Chile: Government To Tap Copper Savings For Quake Reconstruction
March 12, 2010 2031 GMT
Chile is planning to use its copper savings funds and borrow international debt to pay for reconstruction after the Feb. 27 earthquake, Bloomberg reported March 12. President Sabastian Pinera said the cost of repairing damage from the quake could be close to $30 billion and that he plans to rewrite the 2010 budget to include reconstruction costs.
U.S., Saudi Arabia: Saudi Officials Deny Discussing Iran Sanctions
March 12, 2010 2024 GMT
Saudi Arabia denied Friday that officials had discussed putting economic pressure on China over sanctions on Iran with visiting U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates, AFP reported March 12, citing the country's official SPA news agency. An unnamed government source said Gates and Saudi leaders did not discuss the issue.
Nigeria: Acting President Disburses More Funds
March 12, 2010 2002 GMT
Applying STRATFOR analysis to breaking news
Nigerian acting President Goodluck Jonathan authorized March 12 the disbursal of an additional $1 billion from the country's Excess Crude Account (ECA), which accrues vast revenues from the country's petroleum industry. It is the second time in a month that Jonathan, who only five weeks ago became acting president, has dipped into the ECA, the first being Feb. 12, when he withdrew $2 billion for distribution to Nigeria's various state governments, federal agencies and local government areas. Minister of State for Finance Remi Babalola said this latest disbursal will be distributed by March 16. During his stint as acting president, Jonathan has now authorized $3 billion worth of handouts to the country's political elite, a sign that he may be working to establish a power base. Despite the recent decision by the leaders of Nigeria's ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP) that the presidency stay with a northerner following the upcoming 2011 national elections, Jonathan still has an interest in creating relationships with those who will support him to ensure that when he is forced to hand over power, he still retains some influence.
India: Maoists Are Higher Priority - Home Minister
March 12, 2010 1926 GMT
The Maoist rebels are a greater concern to India than "jihadi terrorism," Indian Home Minister P. Chidambaram said on March 12, DPA reported. He said that Maoists were practically in control of 44 districts out of the 200 where they operate. But he said that he was confident the government can take back control in two to three years and begin development programs.
Greece: Eurozone Strikes Initial Bailout Deal
March 12, 2010 1924 GMT
The eurozone has struck an initial deal for a multibillion-euro bailout for Greece, the Guardian reported March 12, citing senior sources in Brussels. The sources said Germany, despite large public resistance, had agreed to the bailout. Eurozone states will finalize the package Monday, along with a rewriting of rules governing the states to enforce fiscal discipline. Sources also said member states all agreed on bilateral contributions in the form of loans or loan guarantees if Greece is unable to refinance and that the agreement had been detailed to avoid a court challenge in Germany.
India: RBI To Buy $10 Billion In IMF Bonds
March 12, 2010 1906 GMT
The Reserve Bank of India said it will buy $10 billion in bonds issued by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in an effort to bolster the lender, AFP reported March 12. The bank said in a statement that the bonds would be held for one year, which could be extended by another year.
India: State Will Answer 'Decisively' To New Attacks - Home Minister
March 12, 2010 1849 GMT
Indian Home Minister Palaniappan Chidambaram said there is no evidence that Pakistan has stopped sponsoring non-state actors, and if India has reason to believe Pakistan is behind another attack on the country, it will respond "swiftly and decisively," Geo TV reported March 12. Chidambaram also said Pakistan could begin to prove its sincerity by providing voice samples of suspects who led the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
Turkey: Opposition Leader Criticizes Meeting Between Government, Military
March 12, 2010 1835 GMT
Deniz Baykal, the leader of Turkey's main opposition group, criticized the timing of a summit between President Abdullah Gul, Prime Minister Recept Tayyip Erdogan and Army Chief of General Staff Gen. Ilker Basbug, Hurriyet Daily News reported March 12, citing a report on CNNTurk. Baykal said the meeting coincided with the release of top military commanders detained during the anti-government "bayloz" (sledgehammer) coup-plot investigation and accused the three of organizing their release.
India: Pakistan Must 'Reinvent' Self - Home Minister
March 12, 2010 1827 GMT
Indian Home Minister Palaniappan Chidambaram said Pakistan needs to "reinvent" itself as a true democracy and a responsible neighbor, urging Islamabad to increase efforts to limit Islamist militancy and warning that India would respond quickly to any attack thought to be from Pakistan, AFP reported March 12. Chidambaram also said war is out of the question because the two countries are nuclear powers.
