Saturday, June 30, 2012

U.S. nixes larger office for Afghan defense minister

KABUL — The United States is spending $92 million to build Afghanistan a new “Pentagon,” a massive five-story military headquarters with domed roofs and a high-tech basement command center that will link Afghan generals with their troops fighting the Taliban across the country. -  US nixes larger office for Afghan defense minister - washingtonpost
US Nixes Larger Office for Afghan Defense Minister

An Umbrella for Afghan Stability - CHINMAYA R. GHAREKHAN and KARL F. INDERFURTH

As the date for the drawdown of NATO forces from Afghanistan approaches, an atmosphere of optimism is being created, mainly in the Western media, about the prospects of a reasonably successful transition to a stable and eventually prosperous Afghanistan. - An Umbrella for Afghan Stability - nytimes
UN Observer Group Proposed for Afghanistan - Nation

Mexico could return old ruling party to power

MEXICO CITY – A single party dominated Mexico for most of the past century, and its loss 12 years ago proved to many that the country was finally a democracy. Now the nation's voters seem ready to bring it back to power in Sunday's presidential election. - Mexico could return old ruling party to power

News Analysis: What’s a Socialist?

FRANCE has elected its first Socialist president since 1988 and then given the Socialist Party and its closest allies a whopping majority in Parliament. But how Socialist is François Hollande? And what does it mean to be a Socialist these days, anyway? - What's a Socialist?

Friday, June 29, 2012

Russian heartland fears NATO transit

ULYANOVSK, Russia — The people of Ulyanovsk, a poverty-stricken city sitting high on the banks of the mighty Volga River, are having a hard time accepting the idea that NATO is their friend and that they should help the alliance extricate itself from Afghanistan. - Russian heartland fears NATO transit - washingtonpost
European leaders agree to use bailout fund to help banks

افغانستان آماده سرمایه گذاری خارجی است

جلسه جلب سرمایه گذاری در دهلی درمورد افغانستان توسط کنفدراسیون صنایع هند در همکاری با سازمان های تجارتی وحکومات هند و افغانستان سازمان دهی شد. مقامات مسوول گفتند که بیشتر از 130 شرکت هندی و 70 شرکت بین المللی از 33 کشور در این جلسه شرکت کردند. کشورهای اشتراک کننده شامل ایالات متحده، چین، جاپان و پاکستان است.-  افغانستان آماده سرمایه گذاری خارجی است

India set for larger role in postwar Afghanistan

As the U.S.-led coalition in Afghanistan prepares for the pullout of combat troops by 2014, India cautiously positioned itself Thursday to expand its role in the country's postwar stabilization by helping direct global business investment there. - India set for larger role in postwar Afghanistan
European leaders agree on long-term

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Kabul protests missile attacks from Pakistan

Up to 50 missiles were fired into Dangam district of Kunar from across the border in Pakistan, injuring two people and damaging properties, Kunar governor’s spokesman Wasifullah Wasifi told Pajhwok on Wednesday. - Kabul protests missile attacks from Pakistan - Pajhwok Afghan News
Fresh talks on Afghanistan-EU pact held in Kabul

German fans stunned into silence by loss to Italy

(Reuters) - Half a million German soccer fans gathered in Berlin were left in a state of shocked silence on Thursday after Italy crushed their Euro 2012 hopes with a 2-1 semi-final victory. - German fans stunned into silence by loss to Italy
Italy fans say German Euro defeat shows who's boss

Pakistan says Afghan peace requires clarity from US, Taliban

(Reuters) - A hoped-for peace deal ending the war in Afghanistan will likely remain out of reach unless both the United States and the Taliban put more clear, consistent offers on the table, a senior diplomat from Afghanistan's influential neighbour Pakistan said. - Pakistan says Afghan peace requires clarity from US, Taliban

Coverage for most Americans, a scramble for states

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama's health care overhaul is on the way to its ultimate jury: the families, doctors, business people and state officials who'll have to grapple with the confusing details while striving to fulfill its promise. - Coverage for most Americans, a scramble for states

Australian and Indonesian vessels rescue refugees

Rescue ships save more than 120 Afghan asylum seekers, including many women and children, after a second boat in a week capsizes off Indonesia - Australian and Indonesian vessels rescue refugees -  -
Scores of asylum seekers missing after boat capsizes in Indian Ocean - guardian

