2 Dec, 2013
The Price of War: Imaging Shows Impact of Blast-induced Brain Injuries in Veterans
CHICAGO, Dec. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Using a special type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), researchers have found that soldiers who suffered mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) induced by blast exposure exhibit long-term brain differences, according to a study being presented today at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA). Recent […]
more…2 Dec, 2013
Alarm as HIV cases soar among gays
Beijing, (People’s Daily Online) December 01, 2013 – Programmatic coverage for men having sex with men remains inadequate across the Asia and the Pacific region, Director of UNAIDS Asia and the Pacific Steven Kraus told People’s Daily Online on Sunday. Male-to-male sex becomes the prominent contributing factor to new HIV infections, pointed out by UNAIDS […]
more…2 Dec, 2013
Confucius classroom hubs opened in Northern Ireland
(Xinhua) November 30, 2013 – Eight Confucius Classroom Hubs under the Confucius Institute at Ulster University opened Friday in Northern Ireland to meet children’s needs in learning the Chinese language and culture. “Northern Ireland has maintained good relationship with China,” said Peter Robinson, the first minister of Northern Ireland, who attended the opening ceremony at […]
more…2 Dec, 2013
Tracking Lobbyists: European Transparency Register grows 10%
Brussels, 29 November 2013, European Commission Press release – The latest annual report on the European Parliament and European Commission’s joint Transparency Register shows that more interest representatives have registered than ever before. Almost 6,000 organisations have now signed up – an increase of 10% on last year’s report. A recent academic study referenced in […]
more…2 Dec, 2013
FREE Download: 30% drop in organized crime leads to 7.5% rise in Mexico Peace Index
28 Nov 2013 – Peace has improved by 7.5% over the last two years in Mexico as a result of a 30% decrease in organized crime, according to the 2013 Mexico Peace Index. The report analyses peace in Mexico over the last decade and identifies the key socio-economic factors associated with peace and violence. It […]
more…30 Nov, 2013
Israel opens synagogue beneath Al-Aqsa Mosque
Jerusalem, 28 November 2013 (IINA) – Ignoring the feelings of millions of Muslims worldwide, Israel has reportedly opened a new synagogue under Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Al-Quds (Occupied East Jerusalem), threatening a possible destabilizing of the foundations of the third holiest site in Islam. “We only saw these synagogues during our tours; otherwise we would […]
more…30 Nov, 2013
Black Friday Protests Against “Poverty Pay” Sweep Walmart Stores in U.S.
November 29, 2013 –(BUSINESS WIRE)–Calling for better jobs, Walmart workers and community supporters across the nation are holding 1500 protests against the mega-retailer today, in one of the largest mobilizations of working families in recent history. As part of the protests already underway, workers, faith leaders and community supporters are risking arrest in at least […]
more…30 Nov, 2013
Indian Media in Disrepute as Journalists Seek Glamour, Stardom, New Book Says
Vice President’s Secretariat, 29-November-2013 – The Vice President of India Prof M. Hamid Ansari released a book entitled “Journalism – Ethics and Responsiblities” edited by senior journalist Ms. Seema Mustafa at a function here today. Addressing on the occasion, he said, “This book is timely and puts the searchlight on a contemporary issue of great […]
more…29 Nov, 2013
Commission tightens key EU rules to curb tax avoidance
Brussels, 25 November 2013, European Commission Press release – Today the Commission proposed amendments to key EU corporate tax legislation, in order to significantly reduce tax avoidance in Europe. The proposal will close loopholes in the Parent-Subsidiary Directive, which some companies have been using to escape taxation. In particular, companies will no longer be able […]
more…29 Nov, 2013
Promoting Women Entrepreneurs: “What if it had been Lehman Sisters?”