Iran: Lawmaker Decries Isolation Of Khomeini's Family
March 12, 2010 1825 GMT
Hassan Rohani, the head of Iran's Expediency Council Strategic Research Center, said the government should not be taking action to isolate the family of the late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Mehr News reported March 12. Rohani, speaking at a ceremony for the first anniversary of Khomeini's wife's death, said revolutionary figures in Iran are assets to the establishment and should be retained and respected.
Pakistan: Five Blasts Hit In Lahore
March 12, 2010 1802 GMT
Five back-to-back blasts, caused by hand grenades thrown by a suspect on a motorbike, hit locations in Iqbal town of Lahore on March 12, leaving four people injured, reported Geo News. Seven blasts have occurred in Lahore within 10 hours.
Russia: No Military Ties With Pakistan - PM
March 12, 2010 1800 GMT
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said Russia, which just signed a $1.5 billion contract with India, is not developing military cooperation with Pakistan due to concerns of Russia's new Indian partners, RIA Novosti reported March 12. The contract stipulates the supply of 29 more MiG-29K Fulcrum-D carrier-based fighter jets to New Delhi.
Yemen: Authorities Seize Al Jazeera's Broadcasting Equipment
March 12, 2010 1750 GMT
After being criticized and warned about its coverage on Yemen's southern region, Al Jazeera television said Yemeni authorities came to the station's offices in Sanaa on March 11, fought with the staff and confiscated broadcasting equipment, Al Jazeera reported March 12
Lebanon: IDF Tanks Cross Border
March 12, 2010 1748 GMT
Two Israel Defense Forces tanks crossed Lebanon's border on March 12 and took positions on a hill overlooking the Wazani River, reported Ynet News. The Israeli army denied the reports.
Somalia: NATO Commodore Predicts Increase In Pirate Attacks
March 12, 2010 1745 GMT
NATO Commodore Hans Christian Helseth said the pirate attacks around Horn of Africa will increase in upcoming months and extend to east to India and south to Madagascar because of calmer weather, Reuters reported March 12. He said there was also pirate activity in the Bay of Bengal near Bangladesh as well as in the Gulf of Guinea off Nigeria. Helseth explained that the three months between winter and summer monsoons provide pirates with significant range in the Indian Ocean, and they are departing more frequently with fuel and supplies.
Iraq: Partial Results From Elections
March 12, 2010 1743 GMT
Partial results from the March 7 election in Iraq showed Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's party ahead in the eastern Baghdad district of Rusafa, while Ayad Allawi's party leads in the north Baghdad district of al-Karkh, DPA reported March 12. Al-Maliki's coalition also leads in Muthanna province. The Iraqi National alliance is in second place in Muthanna, Najaf and Babil provinces and Rusafa district.
Somalia: Increased Piracy May Lead To U.S. Warships Coordinated By China
March 12, 2010 1743 GMT
NATO Commodore Hans Christian Helseth said that U.S. warships could possibly be coordinated by Chinese admirals by the end of 2010, Reuters reported March 12.
Ukraine: Lawmakers Challenge New Law In Court
March 12, 2010 1729 GMT
Ukrainian lawmakers have challenged in the Constitutional Court a law allowing individual deputies to break away from their factions, AP reported March 12. The court said it had received the claim, which had been filed by 56 lawmakers. No hearing date has been set yet.
Uganda: Rebel Chief Has Fled To Darfur - President
March 12, 2010 1723 GMT
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said his military has informed him that the chief of Uganda's rebel group Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), Joseph Kony, may have fled to the Darfur region of Sudan, AFP reported March 12. "it makes no difference" to Uganda whether Sudan is providing support for Kony "because they supported him much more in the past, but whatever they gave him, we captured." Museveni said there is no possibility of Kony relocating to Uganda, southern Sudan, the Central African Republic or the Democratic Republic of the Congo as long as Uganda is operating in its north. He also said he believes there are three LRA factions, one headed by Kony, another by Dominic Ongwen. The leadership of the third is unclear.
Venezuela: Electric Grid Will Not Collapse - Energy Minister
March 12, 2010 1718 GMT
Venezuelan Energy and Oil Minister Rafael Ramirez said Venezuela's national electric grid will not collapse because 100,000 barrels of diesel will be used to generate 5,000 additional megawatts, El Universal reported March 12. Ramirez also said the government is in talks with private cement firms Lafarge and Holcim for the nationalization of their assets.

Ecuador: Relations Normalizing - Colombian President
March 12, 2010 1714 GMT
Colombian President Alvaro Uribe said trade with Ecuador is normalizing after the Ecuadorian government removed tariffs placed on 1,346 Colombian products in 2009, El Comercio reported March 12. Uribe said Ecuador had set a timetable for the removal of sanctions and that it is being followed.
