7 Nov, 2013
UN’s Asia-Pacific Chief Outlines Five Challenges Facing Region’s Future Transport Needs
Opening Statement by Dr. Noeleen Heyzer, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, Forum of Asian Ministers of Transport, Bangkok, 7 November 2013 Just a few weeks ago, the world celebrated the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I have a […]
more…7 Nov, 2013
Our Legacy for Future Generations: Greenhouse Gases in Atmosphere Reach New Record
Geneva, 6 November 2013, (World Meteorological Organization) – The amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere reached a new record high in 2012, continuing an upward and accelerating trend which is driving climate change and will shape the future of our planet for hundreds and thousands of years. The World Meteorological Organization’s annual Greenhouse Gas […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
New Confederation Set up to Protect Rights of 53 million Domestic Workers
(Montevideo) Human Rights Watch media release, 28 Oct 2013 – The founding of a global federation of domestic workers is a sign of the growing strength of the movement, and a key moment to assess progress for workers long excluded from basic labor protections, the International Domestic Workers Network (IDWN), the International Trade Union Confederation […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
Civil Society Groups Blast World Bank’s “Doing Business” Report as Bad for Business
28 October 2013 (ITUC media release): On the eve of the release of the World Bank’s Doing Business 2014, civil society organisations have called on the World Bank to implement the major recommendations delivered by an independent panel in June, which included ending the ranking of countries according to an “Ease of Doing Business” index […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
Fanatic Jewish settlers, led by Rabbi, storm Al-Aqsa Mosque
Ramallah, Tuesday, 02 Muharram 1434/ 05 November 2013 (IINA) – A group of Jewish settlers on Sunday stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque Complex in occupied Jerusalem and raised the Israeli flag. Sheikh Najeh Bkeirat, the Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound manager, said that the settlers headed by the rightist Rabbi Yehudah Glick entered the complex through the Al-Magharebah […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
EU needs to combat corruption by better protecting whistleblowers: Amnesty Int’l
5 November 2013, Transparency International Secretariat – Most European Union countries fail to legally protect whistleblowers enough from retaliation in the workplace, shutting out an important actor in the fight against corruption, according to a new report from Transparency International. Whistleblowers play a prominent role exposing and preventing corruption, yet only four EU countries – […]
more…6 Nov, 2013
Hotel Institute Updates Responsible Alcohol Service Training Program
Orlando, Florida, November 2013—The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (EI) has revised its responsible alcohol service seminar, Controlling Alcohol Risks Effectively® (CARE), with new and expanded content, additional activities and discussion questions, updated instructor materials with a new, easy-to-use format, and a new training DVD. The DVD features several new training scenarios as well […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
India’s National Tribal Crafts Mela Promotes Products Made by Under-privileged
Ministry of Tribal Affairs, 01-November, 2013 – Union Minister for Tribal Affairs MR V. Kishore Chandra Deo inaugurated the “Adishilp: the National Tribal Craft Mela” in New Delhi today. Organized by TRIFED at Dilli Haat the 11 day mela showcases the unique and exquisite tribal arts and crafts of the country. The main objective of […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
Chinese high-speed trains venture overseas
BEIJING, Nov. 3, (Xinhua) — Parallel to the development of domestic high-speed rail, the Chinese government and rail enterprises are actively seeking customers overseas. In a meeting with a trade ministers from the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) last week, Premier Li Keqiang thanked them for traveling by high-speed train from south China […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
South African Crime at Lowest Levels in 15 Years, Says IHS Crime Index
LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–October 31, 2013 — The IHS Crime Index has found that crime in South Africa is at its lowest level in 15 years. IHS Inc. (NYSE: IHS), the leading global source of information and analytics, reveals key findings from this edition of the index below. Key findings: 1. The most dangerous metro is the […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
Full Text: Indian Vice President’s Powerful Lecture at Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies
The Vice President of India Prof Dr M. Hamid Ansari delivered a Lecture on “Identity and Citizenship: An Indian Perspective” at Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies in London on 01 November 2013. Dr Ansari was on a State visit to UK from 31st October to 1st November, 2013. Following is the text of the lecture: […]
more…4 Nov, 2013
11 Key Issues Tourism Ministers will sweep under the carpet at WTM London
BANGKOK – Like all travel industry forums globally, the World Travel Market, which opens in London today, is becoming a mutual-admiration club of people preaching to the converted. The programme of events has the usual air of “sameness” to it – bursting with techno-babble interspersed with awards ceremonies, updates on destination marketing plans, new product […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
