Italy Win Bronze In Futsal World Cup

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil: Italy defeated Russia 2-1 to win the bronze medal in the Futsal World Cup here Saturday.

The match for deciding third position was very interesting as both teams contested hard throughout the game.

Adriano Foglia put Italy 1-0 up in the tenth minute, but Konstantin Dushkevich equalized for Russia in the 25th minute.

However, Saad Assis scored the winning goal with just 13 seconds left Saturday for Italy to beat Russia 2-1 and clinch the bronze medal at the Futsal World Cup.



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President Asif Ali Zardari Presided Over A High Level Meeting

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari presided over a high level meeting here on Saturday which was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, Governor NWFP Ovais Ghani and Advisor to PM Rehman Malik.

The meeting discussed war on terror and the internal situation of the country including that of tribal areas.

Steps regarding establishment of peace in tribal areas and matters in connection with the in-camera Parliament session also came under review.

President Asif Ali Zardari also briefed the participants about his recent visit to China.




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NATO Troops Effected By Suicide Blast In Afghanistan

HEART: A suicide car bomb exploded outside a base of the NATO-led military force in Afghanistan’s western city of Herat Saturday, wounding several troops, the alliance said.
The car bomb exploded at the gates of a base which is run by Italian troops in the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) with some Spanish soldiers also stationed there.

“We did have casualties just wounded,” an ISAF media official at the force’s headquarters in Kabul told foreign news agency. There were several wounded, she said, without being able to give more details. ISAF does not release the nationalities of its casualties.

According to foreign news agency, the bomb appeared to have struck a military vehicle which had overturned. The area was sealed off and Afghan officials could not immediately say if any civilians had been struck by the explosion.



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Present Incidents Aimed At Sabotaging City Peace: MQM

KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement Leader Shoaib Bukhari said the armed operatives of a sectarian party victimized the workers of MQM.

Addressing a press conference here at MQM headquarters Nine Zero, he urged president, Prime Minister, the Sindh Governor and Sindh CM to take strict notice of these target killings to restore peace to the city.

Shoaib Bukhari said that the activists of sectarian faction killed two MQM workers through target-killing, adding two motorcyclists came and shot down MQM workers Mohammed Danish and Salahud Din and a sympathizer Irfan was injured in the incident.

He continued that the operatives of the same group killed Mohammed Farooq—a dispenser—in Jet Lines area and injured Mohammed Fahim in New Karachi by opening fire at him.

Furthermore, MQM leader said that militants of the same group opened fire at the shops in Resham Market in Shah Faisal Colony-1.

He said the saboteurs torched several cars in different areas of the city, while, MQM, by staying peaceful, foil the plot of conspirers, adding the recent violent occurrences are intended to harm national economy.

On this occasion he urged the party workers to stay peaceful, adding the present incidents of violence are aimed to disrupt the peace of the city.

He requested the concerned authorities to take notice of the recent target-killings of MQM workers and arrest the culprits at the earliest.



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Boucher, Malik Agree To Step Up Cooperation On Terror War

ISLAMABAD: US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Richard Boucher arrived in Pakistan for a one-day visit on Saturday.

Richard Boucher and Interior Adviser Rehman Malik, in a meeting, agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation on war against terrorism. He also exchanged views with the Interior Adviser on ongoing military operation in tribal areas.

US Ambassador N.W. Patterson and Secretary Interior Kamal Shah were also present on this occasion.

Sources told that US would give training to the personnel of Frontier Corps and provide night vision goggles to Pakistani forces in order to counter the militants during nights. Interior advisor apprised Boucher of China’s visit, according to sources.

Boucher is also likely to meet Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other important figures in the government.



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Free Trade For FATA, Pakistan :Asif Ali Zardari

BEIJING: Islamabad wants to talk to the next US administration about boosting investment in FATA, Chinese state media quoted President Asif Ali Zardari as saying.

The official Chinese daily quoted Zardari as saying Islamabad would encourage investment in the troubled regions and try to win more preferential treatment for their products in U.S. markets. Zardari ended a four-day visit to China on Friday.

“We are looking for a dialogue when the new U.S. administration comes into being. And we are going to work firmly for the signing of a FTA (Free Trade Agreement) for these regions,” Zardari said.

But Zardari said that militancy in Pakistan was it’s “own problem”, the paper said. “It is basically our own war. It has been wrongly described as America’s war,” Zardari said.

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Pakistan, China Make 12 Agreements: Shah Mahmood Qureshi

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Saturday that 12 agreements were signed between China and Pakistan during President Zardari’s recent visit to Beijing.

Addressing a joint press conference along with Finance Advisor, Shaukat Tareen, Foreign Minister Qureshi said that five agreements are of great importance for Pakistan.

He said that China would set up two atomic power plants in Pakistan, adding the country will get 680 megawatts of electricity from Chashma-3 and Chashma-4 power plants. He said the initiative would help overcome the ongoing power crisis.

Qureshi announced that Pak-China Joint Atomic Commission would meet soon. “China will also cooperate us in Bhasha and Kohala dams,” said Qureshi, adding that President Zardari would visit the China after every three months.

He said Pakistan would soon launch its first communication satellite in collaboration with China. Qureshi said that two countries would work together to enhance their cooperation in agriculture and economic sectors. China would also offer its support in the fields of minerals and energy, he said.

He announced that two countries would sign the bilateral trade pact soon. Qureshi said that the government would provide lands to the Chinese investors to set up industries in Pakistan. China had decided to support in ‘Friends of Pakistan’ forum, he said.

Foreign Minister Qureshi further said that Chinese bankers would be invited to open their branches in Pakistan, adding a Chinese delegation will soon arrive in Pakistan in this connection. He said China would be provided the land to open its embassy in the federal capital.

Qureshi added that the president’s visit to China was aimed at strengthening the friendship between two countries without any interest. All objectives of the visit have been achieved, he commented.

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S Korea Fire Kills 4 Asleep In Shipping Container

SEOUL:4 people asleep in a shipping container were killed when a fire swept through their makeshift home in the South Korean capital Saturday, police said.

The four, including a 57-year-old worker and his friends, suffocated in their sleep when the fire broke out inside the modified container early Saturday, police said.

The container was one of many used as makeshift houses by low-income earners. They usually have a bedroom, kitchen and a toilet and are supplied with power.

The blaze was quickly contained, police said, adding they suspected an electrical short circuit may have caused the fire.



