Results Show Islamic Parties Surging Ahead in Iraqi Vote
By JAMES GLANZ
Islamic religious parties appeared to continue their march
toward a sweep in the Iraqi elections, as sporadic violence
broke out around the country.

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/06/internat.../06iraq.html?th

U.S. Drops Criminal Inquiry of C.I.A. Antidrug Effort in
Peru
By DOUGLAS JEHL and DAVID JOHNSTON
Officials said it was the most serious inquiry to focus on
the official conduct of C.I.A. officers since the
Iran-contra affair.

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/06/internat...06intel.html?th

Rice Chides Russia on Quieting Dissent but Rejects Penalty
By STEVEN R. WEISMAN
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice acknowledged Saturday
that Russia had recently fallen backward on democracy and
democratic reforms.

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/06/internat.../06rice.html?th

http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A...anguage=printer

Top Shiite Welcomes Overtures by Sunnis

Rice in Middle East to Meet with Israeli and Palestinian Leaders

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F0B:2F72C9D

US secretary of state in region as Israelis, Palestinians prepare for
their own summit in Egypt that will also include Egyptians and
Jordanians

Condoleezza Rice Throughout much of her first official trip abroad,
U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice  has stressed the
importance of Middle East peacemaking efforts. She is now in the
region to talk with Israeli and Palestinian leaders and encourage them
to move forward.

President Bush promised to make resolving the Israeli-Palestinian
conflict and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state -
all under the road map peace plan - a top priority during his second
term in office.

Ms. Rice comes here as Israelis and Palestinians prepare for their own
summit in Egypt on Tuesday that will also include the Egyptians and
Jordanians, but not the Americans.

The secretary has told reporters that's not a bad thing. She said the
United States will remain engaged, and be there if bilateral and
regional peace efforts falter. Right now, she says, it's best for the
protagonists to move ahead on their own.

Israeli officials welcome that approach. Israeli Foreign Ministry
spokesman Mark Regev told VOA there is a real opportunity to move
toward peace, created especially by the election of new Palestinian
President Mahmoud Abbas.

"The diplomatic - political process was in deep freeze as long as Mr.
[Yasser] Arafat was there,"  he said. "The election of Abbas and
his willingness to move forward on the road map to take substantive
steps against terrorism will enable this process to move forward."

Mr. Regev said the decision by Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to
withdraw from the Gaza Strip has also helped create, what he called,
an "amazing diplomatic opportunity."

Palestinian officials would prefer a more hands-on U.S. approach.
Speaking on Palestinian radio, senior negotiator Saeb Erekat said Ms.
Rice should convince the Israelis to be more forthcoming.

He says it's time for Ms. Rice to put some pressure on the Israelis,
to convince them to begin implementing the road map and especially in
dismantling roadblocks and releasing Palestinian prisoners.

Israeli and Palestinian officials have been meeting in recent days to
try to finalize plans for a possible cease-fire, an Israeli withdrawal
from several West Bank cities and the release of up to 900 Palestinian
prisoners. Talks have snagged on the prisoner issue, with Israel
initially saying the release could not include anyone involved in
violence, and the Palestinians calling for greater flexibility by
Israel.

Secretary Rice meets with Prime Minister Sharon Sunday evening, and
travels to the West Bank city of Ramallah on Monday for talks with
President Abbas and other Palestinian officials. She then returns to
Europe, while Mr. Sharon and Mr. Abbas get ready to head to Sharm
el-Sheikh, Egypt for their one-day summit on Tuesday.

Rice Assures Turkey US Backs United Iraq

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F03:2F72C9D

Secretary of state meets Turkish prime minister at Ankara airport

Condoleezza Rice (l), shakes hands with Turkish Prime Minister Recep
Tayyip Erdogan Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice met Turkish Prime
Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara Saturday, as she continued a
fast-paced tour of Europe and the Middle East. She assured Turkey,
which is worried about Kurdish separatism, that the United States is
firmly committed to a unified Iraq.

The new secretary of state met the Turkish prime minister at the
Ankara airport, as Ms. Rice arrived from Berlin, and Mr. Erdogan was
departing on a trip to inspect tsunami damage in South Asia.

Turkey has long been concerned that moves toward autonomy by Kurds in
Iraq could increase separatist sentiment by the Kurdish minority in
eastern Turkey.

Those worries were in no way eased by the Iraqi elections a week ago,
in which Kurds voted in large numbers, and assured themselves a major
say in how Iraq is governed.

In an airborne news conference en route to Ankara, Ms. Rice said the
United States is well aware of Turkey's concerns, and is committed to
a unified Iraq, under a government that can represent all elements of
Iraqi society.

"I'm here, really, in part to say to the Turks that we are firmly
committed to a unified Iraq, to an Iraq in which all parties, all
ethnic groups, all religious groups, all minorities are represented,
and whose interests are represented in the new government," said
Condoleezza Rice. "And we are making that message clear through all
channels that we have in Iraq, to those who might govern, that we hope
to see the development of positive relations between Iraq and Turkey."

The secretary said there have already been trilateral
U.S.-Turkish-Iraqi meetings on issues of concern to Turkey, including
activities of the Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, which is officially
listed by the State Department as a terrorist organization.

She said the Bush administration is by all means devoted to continuing
those trilateral contacts. She said she made the trip to Turkey to
offer that message, and most especially, she said, to listen to the
concerns of the Turks and factor those into U.S. policies.

Turkey did not provide troops to the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq, in
large part because of Iraqi misgivings.

But Ms. Rice hailed the strength of the U.S. partnership with NATO
ally Turkey, and stressed U.S. support for Turkish economic reforms
and that country's bid to join the European Union.

The secretary is due to meet Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Cezer and
Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul Sunday, before flying on to the Middle
East for separate meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon
and newly-elected Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.

Iraq's Main Sunni Party Refuses to Take Part in Government

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F0C:2F72C9D

Iraqi Islamic Party did not take part in last Sunday's vote
arguing anti-democracy violence in Sunni-dominated areas would hinder
Sunni turnout, lead to unfair vote

In a setback to Iraqi hopes of creating an inclusive transitional
government after last Sunday's historic elections, the country's
largest Sunni-Arab political party announced on Saturday that it will
take no part in government, except in the drafting of the country's
constitution.

The Iraqi Islamic Party did not take part in last Sunday's vote. In
December, it withdrew from the race, arguing that anti-democracy
violence in Sunni-dominated areas would hinder Sunni turnout and lead
to an unfair vote.

