama will round out his picks for his Cabinet
in his final press conference of the year on Friday, naming chiefs of
the departments of Labor and Transportation as well as the head of the
Small Business Administration and the top U.S. trade negotiator.
Breaking News
The Belgian government is on the brink of collapsing, according to
local media reports.
News Alert!
Opposition leader threatens to halt Zimbabwe unity talks
12/19/08 09:17 AM, EST
The man who would be Zimbabwe's prime minister under a power-sharing
pact said Friday his party will withdraw from efforts to implement the
unity government unless 42 abducted members of his party are freed by
New Year's Day.
News Alert!
Report: Coleman ahead by 5 in Minnesota Senate race
12/19/08 08:42 AM, EST
Republican U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman's unofficial lead over Democrat Al
Franken shrank to five votes as a Minnesota Canvassing Board continued
analyzing ballots from the November 4 Senate election, the Minneapolis
Star-Tribune reported Friday.
Defense chief asks for plans to close Guantanamo camp
12/19/08 07:45 AM, EST
Defense Secretary Robert Gates has asked Pentagon staff to draw up
plans for shutting the U.S. prison camp at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, a
Pentagon spokesman said.
Bad weather thwarts Pakistan leader's Afghan trip
12/19/08 04:41 AM, EST
A meeting between the leaders of Pakistan and Afghanistan was canceled
Friday when bad weather prevented Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari
from traveling to the Afghan capital, Kabul.
International
TOP STORIES as of 1000 GMT -- 19 December, 2008
ZIMBABWEAN CHILDREN FLEE RAVAGED HOMELAND
The United Nations and Save the Children report there has been
an increase in the number of children under 18 years who are
making the risky journey south from their homes in Zimbabwe to
South Africa in search of work and food.
WINTER STORM TRACKS EASTWARD ACROSS U.S.
After blanketing parts of the Southwest with snow, a major
winter storm headed eastward late Thursday with new strength,
the National Weather Service said.
WATERGATE 'DEEP THROAT' SOURCE DEAD AT 95
W. Mark Felt, who leaked information to reporters under the
moniker, "Deep Throat," about the Watergate break-in, died
Thursday at the age of 95, according to published reports.
JAPAN CUTS KEY RATE TO 0.1 PERCENT
The Bank of Japan on Friday cut its key interest rate to 0.1
percent from 0.3 in an effort boost the country's economy in the
midst of a global downturn Friday.
REPORT: AFGHAN POLICE NEED TO REFOCUS
Efforts to reform the Afghan National Police force have been
stymied by "corruption and lack of political will," and police
are wrongly being used to help fight the insurgency instead of
crime, an independent research group said in a report.
TAIWAN EX-PRESIDENT REMAINS FREE AFTER HEARING
Former Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian, accused of embezzling
about $18 million, has remained free on bail after a nearly
eight-hour court hearing in which prosecutors argued that he
should be jailed.
PIRATES LIKELY TO GET ARMS SHIP RANSOM
Pirates holding a ship full of tanks and ammunition off the
coast of Somalia are likely to be paid millions of dollars in
ransom within days, senior U.S. military officials said.
TRIO FOUND GUILTY OF RWANDAN GENOCIDE
A U.N. tribunal has found Theoneste Bagosora, a colonel in the
Rwandan army, and two other men, guilty of genocide, crimes
against humanity and war crimes. Bagosora ordered Hutu militia
to slaughter rival Tutsis during a 100-day spree of violence in
1994.
BUSINESS
LABOR UNIONS PRAISE OBAMA PICK
Labor unions praised U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's
selection to head the Labor Department, California Congresswoman
Hilda Solis.
EUROPE LOWER; BANK OF JAPAN CUTS RATES
Tokyo stocks closed down 0.9 percent, despite briefly rallying
after the Bank of Japan cut a key interest rate in an attempt to
boost the nation's economic fortunes.
NEW ZIMBABWE $10B NOTE BUYS BREAD
Zimbabwe's central bank introduced a $10 billion note worth less
than 20 U.S. dollars, as the once-prosperous southern African
nation battles against spiraling hyperinflation.
