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Archive - 2010-12-26
US Midwest bids ease in Iowa, rise on Illinois River

US Midwest bids ease in Iowa, rise on Illinois River

Corn and soyabean spot basis bids eased at ethanol plants and soya processors in Iowa while bids for both crops climbed modestly on the Illinois River on Thursday, grain merchants said. Bids elsewhere in the US Midwest were unchanged. Farmers were active
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Iron Ore-Import prices steady, outlook uncertain

Iron Ore-Import prices steady, outlook uncertain

China iron ore import prices remained steady on Friday, amid a lack of interest in large purchases among steel mills because of an uncertain price outlook after the New Year holiday. Offers of Indian ore fines with 63.5 percent iron content stood steady a
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Vietnam to adjust rice export floors from December 27

Vietnam to adjust rice export floors from December 27

Vietnam will raise by around 2 percent the export floor price for its common rice grade, 25 percent broken rice, to $490 a tonne, the Vietnam Food Association said. But it will cut the minimum export price for the 5 percent broken rice grade to $520 a ton
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
EU wheat firms in thin trade ahead of holidays

EU wheat firms in thin trade ahead of holidays

European wheat prices rose in thin trade on Friday as traders adjusted their positions before leaving for year-end holidays and remained buoyed by strong demand as buyers feared a lack of supplies. "Trade is thin ahead of Christmas but fundamentals are bu
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Copper forges fresh record; oil strikes two-year peaks

Copper forges fresh record; oil strikes two-year peaks

In a fast-moving week for commodities, copper rocketed to a new record high, coffee and sugar hit impressive multi-year peaks and crude oil struck two-year pinnacles before the Christmas break. Copper was spurred higher by Chinese demand and a strike in k
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Raw sugar open interest rises to near three-month high

Raw sugar open interest rises to near three-month high

Open interest in the raw sugar market hit its highest level in three months, data from ICE Futures US showed on Wednesday. The exchange said open interest in raw sugar stood at 607,316 lots on Monday, the highest level since reaching 613,181 lots on Septe
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Nicaragua's 20100-11 sugar harvest seen up

Nicaragua's 20100-11 sugar harvest seen up

Nicaragua's sugar production in the 2010/11 harvest, which began last month, is seen rising 2 percent compared with last year's season, the national sugar producers association told Reuters. The Central American country will produce 555,911 tonnes of suga
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
High cotton prices lure South American soyabean farmers

High cotton prices lure South American soyabean farmers

High cotton prices are helping put the brakes on the relentless spread of South America's soy frontier, and brisk demand from Chinese factories could see the fiber steal more soy acres next year. Tight stocks and fund-buying by investors, who saw cotton a
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Vietnam to adjust rice export floors

Vietnam to adjust rice export floors

Vietnam will raise by around 2 percent the export floor price for its common rice grade, 25 percent broken rice, to $490 a tonne, the Vietnam Food Association said. But it will cut the minimum export price for the 5 percent broken rice grade to $520 a ton
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Asian rice prices dip

Asian rice prices dip

Rice prices have dropped by up to 4 percent in Thailand in the past week and also eased in Vietnam due to a lack of demand ahead of the year-end holiday season, traders said on Wednesday. But some traders thought prices could rebound in the new year, espe
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Vietnam 2011 sugar imports seen down

Vietnam 2011 sugar imports seen down

Vietnam's sugar imports in 2011 could reach 250,000 tonnes, down 16.7 percent from the import volume expected this year, a state-run newspaper reported on Thursday. The volume included 200,000 tonnes for consumption and 50,000 tonnes reserved for any dema
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Asian coffee; Sumatran beans back on discount, demand slow

Asian coffee; Sumatran beans back on discount, demand slow

Indonesian coffee beans were being offered on discount at the London futures market on slowing demand as buyers turned to Vietnam where the harvest is still underway, traders said on Wednesday. Sumatran grade 4,80 defect was offered at a discount of betwe
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Malaysia, Indonesia eye March wheat

Malaysia, Indonesia eye March wheat

Indonesia is likely to be in the market for some 100,000 tonnes of wheat for March shipment, while Malaysia is expected buy around 60,000 to 80,000 tonnes early January when traders and millers return from the year-end break. India, which sold around 10,0
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
World currencies and dollar

World currencies and dollar

Value of the dollar in terms of other world currencies as prevailing in the week ended Saturday (December 25, 2010).

Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
World Shipping Schedule

World Shipping Schedule

Karachi Port's world-wide shipping schedule beginning Saturday (December 25, 2010).

Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
World Shipping Schedule

World Shipping Schedule

Karachi Port's world-wide shipping schedule beginning Saturday (December 25, 2010).

Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Automart: car prices in Karachi

Automart: car prices in Karachi

The prices of different makes and models of cars prevailing in Karachi in the week ended Saturday (December 25, 2010).

Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
The Weather

The Weather

The weather report on Saturday (December 25, 2010) and the forecast for Sunday (December 26, 2010).

Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Message from President, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Message from President, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

I wish to congratulate the management and staff of Sindh Bank on the commencement of its commercial operations. The launch of Sindh Bank is a landmark event for the business, finance, trade and industry, indeed for all its stakeholders particularly in Sin
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Message from Governor Sindh

Message from Governor Sindh

My heartiest congratulations to the Board, Management, Staff and Prospective Customers of Sindh Bank. A bank specifically for the province of Sindh is an asset that is not just well deserved by the province but one that presents brilliant opportunities fo
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Message from Chief Minister, Sindh

Message from Chief Minister, Sindh

It is a pleasure for me to witness this day, which marks the inauguration of the Bank of the province of Sindh. I thank all those who have worked to bring this to a reality.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Message from Finance Minister Sindh

Message from Finance Minister Sindh

It gives me pleasure to witness the establishment of the Sindh Bank as yet another facet of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto's vision for the people is realized. The launch of the Bank will bring social, agricultural and economic development in the province and enc
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Message from Governor State Bank of Pakistan

Message from Governor State Bank of Pakistan

I am glad to learn that Sindh Bank Limited will commence operations by opening its first branch in Naudero, Larkana. On this historic occasion, I would like to congratulate the Government of Sindh and the Board of Directors and management of Sindh Bank.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Message from President & CEO Sindh Bank

Message from President & CEO Sindh Bank

It is a matter of great pleasure and pride for me to be shouldering the responsibility as the first President and CEO of Sindh Bank Ltd. I pray to Almighty Allah that I fulfill my responsibilities that is expected of me to be able to serve the needs of th
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Indian satellite rocket explodes after lift-off