Brussels, European Commission, 28 November 2013 – Full text of the speech by Neelie Kroes, Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for the Digital Agenda, at the Women in Parliaments Global Forum Today we face an economic crisis that threatens us all. We need to invest in jobs for the future, growth for the future, […]
more…29 Nov, 2013
First UNWTO Conference in Ninh Binh Helps Spiritual Tourism Come of Age in Asia
Ninh Binh, Vietnam — The Asia-Pacific travel & tourism industry entered a new phase of its history with Nov 21-22 convening of the first conference on spiritual tourism in Asia. Set against the backdrop of the spectacular bronze Buddha images in the Bai Dinh pagoda in Ninh Binh, about 90 kilometres south of the Vietnamese […]
more…28 Nov, 2013
U.N. Committee Passes Resolution on ‘Right to Privacy in the Digital Age’
United Nations, 26 Nov 2013, Department of Public Information – The UN Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) approved 18 draft resolutions today, including one on “The right to privacy in the digital age”. “Through this resolution, the General Assembly establishes, for the first time, that human rights should prevail irrespective of the medium and […]
more…28 Nov, 2013
China Proposes Easier Travel, Visas with Central and Eastern Europe states
BUCHAREST, Nov.26 (Xinhua) — Chinese Premier Li Keqiang made a six-point proposal Tuesday on deepening cooperation with Central and Eastern European (CEE) nations while attending a China-CEE leaders’ meeting. First, he said China and CEE countries should intensify economic and trade cooperation, doubling China-CEE trade volume in five years and discussing a framework agreement for […]
more…28 Nov, 2013
UN Gen Assembly votes to declare 2014 Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
United Nations, 26 November 2013, Department of Public Information – Sending a strong message of support for the Middle East peace process, albeit with the traditionally divergent views on how to achieve its aims, the General Assembly today adopted six draft resolutions on the question of Palestine and the situation in the Middle East overall. […]
more…27 Nov, 2013
Making Pancakes to Taking Care of the Elderly: Five cool robots the EU is funding
Brussels, 25th November 2013, European Commission Memo – It’s EU Robotics Week time again. For the third consecutive year, the achievements of Europe’s researchers and inventors working in robotics are celebrated in over 300 events from November 25th to December 1st. Here are some examples of the best EU-funded Robotics projects. RoboHow – Can a […]
more…27 Nov, 2013
Major Report Details Potential Costs of Climate Change in the Pacific – ADB
Sydney, 26 November 2013, ADB Media release – The economic loss suffered by the Pacific region could range from 2.9% to as high as 12.7% of annual GDP by 2100, according to a new study from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Economics of Climate Change in the Pacific includes modeling of future climate over the […]
more…27 Nov, 2013
EU unveils moves to boost free movement of people, and curb abuse
Brussels, 25 November 2013, European Commission Press release – The joint responsibility of Member States and the EU institutions to uphold EU citizens’ rights to live and work in another EU country is underlined in a policy paper just adopted by the European Commission. To support Member States’ efforts to do so, the Commission’s paper […]
more…27 Nov, 2013
Indonesia demands code of ethics for Australia relations
Jakarta (ANTARA News) November 26 2013 – Indonesia has demanded a protocol and a code of ethics for future cooperation with Australia following recent revelations of Australian spying in the country. “To me, this must be a prerequisite and, at the same time, a stepping stone for bilateral relations. I have already proposed it to […]
more…27 Nov, 2013
Poll: 7 out of 10 EU citizens say helping developing countries benefits them too
Brussels, 26 November 2013, European Commission Press release – Tackling poverty in developing countries should be one of the main priorities of the European Union, according to 66% of EU citizens. Seven out of ten people (69%) believe that helping these countries is also good for the EU, benefiting its citizens. These are some key […]
more…27 Nov, 2013
China continues campaign against “official extravagance”, travel included
BEIJING, (Xinhua) 2013-11-26 — In the latest move in China’s anti-waste campaign, central authorities on Monday issued a written regulation to standardize fund management and ban Party and government extravagance. The regulation, which contains 65 items and 12 chapters, outlined the proper management of funds for various uses, including official travel, receptions, meetings, official vehicles […]
more…26 Nov, 2013
Australian Unions vote to seek leave for workers who experience domestic violence
25 November, 2013, Media Release – White Ribbon Ambassador and ACTU Secretary Dave Oliver said Australian Unions will support a special resolution at the ACTU Executive on Tuesday for paid domestic violence leave to be included as a minimum entitlement in the 2014 modern award review. “Australia is already leading the world with over 1.2 […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
Watchdog NGOs urge adoption of UN resolution against unlawful surveillance
Nov 22, 2013 [University of Pittsburgh Law School, JURIST] – Five human rights groups urged the UN General Assembly on Thursday to adopt a resolution protecting the right of privacy against unlawful surveillance. In a letter to the assembly, the groups, Amnesty International, Access, Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), Privacy International and Human Rights Watch, claimed […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