Ukraine: Kiev Ready To Work With IMF
March 12, 2010 1710 GMT
Ukraine is making a priority of resuming cooperation with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Tigipko said March 12, reported Ros Business Consulting. He said Ukraine could not rule out mutual loans with Russia or other nations, but that Kiev was primarily concerned with working with the IMF.
U.K.: Ambassador Urges China To Support Iran Sanctions
March 12, 2010 1707 GMT
British Ambassador to China Sebastian Wood said March 12 that China it is not in China's interest to risk isolation by failing to support international efforts to impose sanctions on Iran because of Tehran's controversial nuclear program, Reuters reported. Wood said the United Kingdom and China share the goal of keeping Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and that "China has a lot to lose with nuclear proliferation in an unstable region."
Russia, India: Negotiations Under Way For Fighter Plane Purchase
March 12, 2010 1704 GMT
Russia and India are negotiating a contract under which India will purchase 40 new Su-30MKI multipurpose fighter planes later in 2010, Itar-Tass reported March 12. Sukhoi director Mikhail Pogosyan said he expects the contract to be signed this year.
Iraq: U.N. Envoy Sees No Indication Of Widespread Election Fraud
March 12, 2010 1703 GMT
Ad Melkert, the top U.N. envoy to Iraq, said when considering election fraud complaints by Iraqi politicians, it is important to distinguish issues between individual candidates and those of a "structural nature," The Christian Science Monitor reported March 12. Melkert said so far there is no indication of widespread election fraud.
Iraq: Leaders Discuss Post-Election Framework
March 12, 2010 1703 GMT
Massoud Barzani, president of the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government, hosted a meeting with Iraqi President Jalal Talabani and Vice President Adel Abdel Mahdi on March 12 to discuss a post-election framework, Peyamner News Agency reported. The leaders discussed Iraq, Kurdistan and the condition of the region.
Brief: Greece's GDP Expected To Shrink More Than Forecasted
March 12, 2010 1651 GMT
Applying STRATFOR analysis to breaking news
Greece's national central bank said March 12 that, in light of Athens' ambitious consolidation measures, it expects Greek gross domestic product (GDP) to contract by 2.0 percent, larger than the Greek finance ministry's forecast of a 0.3 percent contraction. Athens is attempting to trim its budget deficit from 12.7 percent of GDP in 2009 to 8.7 percent in 2010 by cutting expenditure and raising taxes, but one of the unavoidable consequences of Athens' belt-tightening is that the measures will depress consumption and weigh on GDP growth. Additionally, as substantial portions of both the public and private sector view the measures as draconian, strike-related losses of output will further depress Greek GDP. Other things being equal, lower GDP growth means lower government revenue, which can only complicate Athens' ability to consolidate its finances and meet its budget deficit targets.
Turkey: Advisory For Businesses Put Out Against Traveling To U.S.
March 12, 2010 1651 GMT
Turkey has put out an advisory to businesspeople to postpone trips to countries that have accepted claims of genocide, including the United States, Hurriyet Daily News reported March 12, citing the Turkish Foreign Ministry. The Turkish Union of Chambers and Commodities Exchanges, Foreign Economic Relations Council, and the Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen's Association (TUSIAD) were notified. The TUSIAD chairwoman and members of the board had previously announced they would visit the United States from March 15-18. Other meetings for the Turkish business community had been planned for March and April in the United States.
Turkey: Research Development Base Planned
March 12, 2010 1636 GMT
Turkey looks to make a new research development base in Istanbul one of the best in Europe, giving Turkey a lead in defense, space, aviation and nanotechnology, Turkish Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul said on March 12, Hurriyet Daily News reported. There are 37 technology development areas in Turkey; only 23 are in operation.
China, DRC: Countries Discuss Military Cooperation
March 12, 2010 1631 GMT
The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Joseph Kabila, met with Deputy Chief of General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Ma Xiaotian in Kinshasa to discuss cooperation and bilateral ties, Xinhua reported March 12. Ma said relations between the two countries have been developing in recent years, and Kabila said Ma's visit would be a new beginning for their military cooperation.
Pakistan: Third Bomb Explodes In Lahore
March 12, 2010 1622 GMT
A third bomb has exploded near a police station in Lahore, Pakistan, following attacks that killed at least 45 people, Reuters reported March 12. The earlier attacks targeted the military.
Poland: NATO Chief Says Nuclear Weapons Needed For Deterrence
March 12, 2010 1616 GMT
NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said on March 12 that atomic weapons are a major element of credible deterrence, however, a reduction in nuclear arsenals must be carried out in a balanced way, Trend News reported, citing DPA. Rasmussen was speaking at a conference in Warsaw.
