A tectonic shift is taking place in American politics: the extreme Right is on the rise and it is transforming the Republican Party. From Delaware to New York to Alaska, Tea Party candidates are sweeping Republican primaries. Part denial; part naiveté; part attack: it was only a year ago that most (in both parties) dismissed the Tea Party as too crazy, too irrational, and too fringe to be politically viable. It is now clear that crazy has marched to the steps of the Capitol. The Tea Party is Right America's new political reality and it is, contrary to Mayor Bloomberg's wishful thinking, no passing fad. Few have understood this phenomenon correctly: what exactly is the nature of this right wing rebellion?
Note EU-Digest: Before Obama, Americans elected George Bush, who among the many weird things he said once made the following profound statement: "More and more of our imports come from overseas."
Today.... impatient Americans are disappointed with Obama, because he is not delivering them "instant" prosperity". After all, that is what US citizens are used to with everything, their food, losing weight, success, you name it. So now they are going for the Tea party, which promises less Government, lower taxes and "magic" to make the US deficit disappear. Oh yes,we nearly forgot, they also cherish Sarah Palin - One sometimes wonders ...have they all got it together up there across the pond? But America, don't worry, Europe is always ready and willing to follow you...and believe it or not, the crazies are also lining up here.
For more - Shaun Jacob Halper: Crazy on the March: The Tea Party Takes Over the Republican Party:
9/21/10
Turmoil In France Largely Due To Economy
France has been in turmoil over the past two weeks. Hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets to protest the government's economic policy. President Nicolas Sarkozy is involved in a shouting match with the EU in Brussels over his crackdown on the Roma, the French gypsy community. And the huge Muslim community also feels picked on. This week, the French parliament voted to ban traditional Islamic dress that covers the face.
For more: Turmoil In France Largely Due To Economy : NPR
For more: Turmoil In France Largely Due To Economy : NPR
The Netherlands: Internet Censorship Proposed by Justice Minister Ernst Hirsch-Ballin
Dutch Finance Minister Ernst Hirsch-Ballin has put forward a proposal which indirectly has the appearance of controlling the use of Internet Hirsch-Ballin says the purpose of the proposal is aimed at combatting crime that is being enhanced by the use of Internet.
His proposal has three main points: a) Dutch courts to get the power to have information considered "not accurate" removed from the Internet; b) people or organizations who distribute or sell "non-public" information via the Internet can get a one year prison sentence; c) people who pass on information about credit card codes or passwords will be prosecuted by the legal system. By combining in the proposal item A and B with C, which is already in effect, the proposal is given the appearance to be a crime combatting proposal. Presently the blocking of websites in the Netherlands still requires due process and the approval of the Chief Prosecutor.
The proposal immediately resulted in a written protest to the Dutch Minister of Justice, signed by scientists, public interest and internet organizations. The letter was also signed by the Dutch Lawyers Organization, the Committee for Human Rights and the Digital Freedom Organization "Bits of Freedom". The proposal is seen by the signatories of the letter as a tool which can obstruct the Public's right to freedom of expression on a variety of issues including mal-practise at several levels, even that of the Government. It would also restrict the activities of "wistle- blowers" and public "watch-dogs ", such as wikileaks who have exposed many a Government un-democratic and secret activities.
For more news see EU-Digest
His proposal has three main points: a) Dutch courts to get the power to have information considered "not accurate" removed from the Internet; b) people or organizations who distribute or sell "non-public" information via the Internet can get a one year prison sentence; c) people who pass on information about credit card codes or passwords will be prosecuted by the legal system. By combining in the proposal item A and B with C, which is already in effect, the proposal is given the appearance to be a crime combatting proposal. Presently the blocking of websites in the Netherlands still requires due process and the approval of the Chief Prosecutor.
The proposal immediately resulted in a written protest to the Dutch Minister of Justice, signed by scientists, public interest and internet organizations. The letter was also signed by the Dutch Lawyers Organization, the Committee for Human Rights and the Digital Freedom Organization "Bits of Freedom". The proposal is seen by the signatories of the letter as a tool which can obstruct the Public's right to freedom of expression on a variety of issues including mal-practise at several levels, even that of the Government. It would also restrict the activities of "wistle- blowers" and public "watch-dogs ", such as wikileaks who have exposed many a Government un-democratic and secret activities.
For more news see EU-Digest
9/20/10
Italy: Beppe Grillo is putting fire to the heels of Berlusconi
Giuseppe Piero Grillo, better known as Beppe Grillo (born 21 July 1948), is an Italian activist, blogger, comedian, actor and politician, who also works in theaters and on radio and television.
After receiving his degree as an accountant, Grillo became a comedian by chance, improvising a monologue in an audition. Two weeks later he was discovered and launched by Italian TV presenter Pippo Baudo. He became more and more popular as the years went on and his performances began to be characterized by an increasing level of political satire, often expressed in such a direct way that he quickly offended a lot of Italian politicians. In the past he once attacked the then Italian Socialist Party and its leader PM Bettino Craxi, during his visit to the People's Republic of China. Grillo said: "If the Chinese are all socialists, whom do they steal from?"
He maintains a blog (available in Italian, English and Japanese) at beppegrillo.it which is updated daily. Comments to posts regularly top the thousands (in the Italian version). According to Technorati, the blog is ranked among the 10 most visited blogs in the world.
Grillo has proposed that members of the Italian Parliament, who have a criminal record should be barred from public office. During his shows Grillo never hesitates to name firms and personalities he considers corrupt, always supporting his views with data and documents. For this reason he has been sued several times by many people and organizations which he had exposed, such as Telecom Italia and farmalat.
Of all his satire and critique, the one Grillo applies most effectively is that against Berlusconi, which appears tobe without a doubt probably the most effective verbal weapon against a man who appears to be out to destroy freedom of speech in Italy and who runs the country like a Maffia boss.
After receiving his degree as an accountant, Grillo became a comedian by chance, improvising a monologue in an audition. Two weeks later he was discovered and launched by Italian TV presenter Pippo Baudo. He became more and more popular as the years went on and his performances began to be characterized by an increasing level of political satire, often expressed in such a direct way that he quickly offended a lot of Italian politicians. In the past he once attacked the then Italian Socialist Party and its leader PM Bettino Craxi, during his visit to the People's Republic of China. Grillo said: "If the Chinese are all socialists, whom do they steal from?"He maintains a blog (available in Italian, English and Japanese) at beppegrillo.it which is updated daily. Comments to posts regularly top the thousands (in the Italian version). According to Technorati, the blog is ranked among the 10 most visited blogs in the world.
Grillo has proposed that members of the Italian Parliament, who have a criminal record should be barred from public office. During his shows Grillo never hesitates to name firms and personalities he considers corrupt, always supporting his views with data and documents. For this reason he has been sued several times by many people and organizations which he had exposed, such as Telecom Italia and farmalat.
Of all his satire and critique, the one Grillo applies most effectively is that against Berlusconi, which appears tobe without a doubt probably the most effective verbal weapon against a man who appears to be out to destroy freedom of speech in Italy and who runs the country like a Maffia boss.
Europe damaged by submission to US'says Iran
"History shows that Europe's submission to the United States has been harmful to European countries," Head of the Majlis National Security and Foreign Policy Commission Alaeddin Boroujerdi said in a meeting with former Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi in Tehran on Sunday.
Boroujerdi said sanctions have had no impact on Iran's development, adding, "Over the past 30 years, the Iranian nation turned sanctions into opportunities for progress in advanced sciences and technologies".
The Iranian lawmaker reiterated that all reports by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have confirmed non-diversion in Iran's peaceful nuclear activities.
For more: PressTV - 'Europe damaged by submission to US'
Boroujerdi said sanctions have had no impact on Iran's development, adding, "Over the past 30 years, the Iranian nation turned sanctions into opportunities for progress in advanced sciences and technologies".
The Iranian lawmaker reiterated that all reports by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have confirmed non-diversion in Iran's peaceful nuclear activities.
For more: PressTV - 'Europe damaged by submission to US'
Turks Less Interested in Joining EU as Economy, Political Influence Grow - by James G. Neuger
Turkish eagerness to join the European Union is plummeting as the economy outgrows Europe’s and the country emerges as a regional power-broker, a survey showed.Only 38 percent of Turks regard future EU membership as a “good thing,” down from 48 percent last year and 73 percent in 2004, according to a poll released today by the German Marshall Fund of the United States and the Italian foundation Compagnia di San Paolo.
A 150 percent increase in gross domestic product per capita since 2003 has lessened Turkey’s need for European links and emboldened it to pursue a more independent foreign policy.
For more: Turks Less Interested in Joining EU as Economy, Political Influence Grow - Bloomberg
47% of British voters say they want to withdraw from the EU
The Daily Express cited the recent YouGov poll, which found that 47 per cent of British voters would vote in favor of the UK withdrawing from the EU if a referendum on the issue were held.
Europe Minister David Lidington announced government plans for a ‘referendum lock’ that would give UK citizens a say on any future proposals to transfer major powers from Britain to the EU. He said: “The lock would cover any proposed transfers of competence – the EU’s ability to act in a given area – between the UK and the EU; and transfers of power, such as the giving up of UK national vetoes and moving to majority voting in significant areas, such as in Common Foreign and Security Policy.” He added: “Treaty changes which do not transfer competence or power from the UK to the EU would not be subject to a referendum. For example, Accession Treaties.”
Note EU-Digest: Yet this opinion finds almost no echo in the British Parliament. Only two-and-a-half per cent of of MPs are declared opponents of EU membership; if you exclude Northern Ireland MPs, the figure drops to below one per cent. Obviously this means the British Public seems to be listening to the very vocal group of Euro sceptics while the parliamentarians who are supposed to know better are themselves doing a pretty bad job in promoting the benefits of the EU.
For more: INDEPENDENT online
Europe Minister David Lidington announced government plans for a ‘referendum lock’ that would give UK citizens a say on any future proposals to transfer major powers from Britain to the EU. He said: “The lock would cover any proposed transfers of competence – the EU’s ability to act in a given area – between the UK and the EU; and transfers of power, such as the giving up of UK national vetoes and moving to majority voting in significant areas, such as in Common Foreign and Security Policy.” He added: “Treaty changes which do not transfer competence or power from the UK to the EU would not be subject to a referendum. For example, Accession Treaties.”