U.S. Aviation Set to Be Hit by Doubling of Security Taxes
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–November 21, 2013 – Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines brought together a wide-ranging aviation industry coalition today to oppose increasing the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) passenger security tax and urged Congress not to close a budget deal on the backs of airline passengers and shippers who […]
more…19 Nov, 2013
Summary: China’s 60-Point Reform Plan to Chart Development Course for Next Decade
Beijing, 2013-11-16 (China Daily) – The Decision on Major Issues Concerning Comprehensively Deepening Reforms was adopted at the close of the Third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee on Tuesday. The following is an abridged version of the full text of the document: I—Significance and principles 1. Reform and opening-up has been a […]
more…19 Nov, 2013
ILO Plans Emergency Jobs Programme for 5 million typhoon-hit Filipino workers
MANILA – Five million workers have been affected by the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) that struck the Philippines last week, according to the latest ILO estimates. “This figure is equivalent to the population of Norway,” said ILO Philippine Office Director Lawrence Jeff Johnson. “But this is not just a matter of numbers: these […]
more…19 Nov, 2013
India Holds National Integration Week, 19-25 November
Ministry of Home Affairs, 18-November-2013 – With a view to foster and reinforce the spirit of Communal Harmony, National Integration and pride in vibrant, composite culture and nationhood, the “Quami Ekta Week” (National Integration week) will be observed all over the country, from the 19th to 25th November, 2013. The National Foundation for Communal Harmony […]
more…19 Nov, 2013
Huge Gulf aircraft order worries U.S. airlines group, pilots
November 18, 2013, WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines, said Monday that record-breaking aircraft orders from Middle Eastern carriers, totaling $162.6 billion, underscore the need for a U.S. National Airline Policy, in which the U.S. government recognizes the critical role that U.S. carriers play in connecting America […]
more…16 Nov, 2013
Regulating Financial Institutions Critical to Avoiding Spread of Global Risk, UN meeting hears
United Nations, 13 Nov 2013, (Department of Public Information) – International financial stability was tied to the regulation of financial institutions so they did not accumulate too much risk, José Antonio Ocampo, Professor in the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University, today told the Second Committee (Economic and Financial). Delivering the keynote […]
more…16 Nov, 2013
Global warming more about people than carbon emissions – 2013 World Social Science Report
Paris, 12.11.2013 – UNESCOPRESS – The new edition of the World Social Science Report emphasizing the social sciences’ indispensable contribution to human survival in the face of climate change, was launched on 15 November at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. Published by UNESCO, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the International Social Science […]
more…16 Nov, 2013
Applications Open for Int’l Training Course on Managing Risks of Climate Change
BANGKOK – The Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC) is to hold an international training course on “Managing risk in the face of climate change” from 09 -20 December 2013at the Swissotel, Nai Lert Park, Bangkok. This training programme is designed for managers, policy makers, specialists and researchers who are professionally involved in the management of […]
more…16 Nov, 2013
FREE Download: Pew Report Tracks News Use Across Social Media Platforms
Nov 14, 2013 (Pew Research Journalism Project) – How do different social networking websites stack up when it comes to news? How many people engage with news across multiple social sites? And what are their news consumption habits on traditional platforms? As part of an ongoing examination of social media and news, the Pew Research […]
more…16 Nov, 2013
Philippines: Newly Open Roads, Airports Allow In More Aid But Fuel Shortage Remains
United Nations, (UN News Centre) – Nov 15 2013 – With substantial progress in opening up airports and clear roads in typhoon-hit regions of the Philippines, United Nations agencies and partners are scaling up their support of Government efforts to provide relief, but a major fuel shortage is hampering access to millions of affected people. […]
more…15 Nov, 2013
European SMEs Worst Hit By Lack of Access to Finance, Survey Shows
Brussels, 14 November 2013, European Commission Press release – Access to finance is still among the top concerns of the EU’s small and medium sized enterprises and younger and smaller firms are the most badly affected, according to the “Access to Finance” survey released today by the European Commission and European Central Bank. About one […]
more…15 Nov, 2013
UN Report Highlights Power of Creativity, Culture and Tourism as Job Creators
Paris, 14 Nov 2013 – World trade of creative goods and services totalled a record of US$ 624 billion in 2011 and more than doubled from 2002 to 2011. At the same time, creativity and culture also have a significant non-monetary value that contributes to inclusive social development, to dialogue and understanding between peoples. This […]
more…14 Nov, 2013
Trust in governments at record low: OECD report