Nigeria: No Message From Governor - Commanding Officer
March 12, 2010 1522 GMT
Nigerian Maj. Gen. Saleh Maina, the general officer commanding the 3rd Armored Division, in Jos, Plateau state, said he was not notified by Gov. David Jonah Jang before the March 7 massacre in Dogon-Nahawa area, although he said he did receive text messages forewarning the attacks, This Day Online reported March 12. He said no messages came from Plateau state officials, as has been said.
Brief: LMJ, Sudan's Government To Sign Framework Pact
March 12, 2010 1447 GMT
Applying STRATFOR analysis to breaking news
A spokesman for a newly formed umbrella organization of Darfuri rebel groups, the Liberation Movement for Justice (LMJ) has said the group intends to sign a framework peace agreement with the Sudanese government between March 17-18, after which Khartoum and LMJ representatives will begin negotiations for a separate peace agreement. This is a separate process from the one involving the government another Darfuri rebel group known as the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM), who signed a framework deal of their own Feb. 23 which ostensibly was aimed at ending the conflict in Sudan's restive western region. The JEM, which is currently in the midst of negotiating the final terms of its peace deal with Khartoum (something which is supposed to be finished by March 15, though both sides have said recently that this is unlikely), is not happy about the attention Sudanese authorities are paying to the LMJ, as it wants to be recognized by Khartoum as the sole representative of the Darfuri people.
Iraq: PM Begins Laying Groundwork For New Government
March 12, 2010 1445 GMT
Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's bloc announced on March 12 that it has begun to lay the groundwork for a new coalition government and has created a committee to communicate with other groups, The Washington Post reported. Abbas al-Bayati, an al-Maliki supporter, said the alliance will need at least two allies and has reached out to other parties.
Iraq: Top Cleric's Representative Calls For Stepped-Up Results
March 12, 2010 1437 GMT
The representative of the leading Shiite cleric in Iraq called for the Iraqi elections commission to step up the announcement of parliamentary elections results to avoid suspicion about the delay and for political blocs to avoid confrontation, Aswat al-Iraq reported March 12. He also called for a new government to be formed swiftly. Sheikh Abdel Mahdi al-Karbalai spoke at his Friday sermon in Hussein Shrine, saying that a delay in the count could affect the effectiveness of the next government.
Brief: Germany's Schauble Outlines Idea For EMF
March 12, 2010 1432 GMT
Applying STRATFOR analysis to breaking news
German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble provided more details March 12 on his vision for the European Monetary Fund (EMF), saying that while funds should be made available to troubled eurozone economies, "strict conditions and a prohibitive price tag must be attached so that aid is only drawn in the case of emergencies that present a threat to the financial stability of the whole euro area." Schauble also said, "Should a eurozone member ultimately find itself unable to consolidate its budgets or restore its competitiveness, this country should, as a last resort, exit the monetary union." While Schauble's comments provide more details for his proposed EMF, the punitive sanctions on the funds remind Greece that Greece does not want to have to need EMF support. The discussion of a country's leaving the monetary bloc reminds Greece of the consequences should it fail to consolidate its finances.
Brief: Japan's Hatoyama Expresses Concern Over Exchange Rate
March 12, 2010 1423 GMT
Applying STRATFOR analysis to breaking news
Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama called for "firm steps" in reducing the rising exchange rate of the Japanese currency against the dollar and the euro. The yen has experienced high volatility since the eruption of global financial crisis in 2008, which caused investors worldwide to scramble for yen in order to pay back yen-denominated debts (the so-called "carry trade"). Now the problem has emerged again, with a new carry trade emerging as investors borrow yen on Japan's near zero interest rates and invest it in riskier assets to bank on the global recovery. A strong yen hurts Japanese exports relative to competitors and thus its overall attempts at economic recovery, since one-third to half of Japan's growth comes from exports. The Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) has been battling the Bank of Japan in recent weeks as it pressures the bank to more actively fight the yen's rise -- in particular pressing for "quantitative easing," in which the central bank buys financial assets with newly minted money, so as to stimulate the economy and depreciate the currency. The DPJ is attempting to ensure that the economic recovery is not reversed by deflation, or falling consumer prices, an endemic problem in Japan. With an election in the upper house of parliament around the corner the party is desperate to at least give the appearance of improving the economy. However, Japan's high budget deficits, high debt levels and chronic deflation arise from systemic factors that cannot be solved by any party, and pose a serious threat to Japan's economic stability going forward.
