EUobserver.com: New report predicts boost in biometrics in Europe

EUobserver.com"New report predicts boost in biometrics in Europe"

City Pages - US No 1 ?

City Pages"US No 1 ?"

ekathimerini.com: Blueprint for Greek economy is made public

ekathimerini.com"Blueprint for Greek economy is made public"

IOL: New alliance launches campaign against EU Constitution

IOL"New Irish alliance launches campaign against EU Constitution"

Economist.com: The New Dutch Model

Morocco Waits its Turn Following Turkey's EU Membership

ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005033118021): "Morocco Waits its Turn Following Turkey's EU Membership "

Europe gives reluctant welcome to Wolfowitz

News: "Europe gives reluctant welcome to Wolfowitz"

Guardian Unlimited | EU backs Wolfowitz as World Bank chief

Guardian"EU backs Wolfowitz as World Bank chief"

Reuters: Chavez Uses Presidential Summit to Chide U.S.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on Tuesday dismissed U.S. criticism of his leftist rule at a summit with the leaders of Brazil, Colombia and Spain and said new geopolitical alliances were emerging in the world.

Telegraph: Chirac is dragging us down with him

A spectre is haunting Europe - and terrifying the President of France. Jacques Chirac last week pointed the finger: "Ultra-liberalism," he warned, "is the communism of our age." By "ultra-liberalism" Mr Chirac means the sort of market economics that has made America the world's strongest economy, rescued Britain from 40 years of decline and brought prosperity to countries ranging from New Zealand to Singapore. The fact that the leader of the French centre-Right can equate this with communism is a sad illustration of how France is stuck in the political dark ages.

albawaba.com: European Union plans economic support for Morocco and Tunisia

albawaba.com"European Union plans economic support for Morocco and Tunisia"

EU leading the world in wind-power generated energy

The EU is showing it has an independent vision on solving climatological and energy problems. This was already apparent at last years climate conference in Buenos Aires, when the Europeans suggested to make firm commitments on CO2 emissions, but it can also be seen in the love of Europeans for wind-power generated energy. At the end of 2003 there was a world-wide wind power energy installed capacity of 39 GW (39.000 mw), of which 73% was generated in the EU.

The global wind power industry installed 7,976 megawatts (MW) in 2004, an increase in total installed generating capacity of 20%, according to figures released by the Global Wind Energy Council - GWEC. Global wind power capacity has grown to 47,317MW. The individual countries with the highest total installed wind power capacity are Germany (16,629 MW), Spain (8,263 MW), the United States (6,740 MW), Denmark (3,117 MW) and India (3,000 MW).

The European Wind Energy Association expects that by 2012 the wind-powered energy capacity will have quadrupled. Most of the growth is expected in European offshore - wind energy parks. The capacity from that source, which was only 600 mw at the end of 2003 , is expected to grow to some 10.000 mw by 2010.

ExpressIndia: Upcoming American report to be critical of US intelligence

ExpressIndia"Upcoming American report to be critical of US intelligence

A White House intelligence panel report, expected to be unveiled this week, will detail how three years after 9/11, many of the problems within the nation's intelligence agencies that were blamed for the failure to detect the hijacking plot still remain."

IMF Research: Did Russia's flat tax boost revenues

IMF Research: Did Russia's flat tax boost revenues

In 2001, Russia's Government reduced the personal income tax to a single rate of 13 percent. Since then, tax revenues have soared, leading flat tax advocates to cite the Russian experience as evidence that tax revenue can be raised by cutting tax rates. For the latest research by the IMF on the results of the flat Russian tax rate see:http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/survey/2005/022105.pdf

NTV/MSNBC: Common sense needed for EU bid says TUSAID's Chairman, as women remain on the lower end of the totem pole in Turkey

NTV/MSNBC"Common sense needed for EU bid says TUSAID's Chairman, as women remain on the lower end of the totem pole in Turkey.

Regardless of these disturbing facts, Omer Sabanci, the chairman of the Turkish Industrialist and Businessmen Association (TUSIAD), told a seminar on Turkish priorities on globalisation, that emotion should not play a part in Turkey’s EU membership process and that the process has to distance itself from sentimentalism, and use patience and common sense. It certainly will not make him many friends among women organizations in Turkey and Europe."

Turkish Daily News - Turkey, EU agree on Cyprus protocol

Turkish Daily News"Turkey, EU agree on Cyprus protocol

Turkey and the European Commission agreed on the text of a protocol that would extend Ankara's Association Agreement with the European Union to the ten new members, including Greek Cyprus and is waiting for the commission to send a letter starting an exchange of letters as the first step in the eventual signing of the document."

IHT: With Interest: In EU tax race to bottom, who wins?

IHT"With Interest: In EU tax race to bottom, who wins?"