Following national polls, in which relatively few Sunni Arabs voted,
Iraqi Islamic Party leader Tariq al-Hashimi, told reporters Saturday
that his group will not recognize the legitimacy of Iraq's new
275-member national assembly. He added that none of the party's
members will participate in the interim government, which will be
appointed by the assembly.

"Whatever might be the offers, we will have no participation in these
two organizations," he said.

Mohammed Bashar al-Faidi spokesman of Association of Muslim Scholars
The Iraqi Islamic Party's position mirrors that of another prominent
Sunni group, the Association of Muslim Scholars. Earlier this week,
the group, considered the highest religious authority among Iraqi
Sunnis, warned that the elections would produce an illegitimate
government, because many Sunnis boycotted the polls.

Such talk has raised concern that the election results, expected to be
finalized in the coming week, could fuel Iraq's Sunni-led insurgency
and worsen sectarian tensions.

But Mr. Hashimi hinted that Iraq's new government could avert a
looming crisis, if Sunni Arab groups could take an active part in the
drafting of the constitution.

"The most important thing is the constitution," he said. "Drafting of
the constitution is a very, very important issue for all Iraqis, and
we have to be very clear in that."

On Thursday, several largely-Sunni groups, which boycotted the
elections, including Iraqi Islamic Party, met at the Baghdad home of a
Sunni elder statesman, Adnan Pachachi. That meeting reportedly
produced an agreement to participate in the drafting of the
constitution.

Mr. Hashimi further clarified that agreement on Saturday, saying his
group is hoping to participate as members of a committee of legal
experts, appointed by the new national assembly.

The decision to take an active role in shaping the constitution is
seen as a major shift in thinking among many Sunni Arabs who opposed
the polls.

Iraq's five million Sunni Arabs formed the core of Saddam Hussein's
regime, and many saw the U.S.-led election process as an effort to
punish Sunnis, and reward the country's long-suffering Shi'ite Muslims
and Kurds, who together make up 80 percent of the population.

Political observers say the failure of insurgents to dampen the
turnout of Shi'ite and Kurdish voters last Sunday appears to have
convinced some Sunnis that Iraq is on the path to becoming a
democratic state, with or without Sunni participation.

Thai Opposition Party Concedes Defeat

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F07:2F72C9D

Exit polls from Sunday's elections predicted Prime Minister
Thaksin Shinawatra winning 399 seats in 500-seat assembly

Thaksin Shinawatra is all smiles as he displays for the media his
marked ballot prior to voting The leader of the opposition Democrat
Party, Banyat Bantadtan, congratulated Prime Minister Thaksin
Shinawatra on his victory shortly after polls closed.

Deputy party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva told reporters that the size of
the victory would allow Mr. Thaksin's party to govern without
coalition partners.

Mr. Abhisit says the win projected by the exit polls is about what he
expected but adds he will wait to see the outcome of the official
tally.

Mr. Thaksin subsequently thanked voters for their overwhelming
support.

Mr. Thaksin says he thinks he has enough votes to set up a one-party
government but adds a great deal of hard work remains.

Thai voters turned out in large numbers Sunday to deliver their
verdict on the populist first term of Prime Minister Thaksin and his
Thai Rak Thai Party.

In the working-class district of Klong Toey in central Bangkok, driver
Mongkol expressed satisfaction with Mr. Thaksin's policies.

Mr. Mongkol said the government has done a lot of good for the poor.

Fifty-five year-old schoolteacher Supasri, says the most important
thing for her is good governance.

"Reduce the corruption. Corruption is a major problem," she said.

She added that the economy, especially job creation, is also a major
priority.

But civic groups say the economic policies are unsustainable and worry
about civil liberties.

Chulalongkorn University Professor Kalaya says she is worried that the
Thaksin government is rolling back a decade of democratic advances in
personal liberties.

"We have a new form of authoritarianism, I think. From a military
dictatorship, we now have a new form of dictatorship," said Professor
Kalaya.

She acknowledges that most people like a strong leader, but she
believes there should be a better balance between the governing and
opposition parties. Nevertheless, she says this is the will of the
people in free elections and those who disagree will just have to work
harder in the future.

Thailand's constitution says that more than 200 votes are needed
censure the prime minister, although only 100 are needed to summon
cabinet ministers. Early indications show that the second Thaksin
government could rule without such challenges.

Official election results are due within 30 days.

Togolese President Dies, Son Put in Power

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F05:2F72C9D

Gnassingbe Eyadema dies at age of 69, after 37 years in power

Gnassingbe Eyadema (2003 photo)

Shortly after the announcement that Gnassingbe Eyadema was dead, the
armed forces chief of staff said on state media in Lome that
39-year-old Equipments and Postal Services Minister Faure Eyadema was
Togo's new leader. He said the armed forces had been confronted with
what he called a power vacuum.

Under the constitution, the parliament speaker is supposed to take
over, but the army chief of staff said he is out of the country.

Land, sea and air borders have been closed until further notice.

The earlier statement concerning Mr. Eyadema's death said he had died
earlier in the day, while he was being evacuated for treatment. It
also appealed for calm and said Togolese should avoid descending into
chaos and anarchy.

The main opposition leader, whose father was deposed in a coup
organized by Mr. Eyadema in 1963, Gilchrist Olympio, called the day's
development a coup. "It is a coup because according to our
constitution if the president is incapacitated it is the speaker of
the house who takes over. Now, they've gone and appointed a son, an
unknown son, of the president to take over," he said. "So far, as we
are concerned, we are not out of the woods yet, because we are
fighting to put in place a democratic structure in the country."

Mr. Olympio was barred from the most recent presidential election in
2003, which was marred by fraud and intimidation.

The late Mr. Eyadema, who was 69, was last seen outside Togo attending
the African Union summit in Nigeria last month, looking sickly.

He organized a second coup in 1967 to formally assume power which he
held on to nearly 38 years despite assassination attempts, a plane
crash and calls for more democracy.

News reports from Togo said the streets of the capital Lome were quiet
late Saturday after the announcement that Mr. Eyadema's son was the
new leader. This could not be confirmed immediately, as phone lines
into Togo apparently were cut off.

Refugee Official Calls for West African Disarmament 

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F09:2F72C9D

UNHCR chief Ruud Lubbers makes plea to bring sustainable peace to
region by limiting small arms

Ruud Lubbers The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is
calling for a regional agreement to limit small arms in West Africa to
prevent new flareups of fighting. The U.N. refugee chief is in Ivory
Coast on the last stop of a four-nation tour to assess repatriation
programs for people who fled recently ended conflicts in the region.