UN officials underscore need for long-term support for Afghanistan’s development

Long-term support for Afghanistan's socio-economic development is vital as the country proceeds on its path towards assuming full responsibility for its security, governance and development, top United Nations officials told the Security Council today.- UN officials underscore need for long-term support for Afghanistan's
Ahead of meeting, UN mission highlights ‘critical need’ for protection of Afghan civilians

What the Supreme Court decision means for insurers, hospitals and drugmakers

After months of uncertainty, America’s $2.7 trillion health care industry finally has a few answers. - What the Supreme Court decision means for insurers, hospitals and ...‎ --- Individual mandate upheld as tax: Supreme Court updates
Supreme Court upholds Obama's health-care law ... - Washington

Supreme Court Lets Health Law Largely Stand

WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court on Thursday upheld most of President Obama’s health care overhaul law, saying it was authorized by Congress’s power to levy taxes. The vote was 5 to 4, with Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. joining the court’s four more liberal members. Supreme Court Lets Health Law Largely Stand -- News for HEALTH LAW STANDS - nytimes
Where states stand on implementing health care law
Where States Stand On Implementing Health Care Law : NPR

A Cruel and Unusual Record -- JIMMY CARTER

In addition to American citizens’ being targeted for assassination or indefinite detention, recent laws have canceled the restraints in the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to allow unprecedented violations of our rights to privacy through warrantless wiretapping and government mining of our electronic communications. Popular state laws permit detaining individuals because of their appearance, where they worship or with whom they associate. - A Cruel and Unusual Record - The New York Times
 A Cruel and Unusual Record - FOCUS

Syria Talks Won’t Include the Saudis or Iranians

GENEVA — Kofi Annan, the special Syria representative from the United Nations and the Arab League whose paralyzed peace plan is in danger of collapse, announced in a statement on Wednesday that he was convening an “action group” meeting of influential countries here on Saturday in an effort to revive the plan. - Annan Convenes Meeting on Syria — Minus Iran and Saudi Arabia ... nytimes
As Rebels Attack Elite Guards, Assad Talks of ‘State of War’

Afghanistan starts operating first oil project

KABUL, June 24 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan on Sunday started operations in its first oil project in northern region. - Afghanistan starts operating first oil project
Iran to build pipeline to transfer oil products to Afghanistan

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Zoellick says German caution raises euro-zone risk

Germany has been too cautious about putting its wealth behind the euro zone, World Bank President Robert Zoellick said Wednesday, warning that Berlin’s reluctance is raising the risk that the region’s financial problems will escalate into a wider crisis. - Zoellick says German caution raises euro-zone risk
Germany offers vision of federalism for the European Union - The ...

JIMMY CARTER -- A Cruel and Unusual Record

THE United States is abandoning its role as the global champion of human rights. - A Cruel and Unusual Record - The New York Times
New York Times op-ed piece

FBI arrests dozens in credit card fraud sting - The Hill

The sting, codenamed "Operation Card Shop," led the FBI to arrest 11 people in California, New York and five other states. Officials in seven foreign countries, including the United Kingdom and Bosnia, nabbed another 13 people in the operation. - FBI arrests dozens in credit card fraud sting - FBI arrests dozens in credit card fraud sting
Dozens Held in FBI Credit-Card Fraud Sting - Forbes

White House defends meeting with Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood

The White House on Thursday defended a meeting held with representatives of the Muslim Brotherhood earlier in the week, calling it “the appropriate and right thing to do.”- White House defends meeting with Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood
Key Dem senator warns Obama on post-war Afghanistan spending

Lawmaker accuses Karzai of corrupt oil deal with China - The Hill

Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Calif.) fired the latest shot Wednesday in his feud with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, accusing Karzai’s family of corruption with the Chinese over an oil deal in Afghanistan. - Lawmaker accuses Karzai of corrupt oil deal with China
Lucrative Afghan Oil Deal Was Awarded Properly, Karzai Says

وزارت خارجه: افغانستان تهدیدی برای همسایگان نیست

فضل‌الله واحدی، والی کنر گفته است که شورشیان در خاک پاکستان پناهگاه‌های امن دارند. آقای واحدی گفته است طالبانی که بر ارتش پاکستان حمله کرده‌اند، در آن‌ سوی خط دیورند، یعنی در خاک پاکستان موقعیت دارند. - وزارت خارجه: افغانستان تهدیدی برای همسایگان نیست
ناشیگری پاکستانیها