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Teenage Hacker Admits Scientology Cyber-Attack

LOS ANGELES: A teenager hacker has admitted carrying out a cyber attack that crashed Church of Scientology websites as part of a campaign by a mysterious underground group, justice officials here said.

Dmitriy Guzner, 18, of New Jersey will plead guilty to computer hacking for his role in launching a distributed denial of service (DDOS) attack against Scientology websites in January this year, the Justice Department said.

DDOS attacks occur when websites are overwhelmed by a large volume of malicious Internet traffic, making the sites unavailable to legitimate users.

According to information filed in federal court in Los Angeles, Guzner described himself as a member of a shadowy Internet-based group known as "Anonymous" that has carried out a series of protests against Scientology.

A statement released by the Justice Department in Los Angeles said Guzner would formally plead guilty in "coming weeks" at a court in New Jersey. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison.

Founded in the United States in 1954 by science-fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard, the Church of Scientology, which has attracted Hollywood stars such as Tom Cruise, was recognized as a religion there 20 years later.


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Iceland And Iran Lose UN Security Council Election

UNITED NATIONS: Japan handily defeated Iran for a nonpermanent seat on the Security Council and Austria and Turkey edged out Iceland in secret ballot voting Friday.

Iran, which is under U.N. sanctions, received only 32 votes, while Iceland, which had been considered by many to be a strong candidate until the recent economic crisis, received only 87 votes.

The Security Council is the powerhouse of the United Nations with the ability to impose sanctions and dispatch peacekeepers.

The other two seats went to Mexico, which will represent Latin America, and Uganda, which will represent Africa; both ran unopposed.

In the secret ballot, candidates were required get a two-thirds majority of members voting.

General Assembly President Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann said after the balloting that Austria received 133 votes, Turkey 151 votes, Japan 158 votes, Uganda 181 votes and Mexico 185.



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Sadr Urges Iraqi Lawmakers To Reject Security Pact With US

BAGHDAD: Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr urged Iraqi lawmakers on Saturday to reject a planned US-Iraqi security deal as tens of thousands of his followers poured on to the streets of Baghdad in a massive anti-American protest.

"When the agreement is in your hands, the destiny of Iraq and its people is also in your hands," Sadr said in a statement, speaking to MPs, whose approval is necessary once the deal is signed by leaders of the two countries.

"Do not vote for the agreement. If they tell you the agreement ends the occupation ... no, the occupier will still remain. If you are told that it would give sovereignty to Iraq, it is a lie."

Sadr, who is reputed to be living in Iran, is a strong opponent of the US presence in Iraq, and has consistently opposed the deal since it was proposed last year.

US and Iraqi negotiators have reached agreement on a draft deal that would govern the status of American forces in Iraq after the present UN mandate ends in December. The pact must be approved by leaders of both countries as well as the Iraqi parliament.

Details have not been made public but officials have said agreement was reached on a timeline for withdrawing all US combat troops from Iraq by the end of 2011.

A key point of contention in the months-long negotiations has been whether US troops would fall exclusively under US jurisdiction if accused of serious crimes in Iraq.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari said on Saturday it was "time to take decisions" regarding the security deal.

"It is difficult to reopen the text. The parliament either ratifies or rejects it," he said, adding that the deal does not allow Washington to have a permanent military presence in Iraq.

"There is no hidden agenda ... the next few days are very crucial for Iraqi leaders to decide," he said.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of Sadr supporters spat anger at US occupation and the proposed deal as they marched through the dusty streets of Baghdad.

Effigies of US President George W. Bush -- with bandaged head and fractured right arm -- and of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice were set ablaze along with American flags.


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‘I Don’t Mind Lip Locks’

Preeti Jhangiani had made quite an arrival in Tollywood with smashing hits like Narasimhanaidu but later resolved to test her luck in Bollywood.

Despite receiving more than 20 offers post Mohabattein, she couldn't make it big, though she had her share of BO-success with Awara Paagal Deewana, Anarth and LOC. Even her image makeover couldn't give a fillip to her career. Now, she makes a comeback to Tollywood with two author-backed roles to prove she isn't just a flash in the pan.

On lip locks & being single
After playing an orthodox girl in her debut film Mohabbatein, she boldly indulged in a lip lock with actor Abbas for a music album. "Could you imagine such scenes in Rajshri's banner before? I think this album reflected their adaptation to changing times," says the actress, who has a few steamy scenes to her credit. "Personally, I dislike it, but since it's part of my job, I don't mind," reasons the actress, who believes that only aesthetically shot scenes will find audience patronage. "If makers use it only to titillate the audience, it would rebound," she says. She is still single since her focus is on work. "I am just thinking of grabbing meaty roles, so my personal life can wait."

On her comeback bid
Despite hits Tammudu and Narasimhanaidu in Tollywood, she failed to cash in on it. "I did get lot of offers but I couldn't spare dates due to my Bollywood commitments," she says. Now, in her comeback film Nakshatra, she plays an archaeologist. "It's the first time that I am doing such a challenging role," says Preeti, who has also agreed to do another author-backed role with director Pratap. "Again, it's a well-designed role with good scope," informs the lady who is on the verge of signing a third female-centric film, hoping everything falls in place. "I did an item number in Yamadonga. I may consider doing another if the offer is exciting," she says.

On Bollywood
She had a promising start in Bollywood with a runaway hit Mohabbatein but couldn't really make it big. "I received 20 offers after Mohabattein, but probably didn't pick the right ones," reasons the actress, who puts it down to luck. "Even today, I don't have a PR manager," informs the actress. Nevertheless, she had her share of Bollywood roles with Awara Paagal Deewana, Anarth, Aan and LOC. "My varied roles include a princess, a widow, a dutiful wife and a negative role in Victoria No.203," says the actress, who feels satisfied with most of her roles. She is equally excited about her upcoming Hindi film Haseena and describes it as a ‘decent entertainer’.



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Lahore In Hyd? Huh?

Sanjay Dutt-Salman Khan starrer Raj Kumar Santoshi’s adaptation of Asghar Wajahat’s play Jis Lahore Nahin Dekhya Woh Jamiya Nahin won’t be shot i
Salman Khan
Lahore, as originally planned.

Now Santoshi will recreate Lahore in Hyderabad. Santoshi confirmed and said, “Shooting in Lahore seems impractical. Primarily because we may not get the architecture of the partition times any more. So Nitish Roy (he’s designed Ramoji Film City too) is building Lahore in Hyderabad for us.