Chinese Investor Plans US$1.54 Billion Port City In Colombo
COLOMBO, Nov 1 (NNN-XINHUA) — A mega development project to build a 1.43 billion USD port city along the shoreline of Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo will be put for Cabinet approval next month with construction expected to begin in December, an official says. The project, which aims to reclaim a 230-hectare site from the sea […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
India Upgrades Bhubaneswar, Imphal to International Airport status
New Delhi, Cabinet media release, 30-October, 2013 – The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for declaring the Bhubaneswar and Imphal airports as international airports to fulfill the long pending demand of people as well as the State Governments of Odisha and Manipur. Declaration of these airports as international airports will offer improved connectivity, wider […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
Bone flutes suggest 9,000-year-old Chinese music tradition
ZHENGZHOU, Nov. 1 (Xinhua) — Three flutes made of bones of red-crowned cranes have been excavated at an ancient tomb in central China’s Henan Province, further evidence of remote ancestors playing music long before they could write, archeologists announced on Friday. They believe that the musical instruments, excavated earlier in October from Jiahu, site of […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
Tourism fest raises toast to world’s tallest Buddha
IANS, Nov 1, 2013, – The world’s tallest Buddha statue celebrated its 1,300th anniversary with a cultural festival in Leshan city in China’s Sichuan province. The Leshan Giant Buddha festival is expected to attract global attention to the statue’s conservation issues, said Li Wenfei, director of a management committee of Mount Emei and Leshan Giant […]
more…2 Nov, 2013
India, Turkey lead in 143.3 mn false & duplicate Facebook accounts
New York, Fri Nov 01 2013, Press Trust of India – An estimated 14.3 crore accounts on the popular social networking site Facebook may be false or duplicate, with a major chunk of them coming from developing markets like India and Turkey. (one crore is 10 million). Facebook, which boasts of 119 crore accounts globally, […]
more…1 Nov, 2013
India Launches Portal for Booking Nationwide Bus Travel
Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, 31-October, 2013 – Mr. Oscar Fernandes, Minister of Road Transport & Highways launched India’s first integrated National Transport Portal “www.busindia.com” here today. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Fernandes said busindia.com will address the need of a single window application, like IRCTC, through which users can seamlessly plan their bus […]
more…1 Nov, 2013
10 Healthiest Eating Habits across the Globe
Bohemia, NY (PRWEB) November 01, 2013 – According to an article published by Greatist on October 28th titled “10 Surprising, Healthy Eating Habits From Around the World,” there is an issue with obesity in many countries, including the United States. However, there are many healthy diets around the globe that help promote lower obesity rates. […]
more…31 Oct, 2013
New Islamic Economic Forum Digital Era Projects $1.2 Trillion Global Trade Increase
LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–October 30, 2013 – In the presence of seventeen State Leaders and witnessed by Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohamed Najib Tun Abdul Razak, Patron of the World Islamic Economic Forum Foundation, the WIEF publicly announced a landmark MOU between the Global Coalition for Efficient Logistics (GCEL) and the Islamic Center for Development of […]
more…31 Oct, 2013
PATA CEO Fudges Role as Panel Moderator at ITB Asia
Singapore, 24 Oct 2013 – For those who have seen PATA at its peak, to see it playing a distant second-fiddle on the ITB Asia media events programme was a sorry experience. Even more grim was to see its ongoing struggle for relevance as it tried, vainly, to honour the promise to offer “valuable new […]
more…29 Oct, 2013
What Happens to Customer Reward Points and Miles After You Die?
CINCINNATI-October 24, 2013-(BUSINESS WIRE)–None of us wants our dying words to be, “Make sure you redeem all my points and miles.” So plan ahead. Research released today by COLLOQUY shows the after-death transfer to loved ones or friends of rewards earned in customer loyalty programs may not always go as smoothly as expected or desired. […]
more…29 Oct, 2013
Wynn Resorts 3Q 2013 Earnings Up 9.6% in Macau, only 1.1% in Vegas
LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–24/10/2013 – Wynn Resorts, Limited (Nasdaq:WYNN) today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2013. Net revenues for the third quarter of 2013 were $1,390.1 million, compared to $1,298.5 million in the third quarter of 2012. The increase was driven by a 9.6% revenue increase from its Macau operations and […]
more…29 Oct, 2013
Indian President Warns: Water Security Crises Likely as Demand Outstrips Supply
President’s Secretariat, 28-October, 2013 – The following is the full text of the speech by the President of India Mr Pranab Mukherjee at the inauguration of the Second India Water Forum 2013 organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) 1. It is indeed a privilege for me to be present amidst you this morning […]
more…28 Oct, 2013