Breaking News: Bush announces help for automakers
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush says the federal government will
grant $17.4 billion in loans to ailing U.S. automakers in exchange for
concessions from the firms and their workers.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
International
TOP STORIES as of 0900 HKT -- 19 December, 2008
TRIO FOUND GUILTY OF RWANDAN GENOCIDE
A U.N. tribunal has found Theoneste Bagosora, a colonel in the
Rwandan army, and two other men, guilty of genocide, crimes
against humanity and war crimes. Bagosora ordered Hutu militia
to slaughter rival Tutsis during a 100-day spree of violence in
1994.
PIRATES LIKELY TO GET ARMS SHIP RANSOM
Pirates holding a ship full of tanks and ammunition off the
coast of Somalia are likely to be paid millions of dollars in
ransom within days, senior U.S. military officials said.
IRAQI SHOE-THROWER ASKS FOR LENIENCY
The journalist who hurled his shoes at U.S. President George W.
Bush describes his attack as "ugly" and asks the Iraqi
government for leniency.
U.S. AIR FORCE NUCLEAR UNIT FAILS INSPECTION
For the fifth time this year, a U.S. Air Force nuclear weapons
unit failed an inspection, this time because of failure to
document its handling of nuclear missiles and other critical
issues, Air Force officials said.
POISONED MEDICINE KILLS DOZENS OF CHILDREN
Nneka and Chimezie Ononaku unwittingly poisoned their own son,
giving him what they believed was teething medicine -- but which
in fact had been dosed with anti-freeze. Their four-month old
son is now one of more than 30 Nigerian children thought to have
died after taking baby medication.
WOMEN'S RIGHTS ACTIVIST BEHEADED IN IRAQ
Gunmen broke into the house of a women's rights activist in the
volatile northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk on Thursday and beheaded
her, police say.
ORGANIZED LABOR 'THRILLED' WITH OBAMA PICK
Labor unions Thursday praised President-elect Barack Obama's
selection to head the Labor Department, Rep. Hilda Solis.
ADOPTION TUG-OF-WAR GIRL ON NEW LIFE IN CHINA
Anna He is like a lot of kids about to turn 10. She plays with
her brother, fights with her sister, practices piano, and hates
vegetables. For six years, she was at the center of a bitter
custody battle between her parents and the American family who
agreed to help take care of her. Today, Anna is struggling to
adapt to her new life in China.
BUSINESS
OBAMA TAPS SCHAPIRO FOR SEC
President-elect Barack Obama, citing the need for tighter
oversight of the U.S. financial markets, on Thursday named
veteran regulator Mary Schapiro as his choice to head the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
CHINA CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF ECONOMIC REFORM
China's president has vowed to continue the economic reforms
that have transformed the once poverty-riddled nation into an
industrial powerhouse.
BA, QANTAS END MERGER TALKS
British Airways and Qantas announced Thursday they have failed
to reach agreement on a potential merger.
News Alerts!
Women's rights activist beheaded in Iraq
12/18/08 10:47 AM, EST
Gunmen broke into the house of a women's rights activist in the
volatile northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk on Thursday and beheaded her,
police said.
Taliban on agenda as Zardari visits Afghanistan
12/18/08 09:19 AM, EST
Pakistan's president will use his first visit to Afghanistan to
discuss how the country's can unite to defeat terrorists.
International
TOP STORIES as of 1000 GMT -- 18 December, 2008
BAGOSORA GUILTY OF RWANDA GENOCIDE
A U.N. tribunal has found Theoneste Bagosora, a colonel in the
Rwandan army, guilty of genocide, crimes against humanity and
war crimes. Bagosora, pictured, ordered Hutu militia to
slaughter rival Tutsis during a 100-day spree of violence in
1994.
REPORTS: CHINA SENDING SHIPS TO FIGHT PIRATES
China plans to send a fleet of ships to help patrol the
pirate-infested waters off the Horn of Africa, Chinese media
reported Thursday. The move would be rare for Beijing, which has
not sent military ships far from its shores in centuries.
15 ARRESTED FOR BAHRAIN 'TERROR PLOT'
Fifteen people were arrested in Bahrain on Wednesday for what
government officials said was a plot to detonate explosives
during a series of Shia Muslim observances.