Ending a week long West African tour in Ivory Coast, U.N. refugee
chief Ruud Lubbers made a plea to countries to bring a sustainable
peace to the region by limiting small arms. Mr. Lubbers is concerned
that small arms from recent civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone
could fuel another crisis in Ivory Coast, where the United Nations is
monitoring a cease-fire.

"You know, here in Cote d'Ivoire, there's a risky situation with a
cease-fire, so that, easily, people can be attracted to become young
armed elements again," he noted. "So, I make a plea that there is a
political agreement between the three countries, but including Cote
d'Ivoire, to go for disarmament. The disarmament not only of the
irregular forces, I mean, I call irregular everybody who is not a
member of a regular army or police."

Mr. Lubbers praised the success of disarmament efforts in Sierra Leone
after its decade-long civil war, which ended in 2002.

The high commissioner told VOA he was delighted to be able to
accompany a convoy of Liberian refugees returning home from Sierra
Leone. About 300,000 Liberians are expected to return home, after
nearly 15 years of fighting in their country.

"I am a high commissioner for refugees, but, when I can make a choice,
I prefer that they call me the 'high commissioner for returnees,'
because this is always the positive moment," he said. "They are really
eager to go home. These, of course are motivated people, because the
processes are voluntary. You see in their eyes, finally it's there.
They're looking in there for years, many of them, and, finally, they
go home. So, this is a moment of joy."

Mr. Lubbers stressed that it was important to integrate returning
refugees into society. He emphasized the importance of community and
education, particularly of women, in creating peaceful environments.

Difficulties Persist in Protecting Congo Basin Forest

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F0D:2F72C9D

Central African leaders pledge to protect endangered tropical forest
The leaders of seven countries that share the world's second largest
tropical forest, pledged a joint effort to protect their common
resources.

The members of the Congo Forest Basin Partnership promised to
encourage sustainable management of logging concessions, and to
increase protection of endangered species, like the forest's unique
lowland gorillas.

Host President Denis Sassou Nguesso said he is confident that the
countries will move from words to actions, now that a treaty has been
agreed upon.

But environmental activists say that may be difficult. Filip Verbelen
of the environmental group, Greenpeace, said that, although some
progress has been made in recent years, environmental efforts are
hampered by corruption. "Let's make that very clear that there are
vested interests in maintaining the status quo. People are gaining and
making profits from corruption and illegal logging. So, I do think
that this pressure will need to be really strong, before we can see
some changes on the ground," he said.

Environmentalists warn that illegal logging could destroy as much as
two-thirds of the Congo Basin's forest in 50 years. Environmental
policies formulated at the first forest summit five years ago have not
lived up to expectations, but proponents of the Congo Basin Forest
Partnership say this is because they did not receive sufficient
Western backing.

French President Jaques Chirac, the only non-African leader to attend,
said that the West must be ready to pay some of the costs of
preserving a region of vital importance to the planet.

The Congo Forest Basin is home to more than half of Africa's animal
species, and is one of the richest ecosystems on the planet.

G7 Okays Debt Relief Plan for Poorest Nations

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F0A:2F72C9D

Announcement comes at end of two days of meetings in London between
finance ministers of major powers

Gordon Brown The seven leading industrial nations have agreed to offer
the world's poorest countries 100 percent debt relief. The
announcement came at the end of two days of meetings in London between
the finance ministers of the major powers.

British Treasury chief Gordon Brown says the Group of Seven
industrialized nations have taken a major step by holding out the
possibility for total debt relief to the poorest nations in the
developing world.

"It is the richest countries hearing the voices of the poor," said Mr.
Brown. "This is the first time that as much as 100 percent debt relief
has ever been detailed in a G7 communiqué. And I believe that
we are making major progress across the range of issues that concern
people, showing that no injustice can last forever."

The G7 communiqué says details of the offer must still be
negotiated over the next few months in meetings with the International
Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the African Development Bank.

There are 27 countries classified as Heavily Indebted Poor Countries,
mostly in sub-Saharan Africa, and they owe about $70 billion to the
international lending institutions.

The finance ministers stuck the deal on debt relief after hearing an
impassioned plea from the former South African President Nelson
Mandela, who had urged them not to delay, while poor people continue
to suffer.

But another British initiative, to set up a $100 billion International
Finance Facility for development aid, failed to win endorsement, after
the United States said it could not support the scheme.

The U.S. representative at the talks, Treasury Undersecretary John
Taylor, said there are legal roadblocks that bar U.S. participation,
but Washington does not object to the concept, in principle.

"The International Finance Facility is something that the United
States cannot support, because of our legislative appropriations
process," said John Taylor. "The particular mechanism does not work
for the United States. It works for other countries and that's fine."

Mr. Brown of Britain said he will continue to push the initiative, and
a final decision on it will be made at a summit of the leaders of the
major economies in Scotland in July.

Bush Proposes Increase in Military Death Benefits

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F08:2F72C9D

US president also uses weekly radio address to outline some budget
plans President Bush says his fiscal year 2006 budget will give the
U.S. military all the tools it needs for victory against terrorism.
Mr. Bush says the plan will substantially increase military death
benefits. Defense officials say the payments will be raised to
$250,000, and back-dated to include the families of those killed since
the start of the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan.

President Bush used his weekly radio address to outline some of his
budget plans, and to recap the past week's State of the Union address.

He said recent elections in Afghanistan, the Palestinian territories,
Ukraine, and Iraq show what he calls freedom's gathering momentum.
"The whole world can now see that the assassins and car-bombers are
doomed to fail, because they are fighting the desire of the Iraqi
people to live in freedom. And when Iraq is democratic, at peace with
its neighbors, and able to defend itself, our nation will be safer,
and our troops will return home with the honor they have earned," he
said.

President Bush says his budget proposal will hold the growth of
discretionary spending below inflation, make his record tax relief
permanent, and stay on track to cut the deficit in half by 2009.

He is also continuing to push for changes to the federal pension plan,
known as Social Security. Mr. Bush wants to allow younger workers to
invest a small portion of their Social Security taxes in private
accounts to earn a higher rate of return in financial markets than is
currently being earned in the federal program.

Congressional Democrats say the president's plan would reduce benefits
for older Americans and threaten the retirements of younger workers,
who could lose money in the uncertainties of financial markets.