UN Rights Experts Urge Transparency In Use Of Armed Drones, Citing Risks Of Illegal Use
United Nations, (UN News Centre) – Oct 25 2013 – Expressing concern about the potential for illegal use of armed unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, two United Nations human rights experts today called on States to be transparent in their use, to investigate allegations of unlawful killings and to respect the full range of applicable […]
more…28 Oct, 2013
Myanmar: UN Expert Urges Greater Efforts To Curb Anti-Muslim Sentiment
United Nations, (UN News Centre) Oct 25 2013 – The United Nations expert on Myanmar today cautioned that the situation in Rakhine State is feeding a winder anti-Muslim narrative in the country which threatens the ongoing reform process aimed at a more open and broad-based democracy. Speaking to journalists in New York, the UN Special […]
more…28 Oct, 2013
UN-Backed Forum On Internet Governance Sees NSA Spying as “Major Emerging Issue”
United Nations, (UN News Centre) Oct 25 2013 – While reaffirming the need to strengthen the multi-stakeholder approach to Internet governance, the United Nations-backed forum on the issue, known as the IGF, concluded today in Bali, Indonesia with an acknowledgement that surveillance is the major emerging issue of the year. Over four days, the Internet […]
more…28 Oct, 2013
Brand USA faces tough media barrage at ITB Asia
SINGAPORE, 23 Oct 2013 – The Brand USA delegation at the ITB Asia press conference faced a barrage of questions about visa delays, lengthy CIQ queues, the U.S. government shutdown, shootings in public places and the impact of superhero Hollywood movies on the country’s “image”. Although Mr Jay Gray, Vice President of Global Partnership Development […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
India, China Links to be guided by “Five Principles of Panchsheel”
New Delhi, Prime Minister’s Office, 23-October, 2013 – India and China have issued a Joint Statement that headlined, “A vision for future development of strategic and cooperative partnership”. It commits the two countries to following the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence [Panchsheel] in guiding bilateral links across all sectors, from economic development to settling border […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
State of Economy will Influence U.S. Consumers to Save Heavily this Holiday Season
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — With Black Friday fast approaching, consumer confidence may have an impact on holiday shopping. The current state of the economy will drive 41% of consumers to look for ways to save money on their holiday shopping this year, seeking out bargains and coupons. In response to the economic doldrums […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
U.S. Retail Federation: ‘Legislating from Crisis to Crisis is No Way to Govern’
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE) – October 16, 2013 -The National Retail Federation today released the following statement from NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay on the expected decision to reopen the government and delay the debate on the debt ceiling: “While there is some satisfaction at achieving a deal, today’s agreement between the House and Senate merely […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
Global Trades Union Warning: Developing Countries will be Losers in new Global I.T. Pact
22 October 2013 (International Trades Union Congress media release) : The ITUC together with 163 other trade union and civil society organisations and trade unions are raising concerns over a proposed expansion of the Information Technology Agreement (“ITA II”) being negotiated at the World Trade Organisation. A joint letter to WTO member points to the […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
Trades Union Call: Time for Starbucks to Stop Union Busting in Chile
23 October 2013 (International Trades Union Congress media release): The ITUC is extremely concerned about the situation of workers’ rights at Starbucks in Chile. In October, as it announced record profits, the company rejected all Starbucks Workers´ Union demands, included in a draft collective agreement. Alleging damage to its competitiveness, the company has said it […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
American Indian Movement and National Coalition on Racism in Sports & Media Declare Nov 7, 2013 “R” Day
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–(Full unedited text of the official media release) – The American Indian Movement (AIM) and the National Coalition on Racism in Sports and Media (The Coalition) announced today that because non-indigenous people have stolen portions of the sacred culture, heritage, religion and images of the Native American Nations for use and abuse by sports […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
McAfee Survey: Older Users of Social Networks Are Up, But Face More Threats
October 23, 2013, SANTA CLARA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–McAfee today released findings from the company’s first survey dedicated to uncovering the online habits and behaviors of individuals ages 50-75. The study, “Fifty Plus Booms Online” indicates that the 50+ demographic is spending a great deal of time online these days (an average of five hours a day), […]
more…24 Oct, 2013
STB Chief Open to Talks with Tourism Civil Society Groups for Inclusion in TravelRave Programme