BRITISH AIRWAYS, QANTAS END MERGER TALKS
British Airways and Qantas announced Thursday they have failed
to reach agreement on a potential merger.
FACE TRANSPLANT DOC: WE HOPE SHE SMILES AGAIN
Surgeons have successfully performed the first near-total face
transplant in the United States, doctors announced Wednesday.
The procedure replaced 80 percent of the face of a woman
disfigured by severe trauma. "Our hope is she should be able to
smile again," one doctor said.
'TALIBAN AMERICAN' ASKS BUSH FOR RELEASE
The man dubbed the "Taliban American" is asking the president to
commute the remaining years of his federal prison sentence,
according to a statement released by his attorneys Wednesday.
LAWMAKERS ARGUE OVER SHOE-THROWING JOURNALIST
In a chaotic session, Iraqi lawmakers have argued over the fate
of the man who threw a shoe at U.S. President George W. Bush.
BUSINESS
CHRYSLER SHUTS DOWN ALL PRODUCTION
Chrysler LLC announced it is stopping all vehicle production in
the United States after the last shift on Friday for at least a
month, citing "continued lack of consumer credit for the
American car buyer."
ASIAN MARKETS FLAT AHEAD OF BOJ DECISION
Asian and Pacific markets were mixed on Thursday, shaking off
modest losses on Wall Street.
EXXON MOBIL FINED OVER AIR POLLUTION
Federal officials have fined Exxon Mobil more than $6 million
after it violated a three-year-old agreement to decrease air
pollution at four of its refineries.
Breaking News
International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda finds Theoneste Bagosora
guilty of ordering genocide which left 800,000 dead
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
International
TOP STORIES as of 0900 HKT -- 18 December, 2008
'WE HOPE SHE SMILES AGAIN'
Surgeons have successfully performed the first near-total face
transplant in the United States, doctors announced Wednesday.
The procedure replaced 80 percent of the face of a woman
disfigured by severe trauma. "Our hope is she should be able to
smile again," one doctor said.
CHRYSLER SHUTS PLANTS FOR A MONTH
Chrysler said late today that it is stopping all vehicle
production in the United States for at least a month,
CNNMoney.com reports. All 30 of the carmaker's plants will close
after the last shift on Friday, and employees won't be asked
back before January 19 -- about two weeks longer than the
company's typical holiday break.
LAWMAKERS ARGUE OVER SHOE-THROWING JOURNALIST
In a chaotic session, Iraqi lawmakers have argued over the fate
of the man who threw a shoe at U.S. President George W. Bush.
OIL DROPS DESPITE OPEC CUT
The OPEC group of oil-producing nations is to reduce output by
2.2 million barrels a day from next month in a bid to stabilize
oil prices which have fluctuated wildly during the last year.
But shortly after the much-anticipated cut was announced, the
price of a barrel of U.S. crude for January delivery slipped
$1.55 to $42.05.
'TALIBAN AMERICAN' ASKS BUSH FOR RELEASE
The man dubbed the "Taliban American" is asking the president to
commute the remaining years of his federal prison sentence,
according to a statement released by his attorneys Wednesday.
WHITE POWDER ALERT AT 16 U.S. EMBASSIES
A "suspicious letter" containing white powder prompted an alert
at the U.S. embassy in Madrid, Wednesday, an official said.
OBAMA ADDS ANOTHER REPUBLICAN TO CABINET
President-elect Barack Obama on Wednesday will announce former
Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack as his choice for agriculture secretary
and Colorado Sen. Ken Salazar as his choice for secretary of the
interior.
STUDENTS FORCED INTO CELL-LIKE SECLUSION ROOMS
A few weeks before 13-year-old Jonathan King killed himself, he
told his parents that his teachers had put him in "time-out."
BUSINESS
MORGAN STANLEY HIT BY Q4 LOSS
Morgan Stanley, the second biggest U.S. investment bank, has
reported a massive $2.3 billion loss for the fourth quarter
which far exceeded analysts' predictions.
BRITISH AIRWAYS, VIRGIN CUT FUEL SURCHARGE
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have announced they are
reducing their fuel surcharges as the price of oil has
plummeted.