In the Democratic radio address, outgoing party chairman Terry
McAuliffe said the president's plan would cut benefits for future
retirees by nearly half, regardless of private investment accounts.
"And here's the worst part. Even after all those cuts and massive
borrowing, private accounts would actually do nothing to help save
Social Security. Don't take my word for it. Bush's own White House
admitted that this week. In fact, private accounts would actually
speed the insolvency of the program. Benefit cuts, massive debt, and
more insecurity are not the type of drastic changes we need to make to
our nation's retirement security," he said.

Mr. McAuliffe says Democrats agree the program faces problems down the
road, but he says the nation has time to do it right.

President Bush says it is time to act now before, he says the program
begins paying out more than it is taking in by 2018.

Mr. Bush says his plan protects older Americans by ensuring that all
benefits remain the same for everyone born before 1950. For those born
after that date, voluntary investments would be restricted to a
financial conservative mix of bonds and mutual funds.

McCartney Headlines Super Bowl Halftime Show; 10-Hour Concert Honors
Bob Marley

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B69F01:2F72C9D

Paul McCartney says he's looking forward to "rocking the
millions at home and in the stadium"

Paul McCarneySir Paul McCartney will headline the Super Bowl XXXIX
halftime show. The NFL football match between the New England Patriots
and Philadelphia Eagles takes place on February 6 in Jacksonville,
Florida. McCartney released a statement saying, "We're looking forward
to rocking the millions at home and in the stadium." Last year's
halftime event led to an investigation by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC), after Janet Jackson experienced her infamous
"wardrobe malfunction." Although she claimed that baring her breast to
an international audience was an accident, the FCC fined CBS $550,000.

Kelly Clarkson, John Fogerty, Gretchen Wilson, the Charlie Daniels
Band, Earth Wind & Fire and Black Eyed Peas are among the artists
taking part in Super Bowl pre-game shows. In addition, Alicia Keys
will sing "America The Beautiful" with 150 students from the Florida
School for the Deaf and Blind. The students will sing and perform the
lyrics in sign language.

On February 6, a 10-hour concert to mark Bob Marley's 70th birthday
will take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Marley's widow Rita will
perform with Bob's former backup singer Marcia Griffiths and Judy
Mowatt as the I-Threes. Others taking part in the event include
Marley's children, Harry Belafonte, Quincy Jones, Youssou N'Dour and
Baaba Maal of Senegal, Benin's Angelique Kidjo, India.Arie and
reggae-rap star Shaggy.

On February 9, the United States Postal Service will unveil the
President Ronald Reagan commemorative postage stamp. Country singers
Crystal Gayle and Lee Greenwood will perform patriotic songs at the
dedication ceremony, to be held at the Ronald Reagan Building in
Washington, D.C. They'll join Postmaster General John E. Potter,
former Reagan Administration officials and members of Congress at the
event.

Enter caption text hereOn February 11, former Beach Boy Brian Wilson
will be honored as the Recording Academy's 2005 MusiCares Person of
the Year during a gala in Los Angeles. Neil Portnow, president of The
Recording Academy and the MusiCares Foundation says, "We take great
pride and joy in saluting Brian Wilson during MusiCares' milestone
15th anniversary of providing a safety net for musicians everywhere.
He embodies the positive spirit that comes from dedication,
perseverance and creative brilliance; his contributions to the
evolution of music are both legendary and profound. Brian and his
music have the power to reach listeners across generations and deliver
a musical experience that is timeless and unforgettable." Previous
honorees include Tony Bennett, Bono, Natalie Cole, Phil Collins, David
Crosby, Gloria Estefan, Billy Joel, Elton John, Quincy Jones, Luciano
Pavarotti, Bonnie Raitt, Carlos Santana, Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder and
Sting.

First week sales of Country star Kenny Chesney's latest album Be As
You Are (Songs From An Old Blue Chair) exceeded 310,000 copies. That
was enough to give him a Number One debut on both the Country and Top
200 album charts. Kenny wrote or co-wrote all 12 songs on the
collection. Only one track was written away from his Caribbean
vacation home. The island-themed album features Kenny's current chart
hit "Guitars and Tiki Bars."

http://www.boston.com/news/world/articles/...e+--+World+News

Center for trading terror data sought

CIA Studies Provide Glimpse of Insurgents in Iraq

By Walter Pincus

As reflected in CIA classified studies last month, U.S. military and intelligence officials are still trying to understand the various Iraqi insurgency groups that they expect will continue to fight, even after last week's election.

To view the entire article, go to http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/artic...er=emailarticle

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=stor...elabourprotests

French demonstrate to keep 35 hour work week

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=stor..._american_paper

French Tabloid Takes Aim at the US

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/06/internat...bbd64d4&ei=5070

Rice Arrives in Israel, Saying 'Hard Decisions' Must Be Made

Iraqi resistance have killed 21 Iraqis and two US soldiers in recent assaults, showing there has been no respite in the fight against US-led forces and their allies since Sunday’s election.
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?p..._6-2-2005_pg7_1

http://tinyurl.com/3tn8m

Iraqi Shia leaders demand Islam be the source of law:

Iraq’s Shia leader Grand Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani and another top cleric on Sunday staked out a demand that Islam be the sole source of legislation in the country’s new constitution.
http://tinyurl.com/5ths6

===

Sadr Group Says Future Government “Illegitimate” :

“In Mr. Sadr’s words: ‘The occupiers are doctoring the election results,’ and therefore we don’t believe in the fairness of the polls,” he added.
http://www.islam-online.net/English/News/2...article02.shtml

http://tinyurl.com/4kdjt

On the job: damp tents, 20-hour days
Three tsunami aid workers in Indonesia are buoyed by the courage of
survivors as they help in the recovery. By Daniel B. Wood
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0207/p01s03-woap.html?s=hns

View emerging of Shiite-ruled Iraq
A leading contender to be Iraq's next prime minister says the
government should not allow laws that conflict with Islam. By Dan Murphy
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0207/p01s04-woiq.html?s=hns

Colombia's ambitious peace plan hits roadblocks
Nations asked to fund disarmament last week said Colombia must stiffen
penalties for ex-fighters. By Rachel Van Dongen
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0207/p05s01-woam.html?s=hns

British duo undaunted by rivalry
Prime Minister Tony Blair and Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown
push an ambitious agenda despite political differences. By Mark
Rice-Oxley
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0207/p06s01-woeu.html?s=hns

The African Union moves a quiet revolution
With the right international assistance, African states can act
together to tip the balance from war to peace. By Nancy Soderberg
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0207/p09s02-coop.html?s=hns

--------------------
Rice Voices Hope in Mideast
--------------------

Secretary of State meets with Prime Minister Sharon and urges Israel to make the 'hard decisions' needed to revive the peace process.