Every lane, bylane, the transportation, the electric wires will be recreated. Our set will look more like Lahore than Lahore itself.”

However, according to a source close to Sanjay Dutt, absence of period architecture is not the only reason for the film not being shot in Lahore. Our source said, “The producers are concerned about the safety aspect. But if Sanju can brave Kashmir for Lamhaa, why not Lahore?”



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Celina Wants A Chopper Ride!

We are not the only ones who keep cribbing about the ever-increasing traffic problems in any of our cities.
Even some of our stars have had ‘harrowing’ tales of fretting it out in traffic jams. Recently, we had our ex beauty queen Celina Jaitley tell us how she was caught in one such jam. “Can you beat it, I was in the middle of the road for almost four hours. And imagine, in that time, I would have gone to Kolkata, attended Durga Puja and got back home. I think, after that experience, I will save some cash to buy myself a chopper,” she laughed.

So producers, don’t fret if Celina asks for a raise in her remuneration, all wants to do is simply fly high!




NEWS BY INDAI TIMES

Singapore Central Bank Investigates Sale Of Lehman Products

Singapore’s: central bank is investigating accusations of misconduct in the sale of investments packaged by the collapsed US investment bank Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc and other financial institutions (FIs) hit by the global financial crisis, news reports said Saturday.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore “confirms that we have been conducting formal inquiries into allegation of breaches of law, inadequate internal controls by the FIs or poor sales practices by their representatives,” the authority said in a statement Friday.

It was the latest move by the central bank to help some of the 10,000 retail investors in Singapore who invested 500 million Singapore dollars (337.91 million US dollars) in financial products linked to Lehman Brothers.

The banks managing director, Heng Swee Keat, said the inquiry was focussing on cases of misselling to “vulnerable customers,” referring to retirees, the elderly and people uneducated about investments.

Singaporeans who bought failed Lehman minibonds have been pressing the government to help salvage their investments. The central bank has not ruled out buying back Lehman minibonds. (dpa)

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Oil Price Rebounds Above 71 Dollars On Fears Of OPEC Output Cut

LONDON: Oil prices rebounded Friday above 71 dollars a barrel on speculation the OPEC crude producers' cartel could cut production at an emergency meeting next week, traders said.

Crude futures had tumbled on Thursday and have plunged by more than six percent over the week as fears of a global recession raised expectations of a prolonged slowdown to energy demand.

New York's main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in November, rose by 1.49 dollars to 71.34 dollars a barrel on Friday.

The contract had fallen by 4.69 dollars to 69.85 on Thursday, the first time the benchmark contract closed below the 70-dollar level since August 2007.

London's Brent North Sea crude for delivery in December rose 1.31 dollars to 69.15 dollars a barrel on Friday. The November contract expired on Thursday after diving to a 17-month low at 65.45.

OPEC said on Thursday that it would hold an extraordinary meeting earlier than expected next Friday -- instead of in November -- to discuss the global financial crisis and its impact on the oil market.

"The threat of an OPEC cut at its meeting next week has lifted oil," said BetOnMarkets.com analyst David Evans in London on Friday.




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"Oil has been in a tailspin as worries of a full-fledged recession intensifies. We believe that oil prices have hit their lowest and could only go higher from here," added the analyst.

The 12-nation Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, which pumps about 40 percent of global crude supplies, has not indicated whether production levels would be altered at its meeting.

SBP Measures: Dollar Down Against Rupee

KARACHI: After the measures taken by the State Bank of Pakistan and the news of investigation against speculation in money market, a recovery in the rupee value against dollar is being witnessed today.

According to FOREX market dealers, a recovery in the value of rupee is being seen today after the continuous downward value of the currency for the last two days and dollar after a decline of Re 1.40 is now being traded at Rs82.50.

Dealers said that any possibility of the central bank’s intervention in market cannot be ignored.

As per dealers, a decline in demand of dollar is being witnessed today also due to an announcement again by the central bank not to freeze foreign currency accounts and the news that investigation is being carried out against speculators in money market.

Moreover, the expectations of new investment from China following President Zardari’s visit to China may also be the cause of recovery in the value of rupee.



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Vettori Derails Bangladesh In First Test

CHITTAGONG: New Zealand skipper Daniel Vettori took five wickets to dismiss Bangladesh for 245 in their first innings of the opening Test here on Saturday. The 29-year-old left-arm spinner dismissed Mushfiqur Rahim (79), Mashrafe Mortaza (nought) and Abdur Razzak (11) as the home team lost their last six wickets for just 47 runs after resuming the second day at 183-4. Vettori, who took 5-59, was ably supported by paceman Iain O'Brien (3-36) and off-spinner Jeetan Patel who finished with 2-67. Resuming with two set batsmen, Bangladesh were instantly pushed back by the Black Caps who through O'Brien dismissed Mehrab Hossain in the fourth over of the day for a fine career-best 83. Mehrab, playing only his second Test, miscued a drive and was caught at short cover by Aaron Redmond. He hit eleven boundaries during his resolute 179-ball knock. Mehrab and Rahim added an invaluable 144 for the fifth wicket, rescuing Bangladesh from a precarious 44-4 on Friday. Debutant Naeem Islam (14) added another 41 for the sixth wicket with Rahim before he jumped out of his crease to Patel and was smartly stumped by Bredon McCullum. Vettori then took charge, removing a dangerous-looking Rahim, caught off a miscued sweep, and two balls later forced a bat-pad edge off Mortaza for a sharp close catch. Rahim struck 12 boundaries and a six during his 209-ball innings. Three overs later, Vettori dismissed Razzak, caught behind before Shakib Al Hasan holed out at mid-on off Patel after scoring just five. This becomes Vattori's 16th five-wicket haul in 84 Tests.


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MOHALI: India were bowled out for 469 in their first innings at tea on the second day of the second Test against Australia here on Saturday. Earlier,

SYDNEY: Leg-spinner Bryce McGain, who returned home injured from Australia’s current tour of India, underwent shoulder surgery Saturday, Cricket Victoria said.

McGain, who was poised to make his Test debut at the age of 36, suffered tendon damage while bowling in India and was forced to return home early.

McGain initially injured the area underneath his right shoulder during an Australia A match in India last month and further aggravated it while preparing for a tour match with the senior Australian squad.

“No-one likes to be sidelined and this injury under my armpit has come at a particularly bad time,” McGain said in a statement.