HONDA CUTS EARNINGS, SITUATION 'WORSENING'
Honda Motor Co. slashed its earnings forecast for 2008 on
Wednesday, citing "no prospect for recovery" in the midst of a
global recession and slumping worldwide auto sales.
Obama to pick financial regulator Mary Schapiro to head SEC: report
Obama to pick financial regulator Mary Schapiro to head SEC: report
12/17/2008 6:27:26 PM EDT
Breaking News Wed., December 17, 2008
CHRYSLER TO CLOSE ALL 30 OF ITS MANUFACTURING PLANTS FOR A MONTH [5:15 PM EST]
Chrysler idling all its plants until at least Jan. 19
Chrysler idling all its plants until at least Jan. 19
12/17/2008 4:59:55 PM EDT
Breaking News Wed., December 17, 2008
Illinois Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Motion to Declare Blagojevich
Unfit to Serve [2:51 p.m. ET]
International
TOP STORIES as of 1000 GMT -- 17 December, 2008
SKIERS SAVED FROM GONDOLAS AS TOWER SNAPS
Skiers describe their lucky escapes from a gondola dangling over
a freezing creek after the tower snaps in half at a Canadian ski
resort. "I thought the whole cable system was going to come
down. I couldn't even breathe," said one passenger.
BRITISH TROOPS TO LEAVE IRAQ 'BY JULY'
UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri
al-Maliki say British forces will have "completed their tasks"
in Iraq in the first half of 2009 and will then leave the
country.
HONDA SEES 'NO PROSPECT FOR RECOVERY'
Honda slashes its earnings forecast for 2008 on Wednesday,
citing "no prospect for recovery" in the midst of a global
recession and slumping worldwide auto sales.
REBELS: 130 SRI LANKAN TROOPS KILLED
Tamil Tigers claimed on Wednesday killing 130 government troops
and wounding 300 others during heavy fighting in northern Sri
Lanka.
U.N.: FORCES CAN PURSUE SOMALI PIRATES ON LAND
The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution
aimed at combating piracy along the Horn of Africa by allowing
military forces to chase pirates onto land in cases of "hot
pursuit."
GREEK PROTESTERS STORM TELEVISION STATION
Dozens of protesters in the Greek capital storms the
headquarters of state television station ERT, interrupting
broadcasting and unfurling a black banner that read, "Do not
watch television. Everyone out on the streets."
U.S.: NORTH KOREA TALKS HAVE STALLED
Nuclear negotiations with North Korea have stalled but still
could be reactivated before the Bush administration leaves
office next month, chief U.S. negotiator in the talks
Christopher Hill acknowledged.
BANGLADESH LIFTS STATE OF EMERGENCY
Bangladesh lifted a two-year-old state of emergency on
Wednesday, less than two weeks ahead of elections, state media
reported.
BUSINESS
SEC PROBES 'MULTIPLE FAILURES' IN MADOFF CASE
The U.S. government commission tasked with protecting investors
has launched an internal probe into why, despite credible
allegations for at least 10 years, there were "multiple
failures" in investigating what may have been the largest Ponzi
scheme in history.
n/index.html
ASIA, PACIFIC MARKETS RALLY ON FED RATE CUT
Asia and Pacific markets rallied Wednesday, piggybacking on the
Wall Street surge that was fueled by the U.S. Federal Reserve
cut to a key short-term interest rate.
FED SLASHES KEY RATE TO NEAR ZERO
The U.S. Federal Reserve cut a key rate Tuesday to a range of
between zero and 0.25 percent, moving away from its tradition of
naming a target rate.
U.S. stocks skid 1% and more in opening minute as investors rethink Fed gains
U.S. stocks skid 1% and more in opening minute as investors rethink Fed gains
12/17/2008 9:31:39 AM EDT
Breaking News
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown arrives in Baghdad for talks with
Iraq's Prime Minister, Iraqi state TV reports.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
International News
TOP STORIES as of 0900 HKT -- 17 December, 2008
U.S. FED SLASHES KEY RATE TO NEAR ZERO
The U.S. Federal Reserve cut a key rate Tuesday to a range of
between zero and 0.25 percent. The Fed said the U.S. economy,
already in recession, is in danger of getting weaker. The
federal funds rate is key to spurring the economy as it is used
as a benchmark to set rates for a variety of consumer loans.