Delhi to host Afghan investment summit - Indian Express

India will host the Delhi Investment Summit on Afghanistan later this week, which will witness participation from private firms from the region, including Pakistan and China. - Delhi to host Afghan investment summit
India to host regional investors meet on Afghanistan
Germany lauds India's Afghanistan role pushes UN reforms
امریکا ، هند په دې وستایه چې په افغانستان کې د پانګونې لوی کنفرانس جوړوي

Economic Scene: Why Germany Will Pay Up to Save the Euro - nytimes

To go by the pronouncements coming out of Germany over the last couple of weeks, you might naturally conclude that the euro is toast. Speaking before Parliament, Chancellor Angela Merkel broadly rejected “counterproductive” proposals to pool Europe’s resources to help floundering Mediterranean nations. Germany’s “strength is not infinite,” she stressed. - Why Germany Will Pay Up to Save the Euro
Backed by NATO, Turkey Steps Up Warning to Syria

The 'war on women' being waged in Afghanistan

Barack Obama and Mitt Romney have accused one another of waging a "war on women" in America. But both are silent on the real war against women being waged by the Taliban in Afghanistan. With the 2014 deadline for the withdrawal of US and Nato troops edging closer, they have become more aggressive in their preparation for taking back control. - The 'war on women' being waged in Afghanistan -- Afghanistan

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Anti-Aging Foods Cheat Sheet -- doctoroz

Consider these foods your anti-aging staples. As a rule, fruits and vegetables high in flavonoids and carotenoids, two powerful plant-based antioxidants, will remove the free radicals from your skin and body that cause you to age prematurely - Anti-Aging Foods Cheat Sheet
8 Energy Boosters to Get You Through the Day - The Dr. Oz Show

د٩٧ مليو نو ډالرو په ارزښت يو موافقه ليک لاسليک شو

دشبرغان دګازلرونکو ساحو د پرمختيا يي پروژو دتطبيق او ملا تړ په مقصد نن مازيګر د هيواد د کانونو وزارت اود امريکا د متحده ايالاتو دبهرنيو چارو وزارت ترمنځ يو موافقه ليک لاسليک شو.- د٩٧ مليو نو ډالرو په ارزښت يو موافقه ليک لاسليک شو
موافقتنامه اي به ارزش 97 مليون دالر امضا شد --- Agreement Worth $97 Million Inked

New book: Biden warned Afghan buildup was hollow; Obama sidelined CIA when planning drawdown

WASHINGTON — As President Barack Obama considered adding as many as 40,000 U.S. forces to a backsliding war in Afghanistan in 2009, Vice President Joe Biden warned him that the military rationale for doing so was flawed, a new book about Obama’s expansion of the conflict says. - New book: Biden warned Afghan buildup was hollow; Obama
Afghanistan : Pictures, Videos, Breaking News

Afghan brain drain fears over education reforms

KABUL — Afghanistan's education system has been through many changes since the country's last monarch, King Zahir Shah, was overthrown in 1973, leading to an invasion by the Soviet Union in December 1979 and 30 years of war.- Afghan brain drain fears over education reforms AFP
News for Afghan brain drain fears over education reforms

France Plans Cuts but ‘Rejects’ Idea of Austerity

PARIS — France is preparing new measures to fill a 2012 budget shortfall, Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici said Monday, but he insisted that austerity was not in the cards for the Socialist government. - France Plans Cuts but 'Rejects' Idea of Austerity - nytimes
Turkish Border Is Crucial Link in Syrian Conflict

Monday, June 25, 2012

برگزاری کنفرانس بین الافغانی، دستاورد نشست محرمانه پاریس

خبرگزاری بخدی دریافته است که شرکت کنندگان نشست پاریس در مورد برگزاری انتخابات، پروسه صلح و تغییر نظام سیاسی بحث و گفتگو کرده اند.- برگزاری کنفرانس بین الافغانی، دستاورد نشست محرمانه پاریس
طرف های درگیر در جنگ افغانستان در پاریس، نشست محرمانه برگزار کردند

‘Little America’: Infighting on Obama team squandered chance for peace in Afghanistan

Excerpted from “Little America: The War Within the War for Afghanistan.”- 'Little America': Infighting on Obama team squandered chance for
'Little America': Infighting on Obama team ...
War Zones: War News, Coverage, Analysis & More - Washington Post

Afghan Attacks Rising, Coalition Says .- WSJ

KABUL—The U.S.-led coalition in Afghanistan reported a rise in insurgent attacks in April and May, indicating a Taliban comeback after months of declining activity. - Afghan Attacks Rising, Coalition Says
Spanish Leader Emerges as Austerity Crusader

Gov't allocates 10 million USD for overseas Afghan students

KABUL, June 23 (Xinhua) -- The Afghan government has allocated 10 million U.S. dollars in the current year as part of efforts to encourage students overseas and to increase the number of experts in the war-torn country, President Hamid Karzai said on Saturday. - Gov't allocates 10 million USD for overseas Afghan students ...