Indian satellite rocket explodes after lift-off

An Indian space rocket carrying a communications satellite exploded Saturday after lift-off from southern India, live TV footage showed. The rocket exploded in a plume of smoke and fire moments after taking off from the Sriharikota launch site, some 80 ki
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Indian satellite rocket explodes after lift-off

Indian satellite rocket explodes after lift-off

An Indian space rocket carrying a communications satellite exploded Saturday after lift-off from southern India, live TV footage showed. The rocket exploded in a plume of smoke and fire moments after taking off from the Sriharikota launch site, some 80 ki
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Wheat export: FBR to enforce strict documentation

Wheat export: FBR to enforce strict documentation

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has started enforcing strict documentation of exporters after lifting ban on export of wheat/wheat products by private sector. The FBR has issued instructions to all Model Customs Collectorates (MCC) for checking the exp
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Wheat export: FBR to enforce strict documentation

Wheat export: FBR to enforce strict documentation

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has started enforcing strict documentation of exporters after lifting ban on export of wheat/wheat products by private sector. The FBR has issued instructions to all Model Customs Collectorates (MCC) for checking the exp
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Wheat export: FBR to enforce strict documentation

Wheat export: FBR to enforce strict documentation

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has started enforcing strict documentation of exporters after lifting ban on export of wheat/wheat products by private sector. The FBR has issued instructions to all Model Customs Collectorates (MCC) for checking the exp
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
In period of three months: China hikes interest rates for second time

In period of three months: China hikes interest rates for second time

China's central bank on Saturday raised interest rates for the second time in three months as authorities ramp up efforts to curb borrowing, rein in property prices and tame inflation. The People's Bank of China said in a brief one-line statement that it
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
In period of three months: China hikes interest rates for second time

In period of three months: China hikes interest rates for second time

China's central bank on Saturday raised interest rates for the second time in three months as authorities ramp up efforts to curb borrowing, rein in property prices and tame inflation. The People's Bank of China said in a brief one-line statement that it
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Wheat export to Kabul: PFMA accuses FC, FIU of creating hurdles

Wheat export to Kabul: PFMA accuses FC, FIU of creating hurdles

The Pakistan Flour Mills Association (PFMA) has reportedly accused the Frontier Constabulary (FC) and Army''s Federal Investigation Unit (FIU) of impeding export of flour to Afghanistan, sources told Business Recorder.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Zardari vows to be guarantor of better future of Pakistan

Zardari vows to be guarantor of better future of Pakistan

President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday vowed to be a guarantor of future generation of Pakistan saying that the Pakistan People's Party government would create a better country than what it received. Addressing a public meeting on the inauguration of Bena
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Zardari vows to be guarantor of better future of Pakistan

Zardari vows to be guarantor of better future of Pakistan

President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday vowed to be a guarantor of future generation of Pakistan saying that the Pakistan People's Party government would create a better country than what it received. Addressing a public meeting on the inauguration of Bena
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Fazl expresses willingness to meet Zardari

Fazl expresses willingness to meet Zardari

Pakistan People's Party is making every effort to convince Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman to rejoin the ruling coalition and the latter is said to have expressed willingness to meet the President, sources told Business
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Fazl expresses willingness to meet Zardari

Fazl expresses willingness to meet Zardari

Pakistan People's Party is making every effort to convince Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman to rejoin the ruling coalition and the latter is said to have expressed willingness to meet the President, sources told Business
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Girl suicide bomber hits WFP outlet: 43 killed, 72 injured in Bajaur

Girl suicide bomber hits WFP outlet: 43 killed, 72 injured in Bajaur

At least 43 people, including children and several levies personnel, were killed and 72 others wounded on Saturday in a suicide bombing outside a food distribution outlet of the World Food Programme (WFP) in Khar, headquarters of Bajaur Agency.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Girl suicide bomber hits WFP outlet: 43 killed, 72 injured in Bajaur

Girl suicide bomber hits WFP outlet: 43 killed, 72 injured in Bajaur

At least 43 people, including children and several levies personnel, were killed and 72 others wounded on Saturday in a suicide bombing outside a food distribution outlet of the World Food Programme (WFP) in Khar, headquarters of Bajaur Agency.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Storm heading to Washington after hitting South

Storm heading to Washington after hitting South

A rare white Christmas was complicating life for some travellers as airlines cancelled hundreds of flights, while snow was predicted for Washington, D.C., and travel authorities warned of potentially dangerous roads. The National Weather Service said the
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
PTV pays homage to Quaid-e-Azam

PTV pays homage to Quaid-e-Azam

To celebrate the 134th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Pakistan Television Corporation Saturday arranged a programme "Rehbar-e-Taraqqi-o-Kamal" to pay tribute to the Father of the Nation. Federal Minister for Information & Broadcast
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Democrats panel sweeps KPC elections

Democrats panel sweeps KPC elections

The Democrats panel swept annual elections of Karachi Press Club (KPC) for the year 2011, as all candidates of the panel returned successful on the seats of office-bearers and members Governing Body. Tahir Hassan Khan of Democrats was elected President. H
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Three relief trucks sent to flood hit areas

Three relief trucks sent to flood hit areas

Three truck-load with relief goods were dispatched to flood-hit areas of Naushehra and Charsadda donated by Abdur Rehman Trust Manchester. The trucks have been sent under the supervision of DCO Naseem Sadique from Federal Civil Defence Training School Bol
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Egypt's Mubarak underlines his hold on power

Egypt's Mubarak underlines his hold on power

President Hosni Mubarak presented himself on Saturday to his party conference as a man firmly in charge of both party and government less than a year before Egypt's presidential election. Mubarak, who has not yet said whether he will stand for re-election
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Seminar on East Pakistan Debacle at CSAS

Seminar on East Pakistan Debacle at CSAS

Punjab University Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS) organised a seminar on "East Pakistan Debacle and Our Contemporary Responsibilities" at the Centre here Saturday. Former Minister of Local Government Punjab Brigadier (Retd) Hamid Saeed Akhtar, Addit
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
South Korea frees three Chinese fishermen after protest

South Korea frees three Chinese fishermen after protest

Three Chinese detained by South Korea over illegal fishing have been freed following protests from Beijing and were preparing to return home Saturday, the coastguard said. Their 63-ton boat overturned and sank in the Yellow Sea on December 18 after rammin
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Iraq invites foreign firms to build three power plants

Iraq invites foreign firms to build three power plants

Power-starved Iraq has invited foreign companies to build three power plants to boost the national grid by 1,250 megawatts, the Ministry of Electricity said on Saturday. The ministry said a 500 MW plant would be built in each of the southern provinces of
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Jihadist issues Christmas bombing threat