DIABETES FOUND TO RAISE CANCER MORTALITY RISK
Two of the most common diseases in the United States -- cancer
and diabetes -- are not often linked together in the public
mind. But they may have a stronger link than most people think.
Cancer patients who already have diabetes have a greater chance
of dying of the disease than cancer patients who do not have the
blood-sugar disorder, according to a report in the Journal of
the American Medical Association.
ISRAEL: 24 DEAD AS BUS PLUNGES DOWN RAVINE
At least 20 people were killed in Israel Tuesday when a tourist
bus plunged down a ravine near the southern Israeli city of
Eilat, ambulance services reported.
BUSH ON AUTO BAILOUT AND DODGING SHOES
President Bush said Tuesday that he is "considering all options"
in aiding the U.S. auto industry because doing nothing could
lead to further economic decline.
CHENEY DEFENDS WAR IN IRAQ
In his first TV interview since the presidential election, U.S.
Vice President Dick Cheney once again staunchly defends the Bush
administration's record in the war on terror and, more
specifically, the decision to go to war in Iraq.
DYNAMITE FOUND AT PARIS DEPARTMENT STORE
A major department store in central Paris has been evacuated
after five sticks of dynamite were found inside, French police
have said.
FIRST DETAINEES RELEASED FROM GITMO SINCE RULING
Three Guantanamo Bay prisoners were released to their families
Tuesday, becoming the first detainees to be sent home as a
result of a U.S. court ruling.
MEKONG DELTA'S SECRET 'TREASURE TROVE'
A rat believed to be extinct for 11 million years, a spider with
a foot-long legspan, and a hot pink cyanide-producing "dragon
millipede" are among the thousand newly discovered species in
the largely unexplored Mekong Delta region.
BUSINESS
MADOFF INVESTORS GET REPRIEVE
A U.S. federal judge issues an order that may help investors
allegedly swindled by New York financier Bernard Madoff in what
appears to be the largest "pyramid scheme" in history recover
some of their money.
CHINA, TAIWAN REOPEN REGULAR TRANSPORT LINKS
Regularly scheduled commercial flights, shipping, and mail
between Taiwan and China resumed Monday for the first time since
the 1949 revolution that brought the Communist Party to power on
the Chinese mainland.
SUZUKI QUITS WORLD RALLY SCENE AS SALES DIP
Japanese automaker Suzuki Motor Corporation has pulled out of
next year's FIA World Rally Championship citing a drop in sales
due to the global financial crisis.
Breaking News: Fed cuts key interest rate to record low
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Federal Reserve has cut its target for a key
interest rate to the lowest level on record and pledged to use "all
available tools" to combat the current financial crisis. The central
bank says it reduced the federal funds rate, the interest that banks
charge each other, to a range of zero to 0.25%. That is down from the
1% target rate in effect since the last meeting in October.
Fed cuts target rate by three-quarters of a point to 0.25%, vows t...
Fed cuts target rate by three-quarters of a point to 0.25%, vows to use all tools
2:23:35 PM EDT
News Alert!
Obama names first 'climate czar' for U.S.
12/15/08 11:49 PM, EST
U.S. President-elect Barack Obama announced key members of his energy
team on Monday, naming physicist Steven Chu as secretary of energy,
and former EPA administrator Carol Browner to a new post in the White
House to coordinate energy and climate policy.
Consumer prices fall 1.7% in November, the biggest monthly drop ever. Housing starts and building permits plummet to record lows.
Consumer prices fall 1.7% in November, the biggest monthly drop ever.
Housing starts and building permits plummet to record lows.
Breaking News
Police defuse several explosive packages found in Paris department
store, say media reports.
International News
TOP STORIES as of 1000 GMT -- 16 December, 2008
SHOE-THROWER WANTED TO 'HUMILIATE TYRANT'
The brother of the journalist who hurled his shoes at U.S.
President George W. Bush said his sibling's actions were
"spontaneous" and represented the wishes of millions of Iraqis
who want to "humiliate the tyrant." Muntadhar al-Zaidi, pictured
above, remains in jail after the incident, a government official
said.
