Author Archive
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
Asia Times Online: The drone victim and ‘Malala’
Meet Nabeela Rehman, a nine-year-old girl from Pakistan’s restive Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA). Nabeela is not an international youth icon like her compatriot, Malala Yusufzai, though her story is no less traumatic. In the first week of November, Nabeela quietly traveled all the way to Washington from Waziristan to ask the United States Congress […]
more…28 Nov, 2013
Asia Times Online: A ‘Modi’-fication’ of Indian politics
There is a new aspect to Modi – his ability to tell tall tales. The Pinocchio side to Modi is slowly revealing itself both in the case of his economic policies and also the yarns that he has been spinning. The web of deceit spans the current to the past ie from Gujarat’s socio-economic health […]
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
The bad neighbor story: Malaysia yesterday, Australia today? | Jakarta Post
On Indonesian news websites, two topics have attracted hundreds of comments: Islam and Malaysia. But now Malaysia has been replaced by Australia as the bad neighbor in Indonesian stories. The Indonesian government has been active in pursuing claims and taking a stand against Australia’s stance, compared to the relatively tamer reactions in squabbles with Malaysia. […]
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
Different groups see Oz as common enemy | Jakarta Post
The ongoing friction between Indonesia and Australia over wiretapping allegations can be seen as a blessing in disguise as it is uniting groups with different ideologies to voice their concerns over what they deem is tantamount to a violation of Indonesia’s sovereignty. Paramilitary groups like Laskar Merah Putih, the Forum of Indonesian Veterans and Police […]
more…27 Nov, 2013
Indonesia-Australia ties: More people-to-people, less G-to-G | Jakarta Post
By Risti Permani Adelaide – As an Indonesian that is actively involved in various Australia-based programs — not only GoLive Indonesia, a project promoting discussions on various topics, the Indonesia Diaspora Network South Australia but also several agricultural research projects focusing on Indonesia and Indonesian communities — seeing any damage to the Indonesia-Australia relationship has […]
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
Australia-Indonesia rift over spying deepens – Sydney Morning Herald
Indonesia has said that talks with Australia over people smuggling and asylum seekers have stalled because of the phone-tapping row, flatly contradicting Immigration Minister Scott Morrison. As Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono declined for the third day to make a public statement about the letter he has received from Prime Minister Tony Abbott, the extent […]
more…26 Nov, 2013
11 Tips for Packing & Shipping Festive Season Gifts, Courtesy of FedEx
BANGKOK, November 26, 2013 – With the year rapidly drawing to a close, consumers and businesses around the world are gearing up for the festive season. To help ensure that the holiday shipping process is hassle-free for both retailers and shoppers, here are 11 packing & shipping tips courtesy of FedEx: (+) Tip 1: Prep […]
more…26 Nov, 2013
US accused of war of attrition in trade talks – Sydney Morning Herald
The United States has been accused of negotiation by exhaustion in last-minute talks in Salt Lake City ahead of the final ministers’ meeting that will decide the makeup of the Trans Pacific trade deal between Australia and eleven other nations. Information leaking from the closed official-level talks suggests the United States is giving no ground […]
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…26 Nov, 2013
EU moves to close tax loophole used by Google, Amazon and Starbucks – The Independent
The European Commission has announced plans to close a loophole which has allowed large corporations to pay tax in countries with lower rates, even if they only own one letterbox there. As part of efforts to get companies to pay a fair share of tax in the countries where they make most of their profits, […]
more…26 Nov, 2013
Amazon workers have “increased risk of mental and physical illness” – The Independent
Amazon workers could face an increased risk of “mental and physical illness”, a leading stress expert has claimed, after being shown undercover footage of working conditions at one warehouse. Night shifts can involve up to 11 miles of walking with staff expected to collect orders every 33 seconds, a BBC investigation has alleged. Undercover reporter […]
more…26 Nov, 2013
Farmland expansion threatens Great Wall of China
Beijing, (CNTV), November 25, 2013 – The Great Wall of China is famous for being the largest man-made structure in the world. It stretches some 1,500 miles from end to end. Unfortunately, the Great Wall is now facing massive destruction from farmland expansion and construction. Can you imagine that this is the most iconic monument […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
Have no illusions about Modi’s idea of India – Hindustan Times
With the entry of Narendra Modi in the electoral fray as the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate, it is becoming clearer by the day that Muslims are going to be the biggest elephant in the room in the run-up to what, many believe, might turn out to be one of the most communally polarised elections in […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
India Inaugurates “The Mughals: Life, Art & Culture” Exhibit