Singapore: Lionel Yeo, Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, says he is open to talks with civil society and non-governmental organisations about holding forums and events as part of an effort to broaden the knowledge-base content of TravelRave and ITB Asia. In his opening comments at the ITB Asia launch press conference on 23 […]
more…23 Oct, 2013
Passport replacement fees waived for Australian bushfire victims
Canberra, 22 October 2013 – Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says all fees will be waived for those seeking to replace current passports lost or destroyed in the bushfires. “I extend my deepest sympathy to those affected by the bushfires in the Blue Mountains and Central Coast of New South Wales,” Ms Bishop said. “As […]
more…23 Oct, 2013
Call for Presentations at UNWTO Knowledge Network Symposium, TedQual Information Seminar
The following is an announcement about the new deadline of proposal submission (28 Oct 2013) to the UNWTO Knowledge Network Symposium and the UNWTO TedQual Information Seminar to be held on 16-17 November 2013 at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China. The Symposium, scheduled for 16 November, will provide a unique […]
more…23 Oct, 2013
UN Experts On Indigenous Issues Urge Greater Focus On Environment, Women’s Rights
United Nations, (UN News Centre), Oct 22 2013 – While there have been encouraging responses to human rights concerns of indigenous peoples and to helping States and other stakeholders address them, the realities for indigenous groups remain a concern, a United Nations expert has noted. “Although I’m encouraged by positive developments in many places…I remain […]
more…23 Oct, 2013
Oct 26: Civil Rights Groups to Organise ‘Stop Watching Us’ Rally Against NSA Spying
WASHINGTON, D.C., 10/21/2013 — On October 26, thousands of civil rights activists will participate in the “Stop Watching Us” rally against mass surveillance at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Taking place on the 12th anniversary of the USA PATRIOT Act, the rally demands that Congress provide transparency, accountability and reform of the NSA’s mass […]
more…20 Oct, 2013
Study: “30 minutes of cellphone use per day leads to 40% increased risk of brain tumor”
New York, New York (PRWEB) October 16, 2013 – As cell phone radiation lawsuits (http://www.consumerinjurylawyers.com/cell-phone-radiation-lawsuit.html) continue to move forward in courts around the U.S., Bernstein Liebhard LLP notes a French safety watchdog has issued new recommendations regarding the use of cell phones by children. According to a report published by The Telegraph, the National Agency […]
more…20 Oct, 2013
Buddhist-Muslim Forum on Peace & Sustainability to be held in KL, Nov 1
Two leading social activists and thinkers from Thailand and Malaysia are to be amongst main speakers at an International Buddhist-Muslim Forum on Peace And Sustainability to be organised in Kuala Lumpur on 01 November 2013. The forum is being organised by the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM), the International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB) […]
more…19 Oct, 2013
Chinese rating agency cuts U.S. credit rating, cites lingering insolvency fears
BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) — Dagong Global Credit Rating Co. Ltd., a Chinese credit rating agency, on Thursday downgraded the local and foreign currency credit ratings of the United States to A- from A, maintaining a negative outlook. The decision came shortly after the U.S. Congress approved the resolution to end the partial government shutdown […]
more…19 Oct, 2013
China plans films to highlight culture, lifestyle of all its minorities
Beijing, (Xinhua), October 14, 2013 – Chinese government will produce at least one film for each of its 55 ethnic minorities, the State Ethnic Affairs Commission announced on Sunday. At a ceremony, names of four proposed films featuring Mongol, Dong and Manchu minorities were unveiled. These films will showcase the culture and life of the […]
more…19 Oct, 2013
More Chinese students returning home after studying abroad
Shanghai, 2013-10-17 (China Daily) – Facing a stagnant economic situation overseas, more Chinese students are returning home after studying overseas, a trend that looks likely to continue in coming years, a report released this week says. The report on the situation in 2013, conducted by the Chinese international education service provider EIC, said 22 percent […]
more…19 Oct, 2013
Thai Central Bank Chief tells US to take same medicine IMF prescribed to Asia in 1997
Beijing, 2013-10-17 (China Daily) – Before and after last weekend’s annual World Bank/IMF meeting, financial leaders from across the globe presented their views on the world economy at Harvard University. What did their views have in common? And what do they imply for China? All the financial leaders voiced concern over the failure to lift […]
more…19 Oct, 2013
Confucian wisdom opens new chapter in China-ASEAN ties
BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) — “Gentlemen seek harmony but not uniformity.” The ancient Chinese philosophy championed by Confucius has had far-reaching influence on the values of the Chinese people. In the contacts and exchanges with ASEAN countries, China’s policy of seeking good-neighborliness, concord and win-win cooperation has perfectly conveyed its diplomatic concept. At this crucial […]
more…19 Oct, 2013
Xinhua News Analysis: Risks linger despite U.S. debt resolution
BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) — The U.S. decision on Thursday to once again lift its debt limit has been welcomed but risks remain, according to to Chinese financial experts. The U.S. congress passed a deal to lift the U.S. government’s borrowing limit, in an effort to pull the country from the brink of a debt […]