Paris, 14/11/2013 (OECD media release) – The global economic crisis has undermined trust in government. Today only four out of ten citizens in OECD countries say they have confidence in their national authorities. Not surprisingly, trust declined in the countries hit hardest by the crisis, such as Ireland, Greece, Slovenia and Portugal. But measures can […]
more…14 Nov, 2013
Travel, business, citizens and environment to benefit from free European satellite data
Brussels, 13 November 2013, (European Commission Press release) – The European Commission will provide free, full and open access to a wealth of important environmental data gathered by Copernicus, Europe’s Earth observation system. The new open data dissemination regime, which will come into effect next month, will support the vital task of monitoring the environment […]
more…14 Nov, 2013
WMO Status of Climate in 2013: High temperatures, many extremes worldwide
Geneva, 13 November 2013 (WMO media release) – The year 2013 is currently on course to be among the top ten warmest years since modern records began in 1850, according to the World Meteorological Organization. The first nine months, January to September, tied with 2003 as the seventh warmest such period on record, with a […]
more…14 Nov, 2013
Qatar World Cup, crucial opportunity to improve migrants’ situation – UN rights expert
GENEVA / DOHA (13 November 2013) – The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants, François Crépeau, urged the Qatari authorities to use the 2022 World Cup to improve the situation of migrant workers and their families in the country. Qatar has the highest ratio of migrants to citizens in the world; […]
more…14 Nov, 2013
Call for Entries: 2014 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation
Bangkok, 12 November 2013 – Entries are now being accepted for the 2014 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. The Awards recognize the successful efforts of private sector and public-private initiatives in conserving or restoring structures, places and properties of heritage value in the region. The Awards emphasize the importance of the conservation process, […]
more…14 Nov, 2013
S. Korea adopts tourist goods certification to attract Chinese travelers
Beijing (Xinhua) 2013-11-13 – South Korea adopted a certification program of tourist goods to attract more travelers from China by scaling down rip-off sightseeing practices, an official at the Seoul Metropolitan Government said on Monday. “Competition became fiercer among domestic travel agencies to attract more Chinese tourists,” an official at the municipal government told Xinhua. […]
more…14 Nov, 2013
19 Best European Destinations for Barrier-free and Sustainable Tourism
Brussels, 11 November 2013 (European Commission media release) – The European tourism sector remains strong amidst the economic crisis (IP/13/878), but European destinations must continue finding ways to stay competitive and expand into new markets. One of the tourism sectors in Europe that still remains largely untapped is accessible tourism for senior citizens and people […]
more…12 Nov, 2013
Time to tap the holistic potential of Asia-Pacific’s forests
Rotorua, 08/11/2013, (Food and Agriculture Organization) – The forest sector across Asia and the Pacific has enormous untapped potential to increase the prosperity of countries, industries and improve the livelihoods of millions. But to achieve that, greater, coordinated efforts are needed by forest managers, governments and the private sector. Leading forestry experts and policy makers […]
more…12 Nov, 2013
FREE Download: Six-Point Plan to Promote Health & Wellness at Work
MANCHESTER, England–(BUSINESS WIRE)–November 11, 2013 – Promoting Health & Wellness at Work is the latest Blue Paper from promotional items retailer 4imprint and is available now as a free download. The health of the nation is rarely out of the news; couple this with an ageing workforce, sick days costing nearly £29billion a year (1), […]
more…12 Nov, 2013
Healthcare sector to face shortage of 12.9 million workers in coming decades
11 November 2013 | RECIFE, BRAZIL, (World Health Organization) – The world will be short of 12.9 million health-care workers by 2035; today, that figure stands at 7.2 million. A WHO report released today warns that the findings – if not addressed now – will have serious implications for the health of billions of people […]
more…11 Nov, 2013
India’s 2014 Diaspora Caucus to Focus on Tapping the Energy of Young People
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, 05-November, 2013 – The 12th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention to be held in Delhi from 7th to 9th January 2014 will have ‘Engaging Diaspora: Connecting Across Generations’ as its theme. One of the focus areas of the PBD this year is a Youth PBD on 7th […]
more…11 Nov, 2013
Transparency Int’l calls for more whistleblower protection, oversight of govt surveillance
10 November 2013 (Transparency International Secretariat) – Measures to protect whistleblowers and increase oversight of government surveillance are essential to restore public trust in government, Transparency International said in a resolution passed by its 2013 Annual Membership Meeting today. The resolution called on governments to respect the right to privacy in safeguarding national security, saying […]
more…11 Nov, 2013
Hundreds in Chicago protest against ABC’s racial rhetoric
CHICAGO, Nov. 7- (Xinhua) – About 400 Chinese scholars, students and Chinese Americans gathered on Thursday in front of the building of the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) Chicago Branch to protest against its rhetoric of racial discrimination. Protesters held placards reading “Stop Racism,” “Don’t let kids grow up in hatred,” “Teach kids love, not kill,” “Killing […]
more…10 Nov, 2013