Jihadist issues Christmas bombing threat

An Islamic extremist has threatened in an audiotaped message to set off terrorist bombs in countries celebrating Christmas, the SITE monitoring group said Friday. The recording, titled "The Zero Hour has arrived" and directed to "the unbeliever and Christ
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Altaf criticises US court order

Altaf criticises US court order

The chief of Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Altaf Hussain, has strongly reacted to a purported order of a US court, seeking appearance of top Pakistani intelligence personnel to testify in a compensation suit in respect of Mumbai attack.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Altaf criticises US court order

Altaf criticises US court order

The chief of Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Altaf Hussain, has strongly reacted to a purported order of a US court, seeking appearance of top Pakistani intelligence personnel to testify in a compensation suit in respect of Mumbai attack.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Weather moderates in western Europe

Weather moderates in western Europe

An annual Christmas Day swimming race in London was called off Saturday after the water froze and a midwife had to ski to a mother-to-be on a snowbound Danish island. But European flights were almost back to normal after hundreds of passengers were trappe
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Turkey wants improved ties if Israel apologises

Turkey wants improved ties if Israel apologises

Turkey's foreign minister on Saturday said the country wants improved ties with Israel but it must apologise and offer compensation for its deadly raid on a Gaza Strip-bound aid flotilla. The US and the European Union have called on Turkey and Israel to o
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Turkey wants improved ties if Israel apologises

Turkey wants improved ties if Israel apologises

Turkey's foreign minister on Saturday said the country wants improved ties with Israel but it must apologise and offer compensation for its deadly raid on a Gaza Strip-bound aid flotilla. The US and the European Union have called on Turkey and Israel to o
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Road accident in India kills 34: report

Road accident in India kills 34: report

A collision in northern India between a bus and a mini-truck carrying mourners returning from a funeral killed 34 people on Saturday, a report said. The accident, which left 30 injured, took place near the town of Badaun in Uttar Pradesh state, around 200
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
World economy can withstand $100 oil price: Kuwait

World economy can withstand $100 oil price: Kuwait

The global economy can withstand an oil price of $100 a barrel, Kuwait's oil minister said on Saturday, as other exporters indicated Opec may decide against increasing output through 2011 as the market was well supplied. Analysts have said oil producing c
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
World economy can withstand $100 oil price: Kuwait

World economy can withstand $100 oil price: Kuwait

The global economy can withstand an oil price of $100 a barrel, Kuwait's oil minister said on Saturday, as other exporters indicated Opec may decide against increasing output through 2011 as the market was well supplied. Analysts have said oil producing c
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
World economy can withstand $100 oil price: Kuwait

World economy can withstand $100 oil price: Kuwait

The global economy can withstand an oil price of $100 a barrel, Kuwait''s oil minister said on Saturday, as other exporters indicated Opec may decide against increasing output through 2011 as the market was well supplied. Analysts have said oil producing
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Christmas eve attacks kill at least 38 in Nigeria

Christmas eve attacks kill at least 38 in Nigeria

Explosions in Nigeria's central region killed 32 people on Christmas Eve and six people died in attacks on two churches in the north-east of Africa's most populous nation, officials said on Saturday. On Friday night, a series of bombs were detonated durin
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Christmas eve attacks kill at least 38 in Nigeria

Christmas eve attacks kill at least 38 in Nigeria

Explosions in Nigeria's central region killed 32 people on Christmas Eve and six people died in attacks on two churches in the north-east of Africa's most populous nation, officials said on Saturday. On Friday night, a series of bombs were detonated durin
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Death anniversary of Shaheed BB: PPP Larkana finalises arrangements

Death anniversary of Shaheed BB: PPP Larkana finalises arrangements

A meeting of the Executive Committee of Pakistan People's Party Larkana District was held here on Saturday at local circuit house Larkana to finalise the arrangements for observing the third death anniversary of the slain chairperson of PPP Shaheed Benazi
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
ZTBL to receive loan applications till January 4

ZTBL to receive loan applications till January 4

Under one-window programme the Zari Taraqqiati Bank will receive applications for loans till January 4, 2011. Farmers, owner of 25 acres irrigation land and 50 acre arid land are eligible for window loan. The agriculture department of Punjab informed farm
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Comprehensive plan ready to apprehend motorcycle riders

Comprehensive plan ready to apprehend motorcycle riders

The Capital City Traffic Police have prepared a comprehensive plan to apprehend the motorcycle riders involved in wheelie on city roads. The Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Ahmed Mubeen Saturday ordered to depute six DSPs, 13 Inspectors and 70 Wardens to
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Traders repose confidence into leadership of Tariq, Iftikhar

Traders repose confidence into leadership of Tariq, Iftikhar

Traders of the capital city on Saturday reposed full confidence in the leadership of Tariq Sayeed and Iftikhar Ali Malik seasoned leaders of business community. Traders' community of the Capital city has also felicitated newly elected President FPCCI Sena
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
President condemns Bajaur blast

President condemns Bajaur blast

President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the suicide attack at a Ration Distribution Centre in Bajaur Agency on Saturday, in which several innocent people were killed and wounded. The President termed the attack as a barbaric act of terrorism and rei
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Naek, Jan Jamali condemn Bajaur suicide attack

Naek, Jan Jamali condemn Bajaur suicide attack

Chairman Senate Farooq H. Naek and Deputy Chairman Jan Muhammad Khan Jamali on Saturday strongly condemned suicide attack in Bajour Agency that claimed several precious lives. In their separate messages issued here, they deplored the loss of precious live
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Speaker Sindh Assembly inaugurates library and resource centre

Speaker Sindh Assembly inaugurates library and resource centre

Speaker Sindh Assembly Nisar Ahmed Khuhro has said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto always advocated maximum facilities of education to people of rural areas so that the youth of the remote areas may be able to play their role in the development of th
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Two hurt in clash: three vehicles, 2 motorcycles snatched

Two hurt in clash: three vehicles, 2 motorcycles snatched

In different incidents, citizens were deprived of three vehicles and two motorcycles, whereas, two persons were injured by the opponents in a feud in federal capital here on Saturday. Besides, Islamabad Police have recovered drugs and illegal arms from fi
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
164 outstanding contributors receive Star Awards 2009

164 outstanding contributors receive Star Awards 2009

Outstanding contributors of different fields gathered in federal capital on Saturday to attend the 'XXth Star Awards ceremony and annual dinner 2009' and mark the 134th birth anniversary of great Founder of Pakistan Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Xmas celebrated amid tight security in Quetta