Lucrative Afghan Oil Deal Was Awarded Properly, Karzai Says - nytimes

KABUL, Afghanistan — President Hamid Karzai, responding to recent allegations that insiders close to him are plundering the nation’s mineral wealth, said Sunday that the United States and British governments had given their imprimatur as to how a lucrative oil contract was awarded. - Lucrative Afghan Oil Deal Was Awarded Properly, Karzai Says  - statement
Contract on Amu Darya Oil Enjoys Highest Degree of Transparency and Fairness: US and UK... president.gov
Hamid Karzai government under fire for oil deal with company runAfghanistan

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Can't We All Just Not Get Along? - Foreign Policy

Does America need more bipartisanship in foreign policy? My fellow Foreign Policy columnist, Aaron Miller appears to think so, as he's twice argued in recent weeks that the next president should pick a secretary of state from the other political party. After all, says Miller, "for the first time in a quarter-century, the United States has a bipartisan -- even nonpartisan -- consensus on many of the core issues relating to the country's foreign policy."  Can't We All Just Not Get Along?
Debating the Failed States Index - Foreign Policy

U.S. Awards Afghan Contract to Dubai Firm - WSJ

KABUL—The U.S. military has awarded contracts valued at nearly $10 billion to provide food for troops in Afghanistan, amid a billing dispute with its longstanding supplier Supreme Foodservice GmbH. - Dubai Firm Wins U.S. Contracts in Afghanistan

Japanese Tomb Found To House Rare Artifacts From Roman Empire

Researchers from Japan's Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties announced Friday that three glass beads recovered from a Fifth Century burial site near Kyoto bear signs of Roman craftsmanship. Japanese Tomb Found To House Rare Artifacts From Roman Empire

Anonymous Las Vegas Casino Owner Gives $1 Million To United Way

LAS VEGAS -- An anonymous Las Vegas casino owner has struck again – this time with a $1 million donation to help needy people. - Vegas casino owner gives $1M to help needy people - Huffington Post
Japanese Tomb Found To House Rare Artifacts From Roman Empire

نظرات بینندگان: بازنگری در نظام تحصیلی و کاریابی

افسوس برین که اگر شغل هم است به واسطه دار , اگر بورسیه تحصیلی به خارج از کشور هم است به واسطه دار یا پولدار است واگر شمولیت در دانشگاها وپوهنتون ها است نه به مستحق واقعی و نه به طبقات مردم وعوام. نام آنرا شایستگی بگزارید وبه اقارب و وابستگان خویش عطا فرمائید. سیستم کانکور هم یک سیستم غلط و دام است که جوانان بیواسطه ولایق را ناکام میسازد فقط به اساس ارتباطات و ملحوظات خاص یک تعداد به پوهنتون ها راه پیدا میکنند. این شیوه ء کانکور استعداد کش است.باید اصلاح گردد ایجاب تجدید نظر را می نماید .نه به سیستم جهانی برابر است نه به سیستم ملی. با چشم سر مشاهده میگردد که بورسیه های تحصیلی زیاد تر به اساس قوم گرائی از طرف وزارت معا رف به جوانان داده میشود حتا به پاکستانی ها هم ازین بورسیه ها داده شده است .به قبایل ما ورای سرحدات توزیع شده . که آی.اس .آی. هم نقش خود را دارد.- بازنگری در نظام تحصیلی و کاریابی!