U.S., Israel lose voting rights for failing to resume funding: UNESCO
PARIS, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) — The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced Saturday that the United States and Israel lost their voting rights at the organization for not paying due contributions since November 2011. The U.S. and Israel stopped to pay their dues to the UN cultural organization in protest of UNESCO’s […]
more…10 Nov, 2013
Psychological survey reveals stress levels rising in Australia
A new survey conducted by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) has revealed Australians are experiencing increased levels of stress and reduced wellbeing in the past 12 months. The Stress and Wellbeing in Australia 2013: A state-of-the-nation survey– released today to mark the start of National Psychology Week (10 – 16 November) -looked at the stress […]
more…10 Nov, 2013
New Book Exposes Central Banks’ Destructive Policies, Warns of More Financial Crises
HOBOKEN, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–November 07, 2013 – When Lehman Brothers went bankrupt and AIG was taken over by the US government in the fall of 2008, the world almost came to an end – stock markets went into free fall as trillions of dollars of wealth were wiped out. While the initial crisis is long gone, […]
more…10 Nov, 2013
Holiday Shopping Survey Finds U.S. Consumers Dialing Down the Holidays
RIVERWOODS, Ill.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–November 07, 2013 – Americans are planning to celebrate this holiday season without all the fuss, according to the latest Discover Annual Holiday Shopping Survey. Gift cards are the most popular gift of the season, both to give and receive, and a majority plan to skip the hustle and bustle of holiday travel. […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
India Approves Collective Landing Permits for Group Tourists
Ministry of Tourism, 08-November, 2013 – The Government has issued an order relating to Collective Landing Permit for Group tourists as per the notification issued by Ministry of Home Affairs. The facility of Collective Landing permit for Group tourists will be available at the following airports and seaports: Airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
Major Upgrade for Incredibleindia.org to Enhance Functionality, User-Friendliness
Ministry of Tourism, 07-November, 2013 – Ministry of Tourism has added three more services on its website www.incredibleindia.org to provide more comprehensive information to tourists at one place. The objective of the new changes is to put the entire gamut of tourism services online, from the initial planning of the trip to the final visit […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
Chinese see English literacy as gateway to good jobs, travel opportunities
(China Daily), 2013-11-06 – English literacy in the Chinese mainland is expanding as people view mastery of the language as an invaluable bargaining tool for jobs. But the country still ranks low globally, a recent report shows. The mainland climbed two notches from 36th place last year to 34th on an annual list showing the […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
Beijing to cut new car quota by 37.5%
BEIJING, 2013-11-07, (Xinhua) – The Beijing municipal government will slash its new car registration quota by 37.5 percent starting from 2014 and give more stake to new energy vehicles as part of its efforts to curb air pollution. According to an interpretation of a five-year vehicle emission reduction plan (2013-2017), the number of newly registered […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
China expected to pursue new growth model
BEIJING, (Xinhua) 2013-11-07 – The upcoming policy meeting of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is expected to unveil a package of measures to deepen reforms to achieve sustainable economic development, said experts. The Third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee, which is expected to steer the country to an historic turning point, […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
China urges developed countries to meet climate financing commitments
Beijing, (Xinhua) November 05, 2013 – A senior Chinese official on Tuesday urged developed countries to keep their commitments on climate financing and outline concrete actions ahead of a number of key meetings on climate change. Developed nations should promise to inject funds of no less than the fast-start funding between 2013 and 2015, said […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
Call to limit tourist access to Balinese Hindu temples
Bali, 2013-11-07, (Jakarta Post) – Bali Governor Made Mangku Pastika has proposed that temples be excluded as tourist destinations on the island to limit, or even prevent, tourists visiting the places of worship. “Further discussion with the island’s tourist industry will be necessary to consider the proposal. It is high time for us to limit […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
240 Asia-Pacific Sites To Benefit From Milestone U.N. Pact To Boost Dry Ports
Bangkok – A total of 240 Asia-Pacific sites in and around cities stretching from Istanbul to Zamboanga city have been identified for future development as dry-ports under a landmark agreement signed here today. The move will set the stage for the next phase of economic growth in the world’s most populous region by linking coastal […]
more…7 Nov, 2013
Online Chinese travel search platform Qunar makes debut on Nasdaq
Beijing, (Xinhua) 2013-11-05 – A prominent search-based online commercial platform for the Chinese travel industry, Qunar Cayman Islands Limited, debuted Friday at the Nasdaq Global Market with the pricing of 15 U.S. dollars a share for its initial public offering (IPO). Shares of the Beijing-based company, under the ticker symbol of QUNR at the Nasdaq, […]