Note EU-Digest: Yet this opinion finds almost no echo in the British Parliament. Only two-and-a-half per cent of of MPs are declared opponents of EU membership; if you exclude Northern Ireland MPs, the figure drops to below one per cent. Obviously this means the British Public seems to be listening to the very vocal group of Euro sceptics while the parliamentarians who are supposed to know better are themselves doing a pretty bad job in promoting the benefits of the EU.
For more: INDEPENDENT online
9/19/10
EU struggles to project itself as world power - by David Gardner
Even by the standards of recent European Union summits, last Thursday’s gathering of the leaders of the 27 member states in Brussels was a dispiriting affair. It was called to discuss how to engage strategically with emerging powers such as China and Russia. In the event, it was notable mostly for a shrill row between France and the European Commission over President Nicolas Sarkozy’s deportations of Roma. Once more, the EU looked feeble.
Note EU-Digest: a typical Anglo Saxon comment by a eurosceptic British journalist. At least arguments come into the open during these EU meetings and are not swept under the carpet.
For more: FT.com / Europe
- Sent using Google Toolbar"
Note EU-Digest: a typical Anglo Saxon comment by a eurosceptic British journalist. At least arguments come into the open during these EU meetings and are not swept under the carpet.
For more: FT.com / Europe
- Sent using Google Toolbar"
The Left under siege in Europe
Sweden Democrats, as the party is known, has provoked angry protests with its advertisements and pledges to cut immigration by 90 per cent. Some call its members neo-Nazis: one was attacked in his flat in Malmo on September 10 by two masked men who re-enacted a scene from a recent Hollywood war film by carving a swastika into his forehead.
In spite of the backlash, the party is expected to gather much more than the 4 per cent of votes necessary to win seats in parliament and may even end up holding the balance of power, a shocking prospect for the land of Ikea and social democracy.
In fact, the collectivist, egalitarian creed for which Sweden is famous has been fading in recent years, reflecting a change across the European Union. From Belgium to Bulgaria, the demise of the Left and rise of the populist Right have turned Europe's political map into an expanse of blue in which the Iberian peninsula and Greece are among the few remaining islands of red.
For more: The Left under siege in Europe | The Australian
In spite of the backlash, the party is expected to gather much more than the 4 per cent of votes necessary to win seats in parliament and may even end up holding the balance of power, a shocking prospect for the land of Ikea and social democracy.
In fact, the collectivist, egalitarian creed for which Sweden is famous has been fading in recent years, reflecting a change across the European Union. From Belgium to Bulgaria, the demise of the Left and rise of the populist Right have turned Europe's political map into an expanse of blue in which the Iberian peninsula and Greece are among the few remaining islands of red.
For more: The Left under siege in Europe | The Australian
Sweden elections end in hung parliament, rise of far-Right
Swedish elections on Sunday night ended in a hung parliament after the rise of a far-Right group narrowly prevented the conservative-liberal coalition government from winning an outright majority in Sweden’s parliament. Official preliminary results showed Mr Reinfeldt’s centre-Right coalition winning 173 seats in the 349-seat parliament and the Social Democrat led Left-Green coalition with 156 seats.
However, the big news of the night for a country which has long prided itself as being one of the most tolerant in Europe was that the anti-immigrant Sweden Democrats (SD) looked set to win 20 seats, their first entry to the national parliament.
For more: Sweden elections end in hung parliament, rise of far-Right - Telegraph
However, the big news of the night for a country which has long prided itself as being one of the most tolerant in Europe was that the anti-immigrant Sweden Democrats (SD) looked set to win 20 seats, their first entry to the national parliament.
For more: Sweden elections end in hung parliament, rise of far-Right - Telegraph
Sarkozy faces another tough week
Already under attack from Europe over Roma expulsions, unions over pension reform and the press over financial scandal, President Nicolas Sarkozy now faces yet another tough week.But – with his rock-bottom opinion poll ratings falling once again – France’s mercurial leader appears determined to press on regardless, despite strikes, street protests and a barrage of international criticism.
With less than two years to run before he must seek re-election, Sarkozy opened the newspapers on Sunday to find his personal approval rating falling four points to 32 percent in an IFOP poll carried out for the Journal du Dimanche.
For more: Daily Times - Leading News Resource of Pakistan - Beleaguered Sarkozy faces another tough week
Is Turkey becoming more democratic, or less so?
After a polarizing campaign that became more a referendum on his government than on the 26 proposed constitutional reforms, Mr. Erdogan was rewarded with a decisive victory: 58 percent of voters approved the changes in a charter that had been imposed by the military after a 1980 coup. Many of the changes are indisputably liberal and will strengthen democracy in a Muslim country that is a NATO member and has aspired to join the European Union.For example, military officers will be subject to civilian trials; the rights of women, the elderly, handicapped people and children will be enhanced; restrictions on unions will be lifted; and individuals will have greater privacy rights and the ability to appeal to the Constitutional Court.
But the constitutional package, which was presented to voters for a single, up-or-down vote, also contains a sweeping reorganization of the Constitutional Court and Turkey's other top judicial body, the Supreme Board of Judges and Prosecutors. Each would be expanded, and the power of appointment would be shifted to the president and legislature. Until now, Turkey's judiciary has been a bastion of secularism and thus of resistance to Mr. Erdogan. The Constitutional Court struck down his initiative allowing women to wear head scarves in state schools and came within one vote of outlawing his party.
Now Mr. Erdogan will have the power to place his appointees in a dominating position. The opposition charges that the courts will become merely another arm of the ruling party -- which, it claims, is carrying out a "creeping coup" against the secular state. While some of the critics' rhetoric may be exaggerated, Mr. Erdogan's actions give cause for concern. In the last several years his government has used questionable tax charges to lean on opposition media. Sprawling investigations of alleged coup plotters have swept up not just military officers but also businessmen and journalists.
For more: Is Turkey becoming more democratic, or less so?
9/17/10
Report lists Ireland as second richest EU country after Luxembourg
Ireland remained the second richest country in the 27-member EU last year, according to the Central Statistics Office’s annual compendium of statistics, entitled Measuring Ireland’s Progress 2009.
Gross domestic product (GDP) per head, when adjusted for differences in the cost of living in different countries, was 31 per cent above the EU average. Although sharply down from its peak in 2007, when it stood at 48 per cent above the average, Ireland remained fractionally above the Netherlands, the country with the third highest standard of living. Luxembourg is by far the richest country among the 27, with per capita average GDP 168 per cent above the average, while Romania is the poorest at less than half the average.the second richest country in the 27-member EU last year, according to the Central Statistics Office’s annual compendium of statistics, entitled Measuring Ireland’s Progress 2009.
Gross domestic product (GDP) per head, when adjusted for differences in the cost of living in different countries, was 31 per cent above the EU average. Although sharply down from its peak in 2007, when it stood at 48 per cent above the average, Ireland remained fractionally above the Netherlands, the country with the third highest standard of living.
Luxembourg is by far the richest country among the 27, with per capita average GDP 168 per cent above the average, while Romania is the poorest at less than half the average.
For more: Report lists Ireland as second richest EU country - The Irish Times - Fri, Sep 17, 2010
Gross domestic product (GDP) per head, when adjusted for differences in the cost of living in different countries, was 31 per cent above the EU average. Although sharply down from its peak in 2007, when it stood at 48 per cent above the average, Ireland remained fractionally above the Netherlands, the country with the third highest standard of living. Luxembourg is by far the richest country among the 27, with per capita average GDP 168 per cent above the average, while Romania is the poorest at less than half the average.the second richest country in the 27-member EU last year, according to the Central Statistics Office’s annual compendium of statistics, entitled Measuring Ireland’s Progress 2009.
Gross domestic product (GDP) per head, when adjusted for differences in the cost of living in different countries, was 31 per cent above the EU average. Although sharply down from its peak in 2007, when it stood at 48 per cent above the average, Ireland remained fractionally above the Netherlands, the country with the third highest standard of living.
Luxembourg is by far the richest country among the 27, with per capita average GDP 168 per cent above the average, while Romania is the poorest at less than half the average.
For more: Report lists Ireland as second richest EU country - The Irish Times - Fri, Sep 17, 2010
EU can't agree on how to halt rule-breakers - by Sarah Collins
There was no agreement among EU leaders on how to punish countries that break the bloc's debt and deficit limits, Taoiseach Brian Cowen confirmed yesterday.
The quandary facing the 27-member union is how to make sure profligate states never again bring the single currency into disrepute as events in Greece, Ireland, Portugal and Spain continue to animate bond markets.
Before the summer, leaders signed up to allow their peers greater scrutiny of spending plans and a new timetable for submitting budget outlines to Brussels, but deep divisions remain over what kind of sanctions to apply to those countries that persistently flout the rules.
For more: EU can't agree on how to halt rule-breakers - European, Business - Independent.ie
The quandary facing the 27-member union is how to make sure profligate states never again bring the single currency into disrepute as events in Greece, Ireland, Portugal and Spain continue to animate bond markets.
Before the summer, leaders signed up to allow their peers greater scrutiny of spending plans and a new timetable for submitting budget outlines to Brussels, but deep divisions remain over what kind of sanctions to apply to those countries that persistently flout the rules.
For more: EU can't agree on how to halt rule-breakers - European, Business - Independent.ie
Roma: a problem that won't go away for the EU
The Roma people are an ethnic group with origins in South Asia and Eastern Europe who are widely dispersed with their largest concentrated populations in Europe, especially Central and Eastern Europe. Also there are more recent diaspora populations in the Americas and, to a lesser extent, in North Africa and the Middle East..In addition there is a subgroup of the Romani people who live primarily in Central and Eastern Europe. In the EU there are an estimated 10-million Roma and nearly 90% of them live below the poverty line. Turkey which is an aspiring EU member has 2.7 million Roma living within its borders.
France's stepped-up removal of Roma migrants this summer, part of what President Sarkozy has called a crackdown on crime, has caused quite a stir in the EU. President Sarkozy says the expulsions are a matter of security and that the European Commission should come up with Europe-wide solutions rather than criticizing France. He said there had been no expulsions based on ethnicity. On the other hand President Sarkozy was unrepentant as to his actions and vowed during a EU Heads-Of-State meeting in Bruxelles to continue dismantling illegal immigrant camps.