more…17 Oct, 2013
Danish Operator Wins Innovation Award for Coach-Cycle Road Tour Concept
Kortrijk (IRU media release) 17 Oct 2013 – The IRU Coach Tourism Innovation Award 2013 was attributed to the Danish family-owned coach company Papuga A/S, for its “Let’s Cycle Together” concept, which allows cycling enthusiasts – clubs, companies, individuals – to tour Europe by coach with their bicycles, revealing a market potential that can attract […]
more…17 Oct, 2013
European MPs support ITU push to create a universal mobile phone charger
Geneva, 17 October 2013 (ITU media release) – Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have embraced an opportunity to mandate the use of universal charging solutions for mobile phones. An amendment to the Radio Equipment Directive of the European Parliament will require radio equipment – and in particular, mobile phones – to be compatible with a […]
more…17 Oct, 2013
Multinationals, economists and media they control will continue to lead people astray
Beijing, 2013-10-15, (China Daily) – This world of ours is flush with ideas, ideas that generate in the minds of ordinary people as well those who occupy the opulent interiors of glitzy edifices. One would imagine that the ideas engendered by all the minds would combine to chart the course of the world. But if […]
more…17 Oct, 2013
Chinese Mainland-Taiwan individual travelers surge
BEIJING, 2013-10-16, (Xinhua) — Individual tourists from the mainland to Taiwan outnumbered those on package tours during the recent seven-day holiday, said a mainland spokeswoman on Wednesday. About 23,600 independent tourists from the mainland visited Taiwan from Oct 1 to 7, up 144.25 percent over the same holiday last year, said Fan Liqing, spokeswoman with […]
more…17 Oct, 2013
Advancing the internationalization of the renminbi
Beijing, 2013-10-16, (China Daily) – The European Central Bank’s announcement of a new $350 billion swap agreement with the People’s Bank of China on Oct 10 comes at a curious time. Namely, we suspect that the current dysfunction in Washington may have accelerated the ECB’s discussions on the matter and may have tipped the scales […]
more…17 Oct, 2013
The fatality of America’s debt addiction
Beijing, 2013-10-16, (China Daily) – The stalemate between US President Barack Obama’s administration and Republican- majority House of Representatives over raising America’s debt ceiling has partly shut down the federal government since Oct 1. On Oct 10, Obama rejected Republicans’ offer of increasing the debt ceiling for six weeks, aiming to push the negotiations’ deadline […]
more…17 Oct, 2013
China Plans Nationwide, Lifelong Health Care System
Beijing, 2013-10-16 (China Daily) – According to guidelines issued by the State Council on Monday, the country will strive to set up a national health service system, spanning cradle to grave, and lift the value of the sector to more than 8 trillion yuan ($1.31 trillion) by 2020. To facilitate the plan’s fulfillment, the government […]
more…16 Oct, 2013
FREE Download: UNCTAD Report says New Policies Needed to Navigate New Dynamics of Global Economy
United Nations, Oct 14 2013 (UN News Centre) – Countries must adopt new economic policies to adjust to structural changes in the world economy sparked by the onset of the global financial crisis five years ago, according to a new United Nations report. The Trade and Development Report 2013 (click here to download free) notes […]
more…16 Oct, 2013
Angry India berates IMF for global economic surveillance failures, downturn projections
Ministry of Finance, 13-October, 2013 – Indian Finance Minister Mr P.Chidambaram has blasted the International Monetary Fund for its failure to identify risks and provide clear warnings about global macroeconomic turbulence. He has also demanded a detailed advance-warning study of the upcoming impact on the global economies of the rollback of the “quantitative easing” policies, […]
more…16 Oct, 2013
Developing World Faces Breast Cancer Surge, Study Suggests
October 15, 2013, CHALFONT ST. GILES, England–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Rising breast cancer incidence and mortality represent a significant and growing threat for the developing world, according to a new global study commissioned by GE Healthcare. Explained report co-author Bengt Jönsson, Professor in Health Economics at the Stockholm School of Economics: “Breast cancer is on the rise across […]
more…15 Oct, 2013
Gambling Industry Salivates at Prospects of Online Boom
SARASOTA, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)-October 09, 2013 – As OBJ Enterprises (OTCBB: OBJE) works to expand its share of the $13 billion global electronic games industry, a new generation of gaming consoles and mobile technologies is poised to spark a dramatic rise in game revenues in the next year. This week, CNBC Mad Money host Jim Cramer […]
more…15 Oct, 2013
ILO Chief Tells IMF-World Bank How to Avoid the Risk of a Slow-Growth Trap
Geneva, (ILO Media release) – Jobs are central both for the economic recovery and the long-term development of the global economy, ILO Director-General Guy Ryder said in a statement to the International Monetary and Financial Committee and Development Committee of the IMF-World Bank on 11 October 2013. The following is the full text of his statement: […]
more…15 Oct, 2013
New Association Set Up to Tap Opportunities for Gap-Year Students in U.S.