By Ken Ellingwood
Times Staff Writer

February 7 2005

JERUSALEM — Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, striking a note of optimism on her first visit to the Middle East as the top U.S. diplomat, urged Israeli leaders Sunday to make the "hard decisions" needed to promote a democratic Palestinian state and put the peace process back on track.

The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world

--------------------
Rhetoric of Reform Discomfits the Mideast
--------------------

By Tyler Marshall and Sonni Efron
Times Staff Writers

February 6 2005

BAGHDAD — As a senior policymaker in Iraq's foreign ministry, Lebeed Abbawi has a tough job building good relations with suspicious and uneasy neighbors.

The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,1711218.story

--------------------
U.S. to Take It Slow on Mideast
--------------------

White House signals its intent to play a bigger role in ending Israeli- Palestinian conflict, but cautiously, and with an eye on short-term goals.

By Paul Richter
Times Staff Writer

February 6 2005

WASHINGTON — President Bush last week committed himself to a new push for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, a goal he declared was "within reach." But as the president and his team intensified their effort, they also left no doubt that they intended to move forward one cautious step at a time.

The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...1,7223121.story

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Militants Are Wild Card in Mideast Negotiations
--------------------

As Palestinians and Israel meet to work out a truce, questions arise: Will the fighters honor it? What will happen to prisoners and fugitives?

By Laura King
Times Staff Writer

February 7 2005

BALATA REFUGEE CAMP, West Bank — With automatic rifles clanking as they shifted in cramped seats, a dozen Palestinian fugitives sipped tiny cups of Arabic coffee and talked about an almost unthinkable notion: what life might be like after a cease-fire.

The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world

U.S. Prods Israel for Hard Choices on Palestinians
By STEVEN R. WEISMAN and STEVEN ERLANGER
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said hard decisions
"must be taken in order to help the emergence of a
democratic Palestinian state."

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/07/internat...mideast.html?th

Pope Greets Well-Wishers From Hospital Window
By IAN FISHER
Pope John Paul II was not strong enough to deliver his
brief remarks himself, saying only a few lines from a Latin
prayer.

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/07/internat.../07pope.html?th

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/536736.html

Rice urges Israel to avoid unilateral steps on J'lem

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/536784.html

Rice: US to appoint 'security coordinator,' will take active role

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4240303.stm

Rice issues peace plea to Israel

http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A...anguage=printer

Israelis Act to Encircle East Jerusalem
Enclaves in Arab Areas, Illegal Building Projects Seen Intended to Consolidate Control

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/artic...ml?nav=hcmodule

Abbas, Sharon Visits to White House Planned

Hopes High for Progress at Israeli-Palestinian Summit

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFC8:2F72C9D

Summit meeting Tuesday in Egypt could mark a turning point in the
Middle East peace process Some political analysts say Tuesday's summit
could be the most significant development in the Middle East peace
process since the Palestinian intifada began in September 2000.

Israel Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and the president of the
Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, will meet at the Egyptian resort
of Sharm el-Sheikh.

The head of the al-Quds Center for Political Studies in Jordan, Uraib
el-Rantawi, says he believes both sides are ready for peace.

"I think it is a very important starting point for the peace process
in the Palestinian-Israeli track," he said. "I think there is serious
preparation for this summit, and I hope that a serious and confirmed
decision will be taken in that conference."

Mr. El-Rantawi says the death of long-time Palestinian leader Yasser
Arafat and subsequent election of Mr. Abbas to replace him has
injected new momentum into the long-stagnant peace process.

"Since the election of the Palestinian new leadership, I think new
hope is emerging in the area. I think both sides are very tired with
this conflict," he said. It is time for both sides to take serious
decisions, historical ones.

"And, I hope, by this summit a new agenda will be drawn and new steps
will be taken, both by the Israelis and by both the Jordanians and
Egyptians," continued Mr. El-Rantawi. "I do believe that the
conference will be a very good starting point for a new process in the
Middle East."

The summit is being hosted by Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, who
withdrew the Egyptian ambassador to Israel in 2000 to protest what he
said was the mistreatment of Palestinians. The summit Tuesday will
mark the first time Mr. Mubarak has met face-to-face with Israeli
Prime Minister Sharon.

King Abdullah of Jordan is also attending the summit. Egypt and Jordan
are the only two Arab states to have signed peace treaties with
Israel. And, like Egypt, Jordan removed its ambassador to Israel to
protest Israeli military actions in the occupied territories.

But in recent weeks President Mubarak and King Abdullah have said they
believe Mr. Sharon may be ready for peace.

The head of the political science department at Qatar University,
Mohammed al-Musfr, says the timing of the summit is good, but he is
not so sure it will produce substantive results.

"I think it is a very important meeting, and it is the right time to
have this meeting for many reasons. The first reason is that the
obstacles of the Palestinian Authority, Yasser Arafat, have expired.
And, the new administration in Palestine was elected, and this is the
right time for this kind of meeting. But, I am not expecting anything
to come out of this meeting," he commented.

Mr. al-Musfr says he expects Israel to hold firm on its position that
security must be guaranteed before the peace process can move forward.
He says he thinks the Palestinians will continue to oppose any
settlement on a piecemeal basis.

As for Egypt and Jordan, both analysts believe improved relations with
Israel will occur as the result of the summit. A senior Arab League
official, who asked not to be identified, said it was likely Egypt
will return its ambassador to Israel within a matter of weeks. The
same official predicted Jordan would do the same.

Pope to Stay in Hospital at Least Until Thursday

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFBE:2F72C9D

Although John Paul II continues to improve, doctors have advised him
not to return to Vatican yet

Pope waves to faithful from a window of Rome's Agostino Gemelli
hospital Pope John Paul  is not well enough to leave the
hospital, although his health has been getting steadily better. One
day after the pope appeared in the window at the hospital, looking
frail but rested, the chief Vatican spokesman, Joaquin Navarro-Valls,
gave details about the pope's condition.

"The Holy Father continues to improve the general condition of his
health. He has not anymore fever. He can eat regularly," he said.