The French policy also involves offering Roma families a financial incentive to return to Romania and Bulgaria. The row has underscored differences in Europe over how to deal with problems related to immigration, persistent unemployment and ethnic minorities, particularly at a time of economic slowdown and social hardship. Presently more than 400 camps have been dismantled in France and about 1000 Roma have already been deported to Romania and Bulgaria.
There are about 400.000 Roma of which 15000 Roma from Romania and Bulgaria in France. Even though as EU citizens they are allowed in, there is a three-month limit on people who don’t have jobs or incomes. France is enforcing that, and clamping down on the illegal camps in which the Roma live.
France is also not the first EU country deporting the Roma people: Italy also deported Roma last year, but pretty much got away with it.Some countries in the EU, such as Spain, have treated the Roma problem more humanely, investing resources to integrate the Roma economically and socially into society, instead of marginalizing and deporting them.
EU-Digest
France's stepped-up removal of Roma migrants this summer, part of what President Sarkozy has called a crackdown on crime, has caused quite a stir in the EU. President Sarkozy says the expulsions are a matter of security and that the European Commission should come up with Europe-wide solutions rather than criticizing France. He said there had been no expulsions based on ethnicity. On the other hand President Sarkozy was unrepentant as to his actions and vowed during a EU Heads-Of-State meeting in Bruxelles to continue dismantling illegal immigrant camps.
The French policy also involves offering Roma families a financial incentive to return to Romania and Bulgaria. The row has underscored differences in Europe over how to deal with problems related to immigration, persistent unemployment and ethnic minorities, particularly at a time of economic slowdown and social hardship. Presently more than 400 camps have been dismantled in France and about 1000 Roma have already been deported to Romania and Bulgaria.
There are about 400.000 Roma of which 15000 Roma from Romania and Bulgaria in France. Even though as EU citizens they are allowed in, there is a three-month limit on people who don’t have jobs or incomes. France is enforcing that, and clamping down on the illegal camps in which the Roma live.
France is also not the first EU country deporting the Roma people: Italy also deported Roma last year, but pretty much got away with it.Some countries in the EU, such as Spain, have treated the Roma problem more humanely, investing resources to integrate the Roma economically and socially into society, instead of marginalizing and deporting them.
EU-Digest
US Economy: Ending tax cuts for top 2 percent a step in the right direction - by Dave Zweifel
As the US continues to suffer the effects of the Great Recession and the national debt keeps growing, the president’s sensible proposal to extend the infamous George W. Bush tax cuts to American families earning less than $250,000, but letting them expire on incomes above that mark, has the Republicans and some all-too-familiar “blue dog” Democrats emitting cries of anguish for the nation’s wealthiest 2 percent.
“Class warfare,” the GOP leaders shout, claiming that any tax increase in this economy would cause every calamity except, perhaps, stopping the earth from rotating.
Class warfare? Yes, there’s class warfare occurring in this country, but it’s not what the GOP and the blue dogs claim. It’s the other way around: a war being waged by the country’s privileged financial elite against the great American middle and lower financial classes with the help of politicians whose coffers are kept brimming by the privileged people. It began in 1981 with the introduction of Reaganomics and it has continued unabated, with the possible exception of Bill Clinton’s second term, ever since.
Taxes were cut, deficits soared and during all that time, the wealthiest 1 percent in the United States increased their share of the country’s financial wealth from less than 25 percent to more than 35 percent today. The bottom 99 percent’s piece of the economic pie dropped from 75 to 65 percent.
For more: Plain Talk: Ending tax cuts for top 2 percent a step in the right direction
“Class warfare,” the GOP leaders shout, claiming that any tax increase in this economy would cause every calamity except, perhaps, stopping the earth from rotating.
Class warfare? Yes, there’s class warfare occurring in this country, but it’s not what the GOP and the blue dogs claim. It’s the other way around: a war being waged by the country’s privileged financial elite against the great American middle and lower financial classes with the help of politicians whose coffers are kept brimming by the privileged people. It began in 1981 with the introduction of Reaganomics and it has continued unabated, with the possible exception of Bill Clinton’s second term, ever since.
Taxes were cut, deficits soared and during all that time, the wealthiest 1 percent in the United States increased their share of the country’s financial wealth from less than 25 percent to more than 35 percent today. The bottom 99 percent’s piece of the economic pie dropped from 75 to 65 percent.
For more: Plain Talk: Ending tax cuts for top 2 percent a step in the right direction
9/16/10
Greece's finance minister says country's recession could be less sever than forecast
The Greek finance minister says his country's recession may be less severe than had been predicted under the economic turnaround plan that helped it stave off financial collapse earlier this year.
George Papaconstantinou says his government hopes Greece's economy will shrink less than the four per cent predicted under the bailout plan.
He spoke Thursday after meeting with French counterpart Christine Lagarde — part of a two-day road show to woo investors in London, Paris and Frankfurt.
For more: Greece's finance minister says country's recession could be less sever than forecast | Markets | Headline News | Canadian Business Online
George Papaconstantinou says his government hopes Greece's economy will shrink less than the four per cent predicted under the bailout plan.
He spoke Thursday after meeting with French counterpart Christine Lagarde — part of a two-day road show to woo investors in London, Paris and Frankfurt.
For more: Greece's finance minister says country's recession could be less sever than forecast | Markets | Headline News | Canadian Business Online
Denmark: Best country for entrepreneurs? Hint: Not the US. - by Brian Anthony Hernandez
If entrepreneurial performance were an Olympic sport, Denmark and Canada just stole the gold medal from the perennially favored United State. The U.S. lands third in a report from the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy, which evaluated 71 nations in terms of entrepreneurship and performance.
“The global perception of the country as a land of opportunity and as the mecca for individuals wanting to do something new and different seems to be somewhat challenged by the facts,” wrote the report's authors, Zoltan Acs of George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., and Laslo Szerb of Hungary's University of Pécs. Those facts, according to their report: Stacked against other major economies, the U.S. lacks high-growth business and cultural support for entrepreneurship and is frail in the technology sector.
The weaknesses caused the United States to rank an unlikely sixth in entrepreneurial attitudes — society’s feelings toward entrepreneurship, based on education and social stability — and eighth in entrepreneurial activity: what citizens are doing to improve the quality of human resources and technological efficiency.
Best country for entrepreneurs? Hint: Not the US. - CSMonitor.com
“The global perception of the country as a land of opportunity and as the mecca for individuals wanting to do something new and different seems to be somewhat challenged by the facts,” wrote the report's authors, Zoltan Acs of George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., and Laslo Szerb of Hungary's University of Pécs. Those facts, according to their report: Stacked against other major economies, the U.S. lacks high-growth business and cultural support for entrepreneurship and is frail in the technology sector.
The weaknesses caused the United States to rank an unlikely sixth in entrepreneurial attitudes — society’s feelings toward entrepreneurship, based on education and social stability — and eighth in entrepreneurial activity: what citizens are doing to improve the quality of human resources and technological efficiency.
Best country for entrepreneurs? Hint: Not the US. - CSMonitor.com
9/15/10
EU might react legally against France on Roma - by Cerise Negulici
Commissioner Viviane Reding that the European Commission must take legal lawsuit against France over its exile of Roma. Ms Reding termed French dealings a dishonor. She regretted the fact that a betrayal official memo opposed reassurance provided to her by France.
France expressed it bewilderment in reply to her statement on Tuesday.It exiled approximately 230 Roma on Tuesday only, sending them to Romania from Paris and Marseille. In Paris, the French Foreign Ministry articulated disappointment at the EU commissioner's declaration. According to a ministry spokesman he did not feel that the EU minister's remarks can perk up circumstances for Roma.
Since mid-August, France has exiled more than 1,000 Roma to Romania and Bulgaria, and dislocated more than 100 of their camps, in a stir that President Nicolas Sarkozy calls a clean-up on crime.
For more: EU might react legally against France on Roma | French Tribune
France expressed it bewilderment in reply to her statement on Tuesday.It exiled approximately 230 Roma on Tuesday only, sending them to Romania from Paris and Marseille. In Paris, the French Foreign Ministry articulated disappointment at the EU commissioner's declaration. According to a ministry spokesman he did not feel that the EU minister's remarks can perk up circumstances for Roma.
Since mid-August, France has exiled more than 1,000 Roma to Romania and Bulgaria, and dislocated more than 100 of their camps, in a stir that President Nicolas Sarkozy calls a clean-up on crime.
For more: EU might react legally against France on Roma | French Tribune
Netherlands: Dutch Police arrest Drunk Delta Pilot in Cockpit:- Airline Captain Was Planning to Fly from Amsterdam to New York
A Delta pilot has been arrested and fined for allegedly being drunk as he was preparing to fly from Amsterdam to Newark Liberty International Airport, outside New York City.The Dutch National Police Corps has not identified the pilot but says he is a 52-year-old captain from Woodbury, N.J.
Delta issued a statement about Flight 35, saying that it was "canceled out of concern that a crew member appeared to be unfit for duty."
Note EU-Digest: This probably was only one of the many pilots caught flying under the influence of alcohol. Why not test every pilot going on a flight as to his or her level of alcohol content in the blood? It's a simple breathalyzer test which takes less than 2 minutes. Far less time consuming than the "security tests" the flying public already have to endure every day. Best of all, it will save lives.
For more: Drunk Delta Pilot Arrested in Cockpit: Airline Captain Was Planning to Fly from Amsterdam to New York
Soccer UEFA Cup: Dutch soccer newcomer Twente proud after tremendous night against Champion Milan
Playing in their first match in the competition against the champions FC Internazionale Milano in Group A, Twente were trailing to Wesley Sneijder's 13th-minute strike when Janssen fired high into the top left corner, leaving Júlio César grasping at air. A Diego Milito own goal on the half hour gave Twente the lead, only for Samuel Eto'o to strike four minutes before the break to earn Inter a 2-2 draw.
At the start fans behind the home goal unfurled a banner that spanned the entire stand with the Twente and fan club logos emblazoned over a map of Europe. As the home support roared their side on, it is clear the Dutch champions will enjoy the ride.
For more: Twente proud after tremendous night on UEFA.COM
At the start fans behind the home goal unfurled a banner that spanned the entire stand with the Twente and fan club logos emblazoned over a map of Europe. As the home support roared their side on, it is clear the Dutch champions will enjoy the ride.