Portland, Oregon (PRWEB) October 15, 2013 – Gap year programs, long a staple of education systems in Europe and Australia, have grown substantially in popularity in the United States during the past six years. In response to this trend, a team of leading education and gap year experts have joined together to support a new […]
more…14 Oct, 2013
Pakistan PM announces Rs.200M fund for Trust to help victims of Church bombing
PESHAWAR, October 10 (APP): Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif Thursday announced allocation of Rs.200 million fund for a Trust to be set up by Christian community to rehabilitate victims of devastating suicide bomb blasts at All Saints Church on September 22 which claimed 83 precious lives and injured 140 persons. The announcement was made […]
more…14 Oct, 2013
Italian Minister Denies Hebron Visit ‘In Solidarity With Jewish Settlers’
BETHLEHEM, Palestine, Oct 12 (NNN-MA’AN) – Italian Minister of Tourism and Culture Massimo Bray has denied allegations of acting in “solidarity” with Israeli settlers after meeting with a leader of the illegal Jewish settler community in the Old City of Hebron on Tuesday. A statement released by the Italian consulate denied these “specious” allegations, highlighting […]
more…13 Oct, 2013
CNTA survey: Most Chinese want National Day Golden Week abolished
Beijing, 2013-10-12 – (China Daily) – Zhang Ji usually plays badminton with his colleagues on Saturdays at the Beijing University of Technology stadium. But not this week, because they have to work according to a revised holiday schedule. “This Saturday has become a working day because of the week-long National Day holiday,” said Zhang, who […]
more…13 Oct, 2013
Poll finds majority unhappy with China’s public holiday rules
Shanghai, (Shanghai Daily) October 12, 2013 – Most Chinese are unhappy with the country’s public holiday arrangements which feature long breaks at the cost of working extra days, according to a nation-wide poll. The national holiday coordinating office, which is affiliated to the National Tourism Administration, opened a poll at news portals on Thursday. Voting […]
more…13 Oct, 2013
European Parliamentarians urge end to impunity of CIA rendition and secret detentions
Brussels, European Parliament Plenary Session Press release – Citizens’ rights / Fundamental rights − 10-10-2013 – The climate of impunity surrounding EU member states’ complicity in the CIA’s secret “rendition” and detention programmes has allowed violations of fundamental rights to continue unchecked, as revealed by mass surveillance programmes run by the US and some EU […]
more…13 Oct, 2013
Europe’s 10-point Reform Agenda for Maximum Impact on Growth and Jobs
Brussels, 11 October 2013, European Commission – Once the EU’s 2014-2020 budget is confirmed by the European Parliament and EU member states, Cohesion Policy will invest € 325 billion in Europe’s regions and cities to deliver the EU-wide goals of growth and jobs, as well as tackling climate change and energy dependence. This will in […]
more…12 Oct, 2013
China’s wealthy shift focus to investment: Survey
Beijing, 2013-10-10 (China Daily) – China’s top entrepreneurs, who have achieved extraordinary business success in the past decades, are moving away from their core businesses to become more involved in investment, a ranking of the wealthiest investors in the world’s second-largest economy showed on Wednesday. “It is a clear trend that many entrepreneurs are shifting […]
more…12 Oct, 2013
Congestion makes Chinese wonder whether national holidays are a time for leisure or stress
2013-10-08 – (China Daily) – National holidays provide rare opportunities for the general public to travel and get a well-deserved rest, both physically and mentally, from their daily work routine. However, problems exposed by travel arrangements involving hundreds of millions of people, from overburdened tourist accommodation facilities at major scenic spots and poor services to […]
more…12 Oct, 2013
Combating the Hazards of Waste: New Strategies to Fight Health, Environmental Risks
Vienna, 7 October 2013 (UNEP media release) – Some 3.5 billion people, or half of the world’s population, are without access to crucial waste management services, posing significant environmental and health hazards and harming economies.This staggering statistic is the baseline for a new document released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United […]
more…12 Oct, 2013
India-Indonesia Strategic Partnership Pact to Boost Intra-Asian Travel
Indian Prime Minister’s Office, 11-October, 2013 – India and Indonesia are to step up travel & tourism exchanges, cultural and educational links as part of Strategic Partnership Agreement discussed during Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s official visit to Indonesia from 10 to 12 October 2013. The increased trade, investment and other contacts between Asia’s […]
more…11 Oct, 2013
China Flags Setting Up Infrastructure Funding Bank to Boost Links with ASEAN
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) — Chinese Premier Li Keqiang put forward a seven-point proposal on further broadening and deepening cooperation between his country and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The China-ASEAN relations have grown to maturity and the bilateral cooperation has got on the fast track, Li said at the 16th […]
more…11 Oct, 2013
Reform R&D tax systems to boost innovation and help young firms, OECD Report
Paris, (OECD media release) 10/10/2013 – Most OECD governments use tax incentives to encourage businesses to invest in research and development (R&D) to boost innovation and drive economic growth. Others, like China, India and South Africa, are doing the same. But reforming these incentives would give countries a better return on their investment and support […]
more…11 Oct, 2013
Chinese Metaphysics Expert Offers Global Feng Shui Consulting