JUDGE AIDS INVESTORS IN $50B 'SCAM'
A U.S. federal judge issues an order that may help investors
allegedly swindled by New York financier Bernard Madoff in what
appears to be the largest "pyramid scheme" in history recover
some of their money, CNNMoney reports. It is estimated losses by
financial firms, charities and individual investors, could reach
$3 billion.
BASQUE TERROR SUSPECTS CAPTURED IN POLICE RAID
Spanish police arrested four suspected members of the Basque
separatist group ETA Tuesday, a week after the group's alleged
new military chief and five other ETA suspects were detained: Report
ASEAN SETS SUMMIT DATE, FORGES CHARTER
A summit of Association of Southeast Asian Nations leaders will
take place late February in Thailand, its government announced,
a day after Abhisit Vejjajiva was picked as prime minister and
ASEAN's charter came into force.
U.N.: ZIMBABWE CHOLERA DEATHS NEARLY 1,000
The number of cholera deaths in Zimbabwe is approaching 1,000,
according to new U.N. figures. The latest death toll came amid
claims by one of Zimbabwe's top officials blaming the cholera
outbreak on "a genocidal onslaught" by Zimbabwe's former
colonial ruler -- Britain. The United States and Britain quickly
denounced the accusations.
SOURCES: OBAMA PICKS EDUCATION, INTERIOR CHIEFS
President-elect Barack Obama is set to name Sen. Ken Salazar as
his choice for interior secretary and Chicago public schools
boss Arne Duncan as his pick for education secretary, sources
said Monday.
FORMER ECUADORIAN PRESIDENT CORDERO DIES
Former Ecuadorian President Leon Febres Cordero died of cancer
Monday afternoon. He was 77.
CANADA: TWO DIPLOMATS MISSING IN NIGER
Two Canadian diplomats have been reported missing in Niger, the
Canadian government said Monday, adding that both men work for
the United Nations.
BUSINESS
ASIA, PACIFIC MARKETS MIXED
Stocks were mixed Tuesday across Asia as investor's worries
about U.S. automakers, an alleged international pyramid scheme
and a U.S. Federal Reserve meeting weighed on markets.
CHINA, TAIWAN REOPEN REGULAR TRANSPORT LINKS
Regularly scheduled commercial flights, shipping, and mail
between Taiwan and China resumed Monday for the first time since
the 1949 revolution that brought the Communist Party to power on
the Chinese mainland.
SUZUKI QUITS WORLD RALLY SCENE AS SALES DIP
Japanese automaker Suzuki Motor Corporation has pulled out of
next year's FIA World Rally Championship citing a drop in sales
due to the global financial crisis.
Monday, December 15, 2008
International News
TOP STORIES as of 0900 HKT -- 16 December, 2008
SHOE-THROWER WANTED 'TO HUMILIATE TYRANT'
The brother of the journalist who hurled his shoes at U.S.
President George W. Bush said his sibling's actions were
"spontaneous" and represented millions of Iraqis who want to
"humiliate the tyrant." Muntadhar al-Zaidi, pictured above,
remains in jail after the incident, a government official said.
ARMIES RAID REBEL CAMP IN EASTERN CONGO
Three African armies launched a raid on a rebel camp in the
Democratic Republic of Congo, the three armies announced on
Monday. Targeting rebel hideouts in Garamba, the force from
Congo, Uganda and Sudan said it was trying to rescue hostages
and hunt down rebel leaders.
BANKS FACE HUGE LOSSES FROM $50B 'SCAM'
Some of the biggest names in global finance say they have lost
hundreds of millions of dollars in an alleged $50 billion
"pyramid scheme" that led to the arrest of a New York financier
last week. Former Nasdaq chairman Bernard Madoff, pictured
above, has been arrested and charged with a single count of
securities fraud.
OBAMA NAMES ENERGY TEAM
President-elect Barack Obama unveiled his energy and environment
team on Monday, ushering in what's likely to be a dramatic shift
in the way the nation tackles the challenges of climate change,
energy efficiency and the development of cleaner sources of
fuel.
U.S.: INDIA PREPARED FOR STRIKE ON PAKISTAN
The United States believes that India's air force began
preliminary preparations for a possible attack against Pakistan
in the immediate aftermath of the recent massacre in Mumbai, CNN
has learned.