For Islamists in Egypt, Morsi Victory Is a Symbolic Win - nytimes

CAIRO — Egypt’s military rulers on Sunday officially recognized Mohamed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood as the winner of Egypt’s first competitive presidential election, handing the Islamists both a symbolic triumph and a potent weapon in their struggle for power against the country’s senior generals. - For Islamists in Egypt, Morsi Victory Is a Symbolic Win --- History of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt  --- Muslim Brotherhood - Wikipedia

حامدکرزي په ښوونيز او تحصيلي سيستم کې پر اصلاحاتو ټينګار وکړ

ولسمشر حامد کرزى وايي، چې دکانکور دسيستم پر اصلاحاتو، له نهم ټولګي وروسته پر رشته بندۍ او دلوړو زده کړو په موسسو کې دکانکور له ازموينې پرته له لسم نه تر دوولسمو ټولګيو پورې له اول نومره څخه تر پنځم نومره زده کوونکو پر شاملولو دې غور وشي. - حامدکرزي په ښوونيز او تحصيلي سيستم کې پر اصلاحاتو ټينګار وکړ
 بازنگری در نظام تحصیلی و کاریابی

US probes Afghan tax on companies doing rebuilding

WASHINGTON (AP) — A government watchdog is looking into Afghanistan's practice of taxing U.S. companies involved in America's multibillion-dollar effort to rebuild the war-torn nation. - US probes Afghan tax on companies doing rebuilding US probes Afghan tax on companies doing rebuilding - SFGate

Athens is the end of the line for many Afghan refugees‎

Every year, thousands of Afghans try their luck getting to the EU. Many of those who make it get stuck in Greece, where there are few jobs and little state provision. - Athens is the end of the line for many Afghan refugees

رییس‌جمهور کرزی: دشمنان مکاتب، دشمنان افغانستان‌اند

رییس‌جمهور کرزی روز گذشته در سمینار اصلاح نظام تعلیمی و تحصیلی افغانستان، بر سه تغییر در نظام معارف و تحصیلات عالی کشور تاکید کرد. اصلاح کانکور، اصلاح نظام تعلیمی، معیاری شدن پوهنتون های طبی و انجنیری از مهم‌ترین پیشنهادات رییس‌جمهور کرزی بود. آقای کرزی گفت که سرمایه‌گذاری بر تعلیم و تحصیل، نسبت به تمام سرمایه‌گذاری‌های دیگر، حتا معادن، مهم‌تر است.-  رییس‌جمهور کرزی: دشمنان مکاتب، دشمنان افغانستان‌اند
اصلاح نظام تحصیلی نیاز

Muslim Brotherhood's Morsi declared Egypt's new president

Cairo (CNN) -- Mohamed Morsi was declared the new president of Egypt on Sunday, following the first democratic election in Egypt's history. - Muslim Brotherhood-backed candidate wins in Egypt
Egypt's new president: US-educated Islamist
Egypt braces for Islamist president, or army rule
محمد مرسی در انتخابات ریاست جمهوری مصر پیروز شد

Saturday, June 23, 2012

At Trial’s End, Lawyers Say Norway Killer Is Not Insane - nytimes

OSLO — The trial of Anders Behring Breivik ended on Friday with an unusual reversal of roles, as defense lawyers insisted that he was sane when he killed 77 people last year and should be sentenced to prison, and prosecutors arguing that he was mentally ill and thus not criminally responsible, and should be hospitalized instead. - At Trial's End, Lawyers Say Norway Killer Is Not Insane

Greek-German Tensions Over Finances Spill Into Another Arena - nytimes

GDANSK, Poland — The giant blue-and-white flag blotted out the overcast Baltic sky on Friday as the Greek fans pounded their drums and cheered at the foot of the centuries-old City Hall here. The Germans took up a chant in honor of their chancellor, Angela Merkel. - Greek-German Tensions Over Finances Spill Into Another Arena

Afghanistan: The Taliban’s High-Tech Urban Strategy - The Dailybeast

The guerrillas use teams of young techies to attack Afghan cities. - Afghanistan: The Taliban's High-Tech Urban Strategy

A Look At The Afghan Resort The Taliban Targeted

The man-made lake, about six miles outside Kabul, is the only large body of water near the capital, and it is extremely popular among Kabul residents seeking to escape the city's pollution, particularly in the summer when temperatures can top 100 degrees. - A Look At The Afghan Resort The Taliban Targeted
Taliban Attack Kills 21 At Lakeside Resort Near Kabul -- Taliban Attack On Kabul-Area Hotel Leaves 18 Dead

Real security in Afghanistan depends on people's basic needs being met

For Afghans, particularly women, security is not only about protection from external threats and insurgents - Real security in Afghanistan depends on people's basic needs ...