“Hopefully the fitness work I’ve done during the pre-season will stand me in good stead in terms of my recovery and allow me to get stuck into my rehab and back in the nets as soon as possible.

“This is a setback, but I’ve bounced back from a few of these before and am confident this treatment will allow me to return as strong as ever.”

Medical staff said McGain’s recovery time will depend on his progress following the surgery.

Australian cricket is struggling to throw up a quality spinner following the retirements of legendary Shane Warne and fellow wrist spinner Stuart McGill in quick succession over the last two years.

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India Were Bowled Out for 469 In Australia Test

MOHALI: India were bowled out for 469 in their first innings at tea on the second day of the second Test against Australia here on Saturday.

Earlier, former captain Sourav Ganguly has provided the platform and Mahendra Singh Dhoni produced quick runs as India built an imposing total of 401 for 6 wickets at lunch.

Ganguly is playing his final series Saturday. He moved cautiously toward his 16th century. Ganguly scored 102 runs and caught by White on a Brett Lee delivery. Dhoni in his quickfire half century scored 92 runs and given LBW off Siddle bowling.

The Australian bowlers tried to attack Dhoni with short balls, but he hooked and pulled superbly to deflate the attack, which had hoped for a quick end to the innings.

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West Indies To Host Twenty20 World Cup in 2010

MOHALI, India: The West Indies will host the World Twenty20 Championship in 2010, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced here on Saturday.

The event will be held in place of the Champions Trophy that was to be hosted by West Indies in 2010, ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat said at a press conference.

"With the Champions Trophy set to be hosted by Pakistan in 2009 after its cancellation this year, we decided to have a Twenty20 World Championship instead in April-May 2010 in West Indies," he said.

"Although World Twenty20 is to be held every second year, we decided to hold it on the trot to set the calendar right."



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Several Feared Dead In Airstrikes In Swat

MINGORA: Several feared dead in Jet fighters bombardment in Piyochar area of Swat on Friday, reports said. According to preliminary reports the Jet bombers flew over the upper areas of Matta in Swat causing fear and harassment in the area.





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Air Strikes In Bajaur Kill Aeven Militants

KHAR: At least seven militants were killed and several others injured when jet fighters bombed suspected hideouts of Taliban and militants at Charmang area here on Thursday.

According to security officials and local sources based in Charmang said that Pakistani jet fighters bombed the hideouts of pro-taliban militants at Chinar, Kohai and Babara in Charmang areas.

The officials said the help of aerial support was sought after the security forces received information about presence of armed miscreants at Chinar, Kohai and Babara areas. As result of air strikes seven militants were eliminated while several hideouts of Taliban fighters have been dismantled.

In yet another incident, the tribal laskhar and political administration in joint crackdown have destroyed the houses of local militants’ commanders Umar Muhammad and Noor Muhammad at village Toheedabad, some three kilometer of Tehsil Khar.





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All Parties To Consent On National Matters: Gilani

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani Thursday, while holding talks to MNAs and Ministers on the occasion of People Party Parliamentary meeting at PM house here, said that all the major national decisions would be sought with all political parties’ consensus.

the Prime Minister said, that it is policy of the PPP led government that all matters of national importance be resolved through political consultation and consensus.

He said that the consultation process proved very much fruitful in resolving many issues.
He said that it is for the first time in the history of Pakistan that different political parties have formed governments at provincial and federal level which is possible due to
political engagement by the PPP with all the political forces.

Prime Minister also said that in teh consultation process JUI and MQM would be taken on board while PMLN would also be taken in confidence.

PM said that Pakistan was a responsible nuke country that has no nefarious design against any country however he justified country’s defensive strategy saying, “Pakistan will keep improving its nuke tendency in view of state’s defense and for sustainable peace in the region”.

He added that PPP had laid down many sacrifices for attaining true democracy in Pakistan and would keep parliamentary process alive in future in the best interest of democracy.

PM urged world nations to stand united with Pakistan during the ongoing troubled hours of economic crisis and war on terrorism.





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In-Camera Session Adjourns Till Monday

ISLAMABAD: Speaker National Assembly Dr Fehmida Mirza adjourned the in-camera session of the Parliament till Monday.

The session will now meet on October 20 at 2:00 pm to review deteriorating law and order situation of the country and ongoing military operation in tribal areas.

In the joint sitting of the parliament on Thursday, only 111 members from the 442 strength were in attendance, lesser than the required number needed for the house proceedings.



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Is Pink Panther Lucky For Aishwarya?

First it was her miniscule role that was of much concern, and now, the constant postponement of the release- date of the film has people speculating about the degree of confidence in the project.

And as if this wasn’t enough, some Indian numerologists have taken it upon themselves to predict that the movie isn’t going to be worth its weight in salt since the title doesn’t add up to a favourable number. Let’s wait and watch for that one!




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Himesh Wants To Do A Rishi

SRK, when he did his first film, was lampooned for his unconventional looks not just by critics, but also his female co-stars. Himesh is going through a similar phase. But, like the Bollywood Badshah, he is also determined to win hearts.

“Everybody secretly nurtures the desire to be a film star, but nobody admits it. Given an opportunity, who wouldn’t want to be admired and loved by millions? Everyone is a narcissist deep down. Don’t we admire ourselves in the mirror,” asks Himesh.

As a youngster he loved films, but never aspired to be an actor. “It’s only when I achieved so much through music that the thought of acting came. Across the world, we have rock stars getting into films. It’s not because anyone wants to compete with film stars, but because you want to reach the next level of creativity, to sustain the acceptance and be loved. Like actors move to something else when they feel they are running in reserve,” he explains.

Why did he decide to become a hero knowing that Bollywood is unkind to average lookers? “Let’s see where the winds of change take me. I am not competing with anyone. I know I don’t have a good-looking face, but I am working towards being one,” he says earnestly.

To that end, Himesh has acquired a new, lean look, he’s lost 10 kilos, his wardrobe boasts of trendy clothes made by his designer sister, and he’s enrolled for dance and fight classes.

But acting will not cut down on his composing or singing, Himesh will do that exclusively for his own films now. He’s got five films in 2009 — Hey Gujjubhai, where he plays a double role, Kajra Re, Mudh Mudh Ke Na Dekh Mud Mud Ke and John Mathew’s A New Love Ishtory where he’s the Aamir Khan of Rangeela. “It’s a full package, I have 40 songs hitting the market next year,” he says.