For more: Twente proud after tremendous night on UEFA.COM
Guy Carpenter reports on European casualty insurance law - by Gill Montia
Guy Carpenter & Company has released a report on the recent developments and trends in the Continental European legal environment that impact on the casualty insurance industry.
The study has been developed in conjunction with law firm, Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek, and its network of insurance law practitioners in jurisdictions across Continental Europe.
It highlights European Commission consultations regarding cross-border road traffic accident claims and an Austrian Supreme Court ruling on premium arrears.
For more: Guy Carpenter reports on European casualty insurance law
The study has been developed in conjunction with law firm, Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek, and its network of insurance law practitioners in jurisdictions across Continental Europe.
It highlights European Commission consultations regarding cross-border road traffic accident claims and an Austrian Supreme Court ruling on premium arrears.
For more: Guy Carpenter reports on European casualty insurance law
US economy: Grim US economy: An opportunity in adversity?
For the better part of a year, a small band of investors and economists has been arguing that the torrent of grim news on jobs and the stagnating US economy is shrouding an immutable fact: The recovery is at hand – you just can’t see it yet.
But therein lies the opportunity for investors like John A Paulson, the hedge fund executive who made billions by betting on a housing crash, and Bill Miller, the mutual fund manager at Legg Mason Capital Management who is best known for his 15-year streak of beating the Standard & Poor’s 500-stock index.
The bad news bulls do not dispute that the relentless beat of lost jobs and sagging house sales represents a serious economic threat. But they argue that in many respects this avalanche of bad news has little bearing for a growing number of corporations that are making money by relying more on technology, borrowing at rock-bottom rates and increasing sales to galloping overseas markets in China, Brazil and India.
For more: Grim US economy: An opportunity in adversity? - The Economic Times
But therein lies the opportunity for investors like John A Paulson, the hedge fund executive who made billions by betting on a housing crash, and Bill Miller, the mutual fund manager at Legg Mason Capital Management who is best known for his 15-year streak of beating the Standard & Poor’s 500-stock index.
The bad news bulls do not dispute that the relentless beat of lost jobs and sagging house sales represents a serious economic threat. But they argue that in many respects this avalanche of bad news has little bearing for a growing number of corporations that are making money by relying more on technology, borrowing at rock-bottom rates and increasing sales to galloping overseas markets in China, Brazil and India.
For more: Grim US economy: An opportunity in adversity? - The Economic Times
9/14/10
Germany asks US to give up its IMF veto - by Alan Beattie
The US should give up its veto over important decisions in the International Monetary Fund in return for Europe accepting a smaller say, Germany has proposed.
The suggestion, which experts say will be strongly opposed by the US, addresses a politically highly symbolic dispute about voting power and seats on the fund’s executive board. Shifting power towards emerging market countries is one of the central elements in the Group of 20 nations’ drive to make the fund and other international institutions more representative.
Last month the US used a procedural manoeuvre to force the European countries to agree reforms to the executive board by November 1. The 24-member board currently has nine European executive directors, and negotiations have been under way to increase representation from emerging markets, particularly in Asia.
For more: FT.com / Europe - Germany asks US to give up its IMF veto
The suggestion, which experts say will be strongly opposed by the US, addresses a politically highly symbolic dispute about voting power and seats on the fund’s executive board. Shifting power towards emerging market countries is one of the central elements in the Group of 20 nations’ drive to make the fund and other international institutions more representative.
Last month the US used a procedural manoeuvre to force the European countries to agree reforms to the executive board by November 1. The 24-member board currently has nine European executive directors, and negotiations have been under way to increase representation from emerging markets, particularly in Asia.
For more: FT.com / Europe - Germany asks US to give up its IMF veto
EU nearly doubles eurozone growth forecast
Europe nearly doubled its growth forecast Monday to at least 1.7 percent for 2010, highlighting recovery in Germany but warning about rising strains in Ireland’s banking system.
The European Union raised its core eurozone growth prediction on data from its seven biggest members, having forecast just 0.9 percent in the spring, but was at pains to remain prudent.
Encouraged to see “revival ... particularly in Germany,” Brussels warned that risks “remain elevated” with a “multi-speed” recovery accentuated by problems with national finances in Ireland and elsewhere.
For more: Daily Times - Leading News Resource of Pakistan - EU nearly doubles eurozone growth forecast
The European Union raised its core eurozone growth prediction on data from its seven biggest members, having forecast just 0.9 percent in the spring, but was at pains to remain prudent.
Encouraged to see “revival ... particularly in Germany,” Brussels warned that risks “remain elevated” with a “multi-speed” recovery accentuated by problems with national finances in Ireland and elsewhere.
For more: Daily Times - Leading News Resource of Pakistan - EU nearly doubles eurozone growth forecast
The Myth of "Decoupling" and the Chinese Consumer - by Charles Hugh Smith
The "China decoupling" story holds that as China's households grow wealthier then China will no longer need export markets in the E.U. and the U.S. The story is appealing but the facts don't support it.A single statistic completely undermines the "China will decouple from the U.S. because Chinese domestic demand will absorb all its production capacity" story: The proportion of the China's GDP contributed by the household sector (wages, salaries and consumption) peaked at 56 percent in 1983 and has since dropped to 36 percent—roughly half the size of the consumer economy in the U.S. That means that China's households are receiving a smaller piece of the pie as China's GDP grows, even the annual average wages of workers in urban areas of China increased from 12,422 yuan ($1,832) in 2002 to 29,229 yuan ($4,311) in 2008.
Another factor is that Chinese households are prodigious savers: China boasts a savings rate of 38%, fully ten times that of the U.S. But Chinese savers have few choices on where to invest their money: they can either leave it in a savings account which draws 2.25%, less than the inflation rate of 3.1%, or invest in real estate or domestic stocks.
Those proclaiming the coming decoupling and rise of the Chinese consumer neatly glide over the fact that investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI), accounts for 44% of China's economy, a higher level than Japan or South Korea ever reached in their modernization drives. This is an economy that is exquisitely dependent on massive inflows of capital to sustain its growth; the entire household sector is a mere 80% of direct investment.
For more: The Myth of "Decoupling" and the Chinese Consumer | Benzinga.com
9/13/10
Golf - Paul McGinley: 'It's very important we win the Ryder Cup again'
My views are very strong," Paul McGinley says as, in his role as a vice-captain of the European Ryder Cup team, he displays the conviction his players will need if they are to wrest back the trophy from the United States in less than three weeks. "We're a European team. We're a European Tour. And even though a lot of our players are playing in America we have to draw the line. We need to finish the qualification for a European team on European soil."
Earlier this summer McGinley predicted a handsome European victory, but he sounds more cautious now. "A couple of months ago we were quite clear favourites – but things have changed. We have been hurt by Lee Westwood's injury. There's no doubt about that. It's going to be an unknown factor until Lee turns up that week and we see how he feels, having not competed since the Open. That's a disappointment for Europe.Earlier this summer McGinley predicted a handsome European victory, but he sounds more cautious now. "A couple of months ago we were quite clear favourites – but things have changed. We have been hurt by Lee Westwood's injury. There's no doubt about that. It's going to be an unknown factor until Lee turns up that week and we see how he feels, having not competed since the Open. That's a disappointment for Europe.
For more: Paul McGinley: 'It's very important we win the Ryder Cup again' | Sport | The Guardian
Earlier this summer McGinley predicted a handsome European victory, but he sounds more cautious now. "A couple of months ago we were quite clear favourites – but things have changed. We have been hurt by Lee Westwood's injury. There's no doubt about that. It's going to be an unknown factor until Lee turns up that week and we see how he feels, having not competed since the Open. That's a disappointment for Europe.Earlier this summer McGinley predicted a handsome European victory, but he sounds more cautious now. "A couple of months ago we were quite clear favourites – but things have changed. We have been hurt by Lee Westwood's injury. There's no doubt about that. It's going to be an unknown factor until Lee turns up that week and we see how he feels, having not competed since the Open. That's a disappointment for Europe.
For more: Paul McGinley: 'It's very important we win the Ryder Cup again' | Sport | The Guardian
Iranian Diplomats Defect In Finland, Belgium
Iranian opposition members say another Iranian diplomat has defected in Europe -- this time in Belgium. The Europe-based Green Wave opposition movement said Farzad Farhangian, press attache at the Iranian Embassy in Brussels, walked out on September 10 and flew to Oslo. In Norway, former Iranian consular official Mohammed Reza Heydari confirmed that Farhangian "left the embassy after informing the ambassador that he was leaving and he came here without anyone [else] knowing about this."
For more: Iranian Diplomats Defect In Finland, Belgium - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2010
For more: Iranian Diplomats Defect In Finland, Belgium - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2010
Russian cruise industry experiencing significant increase
Several positive trends have been noted in river cruises for the Russian tourist industry. According to tourism experts, sales have increased by 30%, and the tourist flow has improved by 20-25% compared to the previous year.As for the sea cruises, at the beginning of the summer that segment began to show steady growth in the number of bookings. Experts estimate that the flow of tourists has risen by about 70% compared to the same period last year.
For more: Cruise News Russian cruise industry experiencing significant increase - eTurboNews.com
European Rail industry on track for gains in market share - by Robert Wright
Rail tends to make rapid gains in market share as soon as new, dedicated high-speed rail lines are opened, Johannes Ludewig, executive director of the Community of European Railways and Infrastructure Companies, says.
He predicts significant gains for rail’s market share in Italy after the opening of two new high-speed sections in the last two years completed the Rome to Milan high-speed line, cutting journey times by an hour to two hours 45 minutes.
Rail’s main competitive advantage is that, while trains never match aircraft for speed, shorter check-in times and railway stations’ central locations give rail time and convenience advantages for short-haul journeys. In Europe, air’s market share in long-distance travel has been falling almost continually since the continent’s first dedicated high-speed rail line linked Paris to Lyons in 1981.
For more: FT.com / Reports - Business class: Rail industry on track for gains in market share
He predicts significant gains for rail’s market share in Italy after the opening of two new high-speed sections in the last two years completed the Rome to Milan high-speed line, cutting journey times by an hour to two hours 45 minutes.