Xmas celebrated amid tight security in Quetta

Like other parts of the world the Christian community of Quetta celebrated Christmas on Saturday with religious fervour amidst tight security. Special prayers were offered for the stability and prosperity of the country in all churches of the provincial m
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Christmas gifts distributed among children

Christmas gifts distributed among children

On the special directive of provincial Ombudsman, Khalid Mahmood Children Complaint Office distributed Christmas gifts amongst the Christian Children. The Christmas ceremony was held here on Saturday night at Pentecostal Church Colony Saiden Saha Upper Ma
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Britain condemns 'appalling' suicide bombing

Britain condemns 'appalling' suicide bombing

British junior foreign minister Alistair Burt on Saturday condemned the "appalling" suicide bombing attack on a World Food Programme project in Pakistan. "This appalling attack on innocent refugees is a cruel reminder of the indiscriminate aims of the ter
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Pakistan desires to strengthen ties with Oman: Gilani

Pakistan desires to strengthen ties with Oman: Gilani

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said the mutual desire for further strengthening of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Oman reflects spirit of brotherhood and affection between the people of two countries. The Prime Minister was talking to Muh
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Forces foil terror bid, explosive vehicle seized

Forces foil terror bid, explosive vehicle seized

The security forces have foiled a potential terrorism bid by seizing a vehicle full of explosive during search operation in restive Doaba here on Saturday, police said. According to Doaba police station, working on a tip off, police signalled a suspected
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Punjab Health Department clarification

Punjab Health Department clarification

An official of Punjab Health Department has clarified that the department had not imposed any cut on the budget allocated for the purchase of medicines for government hospitals throughout Punjab. He further said that all the apprehensions in this regard a
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Punjab University announces results

Punjab University announces results

Punjab University has announced the results of MSc Geography Part-I, MSc Geography, MA Arabic and MA Fine Arts, Part-II, Annual Exam 2010, and BS Applied Geology, First Professional, Annual 2010. Detailed results are also available at PU website.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
FPCCI seminar on December 27

FPCCI seminar on December 27

The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Regional Office is holding a seminar on "National Economic Issues and Solutions thereto" on Monday (tomorrow). The Regional Chairman Mian Muhammad Adrees will preside over the seminar, w
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Punjab Assembly session on December 31

Punjab Assembly session on December 31

Punjab Assembly will hold its 22nd session at Lahore on December 31(3:00PM). Punjab Assembly Speaker Rana Muhammad Iqbal will chair the session.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
APHC pays glowing tributes to Quaid-e-Azam

APHC pays glowing tributes to Quaid-e-Azam

All Parties Hurriyet Conference (APHC) has paid glowing tributes to Quaid-e-Azam, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan while reaffirming Kashmiris' resolve to continue struggle for liberating Kashmir from Indian bondage. The APHC Chairman, Mirwaiz
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Christmas celebrated with religious fervour

Christmas celebrated with religious fervour

Christmas in Lahore was celebrated in Lahore with religious festivity and fervour on Saturday. The administration has issued directives for maintenance of strict security on the occasion of Christmas. Christmas festivities started on Friday midnight with
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
PBM to pay Rs 5000 per month to families of martyred cops

PBM to pay Rs 5000 per month to families of martyred cops

In recognition of the sacrifices rendered by officers and officials of Islamabad Police, Pakistan Baitul Mal (PBM) has decided to pay Rs 5000 monthly to the families of martyred cops. Islamabad Police have rendered great sacrifices in war against terroris
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Ghee/oil prices up by Rs 10 per kg for Christmas

Ghee/oil prices up by Rs 10 per kg for Christmas

The prices of cooking oil and ghee were increased further on the eve of Christmas by around Rs 10 per kg in the retail markets of Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Khanewal, Rahimyar Khan, Lodhran, Rajanpur and Muzaffargarh districts. According to mark
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
NCEL holds road shows for investors

NCEL holds road shows for investors

The National Commodity Exchange Limited in association with registered brokers has held road shows in Gujranwala and Lahore.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Jamaat-i-Islami strongly reacts to ISI official's summoning by US

Jamaat-i-Islami strongly reacts to ISI official's summoning by US

Reacting aggressively to the demand of US court of summoning officials from ISI, Jamaat-i-Islami Secretary General Liaquat Baloch urged the government to part ways with the global coalition forged for war on terrorism. Warning the government against unbea
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Appointment of non-professionals would make matters worse: SCCI

Appointment of non-professionals would make matters worse: SCCI

President Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry in a press statement issued on Friday evening has expressed his concern on the proposed plan to appoint people with political affiliations instead of professionals as heads
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Southern Punjab engulfed by fog

Southern Punjab engulfed by fog

Different cities of southern Punjab are under the full cover of fog now a days. The whole schedules of flights and trains have badly disturbed due to dense fog in this region. The flights are reaching at their destinations about four to six hours late and
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Zardari visits Mazar-e-Quaid

Zardari visits Mazar-e-Quaid

President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday visited the mausoleum of Father of the Nation, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, to pay homage to the Founder of Pakistan on the occasion of his 134th birth anniversary. He laid a floral wreath at the Mazar, offered
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Quaid's 134th birth anniversary observed with solemnity

Quaid's 134th birth anniversary observed with solemnity

As elsewhere, the 134th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, was observed on Saturday. President Asif Ali Zardari visited the mausoleum of the Quaid to pay homage to the Founder of Pakistan. He laid floral wreat
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Chief minister Sindh pays homage to Quaid-i-Azam

Chief minister Sindh pays homage to Quaid-i-Azam

Sindh Chief Minister along with members of provincial cabinet here on Saturday visited the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to pay homage to the Father of the Nation on the occasion of his 134th birth anniversary. He laid a floral wreath, off
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Rs 1.9 million interest-free loans disbursed

Rs 1.9 million interest-free loans disbursed

Resorting to a welfare move to help the deprived families feed them respectfully, 'Helping Hand for Relief and Development' (HHRD) extended interest-free loans worth Rs 1.9 million among 135 households of Azad Jammu & Kashmir. The function was organised b
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Displaced children celebrates Quaid's birthday

Displaced children celebrates Quaid's birthday

Pakistan Village Development Programme (PVDP) in collaboration with UNICEF celebrated the birthday anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam, Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Child Protection Centres at Jalozai IDP camp. In this connection, a special function was held at Shama C
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Nation celebrated 134th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam

Nation celebrated 134th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam

The 134th birth anniversary of the Father of Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was celebrated across the country on Saturday with renewed pledge to make the country a modern welfare state. A number of activities were arranged through out the countr
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
PML-Q to abstain from causing unrest in the country: Shujaat

PML-Q to abstain from causing unrest in the country: Shujaat

Speakers at a function paid glowing tributes to the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and called for following his teachings and ideas to steer the country out of prevailing crises through forging unity among people. They said that Qu
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Cadets of PMA Kakul mount guard at Quaid's Mazar

Cadets of PMA Kakul mount guard at Quaid's Mazar

A smartly turned out contingent of gentlemen Cadets from the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), Kakul, mounted ceremonial guard at the Mazar of Quaid-e-Azam on Saturday, as a part of celebration to mark the Father of the nation's 134th birth anniversary. An
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Search operation: police release 300 suspected people

Search operation: police release 300 suspected people

Following intelligence reports that some miscreants might attempt to disrupt the celebrations of birth day anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Christmas festival, law enforcement agencies on Saturday morning rounded up about 300 people in
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Kashmiri leaders pay tribute to Quaid-e-Azam

Kashmiri leaders pay tribute to Quaid-e-Azam

Speakers at a seminar held by Jammu and Kashmir Anjuman-e-Sharine paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah for creation of a homeland for the Muslims of South Asia. A declaration released by the seminar said "we express our satisfaction over Quaid
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Parveen Shakir's 17th death anniversary today

Parveen Shakir's 17th death anniversary today

The 17th death anniversary of renewed poetess Parveen Shakir is being observed on Sunday (today). Parveen Shakir Trust will organise Quran Khawani at H-8 graveyard. Large number of her admirers, friends, relatives and literary figures will participate in
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Much ado about nothing

Much ado about nothing

The ongoing political turmoil in the country stems not so much from the parties' conflicting positions, if any, on national issues as from their propensity to fish in troubled waters for some opportunity to capture power.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Obama's Afghan strategy review

Obama's Afghan strategy review

Announcing his much awaited Afghanistan strategy review on Thursday, US President Barack Obama asserted that the strategy is on track, and troop withdrawal would begin, as decided earlier, in July next year. He claimed that the Taliban's 'momentum' has be
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Risks specifically to Islamic banking

Risks specifically to Islamic banking

The growth of Islamic banking is based on religious grounds. As Riba (usury, interest) is forbidden in Islam in all forms and intent and the focal point of Islamic banking/finance is on the prohibition of interest. Equality and justice in the society is t
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Augmenting the tax-to-GDP ratio

Augmenting the tax-to-GDP ratio

Pakistan must augment its dismal tax-to-GDP ratio of 9 percent to meet the financial requirements for rehabilitation and reconstruction of the flood/militancy and earthquake-hit areas. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) wishes to increase the ratio to 15
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Comeback of the department store: shoppers like it simple

Comeback of the department store: shoppers like it simple

Just a couple of years ago, downtown department stores seemed on the way out, with retailing gurus telling us the future was shopping malls, big malls, with mega-car-parks and lots of branded clothing boutiques. In Germany, which has plenty of both types,
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
M A Zuberi

M A Zuberi

My first interaction with late M A Zuberi was as a banker - on the roll of the IDBP, while he worked for Dawn. Our contacts were few but meaningful. He was a great help in the travel of the ICMAP to the position of the most prestigious body of accountants
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Parliamentary parties repose confidence in Raisani

Parliamentary parties repose confidence in Raisani

All parliamentary parties in Balochistan reposed full confidence on the leadership of Chief Minister Nawab Mohammad Aslam Raisani here on Saturday. The heads of all parliamentary parties and other lawmakers vowed to support Nawab Raisani in a meeting held
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Economy needs support through taxation: Fehmida

Economy needs support through taxation: Fehmida

Speaker National Assembly Dr Fehmida Mirza on Saturday said the government was seeking consensus in the legislative body to reach a firm agreement over making Reformed General Sales Tax (RGST) Bill a law. Talking to journalists after attending the 63rd de
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Government not interested in amending blasphemy law: Sumsam

Government not interested in amending blasphemy law: Sumsam

Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Syed Sumsam Ali Shah Bukhari on Saturday assured that the government was not interested in amending the blasphemy law. In a brief telephonic talk with a private TV channel, he said, "The penalty for blasp
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Iran media team meets Shahbaz

Iran media team meets Shahbaz

A delegation led by Media Advisor to President of Iran and Managing Director of Iranian News Agency (IRNA) Ali Akbar Javanfekr, called on the Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif at Chief Minister's Secretariat on Saturday. Ambassador of Iran in
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
PIA launched new routes this year: Mukhtar

PIA launched new routes this year: Mukhtar

Defence Minister Chaudhry Ahmed Mukhtar said on Saturday that PIA had launched new routes to some international destinations during the current year. He was speaking at the inauguration of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Apna Ghar Scheme for lower grade e
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Legislators informed about uplift projects

Legislators informed about uplift projects

Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif here on Saturday in a meeting with legislators apprised them of various development projects in the Province. He implored upon the legislators to play role in the development of their areas. Talking about Dani
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
HRCP concerned over FSC decision

HRCP concerned over FSC decision

Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed its concern over decision of Federal Shariat Court (FSC) seeks reversal of several provisions of the Women's Protection Act (WPA) 2006. The commission said the decision undermines the authority of t
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Balochistan chief minister declares 27th a closed holiday

Balochistan chief minister declares 27th a closed holiday

Balochistan Chief Minister Nawab Muhammad Aslam has declared December 27 as closed holiday in the province. December 27 is third anniversary of former Prime Minister Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) has issue
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Anti-dumping duty on import of hydrogen peroxide

Anti-dumping duty on import of hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide is a basic raw material, which is used in textile industry and is in short supply from local producers. Local demand of hydrogen peroxide is about 80,000 ton while it is produced locally 60,000 ton when there is normal condition of the i
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Sialkot-Dammam direct flight from January 6

Sialkot-Dammam direct flight from January 6

Pakistan International Airline (PIA) will start its direct Sialkot-Dammam (Saudi Arabia) flight from January 6th from Sialkot International Airport, disclosed General Manager Sialkot International Airport Muhammad Nawaz Chaudhry.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Government strengthening democracy: Wattoo

Government strengthening democracy: Wattoo

The Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Mian Manzoor Ahmed Khan Wattoo has said that the PPP-led government is stabilising the democracy and taking positive steps for welfare of the people in urban and rural areas of the country.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Benazir Bhutto murder probe team expanded