Meanwhile, Himesh Reshammiya’s Karzzzz, whose music by T-Series is already topping the charts (especially Tandoori Nights and Ek Haseena Thi), is releasing today. “Whenever I visualise myself as an actor, I think of Rishi Kapoor in Karz. This is my all-time favourite film, and it’s a kind of tribute that I am paying to him. If I can come even one per cent close to what Rishi has done — then I know I can deliver,” he says.







NEWS BY INDIA TIMES

2 Banks Could Face Penalties In HK Probe

HONG KONG: Two banks were referred for possible sanctions Friday in Hong Kong as part of an investigation into misleading sales tactics in connection with Lehman Brothers investments whose values are in doubt, authorities said. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority sent securities regulators 24 cases involving allegations of misconduct and "mis-selling" against the lenders, the agency said in a statement. Since the Wall Street firm filed for bankruptcy last month, thousands of Hong Kongers who bought Lehman-related products have staged street protests and pressured lawmakers in an effort to protect their investments. Investors _ among them retirees who invested their life savings _ have complained that bank salespeople were misleading and failed to fully explain the product's connections to Lehman. The move came as the territory's banking association announced it agreed to a government proposal under which banks and other sellers of one type of Lehman-backed investments, known as mini-bonds, would buy them back from disgruntled investors. The association, however, didn't specificy at what price the products would be purchased from investors, and officials said determining the prices would take time. "I believe banks will handle the problem as quickly as possible, but everyone needs to understand it takes time to estimate the value and design the buyback procedure," said Chan Ka-keung, Hong Kong's secretary for financial services and the treasury. The two banks under investigation, which weren't identified, are the first to be referred for sanctions in the authority's investigation. The cases involve products worth about Hong Kong dollars 10 million ($1.28 million) sold to retail investors. Regulators could impose fines and revoke the banks' license, among other penalties.




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Qatar Expects One Million Bpd OPEC Cut

DUBAI: Qatar's energy minister predicted that OPEC will cut oil output by at least one million barrels a day at its emergency meeting next week after crude prices tumbled below 70 dollars. "I believe, personally, that it could be one million barrels or more. At least one million barrels, but I cannot confirm," Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah said in an interview with Arabic television aired on Friday. "We will look into our forecasts for supply and demand," he said, referring to the ministerial meeting of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, which has been brought forward from November to October 24. Oil prices had reached a peak of 147 dollars a barrel earlier this year but slumped below 70 dollars on Thursday for the first time in more than a year, dragged down by prospects for reduced demand in the face of a global economic slowdown brought on by the world financial turmoil. On Friday, oil prices recovered slightly following news the OPEC meeting was being brought forward. New York's main futures contract, light sweet crude for November delivery, rose 2.50 dollars to 72.35 dollars per barrel. Gas-rich Qatar is a member of OPEC.



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Dollar Selling At Rs85 In Open Market

KARACHI: The national currency remains under pressure in interbank
market, as the dollar is being traded at a new high of Rs83.60.

According
to dealers, the US dollar is seen trading at Rs83.60 with the increase
of Rs1.60 in the interbank. Meanwhile, Head of Research for Khanani and
Kalia Internationals, Nabeel Iqbal said that the dollar has surged to
Rs85 in open market.

According to sources, the greenback is
gaining frequent value due to sharp decline in foreign exchange
reserves. On the other hand, head of Global Markets and Standard
Chartered said that some elements in the market wanted to pressurize
the government by devaluing the national currency.

NEWS BY APAKISTANNEWS.COM

Japanese Lawmakers Visit War Shrine

TOKYO: Dozens of Japanese politicians visited Tokyo's controversial Yasukuni shrine to war dead on Friday, but new Prime Minister and past supporter Taro Aso stayed away, lawmakers' offices said.

Forty-eight parliamentarians -- 21 upper house members and 27 lower house politicians -- visited the Yasukuni shrine on the first day of its four-day annual autumn festival.

No cabinet members were seen at the shrine, which honours 2.5 million Japanese war dead, including 14 top war criminals from World War II. Other Asian countries view the shrine as a symbol of Japan's wartime aggression.

Aso, who took office in late September, has not said clearly whether he would visit the Shinto shrine.

"He probably makes decisions by looking at his schedule of public duties," lawmaker Yoshinobu Shimamura said at the shrine, as quoted by Jiji Press.

He said he "frankly hopes" Aso will visit the Yasukuni shrine.

Former prime minister Junichiro Koizumi prayed once a year at the shrine during his 2001-2006 tenure, enraging China and South Korea which refused any summits with him.

Aso's predecessor Yasuo Fukuda advocated reconciliation with other Asian countries and openly opposed visits to the shrine by political leaders.

Aso has gone to the Yasukuni shrine in the past and has caused controversy for praising aspects of Japan's past imperialism.

But Aso, a Christian, unveiled a proposal in 2006 for the government to take over the shrine and strip it of its religious affiliation in the hope of ending the controversy.




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NZ Fines Koreans For Fishing Breach

WELLINGTON: Three South Korean fishermen were fined and two boats seized after being caught with hundreds of tons of fish caught illegally in New Zealand waters, officials said Friday. The South Koreans earlier pleaded guilty to providing 'false and misleading' declarations for more than 770 tons (700 metric tons) of fish, a Fisheries Ministry official said. The offenses occurred during eight fishing trips in 2007. Kim Dae-Geun, Pyon Se-Hun, and Bae Gap-Joo were fined a total of 360,000 New Zealand dollars (US$221,000) earlier this week. The two fishing boats were forfeited to the New Zealand government. Fishing companies can usually recover confiscated boats by applying to a court and paying a substantial fine.




NEWS BY APAKISTANNEWS.COM

US To Waive Visa Rules For 7 Countries

WASHINGTON: The Bush administration plans to remove visa requirements for the citizens of seven allied countries, congressional aides said Thursday.

President Bush will announce Friday that Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and South Korea will be added to the U.S. visa waiver program as early as next month, the aides told newsmen.

The White House would not confirm the list but said Bush is to speak Friday on the visa waiver program. The congressional aides spoke on condition of anonymity because the president will announce the decision.

The administration has sought to reward close allies with visa-free travel but has met resistance from some lawmakers who say the visa waiver program could make it easier for terrorists to slip into the United States.

The program currently includes 27 countries, including most of Western Europe. Exclusion has been a sore point among some new NATO allies that have supported U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Some of those countries, including Poland, did not make Friday's list because they could not meet admission requirements.