TOXIC SMOKE WORRIES RETURNING TROOPS FROM IRAQ
The pervasive smoke spewing from the junk heap at Balad Air
Force Base in Iraq is causing many returning troops to be
concerned about the effects on their long-term health.
ANTI-KIDNAPPING CONSULTANT SEIZED IN MEXICO
An American anti-kidnapping consultant was kidnapped in Mexico,
according to the Houston-based security firm he works for.
U.N.: ZIMBABWE CHOLERA DEATHS NEARLY 1,000
The number of cholera deaths in Zimbabwe is approaching 1,000,
according to U.N. figures published Monday.
BUSINESS
CHINA, TAIWAN REOPEN REGULAR TRANSPORT LINKS
Regularly scheduled commercial flights, shipping, and mail
between Taiwan and China resumed Monday for the first time since
the 1949 revolution that brought the Communist Party to power on
the Chinese mainland.
SUZUKI QUITS WORLD RALLY SCENE AS SALES DIP
Japanese automaker Suzuki Motor Corporation has pulled out of
next year's FIA World Rally Championship citing a drop in sales
due to the global financial crisis.
EU APPROVES $267B BAILOUT PLAN
European Union leaders meeting in Brussels have approved a
€200 billion ($267 billion) stimulus plan for the 27-nation
bloc's battered economy.
Obama names energy team: Physicist Steven Chu as Energy secretary and former EPA chief Carol Browner in new role of climate czar.
Obama names energy team: Physicist Steven Chu as Energy secretary and
former EPA chief Carol Browner in new role of climate czar.
Oil settles down $1.77, at $44.51 a barrel, as a weak economic outlook trumped expectations of an OPEC production cut.
Oil settles down $1.77, at $44.51 a barrel, as a weak economic outlook trumped expectations of an OPEC production cut.
Breaking News Mon., December 15, 2008
Caroline Kennedy to Pursue Hillary Clinton's Senate Seat [1:57 p.m. ET]
Breaking News
Date: Mon, Dec 15, 2008 at 10:40 AM
Madonna agrees divorce settlement with Guy Ritchie for at least 50 million ($75 million), singer's spokeswoman says.
International News
TOP STORIES as of 1000 GMT -- 15 December, 2008
U.S.: INDIA PREPARED FOR STRIKE ON PAKISTAN
The United States believes that India's air force began
preliminary preparations for a possible attack against Pakistan
in the immediate aftermath of the recent massacre in Mumbai, CNN
has learned.
KIDNAPPED DOCTOR FREED FROM PARENTS
A British-based doctor has been freed by the courts in
Bangladesh after being held captive by her family and put under
pressure to marry against her will, media reports said Monday.
THAI PARLIAMENT PICKS NEW PM
Thailand's parliament chose opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva
as the country's new prime minister, drawing angry protests from
supporters of the recently banned ruling party outside.
BUSH DUCKS SHOES ON FINAL IRAQ VISIT
U.S. President George W. Bush headed back to Washington on
Monday after a farewell visit to Iraq and Afghanistan, where
American troops are still fighting the wars that dominated his
presidency.
FERRY CAPSIZES OFF PHILIPPINES, KILLING 23
A ferry capsized off the coast of the northern Philippines near
the town of Aparri, killing 23 people and leaving 29 others
missing, authorities said.
MCCAIN WON'T SAY HE'D BACK PALIN FOR PRESIDENT
Sen. John McCain said Sunday he would not necessarily support
his former running mate if she chose to run for president.
GREEK PROTESTERS: WE WILL NOT STOP
Greek students have called for daily protests starting Monday,
10 days after the police killing of a 15-year-old boy in Athens
sparked demonstrations that have thrown the country into
turmoil.
IRANIAN TO BE BLINDED FOR BLINDING WOMAN
An Iranian woman, blinded by a jilted stalker who threw acid in
her face, has persuaded a court to sentence him to be blinded
with acid himself under Islamic law demanding an eye for an eye.
BUSINESS
ASIA, PACIFIC MARKETS RISE ON BAILOUT HOPES
Asian and Pacific markets soared on Monday, riding higher on
hopes of a bailout for America's troubled automakers.