Iraq Coalition Casualties: Latest update

Iraq Coalition Casualties"Latest update: 1704 Coalition troops killed and more than 12.000 civilians dead"

Bloomberg.com: China Won't Gain Sensitive Weapons after Embargo says Chirac

Bloomberg.com"China Won't Gain Sensitive Weapons after Embargo says Chirac"

Times on-line: The escape door's open, but Blair stays on as EU hostage

Times Online"The escape door's open, but Blair stays on as EU hostage"

The Post IE: All still to play for in French EU referendum

The post IE"All still to play for in French EU referendum"

Deutsche Welle: European Union Appeals for Calm in Kyrgyzstan

Deutsche Welle"European Union Appeals for Calm in Kyrgyzstan"

Guardian: Voters in EU 'prefer' Ukraine to Turkey

Guardian"Voters in EU 'prefer' Ukraine to Turkey

A survey of some 6,000 people in the EU's six largest countries found 55% of voters would like Ukraine to become part of the union. This compares with 45% who support Turkey's bid to join, a process which is due to be formally launched on October 3."

TNews: Germany Deports Turkish Muslim Cleric

TNews"Germany Deports Turkish Muslim Cleric as the country debates anti-terror laws"

JTW News - US Prof. : 'No Genocide, But Armenian Riot'

JTW News US Prof. : 'No Genocide, But Armenian Riot'

Kurdistan Observer: An Open Letter to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey from Amed Demirhan in Florida

Kurdistan Observer"An Open Letter to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey from Amed Demirhan in Florida"

The King-Crane Commission Report: Asia Minor: Armenian Population

The King-Crane Commission Report" Asia Minor: Armenian Population"

FT.com: Why Britain needs a big French Yes vote

FT.com"Why Britain needs a big French Yes vote"

Prensa Latina: European Union Accuses Israel of violating Road Map Peace Plan

Prensa Latina"European Union Accuses Israel of violating" Road Map Peace Plan

Netherlands Coalition Government of Balkenende in Crises Mode

Netherlands Coalition Government of Balkenende in Crises Mode

"De Graaf's resignation has catapulted the Dutch government into crisis mode.
Most polls in the Netherlands now showing only one third of the Dutch electorate now support the middle-right coalition government".

Bush to visit Europe Again in May

Bush to visit Europe Again in May


The Dutch International Radio reported that President Bush will attend ceremonies at the Margraten war cemetery near the southern Dutch city of Maastricht on May 8, to mark the 60th anniversary of the end of Second World War. He will also meet with Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende, said the report.

Radio Netherlands said Bush will kick off his Europe tour on May 6 with a visit to Latvia. After the Netherlands, he will travel on to Moscow for talks with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. Bush will wrap up his trip in Georgia, where he is expected to express support for the reforms carried out by President Mikhail Saakashvili

NewMexican: France loosens 35-hour workweek

NewMexican"France loosens 35-hour workweek"

European Union needs 'open and flexible' economy, says Tony Blair

British Government Release"European Union needs 'open and flexible' economy, says Tony Blair"

ESA - Observing the Earth - Proba workshop: small satellite yielding beautiful results

ESA"Observing the Earth - ESA Proba workshop: small satellite yielding beautiful results"

SETimes: Italian President Reaffirms Support for Romania's EU Entry

SETimes.com"Italian President Reaffirms Support for Romania's EU Entry. Romania is considered one of the most corrupt countries in Europe and has been required to make a large number of major changes to its judicial, economic and political system, before it can begin EU membership negotiations."

Creators.com - "Who decides in cases such as Schiavo's? - Molly Ivens - syndicated political columnist

Creators.com "Who decides in cases such as Schiavo's? Molly Ivins, a nationally syndicated political columnist from Houston, Texas, 1966 graduate from Smith College, a former student at the Columbia University School of Journalism and the Institute of Political Sciences in Paris, gives insights on the political hypocracy in America around the Schiavo case."

Washington Times: Netherlands Ambassador defends Dutch euthanasia law

Washington TimesAt a reporters luncheon organized by the Washington Times, the Netherlands Ambassador in the US, Mr. Boudewijn van Eenennaam defended Dutch euthanasia laws and gave Washington Times reporters a lesson in pragmatism and democratic applications of the law in Europe: He argued that the Dutch law, the product of a broad and intense debate, has given patients, families and doctors clear guidelines while safeguarding against abuse of the law. --At least we have been able by a debate in our parliament to nail down our approach to the euthanasia question, the ambassador said. --We consider that a strong point on our part. Polls are showing that a large majority of Europeans and most of the press there consider the Terri Schiavo drama an example of US politics gone amok and a dispicable display of political pandering."

rabble news - Why doesn't Canada join the European Union?

rabble news"Why doesn't Canada join the European Union?"