Negotiations with Greece, which has long sought to join other Western European countries in the program, have faltered, prompting complaints from the Athens government and Greek-American groups that it is being punished because of unrelated political disagreements with Washington over the entry of neighboring Macedonia into NATO.

Sen. Joe Lieberman, I-Conn., said he was concerned the administration waived some criteria for admission so the seven countries could be approved before Bush leaves office.

"I am dismayed the administration has decided to expand the Visa Waiver Program before implementing security measures required by law, a move that could very well jeopardize the security of the United States," Lieberman, a supporter of the program, said Thursday in an e-mail.

Congress last year enacted a law to expand the program while requiring that the government implement a system under which visitors from non-visa countries would have to register online with U.S. authorities before their departures and provide some personal information. Lieberman contends that program will not be in place when the new countries join.



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Tennis: Nadal And Federer In Class Of Their Own

MADRID: Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer rolled over outclassed opponents on Thursday as the top two seeds edged closer to a title showdown at the Madrid Masters.

Nadal, aiming to lift his second trophy here following his 2005 triumph, stopped Richard Gasquet for the sixth time in as many meetings, his 6-4, 6-2 victory powering the top seed into the quarter-finals.

Reaching the Sunday final will insure the Spaniard the world number 1 year-end ranking for 2008 after lifting it from Federer in August.

Federer faced Australian Open finalist Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for the first time and floored the Frenchman 6-4, 6-1.

"I've never played him before and that made it more difficult," said Switzerland's 13-time Grand Slam champion.

"You don't know where he's going to serve, how he's going to play. I knew the danger and played carefully at the start. I'm happy with the score and glad to win in straight sets against a great player like Jo.

"I was able to land the KO punch like in a heavyweight boxing match. I got the first one in and that was good for me."

Federer will play for the semi-finals against Argentine Juan Del Potro, who knocked out defending champion and Davis Cup teammate David Nalbandian 6-4, 6-2.

Nadal required less than 90 minutes to advance, leaving his French opponent Gasquet to pick up the pieces after winning just three career sets against the reigning Roland Garros, Wimbledon and Olympic champion.

"Richard made a lot of mistakes with his backhand, which is usually his best shot," said Nadal. "He's had an inconsistent year, but in 2007 he was in the Top ten. He is always dangerous."

Nadal looked in devastating touch in his campaign to lift a ninth title this season but will face Lopez, the 40th-ranked Spaniard, who is in impressive form having knocked out Swiss tenth seed Stanislas Wawrinka 6-4, 6-4.

"It's going to be difficult to win, let's see if I am okay with my serve so that I can play more comfortably. That will be very important in order to win the match," said Nadal.

Andy Murray was hoping that a jolt to his chronically weak knee would not prevent him from continuing this week after defeating Marin Cilic 7-5, 7-6 (7/2).

The Scottish fourth seed advanced after reversing an early break when trailing 3-5 in the first set against the Croatian.

Murray said he will hope to make his Friday match against Gael Monfils, who defeated Andy Roddick 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.

"As long as the pain is bearable, I'm ready to play," said the US Open finalist.

French outsider Gilles Simon edged into contention for a place in next month's ATP season-ending finale with a thrilling defeat of Robby Ginepri 6-7 (6/8), 6-4, 7-6 (8/6).





NEWS BY Apakistannews.Com

Bangladesh Win Toss And Bat In First Test

CHITTAGONG: Bangladesh skipper Mohammad Ashraful won the toss and elected to
bat agiainst New Zealand at the Divisonal Stadium here on Friday.

The home team has included three left-arm spinners, Abdur Razzak, Mehrab Hossain and Shakib Al Hasan in their lineup along with off-spinning all-rounder Naeem Islam as the pitch is likely to take spin. The 21-year-old Islam is making his Test debut.

New Zealand has also handed batsman Jesse Ryder his Test debut and included off-spinner Jeetan Patel to backup skipper and spinner Daniel Vettori. They also have three seamers in Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram and Iain O'Brien.

The visitors won the preceding three-match one-day series 2-1.

Teams:

Bangladesh: Mohammad Ashraful (capt), Mashrafe Mortaza, Tamim Iqbal, Zunaed Siddique, Rajin Saleh, Shakib Al Hasan, Mehrab Hossain, Naeem Islam, Mushfiqur Rahim, Abdur Razzak, Shahadat Hossain.

New Zealand: Daniel Vettori (captain), Jesse Ryder, Ross Taylor, Aaron Redmond, Daniel Flynn, Jamie How, Brendon McCullum, Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram, Jeetan Patel,
Iain O'Brien.

Umpires: Daryl Harper (AUS), Asoka de Silva (SRI)
Tv umpire: Enamul Hoque (BAN)
Match referee: Javagal Srinath (IND)





NEW BY apakistannews.com

'US Missiles Strike Kills 6 In South Waziristan' Pakistan

PESHAWAR :A suspected US spy drone fired two missiles on Thursday into South Waziristan area killing at least six people, security officials said.

"Two missiles were fired, completely destroying the house. First reports confirm six dead," a security official told AFP on condition of anonymity after the strike in South Waziristan.

The exact target of the attack was unclear, he added.

There was no immediate confirmation of the strike from the military or from the US-led coalition in Afghanistan.

A local resident said two spy drones were still circling over the scene and people feared further missile strikes.

The United States has stepped up attacks on militants in tribal regions since a new civilian government came to power in March, and the incidents have become an issue in the US presidential election.



NEWS BY APAKISTANNEWS.COM

India, Pakistan Agree On Joint Patrolling At Border

LAHORE: Pakistan and India on Thursday agreed to carry out joint patrolling at border to curb smuggling.

This was announced at a joint press briefing of the Rangers and the BSF in Lahore.

The Rangers and the BSF, at the three-day meeting, exchanged lists of prisoners from both sides and decided to release the inhabitants of Pakistan and India within 24 hours who mistakenly crossed the border and are languishing in jails.

It was also decided that a warning would be given to fishermen, who violated the maritime exclusive zone, before any arrest.

They also agreed that until a final decision is taken, India would stop the construction work at the border.

It was also agreed that the two forces would carry out patrolling of the borders during they day and night and avoid firing at innocent civilians.

This was told in the joint press conference that Pakistan has released 135 Indian citizens while India has released 52 Pakistanis during the last six months.



NEWS BY GEO TV

Lawyers Observe Hunger Strike,Boycott Courts

LAHORE: The lawyers in the provincial capital observed boycott of the courts and staged protest camps to step up the pressure for the restoration of judges, here on Thursday.

Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA) and District Bar Association observed full day strike following the decision of National Lawyers Coordination Council and no one appeared before the courts to press ahead for their demands.

Meanwhile, Lahore High Court Bar and Save the Judiciary committee (SJC) also set up protest camps in the compound of LHCBA in which Aitzaz Ahsan President Supreme Court Bar,Ali Ahmad Kurd ex-Vice Chairman Pakistan Bar Council, Anwar Kamal President LHCBA,Hafiz Abdul Rehman Ansari Member PBC,Abdul Rasheed Qureshi President SJC and large number of other lawyers participated and expressed solidarity with the deposed judges.

The protesters chanted slogans in favour of the deposed judges and called for “independent judiciary.”

They demanded that government should restore all the deposed judges, including Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhary immediately.



NEWS BY ARY NEWS

Sex Makes Me Happy: Cheryl Cole

The Girls Aloud member also revealed her bedroom antics with her footballer husband Ashley Cole. “We tackle each other in the bedroom and he loves me massaging his feet,” the Mirror quoted her as saying.

“Sex with Ashley is more important to me than all the money in the world. Sex makes me happy, money doesn’t. And Ashley makes me feel sexy, he’s fantastic,” she added.

Cheryl, 25, who had once let slip that Ashley did not like to make love when their pet chihuahua was in the room, also revealed her preference. “I think most men prefer to hear little breaths rather than big loud screams. Otherwise you sound like a porn film,” she stated.

The singer is very independent, and advises others about relationships. “I tell my friends to play hard to get,” she said. “Don’t call him, don’t text him, and he’ll come running to you. It works every time,” she added.



NEWS BY INDIA TIMES

Marriage Proposal Has Divya Blushing!

Post Welcome to Sajjanpur, Divya Dutta is unstoppable. Appreciation has been pouring in both from the masses and classes and the Dutta girl is on top the world

But, what’s so moving was when she was recently accosted by a die-hard fan with a marriage proposal. Divya laughs and tell us, “The fan was very disturbed by a scene where I was made to marry a dog. He saw the movie and got hold of my number from somewhere and messaged me saying, “Don’t worry, I’m ready to marry.” And, guess what? Instead of frowning she actually found it very touching. So chweet
na?

NEWS BY INDIA TIMES

Neetu Chandra Plays Games

Neetu Chandra is an avid basketball player and she makes it point to indulge in her favourite game wherever she goes.

“I literally carry the game with me. I know almost all the basketball courts across the country by now,” she laughs. And, recently, she took admission in a new club in Mumbai. Recalling her first day there, she says, “When I walked in, to my horror, I was told that after 7 pm, only guys go there to play. And there were these 15 guys standing on the court and looking at me as if I was an alien. I waited for a while and then asked them if I could be part of their game. They agreed, albeit reluctantly and soon realised that I was an expert at it. And now, I’m the only girl who’s allowed to be part of their game,” she says proudly.

As for the boys, we are sure they must be thrilled to share their game with Ms Chandra!

NEWS BY INDIA TIMES

Safrica Welcomes Cricket Technology Aids

JOHANNESBURG: With the controversies of the latest series against Australia still fresh in his mind, South African cricket coach Mickey Arthur on Tuesday welcomed the prospect of increased technological involvement in the next series.

Arthur was reacting to news that the International Cricket Council (ICC) board was discussing the issue at its two-day quarterly meeting in Dubai, which started Tuesday.

The ICC said that if it deemed it appropriate, the board would nominate four series for further trials of the system between now and the meeting of the ICC’s cricket committee in April and May next year.

It said the intention of the further trials was to provide exposure to the system for as many match referees, umpires and players as possible ahead of a decision on whether it should be implemented permanently. One of the designated series is SA’s away and home series against Australia.

Others are England’s visit to India and India’s tour of Pakistan. Those are followed by England’s home Ashes series against Australia in the second part of next year.

SA’s latest series against Australia was punctuated by fielding controversies, with catches by Andrew Hall at mid-wicket and a low catch at gully by Australia’s Matthew Hayden creating a furore.

“My view has always been that you cannot go halfway,” said Arthur. “If you are going to use technology, then you must go the whole hog and use it for everything.

“I was against it in the beginning because I felt that it spoilt the spirit of cricket a bit. But now that it is here, I think they must use it for all the situations it can be used in.

“We had some quite nasty situations last time around and if increased use of technology can eliminate those, I am all for it.”


NEWS BY APAKISTANNEWS

Finland Own Goals Gift Russia World Cup Win

MOSCOW: Two own goals from Finland gifted Russia a 3-0 European zone 2010 World Cup qualifying victory here on Wednesday.

Own goals from Petri Pasanen and Veli Lampi dominated this Group Four fixture though a Russia player did eventually manage to get on the scoresheet when Andrei Arshavin added a late strike.

Russia came into the match looking rusty and made a number of errors though they had a couple of goal-scoring chances in the opening 20 minutes. Finland were looking solid in defence however with keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen untroubled early on.

Things changed for Finland in the 23rd minute however when full-back Pasanen, under pressure from Pavel Pogrebnyak, ricocheted the ball into his own net after Jaaskelainen deflected Yury Zhirkov’s shot from seven metres.

Russia, boosted by the goal, continued to push forward though could not find their scoring touch in the penalty area and so did not add to their score before the break.

In the second half, Russia, spurred on by a 25,000 home crowd, seized the initiative again and created more chances though could still not find that last touch to get their second goal.

Midway through the half, Lampi sent the ball into his own net when he tried to stop Konstantin Zyryanov’s short cross from the left.

Arshavin finalised the scoring with two minutes remaining, sending the ball into an empty net after a good piece of individual work.




NEWS BY APAKISTANNEWS.COM

Serena To Launch Australian Open Bid In Sydney

SYDNEY :Serena Williams will launch her campaign for a fourth Australian Open title at next year's Sydney International.

The 27-year-old American won the Australian Open in 2003, 2005 and 2007 and hopes a return to Sydney will help chances of a 10th grand slam title after her victory at last month's US Open.

Williams has never won the Sydney International, which will be held at the Olympic tennis centre from Jan. 11-17, but has tasted success on the court after teaming up with older sister Venus to win the doubles gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Tournament organisors also said on Thursday that current world number one Jelena Jankovic and second-ranked Dinara Safina will would compete in the women's draw in Sydney while the men's event will feature Lleyton Hewitt, David Nalbandian and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.