Rail’s main competitive advantage is that, while trains never match aircraft for speed, shorter check-in times and railway stations’ central locations give rail time and convenience advantages for short-haul journeys. In Europe, air’s market share in long-distance travel has been falling almost continually since the continent’s first dedicated high-speed rail line linked Paris to Lyons in 1981.
For more: FT.com / Reports - Business class: Rail industry on track for gains in market share
China: Guess who's not coming to dinner? - by Aileen McCabe
China's richest are worried that Bill Gates and Warren Buffett are coming to Beijing later this month to strong-arm them into making charitable donations.
The Microsoft founder and investment guru are bringing "The Giving Pledge" campaign to the Chinese capital on the heels of their success in the U.S. convincing 40 mega-rich to donate half their wealth to good causes -about $125 billion U.S. -either while they are alive or on their death beds. But according to Chinese media, several of the 50 invited Chinese guests to the dinner Gates and Buffett will host have declined and many have phoned to ask for clarification.
For more: Guess who's not coming to dinner?
The Microsoft founder and investment guru are bringing "The Giving Pledge" campaign to the Chinese capital on the heels of their success in the U.S. convincing 40 mega-rich to donate half their wealth to good causes -about $125 billion U.S. -either while they are alive or on their death beds. But according to Chinese media, several of the 50 invited Chinese guests to the dinner Gates and Buffett will host have declined and many have phoned to ask for clarification.
For more: Guess who's not coming to dinner?
Europe must react to Turkey’s vote - by Sinan Ulgen
Turkey’s referendum on Sunday saw a package of constitutional amendments win the support of 58 per cent of the Turkish population.
Perhaps the most significant change brought by the referendum campaign is the greater visibility brought to the objective of EU membership. The “yes” campaign made reference to the EU to convince Turkish public opinion of the package’s benefits. And today’s statement by the European Commission welcoming the adoption of the package underscored the growing interest of the EU in Turkey’s domestic dynamics.
For more: FT.com / Comment / Opinion - Europe must react to Turkey’s vote
Perhaps the most significant change brought by the referendum campaign is the greater visibility brought to the objective of EU membership. The “yes” campaign made reference to the EU to convince Turkish public opinion of the package’s benefits. And today’s statement by the European Commission welcoming the adoption of the package underscored the growing interest of the EU in Turkey’s domestic dynamics.
For more: FT.com / Comment / Opinion - Europe must react to Turkey’s vote
European Satellites reveal Russian fires worst in 14 years
More wildfires have burned around the Russian capital this year than in the last decade and a half, according to sensors aboard European ESA’s observation satellites. The forest and peat bog fires ignited this summer amid an unprecedented heat wave of up to 40ºC.
Working like thermometers in the sky, the Along Track Scanning Radiometer and the Advanced Along Track Scanning Radiometer on ESA’s ERS-2 and Envisat satellites measure thermal-infrared radiation to take the temperature of Earth’s land surface.
Flames reach temperatures that are detected by these sensors and confirm the presence of fire.
For more: ESA Portal - Satellites reveal Russian fires worst in 14 years
Working like thermometers in the sky, the Along Track Scanning Radiometer and the Advanced Along Track Scanning Radiometer on ESA’s ERS-2 and Envisat satellites measure thermal-infrared radiation to take the temperature of Earth’s land surface.
Flames reach temperatures that are detected by these sensors and confirm the presence of fire.
For more: ESA Portal - Satellites reveal Russian fires worst in 14 years
Airbus in talks to sell 150 aircrafts to China
The order could be signed during the visit of the Chinese President to France in November. Talks cover the firm sale of 120 A320 aircrafts, 20 A330s and 10 A350s.
A memorandum of understanding had already been signed for the A350 purchases but this had not previously been converted to a firm deal, the paper said. Including options, the order could reach 200 aircraft, including A380s, the paper said. Airbus declined to comment.
For more: Airbus in talks to sell 150 aircrafts to China: Report - The Economic Times
Will Erdogan be able to take Turkey in a new direction after major win in referendum
If Erdogan also wins the 2011 election he will become the longest-serving, and most influential, Turkish leader since Kemal Ataturk. His biggest challenges will now be to bring the Turkish secular elite, who hate him, and the poor who have very little more than their religious beliefs, together, and finally recognize Turkey's Kurds as a national minority. For the sake of Turkey let us hope he will succeed and turn Mr. Erdogan into a truly great political leader.
For more go to EU-Digest
EU tells Turkey to implement reforms
About 58 percent voted in favor of government-proposed amendments to the constitution crafted after a 1980 military coup in a referendum Sunday.EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fuele said Monday the changes address "long-standing priorities" for Turkey's membership.He says Turkey needs to enact laws to implement the reforms as well as a new constitution that would bring its democracy more in line with European standards.
For more: EU tells Turkey to implement reforms | ajc.com
EU tells Turkey to implement reforms
About 58 percent voted in favor of government-proposed amendments to the constitution crafted after a 1980 military coup in a referendum Sunday. EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fuele said Monday the changes address "long-standing priorities" for Turkey's membership.
He says Turkey needs to enact laws to implement the reforms as well as a new constitution that would bring its democracy more in line with European standards.
For more: EU tells Turkey to implement reforms | ajc.com9/12/10
Basketball: Team USA beats Turkey for FIBA hoops gold
A young Team USA has won the country’s first FIBA world basketball championship in 16 years.
Kevin Durant scored 28 points – including seven 3-pointers – as the United States beat the tournament’s host, Turkey, 81-64 in the gold medal game in Istanbul on Sunday. The game capped off a perfect tournament for Team USA, which won all five of its group games before going 4-0 in the knockout stage.
For more: Team USA beats Turkey for FIBA hoops gold – This Just In - CNN.com Blogs
Kevin Durant scored 28 points – including seven 3-pointers – as the United States beat the tournament’s host, Turkey, 81-64 in the gold medal game in Istanbul on Sunday. The game capped off a perfect tournament for Team USA, which won all five of its group games before going 4-0 in the knockout stage.
For more: Team USA beats Turkey for FIBA hoops gold – This Just In - CNN.com Blogs
ECB outraged by Slovak refusal to aid Greece-sources
Slovakia set a bad example by refusing support for a loan to Greece, and the European Central Bank will not support euro entry by others unless sure they will not take similar steps in the future, ECB President Jean-Claude Trichet was quoted as saying.
A memo from this week's meeting of euro zone finance ministers, seen by Reuters, said Trichet was outraged at the refusal by Slovakia to participate in the Greek bailout.
Several EU officials said privately Slovakia could be snubbed by some of the 26 other EU member states because its decision is likely to complicate talks on the bloc's budget, making the rich net payers less willing to grant aid to poorer countries.
For more: ECB outraged by Slovak refusal to aid Greece-sources | Reuters
A memo from this week's meeting of euro zone finance ministers, seen by Reuters, said Trichet was outraged at the refusal by Slovakia to participate in the Greek bailout.
Several EU officials said privately Slovakia could be snubbed by some of the 26 other EU member states because its decision is likely to complicate talks on the bloc's budget, making the rich net payers less willing to grant aid to poorer countries.
For more: ECB outraged by Slovak refusal to aid Greece-sources | Reuters
The Netherlands: Keynote speech at 9/11 demo by Dutch Right Wing Politician Geert Wilders - by Frank Kools
Mr Wilders' speech was held on the ninth anniversary of the 11 September terrorist attacks. The leader of the Freedom Party (PVV) - who might soon be part of the Dutch Government, took his time before he called on New Yorkers to “draw a line” and oppose "the powers of darkness, the force of hatred", a reference to Islam. "A tolerant society is not a suicidal society," he said.For more: Keynote speech at 9/11 demo for unknown Wilders | Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Divisive Turkish referendum passes
A divisive national referendum in Turkey over 26 proposed amendments to the country's constitution was set to become a resounding victory for the prime minister and the ruling party, results showed. With more than 96 percent of the votes counted, 58 percent of voters favored the referendum, while 42 percent were opposed, Turkey's electoral board reported. Geographically, Western provinces along Turkey's Aegean and Mediterranean coasts voted against the reform package, while much of the central Anatolian highlands and eastern Turkey voted in favor.
The proposed amendments include articles that would allow collective bargaining for public sector workers and affirmative action measures for women. But when asked what was the most important achievement of the reform package, a senior adviser to Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan made it clear that the main goal was to alter the judiciary system.
Analysts say Sunday's vote is the latest confrontation in a power struggle between Erdogan's Islamist-rooted party and Turkey's secularist establishment, which have repeatedly clashed since AKP swept to power eight years ago.
The AKP narrowly avoided being banned from politics in 2008 when it was fined by the country's constitutional court -- one of the last bastions of secular opposition -- for alleged anti-secular activities. The court has also blocked legislation to lift a ban on Islamic headscarves at public universities.
For more: Divisive Turkish referendum passes - CNN.com
9/11/10
Sarkozy's France: Je t'aime, moi non plus
“THE French people,” he announced on the day he was sworn in as president, “have demanded change.” Proclaiming “a new era in French politics”, the dynamic young leader swept into office, vowing to modernise the face of government and the country. Despite a promising start, however, the global economic shock, combined with divisions on the political right, took their toll. In the end, Valéry Giscard d’Estaing lost to the Socialists in 1981, after just one term in office.Over the past 30 years, Mr Giscard d’Estaing is the only French president not to have won re-election. Now, for the first time, the spectre of a one-term presidency has begun to hover menacingly over France’s current leader, Nicolas Sarkozy. His popularity has dropped to record lows. Some 55% of the French say they want the left to return to power at the next presidential election, in 2012. One poll suggests that, in a second-round run-off, Mr Sarkozy would be beaten by Dominique Strauss-Kahn, a socialist who is now the IMF boss in Washington, by a crushing 59% to 41%.
For more: Sarkozy's France: Je t'aime, moi non plus | The Economist
Basketball:USA will meet host Turkey in final
Both teams were unbeaten going into the semi, but Lithuania could find no way back after trailing 42-27 at half-time. In the final, US will play hosts Turkey, who edged out Serbia 83-82 in the other semi-final.