U.K.: FM To Visit China
March 12, 2010 1418 GMT
British Foreign Minister David Miliband will travel to China from March 14-17 to discuss economic issues with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, State Councilor Dai Bingguo and Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, Xinhua reported March 12, citing the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
India: Russian PM Wants To See Expansion In Relations
March 12, 2010 1414 GMT
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, while in India on March 12, said that Cold War allies should look beyond defense ties and study alliances in energy, banking and information technology, Samaa TV reported. He said the hi-tech industry is of particular interest to Moscow, and would be willing to offer financial assistance. Putin was in India to sign a number of multibillion-dollar arms agreements.

Russia: Moscow To Build Reactors For India - Atomic Agency Chief
March 12, 2010 1407 GMT
Russia plans to build 12 or more nuclear reactors for power stations in India, Samaa TV reported March 12, citing the Russian Atomic Agency's head, Sergei Kiriyenko. Six reactors are planned to be built from 2012-2017; construction will likely begin after 2017 on the Haripur station in West Bangal, he said.
Brief: Ukraine, Russia To Resume Naval Exercises
March 12, 2010 1403 GMT
Applying STRATFOR analysis to breaking news
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry's press service reported March 12 that Ukraine's navy and Russia's Black Sea Fleet will resume exercises together after a seven-year hiatus. The exercise will be conducted at the Pavel Nakhimov Naval Academy base. A conference on the exercise that was scheduled for June 2010 was pushed up several months and was held on March 11. This announcement follows Ukraine's election of pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovich. Yanukovich has hit the ground running after being elected, forming a majority coalition in parliament and filling his Cabinet with several allies and Russian-friendly figures, and now moving quickly on military issues as well. Yanukovich had previously announced that he would reverse former President Viktor Yushchenko's policy of seeking to expel Russia's Black Sea Fleet from their base in Sevastopol on the Crimean peninsula after their contract expired in 2017, as well as stop the policy of NATO accession. These newly announced naval exercises are further proof that Yanukovich seeks a stronger partnership with Russia across all spheres, including military cooperation.
Brief: Ukraine Might Ask Russia For Loan
March 12, 2010 1358 GMT
Applying STRATFOR analysis to breaking news
Ukraine may ask Russia for a multibillion-dollar loan to cover gaps in its budget and pay off debts, anonymous Ukrainian government officials said March 12. Ukraine asked Russia for a $5 billion loan last year to cover its budget deficit, but this was rejected due to political hostilities between former President Viktor Yushchenko and Moscow. Now that a pro-Russian government is back in Kiev, Moscow could be more open to such a loan. The economic crisis has hit the Ukrainian economy hard, and Kiev is looking to get cash or other breaks anywhere it can. Moscow could help out Kiev as a reward to the new government with either a loan or breaks on things like lower natural gas prices.
Poland: Defense Minister Speaks Out On NATO
March 12, 2010 1358 GMT
Polish Defense Minister Bogdan Klich said he wants to attract NATO infrastructure to his country and consolidate the alliance, saying he wanted to avoid a "watered-down organization" like the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Warsaw Business Journal reported March 12. He said he wants to see NATO infrastructure evenly distributed among all member states and that there is almost none among newer members. Klich said he is prepared to organize a NATO rapid-reaction forces exercise in Poland in 2013.
Afghanistan: Overhaul Of Police Force Under Way
March 12, 2010 1350 GMT
A program to rebuild the Afghan police force of more than 90,000 is beginning, with likely training abroad for thousands, The Washington Post reported March 12. The overhaul is being handled by U.S. and Afghan officials. The force was reportedly sent to police stations with little training or supervision; the force has faced corruption that has aided the rebels, the newspaper reported.
Brief: Liberal Democrats Likely Kingmakers In Poll
March 12, 2010 1349 GMT
Applying STRATFOR analysis to breaking news
The United Kingdom's Conservatives have 37 percent support, Labour 34 percent and the Liberal Democrats 17 percent, according to a Sun/YouGov daily tracker taken March 12. The Conservatives remained unchanged while Labour gained 2 percentage points from the previous poll, making the gap between Prime Minister Gordon Brown's ruling Labour Party and opposition leader David Cameron's Conservative Party at only 3 percent, the lowest in several months. As the United Kingdom approaches regional elections -- along with rumored general elections -- in May, the focus is now shifting to the Liberal Democrats. The Liberal Democrats are increasingly likely to be in a position to determine which party emerges victorious. The latest poll suggest there will be a hung parliament, a tremendous shift from the double-digit leads the Conservatives held just months ago. The upcoming elections are seen as an important shift in the United Kingdom's political position, particularly on issues such as the European Union and on methods of dealing with the financial crisis.