CHINA, TAIWAN REOPEN REGULAR TRANSPORT LINKS
Regularly scheduled commercial flights, shipping, and mail
between Taiwan and China resumed Monday for the first time since
the 1949 revolution that brought the Communist Party to power on
the Chinese mainland.
EU APPROVES $267B BAILOUT PLAN
European Union leaders meeting in Brussels have approved a
€200 billion ($267 billion) stimulus plan for the 27-nation
bloc's battered economy.
News Alert!
Hundreds protest New York immigrant's fatal beating
12/14/08 11:58 PM, EST
A few hundred people on Sunday marched in Brooklyn to protest last
week's fatal beating of a 31-year-old Ecuadorean man -- an incident
authorities say may have been a hate crime.
Energy: CORRECT: Obama energy duo to boost alternatives, analyst predicts
President-elect Barack Obama's expected nominee for energy secretary,
Steven Chu, boasts a résumé that includes not only a 1997 Nobel prize
for physics, report analysts at Lazard, but a record of solar, wind
and ethanol support.
Breaking News
Thailand's parliament chooses opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva as
the country's new prime minister Monday.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
International News
TOP STORIES as of 0900 HKT -- 15 December, 2008
ANGRY IRAQI THROWS SHOES AT BUSH IN BAGHDAD
U.S. President Bush made an unannounced farewell visit Sunday to
Baghdad, Iraq, where a man threw shoes at him. As the man
continued to scream from another room, Bush said: "That was a
size 10 shoe he threw at me, you may want to know."
IRANIAN TO BE BLINDED FOR BLINDING WOMAN
An Iranian woman, blinded by a jilted stalker who threw acid in
her face, has persuaded a court to sentence him to be blinded
with acid himself under Islamic law demanding an eye for an eye.
CARTER MEETS WITH POLITICAL LEADER OF HAMAS
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter met Sunday in Damascus,
Syria, with Khaled Meshaal, the exiled leader of Hamas'
political wing, a Hamas official said.
BROWN: PAKISTAN LINK TO MOST UK TERROR PLOTS
Britain's prime minister says he wants UK police to interview
Mumbai siege suspects and outlines claims that three quarters of
the most serious terrorism cases investigated by British police
have links to al Qaeda in Pakistan.
90 ARRESTED IN KASPAROV-ORGANIZED RALLY
Police detained 90 people Sunday at an unsanctioned political
opposition rally organized by former chess champion Garry
Kasparov, the Moscow police press service said.
MCCAIN WON'T SAY HE'D BACK PALIN FOR PRESIDENT
Sen. John McCain said Sunday he would not necessarily support
his former running mate if she chose to run for president.
GREEK PROTESTERS: WE WILL NOT STOP
Greek students have called for daily protests starting Monday,
10 days after the police killing of a 15-year-old boy in Athens
sparked demonstrations that have thrown the country into
turmoil.
SOMALI PM: PRESIDENT CAN'T FIRE ME
Somalia's president said Sunday he has dismissed his prime
minister for failing to do his job, a move that could threaten
peace efforts in the the violence-ravaged African nation.
BUSINESS:
WHITE HOUSE MAY BAIL OUT BIG 3
The Bush administration says it will consider using the money
set aside to help banks and Wall Street to rescue the auto
industry.
STOCKS SLIDE ON U.S. AUTO BAILOUT NEWS
World markets endured fresh punishment Friday as U.S. lawmakers'
rejection of a $14 billion bailout for the ailing Detroit auto
industry, weakening currencies in the U.S. and the UK and the
bleak economic outlook weighed on investors' minds.
EU APPROVES $267B BAILOUT PLAN
European Union leaders meeting in Brussels have approved a
€200 billion ($267 billion) stimulus plan for the 27-nation
bloc's battered economy.
Breaking News: Bush makes surprise visit to Iraq
BAGHDAD - President Bush has landed in Iraq on a surprise, farewell
visit. The stop will give him a chance to celebrate a new security
pact with Iraqi leaders.
Breaking News
U.S. President George W. Bush arrives in Baghdad on farewell visit to
Iraq as he prepares to leave office.