NEWS BY AAJ TV

Jahangir Khan Confident Of Squash's Olympic Inclusion

MANCHESTER :Legendary squash player Jahangir Khan says his sport has its best ever chance of gaining entry into the Olympics next year.

Squash is vying for one of two available openings for the 2016 Games when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) assembly meets in Copenhagen on Oct 2, 2009.

Now president of the World Squash Federation (WSF), Jahangir was chairing the governing body's latest promotion of its bid to gain entry at the 2016 Games, when he said: "Things have changed in our favour."

That was a reference to the fact that since squash finished first of the five new sports which unsuccessfully sought entry to the London Olympics, the vote has altered from a required two-thirds majority to a simple majority.

"We have a 60-40 male-female ratio, we have taken part in 20 multi-sport games, including the Commonwealth Games, and by being a sport which takes part in one room we are economical and can save money," Jahangir said. "We can make our dream come true."

Squash's greatest stumbling block has traditionally been the difficulty in translating its movement, speed, and variety into television images, which tend to foreshorten the action.

However, there have been improvements there, and the fact that there have been no new sports in the Olympics since the 2000 Games in Sydney could create the best opportunity for the sport which has been trying since 1986.

"It has been too long," said Jahangir, who once went five years and seven months unbeaten.

"We cover all the Olympic criteria and we are deserving to be on the programme. I know what the players feel about being excluded and some current players may never get the chance to play in the Olympics."

The WSF stresses the high quality of its athletes as one of its strongest merits and has gained the backing of all its leading players.

Jahangir said that was an attitude separating it from a sport such as tennis, adding: "I can guarantee that all top 32 players would play in the Olympics."

However although there is a better chance of an opening for a new sport in 2016 than for 2012, there will be greater competition.

Last time squash had only four rival sports; now there are six - baseball, golf, karate, roller sports, rugby, and softball.

Thailand, Cambodia Military Talks After Deadly Border Clash

PREAH VIHEAR :Cambodian and Thai military officials were to meet Thursday in a bid to prevent more clashes a day after a deadly border shoot-out which prompted hundreds of Thai expatriates to return home.

Thai and Cambodian military officials were scheduled to hold talks at 11:00 am (0400 GMT) in Thailand to discuss troop levels and weaponry, as both governments said they were seeking to calm the situation and mend relations.

Gunfights broke out Wednesday in a number of small plots of disputed land near the 11th century Preah Vihear temple, a UN World Heritage site on Cambodian territory and the focus of months of tensions.

"My government still sticks to negotiation, although the clash was not serious," Thai Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat told reporters.

Cambodian foreign minister Hor Namhong said that the situation along the border had eased since Wednesday, and that diplomats from both countries met in Bangkok shortly after fighting erupted.

"The Thai ministry of foreign affairs asked the Cambodian embassy in Thailand for a meeting and there was a good conversation," Hor Namhong said.

Two Cambodian soldiers were killed in Wednesday's clashes and several from each side were wounded. Thailand said Thursday that seven of its soldiers were hurt.

A third Cambodian soldier died early Thursday of smoke inhalation from repeatedly firing his rocket-launcher, Cambodian troops along the border said. There was no immediate official confirmation.

The situation on the border appeared calmer Thursday as soldiers smiled and joked, an AFP correspondent there said, but civilians have fled the area.

Some 432 of about 1,500 Thais living in Cambodia also returned to Thailand after the Bangkok government appealed for anyone not on urgent business to leave, an official said.

"We have convinced them to return on a Thai Airways flight," said foreign ministry spokesman Tharit Charungvat.

Cambodian riot police were deployed Wednesday in front of the Thai embassy in Phnom Penh, which was set on fire by anti-Thai rioters in 2003, in case of reprisals.

Cambodian and Thai officials have disputed who started Wednesday's clashes, which prompted calls for calm and restraint from both the United States and UN.

The Cambodian army has also said it is holding 13 Thai soldiers prisoner after capturing them in a disputed area during fighting, but Thai military and foreign ministry denied any of their troops had been captured.

The current stand-off between the neighbours first flared in July after Preah Vihear was awarded World Heritage status by the UN cultural body UNESCO, angering some Thai nationalists who still claim ownership of the site.

The situation quickly escalated into a military confrontation, with up to 1,000 Cambodian and Thai troops facing off for six weeks, although both sides in August agreed to reduce troop numbers in the main disputed area.

Tensions flared again this week after talks on Monday aimed at cooling the months-long standoff failed.

The Cambodian-Thai border has never been fully demarcated, in part because it is littered with landmines left over from decades of war in Cambodia.



NEW Y AAJ TV

US To Send Nuclear Mission To India

WASHINGTON :The United States said on Wednesday it would send a mission to India in December to explore business opportunities following a landmark pact to open up sales of civilian nuclear technology to the country.

US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and her Indian counterpart Pranab Mukherjee signed the agreement last week that lifted a three-decade ban on US-Indian civilian nuclear trade imposed after India's first nuclear test in 1974.

"I'm pleased to announce that the Commerce Department has certified the US-India Business Council for a civil nuclear trade mission to India this coming December," US Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrrez said.

Council President Ron Somers has projected 150 billion dollars worth of business between US and Indian companies over the next 30 years following the deal, which offers India access to US technology and cheap atomic energy in return for allowing UN inspections of some of its civilian nuclear facilities.

US-India bilateral trade in 2007 was nearly 42 billion dollars, up 55 percent from 2005, Gutierrez said at a council meeting Wednesday aimed at tapping business opportunities in India's "clean energy" market.

The council is a key business advocacy group representing 280 of the largest US companies investing in India. Gutierrez said that while US companies were eager to contribute to India's developing nuclear power sector, they required nuclear liability protection in order to do business.

"India must draft and ratify a domestic law" consistent with the international Convention of Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage, he said.

India last month wrote a letter of intent to sign up to the convention, which US businesses want in order to reduce their liability in the event of a catastrophe.

Gutierrez said India had the potential to be one of the world's largest clean energy markets as it was projected to overtake China and have the world's largest population in about two decades.

India will need to expand its primary energy supply by at least three times and its electricity supply by five times its current consumption to sustain economic growth, he said.

"Clean energy technologies have moved to the forefront of India's energy infrastructure and investment opportunities," he said.

"Increased use of these technologies will help address environmental problems and growing demand for fossil fuels," he added.




NEWS BY AAJ TV