Brazil: Date Set For President's Mideast Trip
March 12, 2010 1334 GMT
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will pay an official visit to Israel, the Palestinian Territories and Jordan, to discuss the Middle East peace process, Iran and trade cooperation, People's Daily Online reported March 12, citing a presidential spokesman. There will be a focus on high-tech sectors, including semiconductors, telecommunications, nanotechnology, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. Da Silva will meet in Jerusalem on March 15 with Israeli President Shimon Peres, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and opposition leader Tzipi Livni. On March 16, da Silva will meet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Bethlehem. On March 17, he will lay a wreath at the tomb of late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat in Ramallah, then meet with Jordanian King Abdullah II and Prime Minister Samir Rifai in Amman.
Lebanon: PM To Visit Germany
March 12, 2010 1325 GMT
Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri will meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin on March 15 to discuss the Middle East, bilateral ties and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon operation, Germany announced on March 12, reported IRNA.
Iraq: National Coalition Leads In Province's Votes
March 12, 2010 1313 GMT
With 23 percent of the votes counted in Maysan province, Iraq, the Iraqi National Coalition has received 29,454 votes, while Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's State of Law bloc has received 22,460 votes, Reuters reported March 12, citing the nation's elections commission. The National Coalition has close ties to Iran; the province is primarily Shia.
Pakistan: India Ready For Additional Talks - Home Minister
March 12, 2010 1300 GMT
India indicated on March 12 that it was willing to hold more talks with Pakistan at the foreign-minister level, Reuters reported, citing Indian Home Minister Palaniappan Chidambaram. Chidambaram said nothing came out of the previous talks at that level.
U.S.: No Thailand Trip For Obama - Embassy
March 12, 2010 1251 GMT
U.S. President Barack Obama will not travel to Thailand the week of March 14, Xinhua reported March 12, citing the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok. Earlier, the National News Bureau of Thailand reported that U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt M. Campbell said the trip would be made.
Greece: PM To Visit Hungary
March 12, 2010 1245 GMT
Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou will meet with Hungarian counterpart Gordon Bajnai in Hungary on March 16 to discuss "crisis management," DPA reported March 12, citing a Hungarian government spokesman.
Thailand: Former PM Arrives In Cambodia Ahead Of Rally
March 12, 2010 1238 GMT
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra traveled to Siem Reap province, Cambodia, by private jet on March 12 as Red Shirts began to gather for mass rallies on March 14, The Nation reported.
Russia: Bombers Shadowed By NATO Jets - Defense Ministry
March 12, 2010 1213 GMT
Two Russian Tu-160 Blackjack strategic bombers on routine patrol over the Arctic and Atlantic oceans were shadowed by two NATO F-16 Fighting Falcons of the Norwegian Air Force and two (NATO) RAF Tornados, RIA Novosti reported March 12, citing the Russian Defense Ministry. It is believed to be the first time Russian strategic bombers were followed by so many NATO jets.
Thailand: Massive Gathering Begins
March 12, 2010 1129 GMT
Anti-government Thai demonstrators launched on March 12 a rally that organizers said would last at least seven days and eventually involve hundreds of thousands of people in an attempt to force the government to call elections, Reuters reported. Some 40,000 soldiers and police spread out across the city as several thousand Red Shirts and their followers -- supporters of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra -- gathered in five areas of Bangkok and listened to speeches by leaders of the United Front For Democracy Against Dictatorship. Many businesses and schools closed in the capital; some companies allowed employees to work from home. With the government warning of potential sabotage, including bombs, armed guards stood at banks and state buildings.
Spain: Al Qaeda Demands Ransom
March 12, 2010 1126 GMT
According to El Pais newspaper, al Qaeda is seeking a $5 million ransom and the release of imprisoned Islamists as conditions to free two Spanish hostages kidnapped in Mauritania, Reuters reported March 12. El Pais published an exclusive al Qaeda statement in which it asked the Spanish government to meet its "legitimate demands" following the release of a third Spanish aid worker. The statement did not specify the demands, but El Pais quoted sources familiar with the negotiations saying the group was seeking a ransom of around $5 million, as well as the release of Islamists held in Mauritania's capital.
India: Russia May Create Free Economic Zone
March 12, 2010 1111 GMT
Russia may set up a free economic zone worth $3 billion in India intended to involve investors from third countries, RIA Novosti reported March 12. Yury Medvedev, the deputy chief of Russia's federal property agency, was quoted in Rossiyskaya Gazeta as Prime Minister Vladimir Putin continued his visit to India, which is expected to result in the signing of around 15 deals worth more than $10 billion. Medvedev stated that a joint titanium enterprise, which is being created on account of India's debt to Russia, is planned to become the basis for the project, Russia's first such initiative.
EU: Industrial Output Increases Most In 20 Years
March 12, 2010 1041 GMT
European industrial output rose the most in more than two decades in January, Bloomberg reported March 12. According to Eurostat, January 2010 compared with December 2009, seasonally adjusted industrial production grew by 1.7 percent in the EA16 and by 1.8 percent in the EU27. In December 2009 production increased by 0.6 percent and 0.3 percent respectively.