For more: BBC Sport - Basketball - USA will meet hosts Turkey in World Championship final
For more: BBC Sport - Basketball - USA will meet hosts Turkey in World Championship final
Turkey: Controversial reforms referendum divides Turkish population - a threat to secularism
A referendum on a government reform package is jamming a wedge in the Turkish population. Intended to boost democracy, opponents fear the reforms could give the government more power and endanger Turkey's secularism.For more: Controversial reforms referendum divides Turkish population | Europe | Deutsche Welle | 11.09.2010
Dutch Anti-Islam Politician Wilders to Speak at Mosque Protest - by urjen van de Pol
Geert Wilders, the leader of the anti-Islamic Freedom Party that’s seeking a share of power in the Netherlands, will speak in New York tomorrow against plans to build a mosque near the World Trade Center site.
Wilders said on his website that he was invited by the Stop Islamization Of America movement, which is organizing a protest at the site at 2 p.m. tomorrow, the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.
“No mosque near Ground Zero!” Wilders wrote on his Twitter Inc. account Aug. 10. “Booked flight and hotel New York today. Good feeling. Important speech. Nobody will stop me.”
For more: Dutch Anti-Islam Politician Wilders to Speak at Mosque Protest - Bloomberg
Wilders said on his website that he was invited by the Stop Islamization Of America movement, which is organizing a protest at the site at 2 p.m. tomorrow, the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.
“No mosque near Ground Zero!” Wilders wrote on his Twitter Inc. account Aug. 10. “Booked flight and hotel New York today. Good feeling. Important speech. Nobody will stop me.”
For more: Dutch Anti-Islam Politician Wilders to Speak at Mosque Protest - Bloomberg
What to do on 9/11: Instead of burning the Koran, tell the world about Muslim persecution of Christians – by James Corum
Secondly, burning the Koran will only fuel the propaganda that Islam is a victimised, endangered religion – a faith that struck out at America on September 11 in self-defence. If you want to create fertile ground for more radical Islamists, more suicide bombers and more terrorism, this is a good way to do it.
Yet the events of September 11 2001 deserve to be commemorated in a way that will serve a positive end. Congregations of American Christians would serve humanity if, instead of burning Korans to win the attention of the media and public, they staged memorials and placed advertisements illustrating the routine abuse and suffering of millions of Christians who live in Muslim majority nations.
For more: What to do on 9/11: Instead of burning the Koran, tell the world about Muslim persecution of Christians – Telegraph Blogs
Turkish sex researchers: "Size" really does matter after all - by Judy Mandelbaum
Fat is fun! At least, that’s the word from Turkey this week. Researchers at Erciyes University in Kayseri have just completed a year-long study correlating body mass index (BMI) and male sexual performance. Their findings: men with excess body fat last longer in bed. In fact, heavier men were able to make love for an average of 7.3 minutes, while slender men could count themselves lucky if they held on for a mere 108 seconds.
The reason? Female hormones. Men with excess fat showed higher levels of the female estradiol sex hormone. This substance apparently disrupted their bodies’ natural “male” neurotransmitter chemicals and slowed their progression towards orgasm. Ironically, the less masculine their bodies appeared, the better lovers they proved to be.
For more: Turkish sex researchers: "Size" really does matter after all - Judy Mandelbaum - Open Salon
The reason? Female hormones. Men with excess fat showed higher levels of the female estradiol sex hormone. This substance apparently disrupted their bodies’ natural “male” neurotransmitter chemicals and slowed their progression towards orgasm. Ironically, the less masculine their bodies appeared, the better lovers they proved to be.
For more: Turkish sex researchers: "Size" really does matter after all - Judy Mandelbaum - Open Salon
9/10/10
EU-Korea FTA remains stalled- by Pallavi Aiyar
Almost a year after the world’s biggest economy, the European Union, initialled a free trade agreement (FTA) with Asian heavyweight South Korea, the process of getting approval for the deal remains stalled. A hoped-for green light from the European Council, which comprises 27 member-states, was not forthcoming on Friday, as EU trade ministers met to try and break the deadlock.
However, officials said approval for the deal was “very close” and might be reached by Monday. Italy has emerged as the most vocal FTA opponent and has been demanding a delay in implementation to give its car sector more time to prepare for the stiffer competition.
Earlier in the month, the European Parliament postponed a decision over the deal after it was unable to agree on the level of safeguards for the automotive sector, in the event of “serious injury” to EU car makers from a surge in Korean exports.
For more: EU-Korea FTA remains stalled
However, officials said approval for the deal was “very close” and might be reached by Monday. Italy has emerged as the most vocal FTA opponent and has been demanding a delay in implementation to give its car sector more time to prepare for the stiffer competition.
Earlier in the month, the European Parliament postponed a decision over the deal after it was unable to agree on the level of safeguards for the automotive sector, in the event of “serious injury” to EU car makers from a surge in Korean exports.
For more: EU-Korea FTA remains stalled
Ireland's dependence on Europe has become a one-way street - by Arthur Beesley
Irelands fiscal problems are coming to the fore again in Europe as the Government wrestles with the Anglo Irish Bank bailout and preparations for a new round of budget cutbacks.
Two years on from the near- death of the banking system, the road ahead is no less dangerous, with market confidence at stake in every single political manoeuvre.
Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan won plaudits from his EU colleagues for his swift efforts to calm the budget deficit, his painful spending cuts portrayed as precisely the sort of action that the Greek authorities should have taken to prevent their economy from falling into the abyss.
For more: Ireland's dependence on Europe has become a one-way street - The Irish Times - Tue, Sep 07, 2010
Two years on from the near- death of the banking system, the road ahead is no less dangerous, with market confidence at stake in every single political manoeuvre.
Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan won plaudits from his EU colleagues for his swift efforts to calm the budget deficit, his painful spending cuts portrayed as precisely the sort of action that the Greek authorities should have taken to prevent their economy from falling into the abyss.
For more: Ireland's dependence on Europe has become a one-way street - The Irish Times - Tue, Sep 07, 2010
European police in pirate raids
Police targeted 48 sites in countries including Britain, the Netherlands, Czech Republic and Hungary. The suspects were the alleged leaders of four illegal file-sharing networks and were charged with hacking, piracy and computer fraud.
Five of the arrests were in Belgium and the others were made in Norway and Sweden. By Wednesday evening, all of the suspects arrested in Sweden had been released, following the raid of seven premises were raided including PRQ, a web hosting firm with links to the file-sharing site Pirate Bay and whistle-blowing website WikiLeaks.
For more: BBC News - European police in pirate raids
Five of the arrests were in Belgium and the others were made in Norway and Sweden. By Wednesday evening, all of the suspects arrested in Sweden had been released, following the raid of seven premises were raided including PRQ, a web hosting firm with links to the file-sharing site Pirate Bay and whistle-blowing website WikiLeaks.
For more: BBC News - European police in pirate raids
9/9/10
Spain's Parliament Gives Final Approval To Labor Market Reforms
Spain's lawmakers on Thursday gave their final approval to a package of government-proposed labor market reforms aimed at cutting down the country's high unemployment
rate and reviving the economy.
For more: Spain's Parliament Gives Final Approval To Labor Market Reforms
For more: Spain's Parliament Gives Final Approval To Labor Market Reforms
9/8/10
Demand in emerging markets powers European recovery
The German economy is striding into recovery, pulled by its formidable export machine and diverging from France which is struggling with a trade deficit, latest data shows while small Europe countries jostle for recovery on the sidelines. Analysts say momentum in Europe is being powered by strong demand for imports in emerging markets, notably Asia, with Germany particularly well-placed to cash in.
For more: AFP: Demand in emerging markets powers European recovery
For more: AFP: Demand in emerging markets powers European recovery
EU's Barroso promises measures against speculators
European Union Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso says he will field new proposals by the end of the month to tackle some of the actions of market speculators, who many have blamed for making the financial crisis worse.
For more: EU's Barroso promises measures against speculators - BusinessWeek
For more: EU's Barroso promises measures against speculators - BusinessWeek
'Europe Needs a Directly Elected Leader with Charisma'
SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International
"The World from Berlin
'Europe Needs a Directly Elected Leader with Charisma'
European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso came out with plenty of fine words during his 'state of the union' speech on Tuesday. But his blandness is unlikely to increase support for the EU among Europeans, say observers. German commentators are unimpressed."
"The World from Berlin
'Europe Needs a Directly Elected Leader with Charisma'
European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso came out with plenty of fine words during his 'state of the union' speech on Tuesday. But his blandness is unlikely to increase support for the EU among Europeans, say observers. German commentators are unimpressed."
European debt crisis reignites; Ireland's borrowing costs soar - by David A.Lynch
Renewed fears about European banks and borrowing rattled markets Tuesday as investors rediscovered Old World financial problems they thought had been quelled in mid-summer.
Spreads between the yield on rock-solid German bonds and those of Europe's heavily indebted smaller countries rose to historic highs. Ireland's 10-year borrowing costs peaked above 6% in midday trading, higher than the level reached in early May during the worst of the Greek debt crisis. The 10-year Irish bond closed at 5.98%, 3.73 percentage points higher than the comparable German bond yield.
"This is the new normal for the eurozone. This is what you're going to see as the markets start acting as more of a policeman enforcing more sustainable fiscal policies," says economist Jacob Kirkegaard of the Peterson Institute for International Economics.
9/7/10
Soccer - European Cup - Netherlands (2) vs Finland (1) - by Stefan Coerts
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar helped Netherlands to a 2-1 win against Finland by netting a brace in the first 20 minutes of the game. Mikael Forssell pegged a goal back for Finland, but the visitors were unable to restore parity in the Group E encounter. The Dutch started the match brilliantly and needed only seven minutes to break the deadlock. Wesley Sneijder sent in a perfect cross after a corner kick and Huntelaar beat his man to the ball before heading home.
For more: Netherlands vs Finland - Goal.com
For more: Netherlands vs Finland - Goal.com
US Politics: There's No Difference Between Democrats and Republicans - by Stephen Herrington:
You hear that a lot these days, that there is no difference between the Democrats and the GOP. Both of America's political parties are run by corporations. So it doesn't matter which you vote for, the results will be the same. You equally hear that we need a third party that will be ideologically pure and immune from influence by special interest money. Good points all.
It is curious though. Republicans don't share the sentiment that there is no difference between the parties. In fact they are acting as if they find the distinction to be rather greater than at any time in the last century. The GOP is behaving as if the world will end if a single one of them compromises with the Democrats on anything. They are so hell bent to get Democrats out of government that they have actually and repeatedly voted against their own socioeconomic goals in order to drive a negative narrative about Democratic control of government.