SignOnSanDiego.com: European Union examines more complaints over Microsoft

SignOnSanDiego.com > News >SignOnSanDiego.com"European Union examines more complaints over Microsoft"

Times Online: US and Europe divided by life and death

Times Online"US and Europe divided by life and death"

SPIEGEL: Europe Goes Cold on Lifting China Arms Embargo "

SPIEGEL"Europe Goes Cold on Lifting China Arms Embargo"

EUROPA - Release: VP EU Jacques Barros says: "closer cooperation between EU and US in the field of Aviation"

EUROPA Release"VP EU Jacques Barros says: "closer cooperation between EU and US in the field of Aviation"

Expatica - EU leaders agree on services, stability pact

Expatica"EU leaders agree on services, stability pact"

Arab Times: French govt vows to rev up EU constitution campaign

Arab Times" French govt vows to rev up EU constitution campaign"

CORDIS: Lack of commitment now the key barrier to hydrogen economy, industry tells conference

CORDIS"Lack of commitment now the key barrier to hydrogen economy, industry tells conference"

Newropeans Magazine: What happens if the European Constitution is rejected?

Newropeans Magazine"What happens if the European Constitution is rejected? "

ZNet: Mapping The Oil Motive

ZNet"Mapping The Oil Motive"

OhmyNews: Can Europe Help Break N.Korea Impasse

OhmyNews"Can Europe Help Break N.Korea Impasse"

Aljazeera.Net - EU trio bring Russia in from the cold

Aljazeera.Net"EU trio bring Russia in from the cold"

The Ten Worst Corporations of 2004

multnational montor"The Ten Worst Corporations of 2004"

Novosti: FROM THE EARTH TO THE MOON VIA PARIS

Novosti" FROM THE EARTH TO THE MOON VIA PARIS"

IHT: European cellphone firms plan major research effort

IHT"European cellphone firms plan major research effort"

Haaretz - European Union to declare customs exemptions on joint Israel-Arab exports

Haaretz"European Union to declare customs exemptions on joint Israel-Arab exports"

US says aircraft subsidy talks with European Union break down

finfacts.com"US says aircraft subsidy talks with European Union break down"

Economist.com: Survey - Turkey Looking to Europe

Economist.com"Survey - Turkey Looking to Europe"

South Florida Sun Sentinel: 20 Million Copies Later, Vatican Says Don't Read 'Da Vinci Code'

South Florida Sun-Sentinel20 Million Copies Later, Vatican Says Don't Read 'Da Vinci Code'

USATODAY.com - Investing internationally

USATODAY.com"Investing Internationally"

The Stage Online : "European Union moves to create regulator for RTE

The Stage Online"European Union moves to create regulator for RTE"

European Union And The New World Order -

European Union And The New World Order - I AM A EURO-SCEPTIC NO-MORE

By Simon Maslin
Mar. 18, 2005

Now I always used to be a little conservative in these things - always getting into arguments verging on the hysterical - and my reactions were hardly unusual in a country such as Britain, where knee-jerk politics are the norm. Lately, however, I've begun to see the light.

Is this another interminable rant against religion? Hell no. I'm talking about Europe.

You see, in this part of the world there has been a colossal revolution in international politics occuring in the last few decades. The ancient collection of perpetually feuding kingdoms, republics and assorted nationalities in Western Europe have been busy unifying their political machineries and financial institutions and creating a new order out of the eternal mess which led to so many wars in the past.

Many people (myself included) in the UK have viewed this process with varying degrees of skepticism, not least because it divests power away from our national authorites and creates a new mega-beaurocracy over our heads in a country which isn't anything to do with us (ie; Belgium). We look at the increasing influence the French have over our domestic agricultural and fiscal processes and remember Waterloo. We look at the German economy's increasing impact on our own and remember Dunkirk. In short, we get awfully twitchy and a tad xenophobic.

However, the more I actually travel in Europe and visit places like France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany and Austria, the more I am gradually coming around to this whole idea. Britain these days is a festering mess of non- functioning public transport, collapsing healthcare systems and America-obsessed uber- aggressive governmental foreign pollicies - things I just don't encounter on the continent, where everything is organised, tidy, efficient and actually works. Well, as long as I conveniently forget about Spain, Greece and Italy of course - but at least they have great scenery.

I'm still not a fan of the Schengen accord's removal of internal borders (which allows every lunatic who enters the EU at one end, to cross all its component countries without any contest from immigration officials) or the general overbaring beaurocracy; but the system is clearly working. The new Euro currency is thrashing the dollar in the international markets, international pan-European transportation systems are becoming more and more efficient (except in Britain, of course) and what we are starting to see is the emergence of the EU as a new world economic superpower. They're even getting their own united army put together. It's astonishing to see after so many bloody centuries of conflict and should be something of a lesson to a world where generally speaking, every poxy little bit of desert is currently trying to liberate itself from every other poxy bit of desert...

So it seems that Europe is providing one of the few genuinely interesting political case studies at present; in a world with the right-wing Christian world police of America and the barely twitching communist rhetoric of China as the only extant superpowers, it is encouraging to see that this bold experiment in co-operation is fast becoming a formidable unified power on the world stage.

I am Euro-skeptic no more.