A compilation of progressive, positive, inspiring and motivating events and developments in the world of Islam for the week ending 25 November 2013 (21 Muharram 1435). Pls click on any of the headlines to go to the story. ============ MALAYSIA’S TOURISM HIGHLIGHTS – DECEMBER 2013 Wrap up 2013 with more exciting events before Visit Malaysia […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
Businesspeople reject US$10 levy for tourists – Jakarta Post
Tour operators in Bali have expressed their objection to the planned US$10 levy on every tourist proposed by the provincial administration and legislative council. The provincial administration and legislature are currently drawing up a draft ordinance related to efforts to preserve the culture and environment, funds for which would be derived from every foreign visitor […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
Battle lines drawn against Oz – Jakarta Post
As the diplomatic spat intensifies, Indonesia warned Australia on Tuesday that it would relax preventive measures against boat people using the archipelago as a stepping stone for their onward journeys to Australia. Following a request from President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono for a review of areas of bilateral cooperation on Tuesday, the National Police and the […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
Police guarantee safety for Aussie tourists – Jakarta Post
Amid tensions in the relationship between Indonesia and Australia over phone-tapping revelations, National Police chief Gen. Sutarman guaranteed the safety of all Australian tourists visiting Indonesia. Sutarman also stressed that the police would protect Australian assets in the country. “The safety of Australian tourists in Bali should be guaranteed. That’s our responsibility,” Sutarman told journalists […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
Boeing’s “Future of Washington” ad features Airbus | GulfNews.com
Washington: An advertisement placed in The Seattle Times on Wednesday by a group hoping to encourage Washington state to keep up its fight to secure the coveted work on the new Boeing 777 includes a notable miscue. At the top of the full-page ad, under the all-caps text “The Future of Washington,” is pictured not […]
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…25 Nov, 2013
Pakistan PM calls for visa-free travel with India – Times of India
LAHORE: Increasingly under pressure in his country over the continuing drone attacks by US agencies in Pakistani areas, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif made a strong plea over the weekend for speedily resuming peace ties with India. “We must aim to dismantle visa requirement between the two countries,” Sharif said choosing the unusual venue of the […]
more…25 Nov, 2013
Sexual harassment at workplace: Women who dared to speak – The Times of India
MUMBAI: It’s been a year of shame, but also hope. Littered with cases of sexual harassment at the workplace, 2013 is about to wrap up on a dark note. What’s heartening though, is the measured courage displayed by the young women involved in all cases, including a law graduate who blogged about a retired SC […]
more…24 Nov, 2013
Indian VP Urges Plastic Surgeons to Help Deprived Millions with Physical Deformities
24-November-2013, Vice President’s Secretariat – The Vice President of India Prof. M. Hamid Ansari inaugurated the “48th Annual Conference of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India (APSICON)” in Mumbai today. Following is the text of his inaugural address: “I am happy to be here in Mumbai for the inauguration of the 48th Annual Conference […]
more…24 Nov, 2013
Indian Finance Minister tells Diaspora: Rebalancing of Global Economic Power Under Way
Singapore, Ministry of Finance, 21-November-2013 – Full text of the speech of the Union Finance Minister Mr P. Chidambaram on “Opportunities and Challenges for Diaspora Investments in India” at the Second South Asian Diaspora Convention in Singapore. “It is said that ‘you can take an Indian out of India, but you cannot take India out […]
more…24 Nov, 2013
New Technology Detects “Changes in Crowd Behavior” To Promote Security
Tokyo, Nov 7, 2013 – (JCN Newswire) – NEC Corporation has developed what it claims to be the world’s first (*) “crowd behavior analysis technology” that utilizes security camera footage to understand the behavior of crowds and to detect abnormalities. This technology is expected to contribute to greater safety and security through the early detection […]
more…24 Nov, 2013
FREE Download: Health Study Forecasts Global Spending on Medicines to Reach $1 Trillion in 2014
PARSIPPANY, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–November 19, 2013–Greater access to medicines by the world’s rapidly expanding middle class, together with stronger economic prospects in developed nations, will bring total spending on medicines to the $1 trillion threshold in 2014 and to $1.2 trillion by 2017, according to new research released today by the IMS Institute for Healthcare Informatics. […]
more…24 Nov, 2013
UN Launches International Year of Family Farming 2014
22 November 2013, New York (FAO press release) – The United Nations has launched the 2014 International Year of Family Farming to stress the vast potential family farmers have to eradicate hunger and preserve natural resources. In both developed and developing countries, over 500 million family farms, defined as farms that rely primarily on family […]
more…20 Nov, 2013
There’s a rule book, Modi Saheb – DAWN.COM
After the snooping allegations were made at a press conference at the Press Club in Delhi Friday, a gentleman claiming to be the lady’s father, Pranlal Soni, said the family had long-standing relations with Modi and had asked the Chief Minister to “take care” of her. The father’s statement confirmed the identity of “saheb” as […]