more…7 Nov, 2013
Chinese luxury shoppers get more sophisticated
Beijing 2013-11-05, (China Daily) – Chinese luxury consumers are getting more sophisticated, as they increasingly look for unique products and expect professional services. It’s widely known that Chinese tourists are supporting the global luxury market, but the reasons behind the overseas trips of Chinese luxury consumers are changing. “Finding unique items not available in their […]
more…7 Nov, 2013
To Shape Policy Agenda, EC invites votes on what Europe could look like in 2050
Brussels, 5 November 2013 (European Commission Media Release) – What future do you want? In 2050, will the economy be fundamentally altered because home 3D printers mean you can press a button to print your own clothes, a new sofa or kitchen table? Will cancer be a thing of the past thanks to nano-robots which […]
more…7 Nov, 2013
Why bogus overseas colleges target Chinese students
Beijing, November 06, 2013, (People’s Daily Online) – The bogus college, also known as a ‘diploma mill’, general refers to an unaccredited higher education institution that offers fake academic degrees for money. To create a semblance of authenticity and to lure students, many of them choose names that closely resemble the names of respected and […]
more…7 Nov, 2013
UN’s Asia-Pacific Chief Outlines Five Challenges Facing Region’s Future Transport Needs
Opening Statement by Dr. Noeleen Heyzer, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, Forum of Asian Ministers of Transport, Bangkok, 7 November 2013 Just a few weeks ago, the world celebrated the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I have a […]
more…7 Nov, 2013
Our Legacy for Future Generations: Greenhouse Gases in Atmosphere Reach New Record
Geneva, 6 November 2013, (World Meteorological Organization) – The amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere reached a new record high in 2012, continuing an upward and accelerating trend which is driving climate change and will shape the future of our planet for hundreds and thousands of years. The World Meteorological Organization’s annual Greenhouse Gas […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
New Confederation Set up to Protect Rights of 53 million Domestic Workers
(Montevideo) Human Rights Watch media release, 28 Oct 2013 – The founding of a global federation of domestic workers is a sign of the growing strength of the movement, and a key moment to assess progress for workers long excluded from basic labor protections, the International Domestic Workers Network (IDWN), the International Trade Union Confederation […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
Civil Society Groups Blast World Bank’s “Doing Business” Report as Bad for Business
28 October 2013 (ITUC media release): On the eve of the release of the World Bank’s Doing Business 2014, civil society organisations have called on the World Bank to implement the major recommendations delivered by an independent panel in June, which included ending the ranking of countries according to an “Ease of Doing Business” index […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
Fanatic Jewish settlers, led by Rabbi, storm Al-Aqsa Mosque
Ramallah, Tuesday, 02 Muharram 1434/ 05 November 2013 (IINA) – A group of Jewish settlers on Sunday stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque Complex in occupied Jerusalem and raised the Israeli flag. Sheikh Najeh Bkeirat, the Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound manager, said that the settlers headed by the rightist Rabbi Yehudah Glick entered the complex through the Al-Magharebah […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
EU needs to combat corruption by better protecting whistleblowers: Amnesty Int’l
5 November 2013, Transparency International Secretariat – Most European Union countries fail to legally protect whistleblowers enough from retaliation in the workplace, shutting out an important actor in the fight against corruption, according to a new report from Transparency International. Whistleblowers play a prominent role exposing and preventing corruption, yet only four EU countries – […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
Hotel Institute Updates Responsible Alcohol Service Training Program
Orlando, Florida, November 2013—The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (EI) has revised its responsible alcohol service seminar, Controlling Alcohol Risks Effectively® (CARE), with new and expanded content, additional activities and discussion questions, updated instructor materials with a new, easy-to-use format, and a new training DVD. The DVD features several new training scenarios as well […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
India’s National Tribal Crafts Mela Promotes Products Made by Under-privileged
Ministry of Tribal Affairs, 01-November, 2013 – Union Minister for Tribal Affairs MR V. Kishore Chandra Deo inaugurated the “Adishilp: the National Tribal Craft Mela” in New Delhi today. Organized by TRIFED at Dilli Haat the 11 day mela showcases the unique and exquisite tribal arts and crafts of the country. The main objective of […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
Chinese high-speed trains venture overseas
BEIJING, Nov. 3, (Xinhua) — Parallel to the development of domestic high-speed rail, the Chinese government and rail enterprises are actively seeking customers overseas. In a meeting with a trade ministers from the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) last week, Premier Li Keqiang thanked them for traveling by high-speed train from south China […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