CNEWS - EU threatens Microsoft with new fines for non-compliance

CNEWS"EU threatens Microsoft with new fines for non-compliance"

EUROPA: EU research maximises regional dynamics, boosts competitiveness for EU SMEs

EUROPA" EU research maximises regional dynamics, boosts competitiveness for EU SMEs"

Economist.com: A hawk to ruffle the World Bank's feathers

Economist.com"A hawk to ruffle the World Bank's feathers - Bush is doing whatever he wants"

Forbes.com: Putting A New Face On 'Old Europe'

Forbes.com"Putting A New Face On 'Old Europe'"

Aljazeera.Net - Italy to withdraw troops from Iraq

Aljazeera.Net"Italy to withdraw troops from Iraq - war extremely unpopular also in Italy"

RED HERRING: Investing in China - the ins and outs

RED HERRING" Investing in China - the ins and outs"

ABC Online: Wolfowitz's World Bank nomination worries Oxfam.

ABC News Online"Wolfowitz's World Bank nomination worries Oxfam"

TurkishPress.com: Turkish president to visit Syria despite US displeasure

Turkish Press.com"Turkish president to visit Syria despite US displeasure"

Expatica - Support for EU Constitution slips in France

Expatica"Support for EU Constitution slips in France"

VOV Hanoi: EU has become Vietnam's major trading partner

VOV Hanoi"EU has become Vietnam's major trading partner"

ESA - Vega on track to meet 2007 deadline

ESA" European rocket Vega to meet 2007 deadline"

CSMonitor: Admakers turn to Europe's rising gray set

csmonitor.com"Admakers turn to Europe's rising gray set "

SignOnSanDiego.com -- EU to give thumbs-down to Croatia membership talks

SanDiego.com> "EU to give thumbs-down to Croatia membership talks"

mmorning.com: ‘A change of mindset needed in Turkey'

mmorning.com" ‘A change of mindset needed in Turkey'"

Salon.com: Democracy -- by George?

Salon.com" Democracy -- by George?

The Star: World Economic Ranking - US 1, EU 2, China 3 - but ranking will change in 10 years say British

The Star"World Economic Ranking-US 1, EU 2, China 3 - but ranking will change in 10 years say British.

The British government, which takes on the presidency of the European Union later this year, published a report Tuesday outlining economic challenges facing Europe, including competition from emerging economies in Asia. The Treasury paper, which studies the implications of global economic trends on European countries, identifies rising Asian economies, integration and relocation of economic activity and rapid technological changes as challenges that will affect the 25-nation EU's ability to deliver economic growth, jobs and a high standard of living for its citizens.

The report predicts China's economy will be the second largest in the world within a decade, while the European Union will account for a diminishing share of world output.
It suggests that around 5 million service jobs from Europe and the United States could be relocated abroad by 2015. The report says increasing pressure will be placed on natural resources and Europe will need to take a leading role in tackling climate change through more efficient use of energy resources."

Nordic Roundtable Bulletin: SUMMARY OF THE NORDIC ROUNDTABLE ON BUSINESS RELATIONS AND SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION

Nordic Roundtable Bulletin" SUMMARY OF THE NORDIC ROUNDTABLE ON BUSINESS RELATIONS AND SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION IN A NORTH/SOUTH PERSPECTIVE"

National Post: European Union ministers near deal on agency to manage fisheries

National Post"European Union ministers near deal on agency to manage fisheries"

The Standard - Anti-subsidy action to hit Chinese exports

The Standard"Anti-subsidy action to hit Chinese exports"

The Post.IE : ECB interest rates rise poses a serious threat for Irish

The Post.IE"ECB interest rates rise poses a serious threat for Irish"

Dutch News Digest - A Dutch Ultra Conservative Disciple of Pim Fortuyn Presents His Political Program

Dutch News DigestDutch Ultra Conservative Presents Political Program.

Gert Wilders describes the present Dutch Political Parties as cowardly and fearful, who have managed to cast a spell over the Netherlands whereby, expectations are kept to a minimum. Wilders cites the three largest political parties in the Netherlands, the Labor Party, the Christian Democrats and the Conservative Liberal Party as the political elite.

Wilders says he wants to eliminate Islamic schools while retaining Catholic and Protestant schools. He would also demand that those newcomers who fail naturalization tests be expelled from the country; he would prohibit the wearing of head scarves for those holding public functions.

On the international front, Wilders believes the Political ties between the Netherlands and the Netherlands Antilles should be broken and he wants to severe the ties with the EU. Note EU Digest Politicians like Gert Wilders, a disciple of Pim Fortuyn, are among a handful of Dutch politicians who have poisoned the Dutch political and social climate with radical and dangerous populist promises. They have turned the Netherlands, which traditionally has always been a country of great tolerance, compassion and respect for other cultures and religions, into a confrontational society. Europe is not served by such politicians."