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…19 Nov, 2013
Eastern Visayas: Philippines’ 3rd poorest region
Eastern Visayas, hardest hit by killer typhoon Yolanda, is the country’s third poorest region with 37 percent of its population or an estimated 4.2 million people living below poverty line, according to the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) latest report. In 2012, about 37.2 percent of Region VIII’s estimated 4.2 million people were living below […]
more…19 Nov, 2013
Paying benefits ‘does not make unemployed lazy’ – The Independent
Paying high levels of benefits to the unemployed does not lead to them becoming lazy, or lacking motivation to find a job according to a European-wide study charting the well-being of claimants. Comparing how joblessness affected the life satisfaction of people in 28 countries, the report from the University of Edinburgh found that there was […]
more…19 Nov, 2013
‘Royal Concierge’: UK spy agency’s hotel surveillance ring – The Independent
Britain’s secret listening service, GCHQ, uses a spying system codenamed “Royal Concierge” to carry out detailed surveillance on foreign diplomats and government delegations at more than 350 hotels across the world, Germany’s Der Spiegel magazine reported on Sunday. The disclosures, based on intelligence data leaked by the US whistleblower Edward Snowden, follow reports that British […]
more…18 Nov, 2013
India’s historical hijacker – GulfNews.com
Modi’s identification with Patel is an effort at character-building by association. His own image has been tarnished by his inaction (or worse) during the massacre of more than a thousand Gujarati Muslims in a pogrom on his watch in 2002. Modi would rather be perceived as embodying Patel’s decisiveness than as the destructive bigot his […]
more…18 Nov, 2013
World’s First Underground Mosque Opens in Turkey
A compilation of progressive, positive, inspiring and motivating events and developments in the world of Islam for the week ending 18 November 2013 (14 Muharram 1435). Pls click on any of the headlines to go to the story. ============ A WORD FROM MY SPONSORS MALAYSIA’S TOURISM HIGHLIGHTS – DECEMBER 2013 Wrap up 2013 with more exciting […]
more…18 Nov, 2013
What’s wrong with today’s younger generation? – The Independent
By Yasmin Alibhai-Brown I find myself welling up with contempt for middle-class, young adults born in rich nations. Note to young daughter: I don’t mean all of you who are good and great, but the many more who understand nothing and want everything, the me generation. Perhaps this deep gloom was brought on the latest […]
more…18 Nov, 2013
UK spy agency taps hotel reservations targeting diplomats – Snowden leaks — RT News
Constantly on the move, top officials and diplomats prefer to stay in high-end establishments and boutique hotels with premier service standards. And since the number of high-class hotels in the world is finite, British Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) came up with the idea of turning them into a huge net to fish for secrets in […]
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
Hindu alliance supports move to limit tourist access to Bali temples | The Jakarta Post
Youths grouped under the Hindu Alliance Caring for Bali (Aliansi Hindu Peduli Bali) declared their support for the plan to limit tourist access to temples throughout Bali. The statement was conveyed by the group at the Bali Legislative Council office on Thursday. “We understand that temples have been part of the tourist attraction for years. […]
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…16 Nov, 2013
Myanmar violence ‘sickens world’ | Arab News
YANGON, Myanmar: Former US President Bill Clinton said sectarian violence in newly opened Myanmar sickens the world as he met with political and civic leaders Thursday to discuss challenges facing the emerging democracy following a half-century of military rule. The attacks on Muslims are a topic many in this predominantly Buddhist nation of 60 million […]
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…15 Nov, 2013
Thai Princess: GDP Growth No Longer Sufficient to Determine Economic Success
Full text of the Keynote Opening Address by Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, Ambassador of Thailand and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Vienna, on the topic: “Investing in the rule of law, crime prevention and criminal justice for the post-2015 United Nations development agenda”. The Bangkok Dialogue on the Rule of Law, Siam Kempinski […]
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
Where is the global leadership? | The Japan Times
OSAKA – The American-led global economic and financial system is broken — you have only to look at the shenanigans in Washington these last few weeks to see that — so where are the clear thinkers who can dream of a plan to fix things, and where are the practical politicians who dare to try […]
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…13 Nov, 2013
The True Patriots in Congress Trying to End NSA Tyranny – Truthdig
By Robert Scheer Good old George can stop spinning in his grave. Yes, that George, our most heroic general and inspiring president, who warned us in his farewell address “to guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism. …” It’s an alert that’s been ignored in the nation’s hysterical reaction to the attacks of 9/11 that […]
more…13 Nov, 2013
Big Security firms pay no corporation tax despite profiting from billion-pounds contracts – The Independent