Benazir Bhutto murder probe team expanded

The Interior Ministry has expanded the team investigating the assassination of Benazir Bhutto by inducting two police officers from Islamabad and Sindh Police and representatives from intelligence agencies.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Benazir Bhutto murder probe team expanded

Benazir Bhutto murder probe team expanded

The Interior Ministry has expanded the team investigating the assassination of Benazir Bhutto by inducting two police officers from Islamabad and Sindh Police and representatives from intelligence agencies.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Shahbaz for 'economic freedom'

Shahbaz for 'economic freedom'

Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif has said that political freedom is meaningless without economic freedom and the country can only be put on the road to progress by depending upon our own resources. He was talking to a delegation Punjab University, whi
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Traders urged to benefit from RAK FTZ

Traders urged to benefit from RAK FTZ

Ambassador of Pakistan in UAE Jamil Ahmad Khan said on Saturday that Pakistani businessmen must take advantage of close trade ties as well as attractive business environment created by the RAK FTZ (UAE) for promoting their business.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Shahbaz inaugurates mobile health unit in Muzaffargarh

Shahbaz inaugurates mobile health unit in Muzaffargarh

Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan came into being after rendering numerous sacrifices under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam, but we could not achieve our destiny.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Shujaat meets Imran with a view to forming alliance

Shujaat meets Imran with a view to forming alliance

PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain held a meeting with Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan here on Saturday, and invited him to form a political alliance to fight against elements with vested interests that are creating unrest in the
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
'Linguistic differences played key role in creation of Bangladesh'

'Linguistic differences played key role in creation of Bangladesh'

Speakers of a seminar on "East Pakistan Debacle and Our Contemporary Responsibilities" at the Punjab University Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS) have said that linguistic differences has played key role in the creation of East Pakistan and it is high
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Pakistan can reap IT benefits: vice chancellor UAF

Pakistan can reap IT benefits: vice chancellor UAF

Pakistan can reap the IT benefits by effectively using the remote-sensing and digital image processing technology and producing vibrant human resources to make planning ahead of any activity. This was stated by Professor Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan Vice Chancello
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
US plans new nuclear talks with Russia

US plans new nuclear talks with Russia

The US government plans to resume nuclear arms negotiations with Russia next year in hopes of securing legal limits on the smaller, battlefield nuclear weapons, The New York Times reported late Friday. The newspaper said these weapons are viewed as the mo
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Chinese police enlist Internet users for help

Chinese police enlist Internet users for help

Police in China are offering cash and other rewards to encourage the country's millions of Internet users to help solve criminal investigations, state media said Saturday.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Bomb explodes in church in southern Philippines, wounds 6

Bomb explodes in church in southern Philippines, wounds 6

An improvised bomb exploded Saturday at the roof of a Catholic church in the southern Philippines, injuring six people attending a Christmas Day mass, a regional military spokesman said. Among those wounded was the priest who was celebrating the mass at t
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
100 injured in Argentina Christmas celebrations

100 injured in Argentina Christmas celebrations

Fireworks from Christmas revellers injured at least 100 people in Argentina this year, medical officials said Saturday, fewer than last year. A dozen of the wounded were treated for burns at the Quernado hospital in Buenos Aires, including an 11-year-old
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Pope urges peace in Middle East

Pope urges peace in Middle East

Pope Benedict prayed for a rebirth of peace in the Middle East and encouraged Catholics in Iraq and communist China to resist persecution in his Christmas message read amid heightened security on Saturday. In the "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world)
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Airport Christmas for Europe's stranded travellers

Airport Christmas for Europe's stranded travellers

Hundreds of travellers trapped by icy weather spent Christmas Day queuing for flights in Europe on Saturday after sleeping on camp beds overnight in Paris and Brussels airports. Travel disruptions this month have upset year-end travel for hundreds of thou
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Kabul raid kills two after US embassy threat

Kabul raid kills two after US embassy threat

Afghan and foreign troops killed two men during a raid in downtown Kabul after receiving a "credible threat" to attack the US Embassy in the capital, the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said on Saturday. ISAF confirmed Friday's ope
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Japan Prime Minister considering cabinet reshuffle

Japan Prime Minister considering cabinet reshuffle

Japan's Prime Minister Naoto Kan is leaning toward a cabinet reshuffle before a parliament session next month as he tries to woo a tiny opposition party into the coalition, the Nikkei daily reported on Saturday. The premier has offered cabinet posts to th
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Ecuador recognises Palestine state

Ecuador recognises Palestine state

Ecuador formally recognised Palestine as an independent state on Friday, following the lead of its neighbours Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay earlier this month. President Rafael Correa signed "the Ecuadoran government's official recognition of Pal
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Top US commander visits troops in Afghanistan

Top US commander visits troops in Afghanistan

The commander of international forces in Afghanistan General David Petraeus paid a Christmas visit to troops in the war-torn area on Saturday, an ISAF statement said. General Petraeus visited Farah province in western Afghanistan where he met with Italian
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Iran opposition leaders barred from travel abroad

Iran opposition leaders barred from travel abroad

Iran's opposition leaders are barred from leaving the country, a prominent conservative lawmaker said Saturday, hiking up the pressure on the reform movement. The comments by Mousa Qorbani, a member of the Judicial Committee in parliament, were the first
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Dutch police arrest Somalis over terrorism plot

Dutch police arrest Somalis over terrorism plot

Dutch police arrested 12 Somalis on Christmas Eve on suspicion of plotting an imminent terrorist attack in the Netherlands. The alleged plot was uncovered in a country seen as a potential target for militants over its former military role with Nato forces
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Egypt says not seeking nuclear arms

Egypt says not seeking nuclear arms

Egypt is not seeking to acquire nuclear arms and wants to rid the region of such weapons, Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit said on Saturday. A May 2008 US cable released by WikiLeaks quoted Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak as warning US officials Egypt
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Iran to launch 'reconnaissance' satellite

Iran to launch 'reconnaissance' satellite

Iran will launch a reconnaissance satellite dubbed the "Fajr" in the next few months, Defence Minister Ahmad Vahidi said in a report Saturday by the official IRNA news agency. Vahidi said the Islamic republic would also put into space around the same time
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Belarus arrests air force chief

Belarus arrests air force chief

Belarus has detained the head of its air force on suspicion of abuse of authority, the defence ministry said, without saying if the arrest had any link to a crackdown after post-election protests. The ministry's statement said Major General Igor Azarenok,
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Ivory Coast fearful as Gbagbo rejects intervention threat