The Daily Star: Jumblatt meets with European Socialist Party members in Lebanon

The Daily Star"Jumblatt meets with European Socialist Party members in Lebanon

Former French Premier Pierre Mauroy a member of the European delegation paid tribute to Hariri and said that the international community, particularly the Lebanese, wanted the truth about the death of Hariri. Mauroy added, - We, as Europeans, should exert all efforts to allow international investigations to take place.Mauroy also said, - it is necessary to implement democracy in Lebanon; and we, as Europeans, will support the Lebanese in this process."

cafebabel: Resolving conflict or securing trade interests?

cafebabel"Resolving conflict or securing trade interests?"

SwissRe.com: The Insurance Industry: Complex, high-risk systems: Is man the weakest link in the chain?

SwissRe.com" The Insurance Industry: Is man the weakest link in the chain?Accidents in complex, high-risk systems such as chemical plants, nuclear power stations, space, aviation or shipping can rarely be attributed to one single cause."

AFP: Miss Germany crowned Miss Europe

AFP Mar 13: Dark-haired Miss Germany, Shahrivar Shermine, a 22-year-old of Iranian origin won the title of Miss Europe 2005 late Saturday in Paris.

The 1.74 metre (5ft 10 inch) beauty queen, who has just finished her university studies, speaks German, Farsi, English and French. Her hobbies are horse-riding and swimming. Among the judges of the contest, beamed live to more than 50 countries, were singer Charles Aznavour and couturier Paco Rabanne.

The other finalists were Miss Armenia, Miss France, Miss Slovakia and Miss England.

EUobserver.com: EU battle troops could go to war says Nato chief

EUobserver.com"EU battle troops could go to war says Nato chief"

US Census Bureau: US Goods and Services Deficit Increases To Record levels

FTD - US Census Bureau "US Goods and Services Deficit Increases To Record Levels

The U.S. trade deficit poses great risks for the US economy as the US must borrow abroad to finance its trade deficits. Also the considerable decline in the dollar indicates that private foreign lenders are less willing to supply new credit. Foreign governments have been forced to step into the gap and finance a growing share of U.S. international debt. The US Deficit now equals 44% of total US government revenues."

YahooNews - Shi'ite-Kurdish Talks to Form Iraq Government Fail

YahooNews"Shi'ite-Kurdish Talks to Form Iraq Government Fail

Ahmad Chalabi, a leading member of the Shi'ite bloc, the United Iraqi Alliance, returned empty-handed on Saturday from a trip to Iraqi Kurdistan to try and save the proposed Kurdish-Shi'ite alliance. They want to lay the responsibility for the political equation solely on the Kurdish side, interim Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih, a Kurd, told al-Arabiya television. We are willing to sacrifice the presidency to the Shi'ites if the Shi'ites sacrifice the premiership to a Sunni, Salih said ironically, reflecting Iraq's failure to put aside sectarian divisions cultivated by toppled leader Saddam Hussein."

New Kerala.com: European Chambers of Commerce report: EU economy 20 years behind the U.S.

New Kerala.com"The EU economy lags 20 years behind the U.S.

According to a study released Friday by the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry. In a comparison study between the EU and the United States on gross domestic product, research and development, productivity and employment levels, the study found that there were significant time distances between the two regions by at least 20 years in some cases. The U.S. has a clear economic time lead, even increasing it after 2000, said Arnaldo Abruzzini, secretary general of Eurochambres. Even the most optimistic assumptions show it will take the EU decades to catch up and only if there is considerable EU improvement. Although the EU showed signs of increasing economic progress during the 1990s, the United States has considerably surpassed the region.Eurochambres explained that aside from keeping track on progress made on the Lisbon Agenda - the EU's economic reform strategy - it is prudent to compare the development of the European economy against the world's leading economy, the United States. Based on the results of the survey, the EU has fallen long behind the United States in terms of income per capita, employment, research and productivity. Note EU-Digest: The Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry represents 43 national associations of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, a European network of 2000 regional and local Chambers with over 18 million member enterprises in Europe. The full report is available at http://www.eurochambres.be/PDF/pdf_press_2005/09-SpringBusinessForum11March05.pdf"

The Daily Star - - Hizbullah is not a problem - it is part of Lebanon's solution

Hizbullah is not a problem - it is part of Lebanon's solution.

Civil violence is a red line that should never be crossed - If we cross it, the country will return to square one in the history of the Lebanese crisis. These words came from Hizbullah Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. By the same token, Nasrallah emphasized that a Syrian withdrawal does not give a green light for other powers to step into Syria's shoes:Sovereignty and freedom means to be masters of our own destiny. We are ready to unite with the opposition in the fight for true freedom and independence.If sovereignty means anything at all, then it means independence from the United States and Israel as much as it means independence from Syria.

Aljazeera.Net - Hamas to participate in Palestinian legislative elections

Aljazeera.Net"Hamas to participate in Palestinian legislative elections and has ability to win."

Slate MSN: Bush to U.N.: Drop Dead - as he appoints John Bolton

Slate MSN"Bush to U.N.: Drop Dead - John Bolten a human wrecking ball to represent US at UN. "

Iran, Venezuela sign several agreements worth more than 1 billion US dollars.