Belarus: President To Visit Venezuela
March 12, 2010 1034 GMT
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Nicolas Maduro said Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko will visit Venezuela March 16-17, RIA Novosti reported March 12. The official agenda of the visit was not disclosed.
Ukraine, Russia: Joint Naval Exercises Resume
March 12, 2010 1025 GMT
The Ukrainian navy and the Russian Black Sea fleet will resume joint naval exercises, Itar-Tass reported March 12. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry stated that the “Fairway of Peace 2010” conference was held in Sevastopol on March 11 with the participation of representatives of the command of the Ukrainian navy and the Russian Black Sea fleet. Deputy commander of the Ukrainian navy for combat training Rear-Admiral Viktor Nosenko is appointed to direct the exercise scheduled for June that will be conducted at the Pavel Nakhimov Naval Academy base.

Taiwan: Plans Approved For Chinese Investment
March 12, 2010 0941 GMT
Taiwan’s Cabinet approved plans to allow Chinese companies to invest in domestic lenders, brokerages and insurers, Bloomberg reported March 12. Premier Wu Den Yih approved the plans drafted by the Financial Supervisory Commission, and will now seek parliament’s approval. The plans include cross-strait cooperation in banking, brokerages and insurers’ daily operations, and letting companies on each side invest in the other. Rules on setting up branches, subsidiaries and taking stakes in each other’s companies have also been stipulated, according to Shiau Chang Ruey, chief secretary of the regulator.
U.S.: President To Visit Thailand
March 12, 2010 0932 GMT
The National News Bureau of Thailand quoted U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt Campbell stating that U.S. President Barack Obama will visit Thailand next week, Xinhua reported March 12. Campbell disclosed that Obama is scheduled to visit Asia and the Pacific region, including Thailand where he will promote bilateral ties.
Israel: IDF Seals Off West Bank
March 12, 2010 0909 GMT
Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak decided to impose a general closure on the West Bank, preventing Palestinians from entering Israel, Haaretz reported March 12. The move was made in anticipation of renewed Jerusalem riots in response to a recent government decision to expand settlements in East Jerusalem. Israel sealed off the West Bank for 48 hours, and the closure will be lifted March 13 at midnight. Police said only men over 50 will be allowed to pray at the Temple Mount, while no limitations were placed on women.
Pakistan: 20 Killed, 40 Injured In Lahore Blasts
March 12, 2010 0905 GMT
Two explosions killed 20 and injured 40 as the blasts ripped through a market in Lahore's RA Bazaar area of South Cantt, Geo TV reported March 12. The blasts occurred near a bus stand as crowds gathered for prayers.
Pakistan: Missiles Tested In Arabian Sea
March 12, 2010 0856 GMT
Pakistan's navy conducted successful missile and torpedo tests in the Arabian Sea, Geo TV reported March 12. The tests employed various aircraft, submarines and ships as navy chief Admiral Noman Nashir witnessed the firepower, according to the military's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Following the missile launches, AP quoted a navy statement announcing that the successful tests are a clear message to forces having nefarious designs.
Japan: PM Wants Firm Steps Against Strong Yen
March 12, 2010 0844 GMT
Japan's Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama made a rare call for "firm steps" to stem the strength of the yen as the currency's recent advances hit exporters' earnings, AFP reported March 12. Hatoyama told a parliamentary session that the yen's current high value gave a misleading impression of the world's second-largest economy, stating that Japan's economy and industries aren't necessarily strong. He said Japan needs to take firm steps against such yen strength, adding that there is a need to "politically cooperate on the world stage."
Russia: NATO Criticized Over Afghan Drugs
March 12, 2010 0825 GMT
Russia's envoy to NATO criticized the alliance's military strategy in Afghanistan, saying the resulting surge in heroin smuggling is endangering Russia's national security, AP reported March 12. Dmitry Rogozin stated that 30,000 people die every year in Russia from drugs imported from Afghanistan. He said this constitutes "an undeclared war" against Russia.
Myanmar: U.S. Engagement Is Failing
March 12, 2010 0818 GMT
U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell said the U.S. approach with Myanmar tried to encourage domestic dialogue between the key stakeholders, and the recent promulgation of the election criteria doesn't leave much room for such a dialogue, AP reported March 12. Campbell said the U.S. would continue to talk with all parties inside Myanmar, including the government. But he added that Washington is very disappointed and concerned about the regrettable setback in the engagement.