Ivory Coast fearful as Gbagbo rejects intervention threat

Ivory Coast marked a fearful Christmas on Saturday as defiant strongman Laurent Gbagbo rejected a West African threat to oust him by force unless he cedes power to his rival Alassane Ouattara. The pair have been locked in a political stand-off for almost
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Sports events held in Chief Minister's cup

Sports events held in Chief Minister's cup

On the 5th day of Chief Minister's cup, various teams have showed their talent for the final competition at Tehsil level. The players from Tehsil Gujranwala, Shakargarh, Zafarwal, Narowal, Kamoke, Nowshehra, Sialkot, Mandi Bahauddin, Malikwal, Thalia, D.G
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
National Games kicked up in colourful ceremony

National Games kicked up in colourful ceremony

Thousands defied security concerns have gathered in Qayyum Sports Complex to express jubilation on the opening much awaited week-long sports festival of 31st National Games here on Saturday. The National Games scheduled in 2008 were twice postponed in pas
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
British queen highlights unifying power of sport

British queen highlights unifying power of sport

Queen Elizabeth II used her Christmas Day message Saturday to highlight the importance of sport as a way of building communities, 19 months ahead of the London Olympic Games. In her traditional televised address to the nation, which is regularly watched b
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
PCB targeting more international cricket

PCB targeting more international cricket

Pakistan Cricket Board will continue to push for more international tours while top-level cricket on its soil is suspended over security fears, an official said Saturday. "We are in negotiations with Sri Lankan and England boards for our Future Tour Progr
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
PCB blames India for lack of players in IPL

PCB blames India for lack of players in IPL

A senior Pakistani cricket official Saturday blamed India for the exclusion of Pakistan's players from next year's lucrative Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament. Subhan Ahmed, chief operating officer of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), claimed that
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
New Zealand, Pakistan seek honour in adversity: first T20 match today

New Zealand, Pakistan seek honour in adversity: first T20 match today

With New Zealand cricket in turmoil on the field and Pakistan in tumult off it, there is plenty at stake for both sides when they launch a 11-match series with a Twenty20 game in Auckland Sunday. Over the next seven weeks New Zealand and Pakistan will att
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Anderson boost for England in crucial Ashes Test

Anderson boost for England in crucial Ashes Test

England's main strike bowler James Anderson and Steve Finn are fit to play in the crucial fourth Ashes Test against Australia, captain Andrew Strauss said on Saturday. Anderson had been troubled by a side strain but bowled at close to full pace in the MCG
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
PFA declares Lahore Football League illegal

PFA declares Lahore Football League illegal

Punjab Football Association (PFA)'s Secretary Agha Muhammad Latif has declared District Football Association (DFA) Lahore League illegal being contrary to PFA Calendar. As per yearly activity calendar issued by PFA, the DFA League is to be held from 15th
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Two million register for London Games tickets

Two million register for London Games tickets

Two million people have registered an interest for tickets for the London 2012 Olympic Games, despite the prices being higher than initially promised, the head of the organising committee said Saturday. Paul Deighton expects a further 500,000 to sign up f
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
French defence minister visits Afghanistan

French defence minister visits Afghanistan

French Defence Minister Alain Juppe arrived in Kabul Saturday for a Christmas visit to troops deployed in Afghanistan, according to an AFP journalist. Juppe, on his first journey to the country since he assumed his post in November, is due to visit severa
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
German national killed in Afghanistan

German national killed in Afghanistan

A German national injured in an armed attack in northern Afghanistan Friday died of his wounds in hospital Saturday, local officials said. "Yesterday at around 4:30pm (1200 GMT), two unknown armed motorcyclists shot a German national as he was on his way
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Gas heater suffocates Jordan wedding night couple

Gas heater suffocates Jordan wedding night couple

A newly-wed Jordanian couple died from suffocation on Saturday after they left a gas heater turned on overnight, a security official said. "The newlyweds died from suffocation at dawn on Saturday after they inhaled carbon dioxide emitted from the gas heat
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Amnesty slams India for doctor's life sentence

Amnesty slams India for doctor's life sentence

Amnesty International has attacked the Indian judiciary for sentencing a doctor to life imprisonment on charges of helping Maoist rebels, warning the verdict could further stoke unrest. Binayak Sen, arrested in 2007 in the state of Chhattisgarh and accuse
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Hamas abiding by Israel truce but ready for war

Hamas abiding by Israel truce but ready for war

The Hamas is observing a truce with Israel but is also ready for a resumption of hostilities, a spokesman for the group's armed wing warned on Saturday. "There is a truce in effect in the field. It is real if Israel stops its aggression and ends it's sieg
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Somali pirates seize Thai vessel with 27 crewmen

Somali pirates seize Thai vessel with 27 crewmen

Somali pirates on Saturday captured a Thai bulk carrier with its 27 crew members in the Arabian Sea, a maritime official said. The Thor Nexus was seized in the early hours while on its way to Bangladesh from the United Arab Emirates. All its crew members
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Most Swedes want king to step down

Most Swedes want king to step down

Nearly two-thirds of Swedes would like to see King Carl XVI Gustaf abdicate and hand the throne over to his daughter Princess Victoria, according to a new poll published on Saturday. Sixty-three percent of those surveyed by the Aftonbladet newspaper said
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Myanmar junta warns political opposition

Myanmar junta warns political opposition

Myanmar's junta on Saturday warned the opposition to cooperate with the newly elected government. Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was released from a seven-year house detention a week after the November 7 elections, has said she favours dialogue w
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Zimbabwe seeks prosecutions over WikiLeaks reports

Zimbabwe seeks prosecutions over WikiLeaks reports

Zimbabwe will appoint a commission to investigate the "treasonous collusion" that led to several embarrassing reports being released by WikiLeaks, the country's attorney-general said Saturday. "With immediate effect, I am going to instruct a team of pract
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Yemen sends anti-terrorism forces to south

Yemen sends anti-terrorism forces to south

Yemen has deployed new anti-terrorism forces in the country's restive south, the ministry of interior announced Saturday, as Washington urged Sanaa to step up its fight against al Qaeda. The announcement follows a spate of deadly attacks on government and
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Lebanese al Qaeda leader shot dead

Lebanese al Qaeda leader shot dead

The leader of an al Qaeda splinter group was found shot dead execution-style on Saturday in Ain al-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon, a Palestinian official said. "The body of Ghandi Sahmarani, leader of Jund al-Sham, was found this morn
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Weather freezes Christmas Day swim in London