IRNA-Islamic Republic News Agency: Iran, Venezuela sign several agreements worth more than 1 billion US dollars. On Friday, Iran and Venezuela signed several agreements worth a total of over one billion dollars.

The documents were signed by visiting Iranian President Mohammad Khatami and his Venezuelan counterpart Hugo Chavez.
The agreements and memoranda of understanding signed by the two presidents covered various fields. Agreements on encouragement and support of investment, avoidance
of double taxation, shipping and marine trade as well as MoUs on oil, gas and petrochemistry are among the signed documents. The agreements also cover cooperation between the two countries on geological and mines projects. In a separate ceremony here Friday, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez handed the highest official sign of his country to Iranian President Mohammad Khatami."

Webindia123.com: Indian-owned business represents 5 pct of London's economy

Webindia123.com"Indian-owned business represents 5 pct of London's economy"

YahooNews - U.S. and EU Launch Joint Strategy on Iran

YahooNews"U.S. and EU Launch Joint Strategy on Iran"

CS Monitor: US war mistake tests Italy's patience

csmonitor.com"US war mistake tests Italy's patience

Italy, which has troops in Iraq despite the fact that at least 60 percent of the population opposes the war, the death of Calipari has snowballed into a diplomatic stand-off. Mr. Berlusconi is not likely to withdraw Italian troops in retaliation, but he is under pressure to demand answers from his US allies. In many cases of US military errors, critics say there is rarely any recognition of a failure high in the American command chain. Technical glitches are identified or individual, junior soldiers are punished, usually lightly. "At best, they will tell us a soldier from Tennessee made a mistake," said Bobo Craxi, the son of Italy's former Socialist Prime Minister Bettino Craxi, dismissing the ongoing investigations. Italy is not the only country feeling uneasy as the American military investigates its own mistakes. US friendly fire claimed the death of one Bulgarian soldier last week in Iraq. US officials have pledged to investigate both incidents.

"What people want is a major political admission of guilt," says Roberto Menotti, analyst at Rome's Aspen Institute. "There is mounting pressure among US allies to find a way for independent tribunals to judge these cases. But the US, he notes, opposes the International Criminal Court. "The US is one of the few democratic countries in the world that does not accept the idea of supernational legal action," says Menotti. "As long as America insists on judging itself, that is a problem for all of its allies."

The Progressive: Putin Stumbles

The Progressive"Putin Stumbles

The state-run television channels were in hysterics. Every political show included condemnation of American expansionism and calls to protect the country against an enemy that was threatening the very existence of the state. It was not the Soviet Union in the 1950s, Cuba in 1961, or Iraq in early 2003. It was Moscow last December."

ESA - Spectacular shot from outer space of Europe covered by snow from Envisat

ESA"A spectacular picture from outer space of Europe covered by snow.

Spring gets off to an unseasonal start across Europe: the image taken by the European weather satellite Envisat last week shows the continent covered by snow all the way down from Sweden down to Italy."

Business Week: The Nimble Shall Inherit the Earth

Business Week"The Nimble Shall Inherit the Earth"

Times online: Dutch lose their faith in Europe

Times Online"Dutch lose their faith in Europe"

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia: Presentation of Baltic films opens in Canada

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia"Presentation of Baltic films opens in Canada"

Turkish Daily News - Turkey goes on the offensive

Turkish Daily News"Turkey goes on the offensive - and talks about the alledged Armenian genocide"

EUobserver.com: EU Constitution could run into Czech hurdle

EUobserver.com"The Czech cabinet has adopted a law paving the way for a referendum on the EU Constitution, while the eurosceptic opposition has tabled its own version of the bill. The row could lead to a ratification in parliament, which might also prove difficult."

The Korea Times : Hungary Strategic Center of Europe

The Korea Times"Hungary a Strategic Center of Europe - the enlargement of the EU has enhanced Hungary’s attractiveness as an investment location.

Hungary’s industrial production grew by 8.3 percent in 2004 after corresponding figures of 3.6 percent for 2001, 2.8 percent for 2002 and 6.4 percent for 2003."

CeBIT - CeBIT in Hanover Throws the spotlight on SME's

CeBIT - CeBIT SME"CeBIT in Hanover Throws the spotlight on SME's - Hanover March 10 - 16, 2005

Worlds largest electronic Trade Fair: The market for information and telecommunications technology has undergone a dynamic transformation, and the breakneck pace of development in IT, telecommunications, software and services has opened up completely new perspectives for our work and daily lives. Experience tomorrow today at CeBIT."

Aljazeera.Net - Crude oil prices top $55 a barrel

Aljazeera.Net" Crude oil prices top $55 a barrel.

Crude oil futures have risen above $55 a barrel as traders shrugged off evidence of rising supplies in the United States and focused on strong demand, cold weather and the weak dollar."