Dr. Navarro-Valls also said the pope sits in a chair for several hours
every day in his hospital room, and he also reads the newspapers.

The spokesman added that the pope is receiving a huge number of
messages, and he remembers everyone in his prayers. He also said the
pope celebrates mass every morning in the hospital, and has asked the
hospital staff to join in.

The pope appeared in the hospital window Sunday to give his blessing.
He spoke with great difficulty, and many people are wondering whether
he will be able to read his messages and homilies again.

The pope has had to cancel all his appointments since he was taken to
hospital six days ago, including a scheduled meeting with US Secretary
of State Condoleezza Rice Tuesday. Also, for the first time in his
papacy, he will not be celebrating Ash Wednesday at the Vatican.

A scheduled service dedicated to the World Day of the Sick Friday,
also looks likely to be canceled. Dr. Navarro-Valls did not confirm
this, but said it will depend on what the doctors say.

The pope's anesthesiologist, Corrado Manni, was quoted in the Italian
newspaper La Repubblica as saying that the pope's health is improving,
but relapses are expected to become more and more frequent.

The Vatican has said it will issue the next medical bulletin on
Thursday.

Siege Ends at Spanish Consulate in Switzerland

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFC4:2F72C9D

Spanish authorities say incident ended without serious injury; police
say three hostages freed Spanish authorities say an attempt to seize
control of a Spanish consulate in Switzerland has ended without
serious injury, and police in the Swiss capital, Bern, say three
hostages have been freed.

A security guard was hospitalized for treatment of a knife wound, but
Spanish officials say his life is not in danger.

Reports from Bern say three masked assailants forced their way into
the consulate building this Monday morning in what is believed to have
been a robbery attempt. The intruders held three people hostage for a
time inside the consulate, but Swiss authorities say one of the
captives escaped and police rescued the others.

The hostage-takers mysteriously disappeared as the takeover attempt
ended. Spanish officials have said only that the intruders left the
building. According to Reuters, Swiss police said they are still
searching the premises, in the belief that the intruders may still be
in the building.

Some information for this report provided by AFP and Reuters.

Togo Parliament Elects Eydema Son as New President

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFCA:2F72C9D

Faure Gnassingbe becomes president two days after his father,
Gnassingbe Eyadema, dies of an apparent heart attack After his
election as speaker of the 81-member assembly Sunday in Lome, Faure
Gnassingbe made his first speech as Togo's new leader. He says there
are many challenges facing Togo, and that he will need the support of
all Togolese to ensure their welfare. He also said he supports
democratic reforms.

Earlier, the parliament removed from office the former assembly
speaker who was outside Togo, and also changed a constitutional
provision requiring new presidential elections within 60 days. The
revised provision says that in case of a president's incapacity to
govern, his replacement will serve the full term.

Gnassingbe Eyadema who ruled Togo for 38 years died Saturday at the
age of 69 after an apparent heart attack.

His 39-year-old son, the only active politician among his more than 50
sons and daughters, was picked by the military Saturday to the
country's top post. He was previously a member of parliament and
government minister.


Main opposition leader Gilchrist Olympio who lives in exile in Paris
says he hopes there will be internal and external pressure put on Togo
to hold free and fair elections soon, to dismantle what he calls a
hereditary military coup. "Like all military coups, you have to find a
solution to the problem. I don't think the international community
will take kindly to another military coup in Togo and neither shall
we. So internally and externally, there will be opposition to this
arrangement and maybe we'll find a peaceful solution," he said.

A spokesman for the African Union told VOA late Sunday the 53-nation
body will fight against what it also calls a coup.

The Economic Community of West African States, also denounced the the
son's appointment as illegal and rushed a team of negotiators to Lome.

Gnassingbe Eyadema's sudden death came as Togolese authorities were
trying to prove they were making democratic progress to free European
Union aid money, ahead of scheduled April legislative elections.

The European Commission Sunday expressed grave concern. France, the
former colonial power in Togo , called on the people to express
themselves democratically. It put its troops in Togo and other
neighboring countries on alert, but said so far calm has prevailed.

Togo's army has closed down land, sea and air borders, but some
Togolese and immigrant Ghanaians said they had been able to leave the
country on foot.

Rescuers Reach Afghan Plane Crash Site

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFC6:2F72C9D

NATO helicopters spotted the wreckage Saturday, but could not take the
recovery team to site because of fog, subzero temperatures and up to
two meters of snow NATO-led peacekeeping troops in Afghanistan have
reached the wreckage of an Afghan airliner that crashed into a
mountain during a snowstorm last week, apparently killing everyone on
board.

Coalition spokesman Major Joseph Bowman told reporters in Kabul that a
small team of medics and other experts reached the site Monday as
weather cleared.

NATO helicopters spotted the wreckage Saturday, but could not take the
recovery team to site because of fog, subzero temperatures and up to
two meters of snow.

The Kam Air flight, which originated in the western Afghan city of
Herat, had 104 people on board. The Boeing 737 jet crashed Thursday
while approaching Kabul.

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.

Pakistan Denies Scientist Gave Nuclear Information to Arab Countries

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFBC:2F72C9D

Pakistan sharply denies a news report that one of its top scientists,
Abdul-Qadeer Khan, might have sold nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia
or to al-Qaida Pakistani officials are calling a report about
Abdul-Qadeer Khan in Time Magazine baseless.

Information Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed says there is no evidence to
support the article's claim that Mr. Khan's network may have sold
weapons material or know-how to Saudi Arabia and Egypt, or to al-Qaida
and other non-state groups.

But he admitted that investigators may still not know the full extent
of the Khan network.

Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman Masood Khan also disputes the
report's suggestion that Pakistan is ignoring such evidence or is
insensitive to international concerns about the case.

"I think that this is just rubbish. There is no substance in it," he
commented.

Last year, A.Q. Khan, the former supervisor of Pakistan's successful
nuclear weapons program, admitted to having sold technology and
material to North Korea, Libya, and Iran.

But the Foreign Ministry spokesman says Time's suggestion that
Pakistan is not doing enough to investigate possible links to other
countries or to terror groups is merely a re-hash of sensationalistic
statements and not based on fact.

"This is a story that sells, I mean from a purely commercial point of
view. But most of the stories which have appeared lack credibility. …
The sources quoted in this very story are suspect," he said.

The Time article quotes numerous unnamed sources from the United
States and Libya, as well as a source described as an acquaintance of
A.Q. Khan.