Kabul birthday party reduced to bloody destruction

KABUL — A carefree birthday party and night out to celebrate the start of the Afghan weekend were reduced to destruction and butchery when Taliban gunmen stormed a lakeside hotel, opening fire indiscriminately on wealthy revellers. - Kabul birthday party reduced to bloody
Eyewitness Describes Afghan Resort Attack - RFE/RL

موازنه قدرت در صندوق بین المللی پول تغییر می کند؟

همزمان با نشست پایانی اجلاس سران کشورهای گروه بیست در لوس کابوس مکزیک، صندوق بین المللی پول اعلام کرده مبلغی که این صندوق برای تضمین سلامت اقتصاد جهانی مطالبه کرده بود، به طور کامل تامین شده است. - موازنه قدرت در صندوق بین المللی پول تغییر می کند
سوریه: جنگنده سرنگون‌شده ترکیه وارد حریم هوایی ما شده بود

Friday, June 22, 2012

Breivik trial ends in Norway with walkout by families

The trial of Anders Behring Breivik has ended in Norway with a walkout by families of victims in protest at his attempts to justify the massacre. - Breivik trial ends in Norway with walkout by families

Duke of Cambridge inherits £10m on his 30th birthday ... but a country pile will have to wait

The Duke of Cambridge will inherit up to £10 million when he turns 30 on Wednesday, but will not be going on a spending spree any time soon, royal aides have insisted. - Duke of Cambridge inherits £10m on his 30th birthday ... but a country pile will have to wait Prince William's 30th birthday: 30 facts about the Duke - Prince William

Full list: Library of Congress' 88 'Books That Shaped America' - mercurynews

WASHINGTON--The Library of Congress is celebrating "Books that Shaped America" with a list of 88 titles and an exhibit in Washington.  - Full list: Library of Congress' 88 'Books That Shaped America'

Ineffectiveness of Political System and Penetration of Mafia

Legitimacy, governance, security and access to public services are the main features on the basis of which modern governments and states can be defined and characterized. - Ineffectiveness of Political System and Penetration of Mafia -- The Daily Outlook Afghanistan
Narco-Terrorism in Afghanistan: Counternarcotics and ...
END WAR Confirmation: Drug Mafia Controls Afghan Government ...

Obama says he will fight for immigration reform - Associated Press

"These are all our kids," Obama declared as the nation's first black president lobbied for support in strikingly personal terms. - Obama says he will fight for immigration reform

Pakistan’s ruling party picks Raja Pervez Ashraf as prime minister

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Pakistan has a new prime minister — the government’s former power and water chief, Raja Pervez Ashraf — but the Parliament’s choice Friday could set up yet another clash between the country’s activist judiciary and its fragile civilian government. -  Pakistan's ruling party picks Raja Pervez Ashraf as prime minister -راجه پرویز اشرف نخست وزیر پاکستان شد
Zardari picks Shahabuddin as Pakistan PM - nytimes

Amid crisis, leaders of Germany, France, Italy and Spain meet in Rome - washingtonpost

LONDON — Leaders from the euro zone’s four largest nations– Germany, France, Italy and Spain – agreed Friday to pump as much as $164 billion into the region’s moribund economy, with German Chancellor Angela Merkel indicating a fresh willingness to embrace fiscal stimulus as a tool to fight Europe’s financial crisis. - Amid crisis, leaders of Germany, France, Italy and Spain meet in Rome

Prince Salman appointed heir apparent to King Abdullah in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah, 89, has appointed his brother Prince Salman, the defence minister, as crown prince and heir apparent, ensuring a smooth succession for the world's biggest oil exporting country. - Prince Salman appointed heir apparent to King Abdullah in Saudi Arabia - ·
Prince Salman named Saudi heir at time of turmoil - reuters

Afghan Forces Defeat Taliban Siege of Hotel

ISLAMABAD - Afghan-led forces stormed a hotel outside Kabul Friday, rescuing civilians taken hostage by heavily armed Taliban gunmen in an overnight siege. Police say at least 20 people were killed in the 12-hour gun battle. - Afghan Forces Defeat Taliban Siege of HotelTwenty dead in Taliban siege of Afghan hotel; NATO blames Haqqanis reuters