Daily Times - Surge in asylum seekers on new EU frontier: Cyprus

Daily Times Cyprus a soft EU border state gets a surge of asylum seekers"

All You Need to Know about the EU Constitution and more

All the information on the EU Constitution including the full text of the document can be found in: http://europa.eu.int/constitution/index_en.htm

EUobserver.com: Giscard is selling the Constitution – to the Americans

EUobserver.com"Giscard is selling the Constitution – to the Americans -- note EU-DIGEST: instead of selling the EU Constitution to the Americans, who really can't care less, Mr.Valéry Giscard d'Estaing should be selling the Constitution in Europe, where it counts. Nine out of ten people questioned all over Europe say they have never gotten any information about the EU Constitution or read about it in local newspapers. Unfortunately, the ineffective publicity campaign sofar on the EU Constitution throughout the EU could mean the sudden death of this ambitious Constitutional project for Europe."

European Neighbourhood Policy: the next steps

EU"European Neighbourhood Policy: what lies ahead"

EU TO ASSIST IRAQ IN STRENGTHENING THE IRAQI CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), recently announced the appointment of Mr Stephen White as the Head of the EU Integrated Rule of Law Mission for Iraq (EUJUST - LEX). The appointment follows the endorsement by the EU's Political and Security Committee (PSC) of a proposal by the High Representative Javier Solana.EUJUST LEX follows an invitation by the Iraqi authorities and aims at addressing the urgent needs in the Iraqi criminal justice system through providing training for high and mid level officials in senior management and criminal investigation. It will promote closer collaboration between the different actors across the Iraqi criminal justice system and strengthen the management capacity of senior and high-potential officials primarily from the police, judiciary and penitentiary. The training activities will take place in the EU or in the region. EUJUST LEX will have a Coordinating Office in Brussels and a Liaison Office in Baghdad. Training facilities and trainers will provided by the EU Member States. The operational phase of the Mission will begin no later than 1 July 2005. It is expected to cover an initial period of 12 months. The amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the common costs of the mission will be EUR 10 million (EU budget). In addition, EU Member States will contribute training courses and trainers.

RADIO FREE EUROPE: Turkish PM Wants Probe Of Armenia Genocide Claims

RADIO FREE EUROPE"Turkish PM Wants Probe Of Armenia Genocide Claims"

AINA: Kurdish-Turkomen Plan to Grab Kirkuk's Oil Revenues

AINA Are Kurdish-Turkomen planning to grab Kirkuk's oil revenues?"

Latest number of Iraq Coalition Casualties - total number of "coalition" troops including EU forces killed: 1685

Latest update Iraq Coalition Casualties" total number of coalition troops including EU forces killed: 1685. Total number of innocent civillians killed approximately 13.000 people."

International Women's Day

International Women's DayMarch 8, Women's day, as women the world over celebrate this day : historical background"

EUbusiness - Greek socialists push for referendum on EU constitution

EUbusiness" Greek socialists push for referendum on EU constitution"

Expatica - Dutch emigration rate higest since 1950's

Expatica: "Dutch emigration rate highest since 1950s, but most emigrants go to Belgium and Germany"

Albania to profide troops in EUFOR - ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Today, March 7, 2005, Javier SOLANA, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), will sign an Agreement with Pandeli Majko, Minister of Defense of Albania, on the participation of Albania in Operation EUFOR - ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Operation ALTHEA is the first EU military operation in which Albania is participating. Albania contributes with a significant contingent comprised of 50 troops. It already participated in SFOR, from which ALTHEA took over in December 2004.

greaterkashmir.com: Jammu Minorities Forum suggests Indo-Pak amalgamation on European Union pattern

greaterkashmir.com"Jammu Minorities Forum suggests Indo-Pak amalgamation on European Union pattern"

ECB leaves interest rates unchanged

ECB"ECB leaves interest rates unchanged"

Gulf Daily News: GM selects German Opel Plant over Swedish Saab operation

Gulf Daily News: "GM selects German Opel Plant over Swedish Saab operation. German plant was $260 million more cost-effective than the Swedish factory says GM."

StockHouse: France Telecom to join race for Cesky

StockHouse"France Telecom to join race for Cesky"

Jang Group:Schroeder caps Gulf trip with lucrative deals

Jang Group"Schroeder caps Gulf trip with lucrative deals of close to one billion US Dollars"

Dawn.com: Iran warns Europe, US of oil crisis

DAWN.com"Iran warns Europe, US of oil crisis"

EuroNews: Iraq - shooting of Italian Journalist by US Forces puts pressure on US-Italian relations

EuroNews"Iraq - shooting of Italian Journalist by US Forces puts pressure on US-Italian relations. Giuliana Sgrena partner reporter Pier Scolari believes the shooting was no mistake, describing the actions of US forces as an ambush. The car had already passed other American checkpoints, he said. Some 300-400 bullets hit the vehicle, killing Nicola Calipari who was trying to protect Giuliana. According to Pier Scolari Giuliana Sgrena had information that meant the Americans did not want her to make it out alive. Giuliano Sgrena had been critical in her reporting about the US occupation of Iraq."