Private contractors carrying out billions of pounds worth of Government work face a “crisis of confidence” from the public, the National Audit Office (NAO) said, as it emerged that two of them paid no corporation tax last year. The public spending watchdog highlighted a number of investigation it has carried out into alleged abuses by […]
more…13 Nov, 2013
‘Narendra Modi is a poster boy of India’s failure to punish the violent’ – Indian Express
Two top members of a US Congress constituted commission on religious freedom have expressed sadness over nomination of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi as the prime ministerial candidate of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), terming him as the “poster boy” of India’s failure to punish the violent. “It was another son of Gujarat, Mahatma Gandhi, […]
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…12 Nov, 2013
Chris Hedges: The Revolutionaries in Our Midst – Truthdig
NEW YORK—Jeremy Hammond sat in New York’s Metropolitan Correctional Center last week in a small room reserved for visits from attorneys. He was wearing an oversized prison jumpsuit. The brown hair of the lanky 6-footer fell over his ears, and he had a wispy beard. He spoke with the intensity and clarity one would expect […]
more…11 Nov, 2013
Chinese commentator highlights U.S. double standards over “freedom of speech”
It’s a big pity that the Western media rushed to join in the debate sparked by Chen Yongzhou, a Chinese tabloid journalist who was detained on charges of defaming a construction equipment maker, while only a few of them paid much attention to Jimmy Kimmel’s “kill every one in China” comment, which should surely have […]
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
Surabaya’s first female mayor pledges to clean out red-light areas
A compilation of progressive, positive, inspiring and motivating events and developments in the world of Islam for the week ending 11 November 2013 (07 Muharram 1435). Pls click on any of the headlines to go to the story. ============ A WORD FROM MY SPONSORS – TOURISM MALAYSIA MALAYSIA’S TOURISM HIGHLIGHTS – DECEMBER 2013 Wrap up […]
more…11 Nov, 2013
Modi in mind, Indian PM says BJP pretends to be secular – Hindustan Times
Apparently having Narendra Modi’s unrelenting attacks on against Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in mind, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh hit back at BJP, saying use of “bad” language against political rivals did not bring any dignity to the saffron party. “While criticising opposition parties, we have to distinguish ourselves, especially from the BJP some of […]
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
How NSA Surveillance Has Chilled the Right to Association | Electronic Frontier Foundation
The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has provided a federal judge with testimony from 22 separate advocacy organizations detailing how the National Security Agency’s (NSA) mass telephone records collection program has impeded the groups’ work, discouraged their members and reduced the numbers of people seeking their help via hotlines. The declarations accompanied a motion for partial […]
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
6 Things You Buy That Help Support Israeli Brutality | Alternet
When tax time rolls around each year, every American citizen gives $21.59 in military aid to Israel, according to the U.S. Campaign to End the Occupation. But that’s not the only way American citizens contribute to the Israeli military, which has occupied Palestinian land for 46 years, and the West Bank settlement project that accompanies […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
Now, the Untold Story Of What Happens When Soldiers Come Home | Alternet
At Bagram the three orthopedic surgeons work 14-hour days at a minimum with one night on call, the next night on backup, and the third night, if they’re lucky, asleep. When I talked with them in 2011 they were riding a long wave of wounds, and it was still spring. The winter when fighting falls […]
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…8 Nov, 2013
Kerry warns Israel of isolation, violence if peace talks fail | Arab News
AMMAN, Jordan: US Secretary of State John Kerry issued a stark warning to Israel on Thursday, saying it faces international isolation and a possible explosion of violence if it does not make progress in peace efforts with the Palestinians. Kerry issued the blunt remarks in a joint interview with Israeli and Palestinian television channels, ensuring […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
Indonesia urges Australia, US to come clean on spying | The Jakarta Post
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has called on the United States and Australian governments to stop their spying activities from their embassies in Jakarta or risk damaging their relations with Indonesia. “The President has asked that wiretapping never happens again. We will also fix the state information system,” presidential spokesman Julian Aldrin Pasha said on Wednesday. […]
more…8 Nov, 2013
NSA and GCHQ mass surveillance is violation of European law, report finds – theguardian.com
The authors of a new study on mass-scale surveillance have accused US and EU countries’ intelligence services of violating European law and urged the European parliament to take action. Sergio Carrera, a Spanish jurist, and Francesco Ragazzi, a professor of international relations at Leiden University in the Netherlands, who co-wrote the paper, made the appeal […]
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 […]
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