متن کامل سخنرانی حامد کرزی رئیس جمهوری اسلامی افغانستان در

شوروی سابق شکست کرد، افغانستان آزاد شد ولی متاسفانه ثمره آزادی خود را ندیدیم، دیگران در جهان همگی دیدند. جرمنی دو تقسیم شد و سپس یک ملت واحد گردید، آسیای میانه اشغال شده دوباره آزاد شد، امریکا بی رقیب گردید، اروپا ترقی کرد، پاکستان صاحب بم اتم و ترقی شد، همسایه های ما ترقی و رونق اقتصادی کردند. معارف شان به اوج خود رسید. ما برعکس بدبخت تر و بیچاره تر شدیم. دلایل اش هم واضح است و ضرورت به بیان ندارد. - متن کامل سخنرانی حامد کرزی رئیس جمهوری اسلامی افغانستان در شورای ملی
متن کامل سخنرانی حامد کرزی رئیس جمهوری اسلامی افغانستان در شورای ...

Rio+20: Ban announces more than 100 commitments on sustainable energy

Speaking at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today announced that more than one hundred commitments and actions have been already mobilized in support of the UN’s global sustainable energy initiative.Rio+20: Ban announces more than 100 commitments on ...  --- The best Speech - Severn Suzuki - YouTube
Severn Suzuki speaking at UN Earth Summit 1992 - YouTube

Taliban militants strike Afghan hotel, take hostages in hourslong siege

Kabul, Afghanistan (CNN) -- Taliban militants attacked a hotel near Kabul on Friday and seized dozens of hostages, sparking a fierce gunbattle with Afghan and NATO troops that ended after several hours. - Taliban militants strike Afghan hotel, take hostages in hourslong siege
Afghanistan: The Taliban's High-Tech Urban Strategy - The Daily ... Newsweek

Moody's cuts ratings of 15 banks, Morgan Stanley down 2 notches

(Reuters) - Ratings agency Moody's downgraded many of the world's biggest banks on Thursday, lowering credit ratings of 15 companies by one to three notches. - Moody's cuts ratings of 15 global banks 
Moody's cuts ratings of 15 banks Reuters

Thursday, June 21, 2012

In Afghanistan, gunmen take hostages in siege of lakeside hotel - latimes

Thursday evening is the start of the Afghan weekend, and the lake, about 45 minutes north of the capital, is a popular getaway for Kabul's wealthy elite. A private party was taking place when the attack began, police said. - In Afghanistan, gunmen take hostages in siege of lakeside hotel Karzai: 'Corruption has reached its peak' in Afghanistan

Key provisions of the state budget agreement

Spending on welfare, child care, home care, Medi-Cal, prisons, courts and state employees would be reduced. For now, education is relatively untouched. - Key provisions of the state budget agreement
Jerry Brown, Democratic legislative leaders reach budget deal latimes

The Breivik Trial: Is Norway's Mass Killer Really Insane?

Anders Behring Breivik is not standing trial alone in Oslo. Psychiatry is being judged as well. With Mr Breivik’s guilt not in doubt, his sanity has become the critical issue. - The Breivik Trial: Is Norway's Mass Killer Really Insane? - Mark Lewis / Oslo /

The American Dream: A Biography -- TIME

The perennial conviction that those who work hard and play by the rules will be rewarded with a more comfortable present and a stronger future for their children faces assault from just about every direction.  - The American Dream: A Biography
Cover Story: Is the American Dream Still Alive?

President Hamid Karzai calls on Afghans to fight corruption- washingtonpost

Karzai offered few specifics about possible new measures to address corruption, but he did ask “the foreigners, America and other countries, to not award their construction, building and commercial contracts to the government authorities and their relatives.” Afghans linked to government officials have profited handsomely over the years from U.S. contracts - President Hamid Karzai calls on Afghans to fight corruption - The ...
News for Karzai calls for government reform
News for Afghan refugees forced to return home ...

.بخش‌هایی از سخنان کرزی در اجلاس قوای سه‌گانه

سخنرانی حامدکرزی بر مسئولیت هایی متمرکز بود که دولت افغانستان پس از خروج نیروهای خارجی بر دوش خواهد داشت. - بخش‌هایی از سخنان کرزی در جلسه قوای سه‌گانه
کرزی: با فساد مالی و اداری مبارزه می کنم
کرزی: دیگر مصلحت‌گرا نیستم
News for President Karzai launches Afghan anti ... BBC

Secretary Clinton and Former Secretary James A. Baker, III to Hold "Conversations on Diplomacy"

On June 20th, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former Secretary of State James A. Baker, III will participate in the second installment of “Conversations on Diplomacy, Moderated by Charlie Rose.” - Secretary Clinton and Former Secretary James A. Baker, III to Hold ...state.gov

Federal Reserve pumps another $267bn into US economy - guardian

US central bank chairman Ben Bernanke has sought to offset a slump in global growth with an injection of $267bn to revitalise the ailing US economy. - Federal Reserve pumps another $267bn into US economy -
Assad may be offered clemency by Britain and US if he joins peace ...