The report also refers to Pakistan's refusal to allow U.S.
investigators to question Mr. Khan personally.

But U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Ryan Crocker told VOA earlier this
month that he does not see this as a major issue, so long as Pakistani
authorities are continuing their investigation.

"It is more important that the questions be asked and continue to be
asked until there are satisfactory answers. I think it is less
important who is asking the questions," said Ambassador Crocker.

He said that Pakistan is still looking into Mr. Khan's international
nuclear black-market operation and has promised to share its findings
with Washington.

Nepalese Groups Plan First Takeover Protest

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFC5:2F72C9D

Human rights groups in Nepal say they are going to protest King
Gyanendra's takeover of government with a non-violent
demonstration later this week  

Armed police stand guard near Democracy wall, a common place for
protesters to gather in KathmanduKrishna Pahadi, the founder of the
Human Rights and Peace Society, says Nepalis are ready to fight back
against King Gyanendra's takeover of the government last week.

"We would like to fill the jails of Nepal for the sake of democracy,
human rights and the peace," he said.

Mr. Pahadi's group, along with other human rights groups, teachers and
Nepalese journalist associations say they will hold a demonstration in
the capital Kathmandu on Thursday. It promises to be the most visible
public reaction to the takeover so far.

The announcement comes as the king and his hand-picked government
continue to tighten controls over Nepalese society. On Monday, Nepal's
new royal government banned criticism of the security forces, and
warned that violators could be put under house arrest.

The government also banned political activity by public servants, and
said the authorities could seize private property if necessary.

Mr. Pahadi says he is aware that by announcing plans for the
demonstration, activists could be opening themselves up to arrest or
possible violence at the hands of the security forces. But he says
that does not matter.

"They try to intimidate anyway, but this is our duty. We would like to
fight non-violently for fundamental freedom and human rights,
continuously," he said.

King Gyanendra's takeover included placing rights workers, journalists
and political leaders under house arrest, largely shutting down
communications between Nepal and the outside world, and deploying
troops in the streets of the capital.

The crackdown so far appears to have stifled dissent. Unlike other
times of political turmoil, no large-scale anti-government
demonstrations have yet taken place.

The king says he acted for the good of the nation, because the
political parties failed to organize elections, or to end a
long-running insurgency carried out against the government by Maoist
rebels.

The rebels have been waging a violent campaign to topple the monarchy
for the past nine years. On Thursday, state media reported that the
king has appointed special representatives to hold peace talks with
the rebels. But he has also warned that if the peace talks fail, the
rebels could face a new military offensive.

US State Department Opposes Lifting Arms Sanctions Against China

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFCB:2F72C9D

Undersecretary of State John Bolton says arms embargoes, other
sanctions are important to send China message that its record on human
rights is unacceptable

John Bolton State Department officials have again raised concerns
about European and Russian arms sales to China.

Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security
John Bolton says arms embargoes and other sanctions are important to
send China a message that its record on human rights is unacceptable.

The European Union embargo on major arms sales to Beijing, imposed in
1989, is widely expected to be lifted this year - a move consistently
opposed by the United States and Japan.

Speaking at a seminar in the Japanese capital Mr. Bolton said arms
sales by the European Union and Russia are a "very grave concern" and
could threaten strategic stability in East Asia.

The undersecretary said the Bush administration is most worried that
sophisticated computer and communications technology, known as
"battlefield management," will end up in the hands of the Chinese.

"American technology licensed to European companies might also find
its way to China, so that we would, in effect, face our own technology
being used against us," he said.

The EU sanctions were put in place in the wake of the 1989 massacre of
pro-democracy demonstrators in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. The United
States imposed a similar ban that same year, which remains in place.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, also expressed concern Sunday
about arms sales to China upsetting the military balance in East Asia.

President Bush has taken a tough stance against China, imposing
sanctions against Beijing 62 times during his first four-year
administration. By comparison, the Clinton administration, during its
eight years, imposed fresh sanctions against China on only eight
occasions.

The United States has called for China to crack down on numerous
companies, most of which it says are owned or controlled by elements
of the People's Liberation Army or the government. Washington says
these companies have exported technology that can be used to make
weapons of mass destruction to such nations as Pakistan, Iran, and
Libya.

The Chinese government has insisted that such sanctions are
unjustified, and calls the EU arms embargo a relic of the Cold War.

Thaksin Declares Victory in Thailand Elections

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFC2:2F72C9D

Thaksin Shinawatra's business acumen and populist policies have
made him the most powerful man in Thailand

Thaksin Shinawatra

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has declared victory in Thailand's
election, with what appears to be a massive mandate. 
Correspondent Scott Bobb has this profile of Mr. Thaksin, whose
business acumen and populist policies have made him the most powerful
man in Thailand.

It was midday in downtown Bangkok and Thai Prime Minister Thaksin
Shinawatra was campaigning for votes in the lunchtime crowd in one of
the area's narrow alleys.

Shop owners and office workers pressed around him. Some offered fruit
and flowers which he accepted with a bow.

The head of a multi-billion dollar telecommunications empire and
reputedly Thailand's richest man, Prime Minister Thaksin explains why,
after a tumultuous first term, he wanted to be re-elected.

"I want to eradicate poverty. Poverty is very important. We have to
help them [poor people]," he said.

Thaksin Shinawatra was born on July 26, 1949, into a family of silk
merchants originally from southern China. He attended school in his
native Chang Mai province, in northern Thailand, and graduated from
Thailand's Royal Police Academy in 1973. Five years later he received
a doctorate in criminal justice from Sam Houston (Texas) University in
the United States.

In the mid-1980s, he founded an electronic paging and mobile telephone
company that grew into a communications satellites corporation and
made him one of the richest men in Thailand.

He entered politics only 10 years ago. He served in a coalition
government as foreign minister and deputy-prime minister before
founding his own party in 1998, the Thai Rak Thai, or Thais Love
Thais, party.

In the 2001 elections, he pledged to end poverty, reduce dependence on
exports and restore economic prosperity following the 1997 Asia
financial crisis. His party won 295 of the 500 seats in parliament.

After surviving a legal challenge to his victory, Mr. Thaksin set
about delivering on some of his promises and launched a subsidized
public health program, low-cost loans for rural poor, and
village-based micro-industries.

He also lowered interest rates, leading to a consumer-based economic
boom, and paid off early billions of dollars worth of international
loans left over from the 1997 financial crisis.