Turkey: Medvedev To Visit In May
March 12, 2010 0728 GMT
Russian President Dmitri Medvedev will visit Turkey May 11-13 for talks with Turkish officials focusing on energy cooperation and expanding bilateral ties, Today's Zaman reported March 12. In addition to the vast energy cooperation between the two countries, Medvedev and Turkish officials are expected to discuss ways to increase the volume of trade to $100 billion and talk about plans to lift visa requirements.
Pakistan: Maulvi Faqir Claimed To Be Alive
March 12, 2010 0711 GMT
Maulvi Faqir Mohammad, a Taliban leader in the Bajaur tribal region and deputy head of the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), surfaced and approached the media to deny reports of his death in a military action on March 5, The News International reported March 12. Maulvi Faqir said he and two other commanders, Qari Ziaur Rahman and Fateh, abdicated positions and chose not to fight with security forces following an understanding that people would not be harmed, but said the government continues with its "repressive policies." He stated that they have no other option but to resume attacks if such policies are not reversed.
China: No Signs Seen Of Accelerated Inflation
March 12, 2010 0643 GMT
People's Bank of China Vice Governor Su Ning said Beijing expected February's CPI would be higher than January, Reuters reported March 12. Su said after adjustment for seasonal factors, month-on-month inflation did not show any sign of accelerating. China is watching to see whether the price trend is upward or downward, but hopes prices can move down a bit, he said. Su added that inflation was likely to peak in June or July when the base effect caused by the comparison with last year started to fade.
China: Yuan Should Not Be Politicized
March 12, 2010 0641 GMT
Speaking on the sidelines of China's annual session of parliament, People's Bank of China Vice Governor Su Ning said the United States should look to itself to boost its exports and not cast blame on other countries, Reuters reported March 12. Su was responding to a question about remarks by U.S. President Barack Obama, who called on China to move to a "more market-oriented" exchange rate. Su added that China refuses to politicize the yuan exchange rate issue, and stated that one country should not ask another country for help in solving its own problems.
Indonesia: Police Kill Suspected Militants
March 12, 2010 0621 GMT
Police searching for members of a new militant group in western Indonesia fatally shot two suspects and arrested six others at a security checkpoint, AP reported March 12. Provincial police chief Maj. Gen. Aditya Warman said officials killed two of the eight suspects who fled from a bus stopped at a checkpoint west of the Aceh provincial capital of Banda Aceh. There was a 15-minute gun battle before the remaining six suspects surrendered and were arrested, Warman said, adding that police seized five assault rifles from the suspects.
Pakistan: 4 Killed In Karachi Shooting
March 12, 2010 0601 GMT
Pakistani police said four people, including three Muslim clerics, were gunned down and one wounded in a drive-by shooting in a suspected sectarian attack in Karachi, Reuters reported March 12. Three gunmen traveling on motorbike ambushed Saeed Ahmed Jalalpuri, a senior Sunni Muslim cleric, as he was traveling in a car with three colleagues. Karachi police chief Wasim Ahmed said the attackers opened indiscriminate fire on Jalalpui's car as he returned home after delivering a sermon in his mosque. There was no immediate claim of responsibility.
France: Hopes For New Iran Sanctions Soon
March 12, 2010 0051 GMT
French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner said new sanctions on Iran should be achieved in the near future, Expatica reported March 11. He said France was working on economic sanctions on bank accounts and insurance, as well as sanctions aimed not just at restricting Iran's nuclear program, but also at supporting opponents of the Tehran regime.
France: Sarkozy To Bring Nuclear Agencies To Order
March 12, 2010 0019 GMT
French President Nicolas Sarkozy plans to settle the open rivalry between the heads of two French nuclear agencies in April, Earth Times reported March 11, citing Le Figaro. He said that the state would bring order to the situation, and that the public bickering between the head of Areva, the organization that builds nuclear power plants, and the head of EDF, the energy giant that operates the plants, was unacceptable. Sarkozy said the industry must be organized so that French businesses are not competing with one another.
U.S.: Sets Preliminary Penalties On Chinese Potassium Phosphate Salts
March 12, 2010 0007 GMT
The U.S. Commerce Department said on March 11 that it has set preliminary anti-dumping duties on imports of certain potassium phosphate salts from China after determining that Chinese producers/exporters have sold them in the United States at 69.58 to 95.40 percent less than fair value, Xinhua reported. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has been instructed to collect a cash deposit or bond based on these preliminary rates. The products in question are used in industrial and institutional cleaning products, fertilizers and food additives.
U.S.: VP Arrives In Jordan For Talks With King
March 12, 2010 0002 GMT
U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, who arrived in Jordan on March 11, plans to meet with King Abdullah II for talks on the Middle East peace process, AFP reported.