US Politics: Stephen Herrington: There's No Difference Between Democrats and Republicans
It is curious though. Republicans don't share the sentiment that there is no difference between the parties. In fact they are acting as if they find the distinction to be rather greater than at any time in the last century. The GOP is behaving as if the world will end if a single one of them compromises with the Democrats on anything. They are so hell bent to get Democrats out of government that they have actually and repeatedly voted against their own socioeconomic goals in order to drive a negative narrative about Democratic control of government.
US Politics: Stephen Herrington: There's No Difference Between Democrats and Republicans
9/6/10
EU Seeks Stronger Euro-Area Management After Germany Warns Rebound Slowing - by James G.Neuger
European Union governments sought to strengthen the management of the euro region as Germany warned that the economic rebound is slowing its push for stiffer sanctions on high-deficit countries.
EU finance ministers weighed ideas for improving national budget management, monitoring countries at risk and imposing sanctions on rule-breakers, EU President Herman Van Rompuy said in a statement after chairing a brainstorming session in Brussels tonight.
For more: EU Seeks Stronger Euro-Area Management After Germany Warns Rebound Slowing - Bloomberg
EU finance ministers weighed ideas for improving national budget management, monitoring countries at risk and imposing sanctions on rule-breakers, EU President Herman Van Rompuy said in a statement after chairing a brainstorming session in Brussels tonight.
For more: EU Seeks Stronger Euro-Area Management After Germany Warns Rebound Slowing - Bloomberg
Norway wonders what to do with its oil wealth
Norway was one of Europe’s poorest countries when oil was discovered off its coast 40 years ago. Now its citizens are considered the wealthiest in the world according to the UN Human Development Index.
For more: Norway wonders what to do with its oil wealth | RFI
For more: Norway wonders what to do with its oil wealth | RFI
East European Eyes on France’s Roma Policy - by Alison Smale
After a summer marked by a needless quarrel over how to treat their Roma population, the French seem on course for an autumn of discontent over issues much closer to their pocketbooks: the reform of their state pensions.
For the trade unionists and leftists gearing up to take on President Nicolas Sarkozy and his government over treasured welfare benefits, protests may well drown out the summer storm over the Roma. For the rest of Europe, the memory may not fade so fast.
For more: Letter From Europe - East European Eyes on France’s Roma Policy - NYTimes.com
For the trade unionists and leftists gearing up to take on President Nicolas Sarkozy and his government over treasured welfare benefits, protests may well drown out the summer storm over the Roma. For the rest of Europe, the memory may not fade so fast.
For more: Letter From Europe - East European Eyes on France’s Roma Policy - NYTimes.com
Europe Economy Looks Towards a Brighter Forecast
The European economy is sighting towards a more optimistic future. According to Jean-Claude Trichet, President, European Central Bank the growth forecast in the European Union has been raised from a meager 1% to a 1.6%. Though, Mr. Trichet has further stated that there is a possibility of the growth to slow down by 2011 to 1.4%.
Goldman Sachs has though raised expectations by stating that possible growth in 2011 could be around 2.4% while for the current financial year it could possibly be around 1.7%.
For more: Europe Economy Looks Towards a Brighter Forecast | TopNews United Kingdom
Goldman Sachs has though raised expectations by stating that possible growth in 2011 could be around 2.4% while for the current financial year it could possibly be around 1.7%.
For more: Europe Economy Looks Towards a Brighter Forecast | TopNews United Kingdom
9/5/10
Fast Food - What went wrong at Burger King - by Dan Mitchell
It's not yet clear what Burger King's new owner, the Brazilian-backed private equity firm 3G Capital, has in mind for the troubled No. 2 fast-food chain. But a total strategic revamp is in order.
Burger King (BKC), which went public four years ago after its previous private equity owners cashed out, has limped its way through the recession, losing sales and market share even as its far-better-managed rival, McDonald's (MCD, Fortune 500), has thrived. Thriving is what fast-food purveyors are supposed to do during a recession, when diners tend to trade down. But Burger King has stubbornly stuck to a losing strategy, falling further behind with each passing quarter. The result: A loss in share value over the two years up until Tuesday -- just before rumors of the buyout started to float -- of 36%. McDonald's shares over the same period rose 14%.
It will be interesting to see what the new Brazilian owners will make of Burger King's grandiose vision. Chidsey will step down as CEO, but will remain as a co-chairman along with Alex Behring, 3G's managing director. Supposedly they'll work together to find a new chief.
For more: What went wrong at Burger King - Sep. 3, 2010
Burger King (BKC), which went public four years ago after its previous private equity owners cashed out, has limped its way through the recession, losing sales and market share even as its far-better-managed rival, McDonald's (MCD, Fortune 500), has thrived. Thriving is what fast-food purveyors are supposed to do during a recession, when diners tend to trade down. But Burger King has stubbornly stuck to a losing strategy, falling further behind with each passing quarter. The result: A loss in share value over the two years up until Tuesday -- just before rumors of the buyout started to float -- of 36%. McDonald's shares over the same period rose 14%.
It will be interesting to see what the new Brazilian owners will make of Burger King's grandiose vision. Chidsey will step down as CEO, but will remain as a co-chairman along with Alex Behring, 3G's managing director. Supposedly they'll work together to find a new chief.
For more: What went wrong at Burger King - Sep. 3, 2010
Fast Food: What went wrong at Burger King - by Dan Mitchell
It's not yet clear what Burger King's new owner, the Brazilian-backed private equity firm 3G Capital, has in mind for the troubled No. 2 fast-food chain. But a total strategic revamp is in order.
Burger King (BKC), which went public four years ago after its previous private equity owners cashed out, has limped its way through the recession, losing sales and market share even as its far-better-managed rival, McDonald's (MCD, Fortune 500), has thrived. Thriving is what fast-food purveyors are supposed to do during a recession, when diners tend to trade down. But Burger King has stubbornly stuck to a losing strategy, falling further behind with each passing quarter. The result: A loss in share value over the two years up until Tuesday -- just before rumors of the buyout started to float -- of 36%. McDonald's shares over the same period rose 14%.
It will be interesting to see what the new Brazilian owners will make of Burger King's grandiose vision. Chidsey will step down as CEO, but will remain as a co-chairman along with Alex Behring, 3G's managing director. Supposedly they'll work together to find a new chief.
For more: What went wrong at Burger King - Sep. 3, 2010Athletics - Europe wins Continental Cup athletic meet
The combined efforts of Andreas Thorkildsen, Blanka Vlasic and the team's women runners saw Europe overtake the Americas and claim victory in the Continental Cup athletics meet on Sunday. Europe scored a total of 429 points to win the two-day meet, finishing just 9.5 points ahead of the Americas, which had led after the first day. Europe's runners were victorious in three women's competitions: Russian Aleksandra Fedoriva won the 200 in 22.86 seconds and her compatriot, Yuliya Zarudneva, took the 3,000 steeplechase in 9:25.46. Hind Dehiba Chahyd of France claimed the 1,500 with 4:19.78.
For more: Europe wins Continental Cup athletic meet - USATODAY.com
For more: Europe wins Continental Cup athletic meet - USATODAY.com
9/4/10
Soccer Europa Cup: Spain, Netherlands, England Easily Win to Open Qualifying for Euro 2012
World Cup winner Spain, England and the Netherlands easily won to open qualifying for soccer’s 2012 European Championship.
Fernando Torres scored two goals as Spain began defense of its European title with a 4-0 victory in Liechtenstein. Klass- Jan Huntelaar scored a hat trick as World Cup runnerup Netherlands routed San Marino 5-0, while Jermaine Defoe scored three goals to lead England past Bulgaria 4-0 in London. Germany won 1-0 at Belgium and Italy rallied for two second-half goals to win 2-1 in Estonia. Sergey Kisliak’s goal in the 86th minute gave Belarus a 1-0 win over France in Paris and Andreas Avraam scored in the final minute as Cyprus tied 4-4 in Portugal.
The second round of qualifying matches will be played Sept. 7.
For more: Spain, Netherlands, England Easily Win to Open Qualifying for Euro 2012 - Bloomberg
Fernando Torres scored two goals as Spain began defense of its European title with a 4-0 victory in Liechtenstein. Klass- Jan Huntelaar scored a hat trick as World Cup runnerup Netherlands routed San Marino 5-0, while Jermaine Defoe scored three goals to lead England past Bulgaria 4-0 in London. Germany won 1-0 at Belgium and Italy rallied for two second-half goals to win 2-1 in Estonia. Sergey Kisliak’s goal in the 86th minute gave Belarus a 1-0 win over France in Paris and Andreas Avraam scored in the final minute as Cyprus tied 4-4 in Portugal.
The second round of qualifying matches will be played Sept. 7.
Golf Ryder Cup: Americans hold no fears for European Ryder Cup star Edoardo Molinari
Edoardo Molinari last night told America's golfing gods he fears no one. Europe's on-form star insists he'd even relish a Ryder Cup showdown with Tiger Woods because the game is easy to him right now.
Molinari will tee up at Celtic Manor next month af ter last week's stunning Johnnie Walker success impressed skipper Colin Montgomerie enough to hand him a wild card And the Ital ian sensat ion insists he won't let Monty down.
Molinari, who is joint second at the European Masters after a second-round six-under 65, said: "At the moment I don't fear anyone because when you play well, this game can be so easy.
For more: Americans hold no fears for European Ryder Cup star Edoardo Molinari - The Daily Record
Molinari will tee up at Celtic Manor next month af ter last week's stunning Johnnie Walker success impressed skipper Colin Montgomerie enough to hand him a wild card And the Ital ian sensat ion insists he won't let Monty down.
Molinari, who is joint second at the European Masters after a second-round six-under 65, said: "At the moment I don't fear anyone because when you play well, this game can be so easy.
For more: Americans hold no fears for European Ryder Cup star Edoardo Molinari - The Daily Record
9/3/10
Italy - Ambrosetti Forum : Dr. Doom Sees More than 400 U.S. Banks Failing
Nouriel Roubini, also known as Dr. Doom, told CNBC Friday that more than 400 U.S. banks will fail.