However, human rights groups accuse Mr. Thaksin's government of
heavy-handed tactics in campaigns to suppress the illegal drug trade
and a separatist insurgency in the Muslim-dominated south.

Economists say his populist programs are not sustainable. And civic
groups accuse his government of rolling back democratic advances of
the 1990s.

An editor with the Nation media group who has had several
confrontations with the Thaksin government, Kavi Chongkittavorn, says
although Mr. Thaksin has delivered on the economy, he has not shown
similar support for democratic freedoms.

"Prime Minister Thaksin has never given his commitment that he will
protect democracy, human rights and civil liberties at all," he said.

Foreign Minister Surakiart Sathirathai disagrees saying Mr. Thaksin
supports democracy but is driven by a desire to make a difference.

"He's a leader who would like to bring about changes to Thai society.
And I think after some years, people will realize more and more his
contribution," said Mr. Sathirathai.

The prime minister, who enjoyed his hectic day on the campaign trail
last week, told VOA that despite the frustrations, he still likes the
job.

"I like it more because I can do a lot for the people. My second term
will be much better," said Mr. Thaksin.

Mr. Thaksin has promised during his second term to focus on developing
Thailand's infrastructure. He is planning on building
multibillion-dollar road, railway and communications projects which,
given their size and price tags, guarantee he will continue to be
controversial.

Geomancers Predict Less Conflict in Year of Rooster

http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=B6FFC3:2F72C9D

Millions around the world welcome the Year of Rooster this week with
banquets, colorful festivities and visits to traditional
fortune-tellers

Chinese man shows off rooster stamps he bought at launch of
commemorative first day of year of Rooster Outside the Tin Hau Temple
in the old Hong Kong district of Yau Ma Tei, the mood is festive. A
band plays traditional Chinese music while a man and a woman sing
Chinese opera.

Close by, Chinese fortune-tellers are busy dispensing advice on
romance, money and family life.

Many Chinese people follow the ancient art of feng shui, which tells
how various elements in the environment - water, wood, fire, metal and
earth - affect human well-being.

On the eve of the Lunar New Year, Chinese people traditionally visit
geomancers to seek advice on how to improve their luck in the coming
12 months.

With volumes of Chinese almanacs piled on his table, a Yau Ma Tei
geomancer gives advice to a young woman looking for the right husband.

Feng shui experts say the Year of the Rooster will bring relative
harmony. In contrast, The Year of the Monkey in 2004 was turbulent and
marked by conflict between the elements of wood and metal. The year
saw violence and unrest in Iraq and in the Ukraine and the biggest
natural disaster in recent times.

Geomancers say, however, that the next 12 months should see fewer
conflicts.

Raymond Lo, a Hong Kong feng shui master, says that in the Year of the
Rooster, the same elements will again clash. But he adds that the wood
element is a symbolized by a flower this year, which signals
flexibility.

"So therefore we expect more peace talks and more peace settlements
will be achieved this year," he predicted.

Geomancers point out that the World War II, ended in 1945 - a Rooster
year.

But they warn that natural catastrophes such as earthquakes will
continue to plague the world. Several huge tremors have occurred in
Rooster years, including a 9.1 magnitude earthquake in Alaska in 1957
that triggered a tsunami.

Mr. Lo also cautions people to watch out for fire.

"The Rooster is the birthplace of fire so therefore this year there
could be some unexpected explosions and fire disasters," he said.

On the brighter side, the geomancers say the year will be good for the
world economy. Fire-related businesses such as the stock market,
commodities trading, real estate and entertainment are expected to do
well. But businesses associated with wood, such as furniture and
clothing, may encounter difficulties.

The Rooster symbolizes loyalty, bravery and hard work. Famous Roosters
include the early American inventor and statesman Benjamin Franklin,
the novelist William Faulkner and the reggae singer Bob Marley.

Koranic duels ease terror

SANAA, YEMEN - When Judge Hamoud al-Hitar announced that he and four other Islamic scholars would challenge Yemen's Al Qaeda prisoners to a theological contest, Western antiterrorism experts warned that this high-stakes gamble would end in disaster.

Nervous as he faced five captured, yet defiant, Al Qaeda members in a Sanaa prison, Judge Hitar was inclined to agree. But banishing his doubts, the youthful cleric threw down the gauntlet, in the hope of bringing peace to his troubled homeland.

http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0204/p01s04-wome.html

http://www.postimees.ee/080205/online_uudised/157153.php

Lithuanian foreign minister admits to being in KGB reserve
Leedu välisminister tunnistab KGB reservis olemist
07.02.2005 14:51
PM Online

http://www.postimees.ee/080205/online_uudised/157245.php

Soviet nuclear scientists learn more peaceful proffessions in UK
NLi tuumateadlased õpivad Suurbritannias rahumeelsemaid ameteid
08.02.2005 10:58
PM Online
-------------------
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/4242773.stm

Nuclear weapons scientists from the former Soviet Union are re-training for "more peaceful" work in the UK.

Experts who once built bombs aimed at the capitalist West are learning about business and cultural awareness at De Montfort University, Leicester.

The dismantling of the USSR in the 1990s left up to 30,000 nuclear weapons engineers and scientists unemployed.

The course is part of an international effort to prevent a proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

'Threat'

Prompted by fears that the untapped expertise could fall into the wrong hands, the G8 group of the world's wealthiest nations set up a "global partnership" in 2002 to stop the spread of WMD.

The UK government has set aside £4m a year for a joint venture with Russia.

The collapse of the communist Soviet state in 1991 left independent republics ill-prepared to compete in international markets.

Senior figures from Russia's 10 "closed nuclear cities", plus nuclear institutions in the republics of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine, are taking part in the Business English and Contract Negotiations course.

The closed cities were created from the late 1940s onwards to develop the Soviet nuclear weapons programme.

Until the end of the 1980s, residents enjoyed standards of living significantly above that of the general population.

But, since the early 1990s, economic and social conditions have deteriorated, with further job losses planned.

The De Montfort scheme's aim is "to create commercially based, self-sustaining, non-weapons related employment".

During the four-week course, scientists will learn how to write commercial correspondence and use the internet for business.

They will also be taught about "cross-cultural awareness", language for international negotiations, devising market strategies and information analysis.

Kairat Kadyrzhanov, director of the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Kazakhstan, said: "We live in new times with a new direction for our country to a market economy.

"More and more of my job is committed not to science and physics but to new products that are interesting for our population."