Singapore (PRWEB) October 10, 2013 – Award winning expert in Chinese Metaphysics disciplines, Kevin Foong, now offers consulting on a global basis. The founder of Kevin Foong Consulting Group, he now offers consulting in markets such as Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. Foong’s consultancy firm focuses on the teaching of Feng […]
more…11 Oct, 2013
UN global survey explains why so many people with disabilities die in disasters
GENEVA, 10 October 2013, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) – The results of the first-ever UN global survey of persons living with disabilities on how they cope with disasters, illustrates why they die, or are injured, in disproportionate numbers in disasters. An estimated 15% of the world’s population lives with some form […]
more…11 Oct, 2013
Indian PM: India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway Making Progress, Completion Expected by 2016
Brunei Darussalam, 10-October, 2013 – Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has said that Tamu-Kalewa-Kalemyo sector of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway is nearing completion, and that India will work with its partner countries to ensure that the project is completed by 2016. In his Opening Statement at the 11th India-ASEAN Summit here, Dr Singh also […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
Indigenous Peoples “Must be Represented in Climate Change Deals on Future of Global Forests”
Indigenous peoples should have a permanent representative in a partnership of 75 countries that aims to decrease the global carbon footprint through reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+). Asia- and Australia-based members of the REDD+ Safeguards Working Group (R-SWG), a North-South coalition of civil society and indigenous peoples’ organizations, today issued the call […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
US$200 million ADB loan to Upgrade Major Highway in China’s Inner Mongolia
Asian Development Bank, 10 Oct 2013 – A major highway and rural roads in a remote northern area of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) will be upgraded to support increased movement of goods and people, through a $200 million loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). A $200 million loan will upgrade a major […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
All Anti-Terrorism Measures Must Observe International Law, UN meeting hears
United Nations (08 Oct 2013) Department of Public Information – As the UN 68th General Assembly, Sixth Committee (Legal) continued its debate on measures to eliminate international terrorism, delegates insisted that all courses of action must remain within the framework of international law. Rejecting unilateral acts against States and the use of force under the […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
China calls on US to stay solvent, ensure safety of massive Chinese assets
(China Daily), October 08, 2013 – In its first response to the US government shutdown by a senior official, China asked the United States to solve the political impasse and stay solvent to ensure the safety of massive Chinese assets. Vice-Minister of Finance Zhu Guangyao said on Monday that China, the US’s biggest creditor, is […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
Chinese Golden Week overcrowding dampens holidaymaker spirit
(Xinhua) October 08, 2013 – The National Day holiday which ends on Monday is just the latest chance to witness the characteristic overcrowding of Chinese holidays. While the world-famous tourist spots such as the Forbidden City, Great Wall, West Lake of Hangzhou and Nanjing Road in Shanghai were predictably packed with tourists, other places have […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
Business Travel Coalition Survey: More Airline Transparency Needed on Ancillary Service Fees
October 7, 2013 – Business Travel Coalition (BTC) on October 4, 2013 initiated a survey of travel industry participants from around the world with respect to the highly anticipated U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rulemaking regarding the disclosure of airline ancillary fees. The survey will remain open until DOT publishes its rulemaking with final survey […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
Xinhua analysis: Global economy grows in low gear, entering another transition
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (Xinhua) — The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday lowered its forecast for global economic growth, saying the world economy has entered another transition with a set of challenges that call for new reform efforts. The Washington-based global lender cut its growth forecast for the world economy to 2.9 percent this year, […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
Chinese anti-corruption drive cools holiday gift market
NANJING, 2013-10-04, (Xinhua) – Holiday season used to be boom time for gift companies in China, but the country’s frugality campaign is meaning many of them will have a hard time surviving this time around. In the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou, where people swarm during Mid-Autumn Festival and the National Day holiday to buy […]
more…10 Oct, 2013
Emerging Asian economies expected to remain resilient, says new OECD Economic Outlook
Brunei Darussalam, 8 October 2013 – The economic outlook for Emerging Asia (Southeast Asia, China and India) remains robust over the medium term, anchored by the steady rise in domestic demand, according to a new report from the OECD Development Centre. GDP growth in Emerging Asia is projected to moderate gradually but stay resilient over […]
more…8 Oct, 2013
Survey Charts Online Queries for Boutique & Lifestyle Hotels
London (PRWEB UK) 7 October 2013 – There were three times as many online searches for Lifestyle & Boutique hotels in the UK than there were for those located in short-haul and long-haul destinations combined, reveals the latest analysis of specialist hotels search data from independent digital marketing agency, Greenlight. The agency’s “Boutique Hotels Sector […]
more…8 Oct, 2013
First high-level meeting to move beyond GDP in Asia, calculate “Value of Nature”