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

C.I.A. Said to Aid in Steering Arms to Syrian Opposition - ERIC SCHMITT

WASHINGTON — A small number of C.I.A. officers are operating secretly in southern Turkey, helping allies decide which Syrian opposition fighters across the border will receive arms to fight the Syrian government, according to American officials and Arab intelligence officers. - CIA Said to Aid in Steering Arms to Syrian  - nytimes

Pakistani President Chooses Party Stalwart as New Premier - nytimes

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — President Asif Ali Zardari has chosen a party stalwart, Makhdoom Shahabuddin, to replace the ousted prime minister, Pakistani news media reported late Wednesday. - Pakistan President Nominates New Prime Minister
Samaras Takes Office as Greece's Prime Minister, Facing Major ...

Deadly attacks in Afghanistan - washingtonpost

At least 26 Afghans and three U.S. troops were killed in two separate bombings. - 3 US troops, 26 Afghans killed in bomb attacks - The Washington Post
 Pakistan's ruling party confirms choice of new prime minister to replace ousted PM Gilani

Afghan refugees forced to return home

Nearly 3 million Afghans will be expelled from Pakistan by the end of the year if an extension isn’t granted, according to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Such a mass deportation could further destabilize Afghanistan, straining its economy and challenging its fledgling security forces. -  Afghan refugees forced to return home - washingtonpost
UNHCR - Afghanistan

The Ayurvedic Diet: Eating for Your Body Type

Ayurveda is the ancient medical system of India. It offers one of the fastest paths to health. Instead of having to guess which foods, supplements, and behaviors are appropriate for you, there is a simple, direct prescriptive path that is developed for your unique body type, or dosha.  - The Ayurvedic Diet: - The Dr. Oz Show
An Introduction to Ayurveda  -- Ayurveda for Fabulous Skin After 50

Europe Stymies Stocks - WSJ .

NEW YORK—The Standard & Poor's 500-stock index inched forward Monday after Spanish borrowing costs rose to a record high and Greek political leaders sought to form a pro-bailout coalition following Sunday's election. - U.S. Stocks Close Mixed - WSJ

Food stamp funds may be reduced

Republicans gain some Democratic support in efforts to trim back on food stamp eligibility in the farm bill. Anti-poverty groups and some Democrats object. - Food stamp funds may be reduced
Multiple sclerosis: Jack Osbourne, and his family, must grieve

Discipline recommended in Afghanistan Koran burning - latimes

A military panel says a low-level reprimand is appropriate for seven troops involved in the burning of the religious books at a base in Afghanistan. - Discipline recommended in Afghanistan Koran burning
Review: Afghanistan under fire in J.T. Rogers' 'Blood and Gifts'
Pakistan high court ousts Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani

Refugees of 2011 underline 'suffering on an epic scale' - latimes

More people became refugees in 2011 than in any other year since the new millennium began, with one out of every four of them coming from Afghanistan, the United Nations refugee agency reported Monday. - Refugees of 2011 underline 'suffering on an epic scale'
Rising numbers of children hurt, killed in Afghan conflict, UN says

Investigators recommend punishment for Koran burning - washingtonpost

U.S. military investigators have recommended that as many as seven servicemembers face possible administrative punishment, but no criminal charges, for their role in the incineration of Korans in Afghanistan earlier this year, according to U.S. officials. Investigators recommend punishment for Koran burning

Laura Bush’s fight for women - Kathleen Parker

By now, most sentient Americans have heard about the war on women. That is, the Republican war on women, which has been framed as a battle waged by stodgy, old white guys who want to deny women reproductive freedom. Laura Bush's fight for women

Afghanistan needs $7 bln aid after Western pullout

(Reuters) - Afghanistan will need $6-7 billion a year in aid over the next decade to help grow the economy, the head of the central bank said on Tuesday, on top of a $4.1 billion bill for security forces to keep the peace once foreign troops leave in 2014. - Afghanistan needs $7 bln aid after Western pullout
Afghanistan says Pakistan was involved in sectarian attack