Today.Az - Statement of ambassadors of European Union countries in connection with murder of Elmar Huseynov

Today.Az"Statement of ambassadors of European Union countries in connection with murder of Elmar Huseynov"

Agenzia Giornalistica Italia: Journalist Giuliana Sgrena freed by Iraqi capters shot by US forces on her way to Bagdad

Agenzia Giornalistica Italia"Agenzia Giornalistica Italia: Award winner left wing journalist Giuliana Sgrena freed by Iraqi capters shot by US patrol on her way to Bagdad - Italian Secret service agent protecting Ms Sgrena killed by US troops"

BosNewsLife News: Central Europe's First Christian News Agency Launched

BosNewsLife"Central Europe's First Christian News Agency Launched"

Irish maverick commissioner meets EU stonewall - but EU better sit up and listen

IHT-online"Irish maverick commissioner meets EU stonewall - but EU better sit up and listen"

EUPolitix.com - French set date for EU constitution vote

EUPolitix.com"French set date for EU constitution vote"

Economist.com : The European Union's finances

Economist.com"The European Union's finances"

TCS: The Real Threat to "Social Europe"

TCS"The Real Threat to "Social Europe""

EUbusiness - ECB raises expectations for oil prices, euro-dollar exchange rate this year

EUbusiness"ECB raises expectations for oil prices, euro-dollar exchange rate this year"

Deutsche Welle: Germany - Job Cuts Can Leave Survivors Bitter

Deutsche Welle"Germany - Job Cuts Can Leave Survivors Bitter"

Holland: Dutch school finds peaceful approach to defuse religious misunderstanding

The Heemde II, a Christian-Protestant school in Almelo, Holland, which years ago was only attended by Christian students, but now, because of changing demographics in the area only has Muslim students, remained faithful to its Christian Charter. Director Theo Plezier of the Heemde II says, "this means that every day we continue to pray, sing and read out of the bible, based on Protestant-Christian doctrine. The parents and the kids don't mind, because when they register their kids we make sure to inform them exactly what our curriculum includes. We hope our approach will not only give the Muslim kids a better understanding of Christianity, but we also get educated on the Koran and the Muslim religion." Theo Plezier seems to have found a peaceful approach in defusing religious misunderstanding.

Public Libraries of Europe

INDEX PAGE "Listing of Public Libraries in Europe"

European Union Opposes U.S. Declaration That Right to Abortion Not Established in 1995 U.N. Women's Rights Platform

Medical News Today"European Union Opposes U.S. Declaration That Right to Abortion Not Established in 1995 U.N. Women's Rights Platform"

ZAMAN DAILY: EU Survey: Turkey Most Critical of US

ZAMAN DAILY"EU Survey: Turkey Most Critical of US in Europe"

Guardian Unlimited: Muslims face increased stop and search in Britain

Guardian Unlimited"Muslims face increased stop and search in Britain"

A Red Carpet For American Investors in Europe

Businessweek -online"A Red Carpet For American Investors in Europe"

Yahoo UK/Ireland: Global illegal drug abuse on rise

Yahoo UK & Ireland News"Global illegal drug abuse on rise"

EU ANTI-SMOKING DRIVE UNDERWAY

EU gets serious about the ill effects of smoking on health
The anti-tobacco campaign will tour the EU's 25 capitals

European Union Health Commissioner Markos Kyprianou has launched a 72m euro anti-smoking campaign targeting children and young adults.

Mr Kyprianou, who used to be a heavy smoker, said more than 650,000 Europeans were dying every year from the effects of smoking.

The economic costs of smoking - in healthcare and lost working days - amounts to about 100bn euros annually.

Mr Kyprianou urged EU member states to ban smoking in public areas.

He told a news conference in Brussels that the average age of first-time smokers had dropped to 13.

The campaign, spread over the next four years, will include a series of EU-wide television and cinema advertisements.

BBC NEWS: German jobless rate at new record

BBC NEWS"German jobless rate at new record"

EUROPA - The protection of children’s rights within the European Union under the “New Brussels II Regulation”

EUROPA Releases"The protection of children’s rights within the European Union under the New Brussels II Regulation "

Court rules European Union trade laws stand

Businessweek"Court rules European Union trade laws stand"

A EUROPEAN TV NEWS SERVICE: EuroNews chosen by the European Union to provide better info about Europe

INFOSAT.INFO Nachrichten"EuroNews chosen by the European Union to provide better info about Europe"

Automotive News Europe: The 2005 Geneva Auto Show

Automotive News Europe"The 2005 Geneva Auto Show

Mercedes-Benz' new B-class wagon is the latest platform the automaker is using as a test bed for its development of fuel-cell powertrains. The German luxury automaker rolled out the new fuel-cell vehicle, dubbed the B-class F cell, Tuesday at the Geneva auto show."

café babel: Exporting rights - with or without Bush

café babelEU exporting rights - with or without Bush."

Ukrayinska Pravda:EU Commissioner: Ukraine will join the European Union in 2015

The Ukrayinska PravdaEU Commissioner: Ukraine will join the European Union in 2015