8 October, Bangkok (UNEP Media release) – Statisticians, economists, ecologists and policy makers across Asia are convening in Bangkok from today until 10 of October to look at ways to calculate the value of natural resources that could reshape the way country success is measured. The conference included technical discussions on “green accounting” systems and […]
more…7 Oct, 2013
Latest ITU Tech Stats Released: 30% of Global Youth Are Now ‘Digital Natives’
Geneva, 7 October 2013 (ITU media release) – Mobile broadband over smartphones and tablets has become the fastest growing segment of the global ICT market, according to ITU’s flagship annual report Measuring the Information Society 2013. New figures released today show buoyant global demand for information and communication technology (ICT) products and services, steadily declining prices […]
more…7 Oct, 2013
Gallup Poll: Americans See Current Shutdown as More Serious Than in ’95
WASHINGTON, D.C. -October 4, 2013 – (Gallup poll) – As non-essential parts of the federal government remain closed, 70% of Americans view the shutdown as a crisis or a major problem, even higher than the 56% saying the same at the height of the last shutdown in 1995. Leaders looking to gain ground in public […]
more…7 Oct, 2013
European Day of Languages: How to say “I Like You” in 24 Languages
Brussels, European Commission Press release – How do you say ‘I like you’ in 24 languages? This very useful information is brought to you by the European Commission on the occasion of the European Day of Languages (EDL) which was marked on 26 September 2013. It’s the minimum you’ll need to know if you’re planning […]
more…7 Oct, 2013
Early warning: Averting the next looming threat to ASEAN peace & prosperity
Mahidol University, Salaya Campus, Thailand – Regardless of how many highways and airports emerge in ASEAN, or how many telecommunications, single-visa and energy and currency swap deals the ASEAN leaders sign, the real bridges of peace and prosperity will be built only if they can overcome the looming threats of religious/ethnic discord. Discussions at an […]
more…5 Oct, 2013
U.S. Gov’t shutdown Already Taking a Toll On Small Tour Companies
Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB) October 05, 2013 – Bindlestiff Tours operates from its home-base in Las Vegas to provide unique “adventure-tour” services to visitors and tourists from both the United States and the world through their website. Popular with foreign visitors from Europe and stretching as far as Sri Lanka and India, Bindlestiff Tours allows […]
more…5 Oct, 2013
Overseas Migration Fuels Western Australia Population Growth
Canberra, 26 September 2013 – Net Overseas Migration continues to fuel Western Australia’s population growth, accounting for almost two thirds (63 per cent) of the state’s total growth in the year to 31 March 2013, according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). “WA’s population nudged 2.5 million people at the […]
more…5 Oct, 2013
Australia releases revised directory of family and domestic violence statistics
Canberra, 03 Oct 2013 – The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) today released the updated Directory of Family and Domestic Violence Statistics, aimed at improving the evidence base for family, domestic and sexual violence. The 2013 directory provides a detailed analysis of national and state and territory based data collections, encompassing both survey and administrative […]
more…4 Oct, 2013
Heritage Bank Survey: How Far Australians Go To Save a Dollar in 2013
(PRWEB) October 04, 2013 – Heritage Bank today released surprising results about our nation when it comes to how far people will go to save a dollar in 2013. The research was conducted as part of the Bank’s Number 1 for Value campaign, being rolled out across Queensland this month. Research covered a number of […]
more…4 Oct, 2013
UK spy agency faces legal action over mass surveillance
London, 03 Oct 2013, (Media release) — Today Big Brother Watch, working with the Open Rights Group, English PEN and German internet activist Constanze Kurz, has announced legal papers have been filed alleging that GCHQ has illegally intruded on the privacy of millions of British and European citizens. We allege that by collecting vast amounts of […]
more…3 Oct, 2013
$700 Million ADB Loan to Spur Crucial Private Investment in India Infrastructure
3 October 2013 – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved $700 million in loans to support the Indian government’s efforts to accelerate investment in the infrastructure that the country urgently needs to ensure strong economic growth. “Poor infrastructure is one of the biggest drags on growth and development in India and there is a large […]
more…3 Oct, 2013
Chinese tourists affected by US govt shutdown
LOS ANGELES, 2013-10-02, (Xinhua) – On the first day of US federal government shutdown, a Californian resident may not feel the impact, but many Chinese tourists are sad and their tour guides are nervous. Tony Lu has run a travel agency in Los Angeles for 20 years. Four tourist groups from China’s mainland organized by […]
more…2 Oct, 2013
FREE Download: FAO Report says global hunger down, but millions still chronically hungry
1 October 2013, Rome – Some 842 million people, or roughly one in eight, suffered from chronic hunger in 2011-13, not getting enough food to lead active and healthy lives according to a report released by the UN food agencies. The number is down from 868 million reported for the 2010-12 period, according to the […]
more…2 Oct, 2013
FREE Download: New Index Identifies Countries’ Ability to Develop and Nurture Human Capital
New York, USA, 1 October 2013 – The World Economic Forum’s first Human Capital Index has identified the most successful countries in the world when it comes to maximizing the long-term economic potential of their respective labour forces. The Index, which measures countries on their ability to develop and deploy healthy, educated and able workers […]
more…
Loading ...