South African Crime at Lowest Levels in 15 Years, Says IHS Crime Index
LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–October 31, 2013 — The IHS Crime Index has found that crime in South Africa is at its lowest level in 15 years. IHS Inc. (NYSE: IHS), the leading global source of information and analytics, reveals key findings from this edition of the index below. Key findings: 1. The most dangerous metro is the […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
Full Text: Indian Vice President’s Powerful Lecture at Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies
The Vice President of India Prof Dr M. Hamid Ansari delivered a Lecture on “Identity and Citizenship: An Indian Perspective” at Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies in London on 01 November 2013. Dr Ansari was on a State visit to UK from 31st October to 1st November, 2013. Following is the text of the lecture: […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
11 Key Issues Tourism Ministers will sweep under the carpet at WTM London
BANGKOK – Like all travel industry forums globally, the World Travel Market, which opens in London today, is becoming a mutual-admiration club of people preaching to the converted. The programme of events has the usual air of “sameness” to it – bursting with techno-babble interspersed with awards ceremonies, updates on destination marketing plans, new product […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
Chinese Investor Plans US$1.54 Billion Port City In Colombo
COLOMBO, Nov 1 (NNN-XINHUA) — A mega development project to build a 1.43 billion USD port city along the shoreline of Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo will be put for Cabinet approval next month with construction expected to begin in December, an official says. The project, which aims to reclaim a 230-hectare site from the sea […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
India Upgrades Bhubaneswar, Imphal to International Airport status
New Delhi, Cabinet media release, 30-October, 2013 – The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for declaring the Bhubaneswar and Imphal airports as international airports to fulfill the long pending demand of people as well as the State Governments of Odisha and Manipur. Declaration of these airports as international airports will offer improved connectivity, wider […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
Bone flutes suggest 9,000-year-old Chinese music tradition
ZHENGZHOU, Nov. 1 (Xinhua) — Three flutes made of bones of red-crowned cranes have been excavated at an ancient tomb in central China’s Henan Province, further evidence of remote ancestors playing music long before they could write, archeologists announced on Friday. They believe that the musical instruments, excavated earlier in October from Jiahu, site of […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
Tourism fest raises toast to world’s tallest Buddha
IANS, Nov 1, 2013, – The world’s tallest Buddha statue celebrated its 1,300th anniversary with a cultural festival in Leshan city in China’s Sichuan province. The Leshan Giant Buddha festival is expected to attract global attention to the statue’s conservation issues, said Li Wenfei, director of a management committee of Mount Emei and Leshan Giant […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
India, Turkey lead in 143.3 mn false & duplicate Facebook accounts
New York, Fri Nov 01 2013, Press Trust of India – An estimated 14.3 crore accounts on the popular social networking site Facebook may be false or duplicate, with a major chunk of them coming from developing markets like India and Turkey. (one crore is 10 million). Facebook, which boasts of 119 crore accounts globally, […]
more…1 Nov, 2013
India Launches Portal for Booking Nationwide Bus Travel
Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, 31-October, 2013 – Mr. Oscar Fernandes, Minister of Road Transport & Highways launched India’s first integrated National Transport Portal “www.busindia.com” here today. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Fernandes said busindia.com will address the need of a single window application, like IRCTC, through which users can seamlessly plan their bus […]
more…1 Nov, 2013
10 Healthiest Eating Habits across the Globe
Bohemia, NY (PRWEB) November 01, 2013 – According to an article published by Greatist on October 28th titled “10 Surprising, Healthy Eating Habits From Around the World,” there is an issue with obesity in many countries, including the United States. However, there are many healthy diets around the globe that help promote lower obesity rates. […]
more…31 Oct, 2013
New Islamic Economic Forum Digital Era Projects $1.2 Trillion Global Trade Increase
LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–October 30, 2013 – In the presence of seventeen State Leaders and witnessed by Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohamed Najib Tun Abdul Razak, Patron of the World Islamic Economic Forum Foundation, the WIEF publicly announced a landmark MOU between the Global Coalition for Efficient Logistics (GCEL) and the Islamic Center for Development of […]
more…31 Oct, 2013
PATA CEO Fudges Role as Panel Moderator at ITB Asia
Singapore, 24 Oct 2013 – For those who have seen PATA at its peak, to see it playing a distant second-fiddle on the ITB Asia media events programme was a sorry experience. Even more grim was to see its ongoing struggle for relevance as it tried, vainly, to honour the promise to offer “valuable new […]
more…29 Oct, 2013
What Happens to Customer Reward Points and Miles After You Die?