Speaking to CNBC on the shores of Lake Como, Italy at the Ambrosetti Forum economics conference, Roubini said that "The biggest banks have been backstopped, but 800-plus small- and medium-sized banks in the US remain on the critical list and half of those will go bust."
According to a Reuters report, "Roubini said corporate and consumer debt problems will get worse and that there are more problems ahead in the commercial and residential property market."
For more: Dr. Doom Sees More than 400 U.S. Banks Failing | Benzinga.com
Speaking to CNBC on the shores of Lake Como, Italy at the Ambrosetti Forum economics conference, Roubini said that "The biggest banks have been backstopped, but 800-plus small- and medium-sized banks in the US remain on the critical list and half of those will go bust."
According to a Reuters report, "Roubini said corporate and consumer debt problems will get worse and that there are more problems ahead in the commercial and residential property market."
For more: Dr. Doom Sees More than 400 U.S. Banks Failing | Benzinga.com
Wall Street (bankrolling the Republican Party) and Guiding America Toward Third World Status, and Instructing China As Well - by Raymond J. Learsy
Wall Street will not let up. In spite of the financial regulation bill passed last month, the Wall Street casino continues at full tilt. Just last week the New York Times reported ("Despite Reform, Banks Have Room for Risky Deals"08.25.10) that the likes of JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs are continuing to squander hundreds of millions on bets, purportedly on transactions handled for their customers, (they are now passing themselves off as "croupier" at the roulette wheel) bets that seem to serve little or no economic value other than to urther pressure an economy already in distress, pushing a deeply burdened American middle class further into third world status, and taking the entire nation along for the ride. It is a phenomenon all too real and has been authoritatively set forth in Arianna Huffington's recent book, Third World America.
Among the most malicious effects of Wall Street's workings on our economy has been its ruthless focus on the bottom line and its grim focus on its self enrichment, irrespective of the societal cost visited on workers, communities, the nations economic sinews and the nation's entrepreneurial vision. Millions of workers have lost high value and productive jobs in manufacturing, trade and the professions. Jobs having been sent overseas and many destroyed through the brutal and self-serving leveraging of debt by the financial engineers, pledging the assets of the companies of which they have taken control before flipping them or dressing them up for an IPO. Many were enterprises with years of tradition created by the hard work of entire communities that have now been closed down entirely or moved offshore after having dismissed its workers en masse. All to the rapacious benefit of the Wall Street Mergers and Acquisition teams and their banking enablers, and the hedge fund honchos.
For more: Raymond J. Learsy: Wall Street Guiding America Toward Third World Status, and Instructing China As Well
Among the most malicious effects of Wall Street's workings on our economy has been its ruthless focus on the bottom line and its grim focus on its self enrichment, irrespective of the societal cost visited on workers, communities, the nations economic sinews and the nation's entrepreneurial vision. Millions of workers have lost high value and productive jobs in manufacturing, trade and the professions. Jobs having been sent overseas and many destroyed through the brutal and self-serving leveraging of debt by the financial engineers, pledging the assets of the companies of which they have taken control before flipping them or dressing them up for an IPO. Many were enterprises with years of tradition created by the hard work of entire communities that have now been closed down entirely or moved offshore after having dismissed its workers en masse. All to the rapacious benefit of the Wall Street Mergers and Acquisition teams and their banking enablers, and the hedge fund honchos.
For more: Raymond J. Learsy: Wall Street Guiding America Toward Third World Status, and Instructing China As Well
9/2/10
Europe's oldest integration challenge
In a post-9/11 world, the discourse on minority integration in Europe is dominated by the continent’s relatively new Muslim immigrants, with headscarf and burqa bans having emerged as the issue’s most emotive symbols.
But Europe also faces a much older integrationist challenge, one that persists unresolved over hundreds of years: the Roma. The Roma or gypsies as they are pejoratively also known, are linguistically and ethnically related to north Indians. It’s believed they left their homeland during the 11th century for reasons that remain debated, possibly a result of Muslim invasions. They never returned.
Today the Roma are estimated to number between two million and five million, the majority of whom live in the Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Romania. As new member states of the European Union, the citizens of these Eastern European countries now enjoy freedom of movement across the 27-nation bloc. As a result, the Roma are increasingly moving to the richer countries of Western Europe where despite the ingrained rhetoric of human rights, they find themselves as unwelcome as ever.
For more: Europe's oldest integration challenge
But Europe also faces a much older integrationist challenge, one that persists unresolved over hundreds of years: the Roma. The Roma or gypsies as they are pejoratively also known, are linguistically and ethnically related to north Indians. It’s believed they left their homeland during the 11th century for reasons that remain debated, possibly a result of Muslim invasions. They never returned.
Today the Roma are estimated to number between two million and five million, the majority of whom live in the Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Romania. As new member states of the European Union, the citizens of these Eastern European countries now enjoy freedom of movement across the 27-nation bloc. As a result, the Roma are increasingly moving to the richer countries of Western Europe where despite the ingrained rhetoric of human rights, they find themselves as unwelcome as ever.
For more: Europe's oldest integration challenge
ECB's Nowotny - no danger of double dip in Europe
"We don't see a danger of a double dip for Europe but (we see) only modest growth," Nowotny of the ECB told reporters.
For more: ECB's Nowotny - no danger of double dip in Europe | Reuters
For more: ECB's Nowotny - no danger of double dip in Europe | Reuters
EU Business Group Urges China to Grant Better Market Access
A European business group urged the Chinese government to allow foreign businesses better access to its vast domestic market, arguing that regulatory barriers could threaten investment despite the economy's rapid growth. "China is still one of the most heavily controlled economies in the world," Jacques de Boisséson, the president of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, told reporters Thursday. While many companies are drawn here by the prospect of China's rapid growth, numerous regulatory issues can make it hard for them to turn a profit, he said.
In its annual position paper on business conditions in China, the European Chamber pointed to several examples of stringent licensing requirements and arbitrarily-enforced legislation that creates headaches for foreign businesses. The 647-page bilingual document contains more than 380 specific suggestions on how to change Chinese regulations and practices.
For more: EU Business Group Urges China to Grant Better Market Access - WSJ.com
In its annual position paper on business conditions in China, the European Chamber pointed to several examples of stringent licensing requirements and arbitrarily-enforced legislation that creates headaches for foreign businesses. The 647-page bilingual document contains more than 380 specific suggestions on how to change Chinese regulations and practices.
For more: EU Business Group Urges China to Grant Better Market Access - WSJ.com
9/1/10
Hungary officially opens counterterrorism center
Hungary officially opened a counterterrorism center in Budapest on Wednesday when Interior Minister Sandor Pinter presented the founding document to Police Brigadier General Janos Hajdu, head of the new facility.
The new center is charged with investigating acts of terrorism, kidnappings, and the hijacking or skyjacking of trains, buses, aircraft and other vehicles used in public or cargo transport as well as with protecting the prime minister and president. It is also responsible for analyzing and evaluating the terrorism risk level in Hungary.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban addressed the first official meeting of personnel at the new center where he emphasized that a well organized, well equipped counterterrorism center with highly qualified personnel was essential to a developed and strong country. He pointed out that with its first independent counterterrorism center, "Hungary had taken another major step towards becoming a strong and modern country able to protect its citizens and gain respect for its interests."
For more: Hungary officially opens counterterrorism center
Suriname: Newly-elected president of Suriname accused of murdering journalists
During his phase as the country's dictator from 1980-87, he was accused of murdering five journalists. They were executed in 1982 along with 10 other pro-democracy activists. No independent media was permitted to operate under Bouterse in that period.
He was sentenced in absentia to 11 years in prison in the Netherlands in 1999 on a charge of drug trafficking. And he is still facing a 20-year prison term in Suriname if convicted of the 1982 massacre.
For more: Badge greenslade blog
The Netherlands: Geert Wilders: victim of his own beliefs
A new book about Geert Wilders was issued yesterday by Dutch political science professor Meindert Fennema in the Netherlands called The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.
Although Mr Fennema has his doubts about the former apprentice (“His opinions divide Dutch society strongly”), he is certain that Mr Wilders is not a temporary phenomenon. “The issues he raises will dominate Dutch politics in the next decades. You might wonder how long Mr Wilders himself will remain a strong force in Dutch politics, but the problems he addresses are here to stay”.
At Tuesday’s book presentation, former Conservative party (VVD) leader Mr Bolkestein said Mr Wilders does not pose any threat to Dutch society. “He has said all kinds of things, but he’s never done any harm”, Mr Bolkestein said. “The threats aimed at him and his security are a much bigger threat”.
For more: Geert Wilders: victim of his own beliefs | Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Although Mr Fennema has his doubts about the former apprentice (“His opinions divide Dutch society strongly”), he is certain that Mr Wilders is not a temporary phenomenon. “The issues he raises will dominate Dutch politics in the next decades. You might wonder how long Mr Wilders himself will remain a strong force in Dutch politics, but the problems he addresses are here to stay”.
At Tuesday’s book presentation, former Conservative party (VVD) leader Mr Bolkestein said Mr Wilders does not pose any threat to Dutch society. “He has said all kinds of things, but he’s never done any harm”, Mr Bolkestein said. “The threats aimed at him and his security are a much bigger threat”.
For more: Geert Wilders: victim of his own beliefs | Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Turkish vacationers to return early for referendum
The referendum is set for the fourth and last day of the Şeker Bayram holiday, a religious festival, and many people who are traveling for the festival are planning to return home a day early to vote NO or yes on the constitutional amendment package backed by the ruling Justice and Development Party, or AKP.
For more: Turkish vacationers to return early for referendum - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review
USA: Obama keeps his promise and brings end to Iraq war
Last night in a speech to his nation President Obama said: "I am announcing that the American combat mission in Iraq has ended. Operation Iraqi Freedom is over, and the Iraqi people now have lead responsibility for the security of their country."At every turn, America's men and women in uniform have served with courage and resolve. As Commander-in-Chief, I am proud of their service. Like all Americans, I am awed by their sacrifice, and by the sacrifices of their families."
Mr Obama added: "Ending this war is not only in Iraq's interest — it is in our own. The United States has paid a huge price to put the future of Iraq in the hands of its people." About 50,000 US troops will remain in the country until the end of 2011.
For more: Obama keeps promise and brings end to Iraq war | The Sun |News:
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