CINCINNATI-October 24, 2013-(BUSINESS WIRE)–None of us wants our dying words to be, “Make sure you redeem all my points and miles.” So plan ahead. Research released today by COLLOQUY shows the after-death transfer to loved ones or friends of rewards earned in customer loyalty programs may not always go as smoothly as expected or desired. […]
more…29 Oct, 2013
Wynn Resorts 3Q 2013 Earnings Up 9.6% in Macau, only 1.1% in Vegas
LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–24/10/2013 – Wynn Resorts, Limited (Nasdaq:WYNN) today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2013. Net revenues for the third quarter of 2013 were $1,390.1 million, compared to $1,298.5 million in the third quarter of 2012. The increase was driven by a 9.6% revenue increase from its Macau operations and […]
more…29 Oct, 2013
Indian President Warns: Water Security Crises Likely as Demand Outstrips Supply
President’s Secretariat, 28-October, 2013 – The following is the full text of the speech by the President of India Mr Pranab Mukherjee at the inauguration of the Second India Water Forum 2013 organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) 1. It is indeed a privilege for me to be present amidst you this morning […]
more…28 Oct, 2013
UN Rights Experts Urge Transparency In Use Of Armed Drones, Citing Risks Of Illegal Use
United Nations, (UN News Centre) – Oct 25 2013 – Expressing concern about the potential for illegal use of armed unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, two United Nations human rights experts today called on States to be transparent in their use, to investigate allegations of unlawful killings and to respect the full range of applicable […]
more…28 Oct, 2013
Myanmar: UN Expert Urges Greater Efforts To Curb Anti-Muslim Sentiment
United Nations, (UN News Centre) Oct 25 2013 – The United Nations expert on Myanmar today cautioned that the situation in Rakhine State is feeding a winder anti-Muslim narrative in the country which threatens the ongoing reform process aimed at a more open and broad-based democracy. Speaking to journalists in New York, the UN Special […]
more…28 Oct, 2013
UN-Backed Forum On Internet Governance Sees NSA Spying as “Major Emerging Issue”
United Nations, (UN News Centre) Oct 25 2013 – While reaffirming the need to strengthen the multi-stakeholder approach to Internet governance, the United Nations-backed forum on the issue, known as the IGF, concluded today in Bali, Indonesia with an acknowledgement that surveillance is the major emerging issue of the year. Over four days, the Internet […]
more…28 Oct, 2013
Brand USA faces tough media barrage at ITB Asia
SINGAPORE, 23 Oct 2013 – The Brand USA delegation at the ITB Asia press conference faced a barrage of questions about visa delays, lengthy CIQ queues, the U.S. government shutdown, shootings in public places and the impact of superhero Hollywood movies on the country’s “image”. Although Mr Jay Gray, Vice President of Global Partnership Development […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
India, China Links to be guided by “Five Principles of Panchsheel”
New Delhi, Prime Minister’s Office, 23-October, 2013 – India and China have issued a Joint Statement that headlined, “A vision for future development of strategic and cooperative partnership”. It commits the two countries to following the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence [Panchsheel] in guiding bilateral links across all sectors, from economic development to settling border […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
State of Economy will Influence U.S. Consumers to Save Heavily this Holiday Season
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — With Black Friday fast approaching, consumer confidence may have an impact on holiday shopping. The current state of the economy will drive 41% of consumers to look for ways to save money on their holiday shopping this year, seeking out bargains and coupons. In response to the economic doldrums […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
U.S. Retail Federation: ‘Legislating from Crisis to Crisis is No Way to Govern’
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE) – October 16, 2013 -The National Retail Federation today released the following statement from NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay on the expected decision to reopen the government and delay the debate on the debt ceiling: “While there is some satisfaction at achieving a deal, today’s agreement between the House and Senate merely […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
Global Trades Union Warning: Developing Countries will be Losers in new Global I.T. Pact
22 October 2013 (International Trades Union Congress media release) : The ITUC together with 163 other trade union and civil society organisations and trade unions are raising concerns over a proposed expansion of the Information Technology Agreement (“ITA II”) being negotiated at the World Trade Organisation. A joint letter to WTO member points to the […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
Trades Union Call: Time for Starbucks to Stop Union Busting in Chile
23 October 2013 (International Trades Union Congress media release): The ITUC is extremely concerned about the situation of workers’ rights at Starbucks in Chile. In October, as it announced record profits, the company rejected all Starbucks Workers´ Union demands, included in a draft collective agreement. Alleging damage to its competitiveness, the company has said it […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
American Indian Movement and National Coalition on Racism in Sports & Media Declare Nov 7, 2013 “R” Day
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–(Full unedited text of the official media release) – The American Indian Movement (AIM) and the National Coalition on Racism in Sports and Media (The Coalition) announced today that because non-indigenous people have stolen portions of the sacred culture, heritage, religion and images of the Native American Nations for use and abuse by sports […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
McAfee Survey: Older Users of Social Networks Are Up, But Face More Threats
October 23, 2013, SANTA CLARA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–McAfee today released findings from the company’s first survey dedicated to uncovering the online habits and behaviors of individuals ages 50-75. The study, “Fifty Plus Booms Online” indicates that the 50+ demographic is spending a great deal of time online these days (an average of five hours a day), […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
STB Chief Open to Talks with Tourism Civil Society Groups for Inclusion in TravelRave Programme
Singapore: Lionel Yeo, Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, says he is open to talks with civil society and non-governmental organisations about holding forums and events as part of an effort to broaden the knowledge-base content of TravelRave and ITB Asia. In his opening comments at the ITB Asia launch press conference on 23 […]
more…23 Oct, 2013
Passport replacement fees waived for Australian bushfire victims
Canberra, 22 October 2013 – Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says all fees will be waived for those seeking to replace current passports lost or destroyed in the bushfires. “I extend my deepest sympathy to those affected by the bushfires in the Blue Mountains and Central Coast of New South Wales,” Ms Bishop said. “As […]
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