Weather freezes Christmas Day swim in London

An annual Christmas Day swimming race in the lake in London's Hyde Park was called off Saturday after the water froze - although some hardy people could not resist a quick dip into the icy shallows. The 100-yard (91-metre), open-air race in the Serpentine
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
7.3 quake triggers Pacific tsunami on disaster anniversary

7.3 quake triggers Pacific tsunami on disaster anniversary

A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the western Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Sunday, triggering a small tsunami exactly six years after giant waves killed 220,000 people around the Indian Ocean. The Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center s
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
20th century financial titan Neuberger dies at 107

20th century financial titan Neuberger dies at 107

Roy R. Neuberger, a giant among 20th century American financiers, stock brokers and patrons of the arts, has died at Manhattan's Pierre Hotel at 107, the New York Times reported on Saturday. Neuberger, founder of investment firm Neuberger Berman, had live
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Paraguay hits record 14.5 percent economic growth

Paraguay hits record 14.5 percent economic growth

Paraguay in 2010 reached an unprecedented 14.5 percent economic growth thanks largely to record cereal and beef exports, President Fernando Lugo said Thursday. "Paraguay today is the economic growth champion of America and the world," said the leftist pre
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
China to invest 30 billion dollars in water saving projects

China to invest 30 billion dollars in water saving projects

China plans to invest 30 billion dollars on water conservation projects in 2011 to reduce the impact of natural disasters on grain production, state media said Saturday. The report comes after severe flooding and droughts across the country this year dest
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
China sees 2010 factory output up 15 percent

China sees 2010 factory output up 15 percent

China's industrial output is likely to grow about 15 percent in 2010 compared with the previous year, state media on Saturday quoted the country's industry minister as saying. Minister Li Yizhong made the comments at a government meeting in Beijing, Xinhu
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
China to exempt consumption tax on biodiesel

China to exempt consumption tax on biodiesel

China's Finance Ministry has retroactively exempted consumption tax on pure biodiesel made from waste animal fats or vegetable oils, and will refund taxes already paid over the last two years. The policy is backdated to January 1, 2009, the ministry said
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Suzuki to supply small cars for Mitsubishi Motors in Japan

Suzuki to supply small cars for Mitsubishi Motors in Japan

Japan's Suzuki Motor will supply compact vehicles to Mitsubishi Motors in their domestic market, the two firms said Friday, as automakers explore ways to survive in a shrinking market. Suzuki will offer 800 Solio vehicles to Mitsubishi Motors a month, und
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Germany's DIHK expects 2011 growth of 2.4 percent

Germany's DIHK expects 2011 growth of 2.4 percent

Germany's DIHK chamber of commerce expects growth of 2.4 percent in 2011 and that would be twice the average rate of the last 15 years, its president Hans Heinrich Driftmann said in an interview with Reuters. "I assume we'll have growth in 2011 of 2.4 per
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Algeria's trade surplus up on higher energy earnings

Algeria's trade surplus up on higher energy earnings

Higher world oil prices pushed Algeria's trade surplus up to $14.80 billion in the first 11 months of 2010 from $4.70 billion in the same period last year, official figures showed on Saturday. Exports were up 26.8 percent to $51.27 billion from $40.44 bil
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Algeria's trade surplus up on higher energy earnings

Algeria's trade surplus up on higher energy earnings

Higher world oil prices pushed Algeria's trade surplus up to $14.80 billion in the first 11 months of 2010 from $4.70 billion in the same period last year, official figures showed on Saturday. Exports were up 26.8 percent to $51.27 billion from $40.44 bil
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Oil exports from Iraq's Kurdish north to resume

Oil exports from Iraq's Kurdish north to resume

Iraq's newly appointed oil minister said on Saturday that oil exports from the country's northern self-ruled Kurdish region would soon resume as part of the country's national oil export policy. The Kurds have sought greater control over oil in their crud
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Snow hits UK retailers in key Xmas period

Snow hits UK retailers in key Xmas period

British shopper numbers in December are expected to be weaker than forecast after snow and ice gave retailers a "torrid time" over the last few weeks of 2010, a survey suggested on Saturday. Data from the market research company Synovate said the coldest
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
ECB loans show big needs in peripheral states

ECB loans show big needs in peripheral states

Results of the latest European Central Bank loans confirmed Thursday that commercial banks on the eurozone's rim have the greatest need for central bank funds going into 2011. The latest ECB refinancing operation saw 32 banks borrow 20.6 billion euros (26
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Fears grow of euro-style debt crisis in US states

Fears grow of euro-style debt crisis in US states

No sooner has the last crisis ended, than warnings about the next one begin. In the dying days of the year, with the sub-prime mortgage debacle entering the rear-view mirror, economy-watchers are warning 2011 could see US states and municipalities plunge
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Vietnam trade gap shrinks to $12.37 billion

Vietnam trade gap shrinks to $12.37 billion

Vietnam's trade deficit this year is expected to narrow to $12.37 billion following an annual jump in exports of 25.5 percent to $71.63 billion, a state-run newspaper reported on Saturday. Imports this year would rise 20.1 percent to $80 billion, the ruli
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
South Korean won down after North's nuclear threat

South Korean won down after North's nuclear threat

The South Korean won fell against the dollar early on Friday, pressured by worries about geopolitical tensions after North Korea threatened a nuclear war. The won, however, found some support as exporters are expected to buy it on dips if it gets close to
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Philippine central bank may keep rates steady

Philippine central bank may keep rates steady

The Philippine central bank has scope to keep its policy rate at a record low, with inflation seen benign up to at least early 2011 and growth expected to moderate next year, the economic planning chief said on Thursday. The central bank holds a rate-sett
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
2011 to bring recovery, inflation, more euro-pain

2011 to bring recovery, inflation, more euro-pain

In 2010, little more than a year after celebrations of the euro's 10th birthday, the very survival of the currency of the world's largest economic bloc came under threat - a reminder that the world's economic foundations are never completely stable. And s
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Canadian dollar ends higher for third straight session

Canadian dollar ends higher for third straight session

Canada's dollar finished higher for a third straight session on Friday in sparse trade that is expected to stretch through the rest of the year. The Canadian currency moved in a narrow 55-point range during a holiday-shortened North American session. It f
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Sri Lankan rupee down

Sri Lankan rupee down

Sri Lanka's rupee closed weaker on importer demand for dollar in a short market day ahead of Christmas weekend, while the stock market rose 0.7 percent on Friday to a six-week high on bargain hunting despite foreign selling. The day's turnover was 1.3 bil
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
African currencies seen flat in thin holiday trade

African currencies seen flat in thin holiday trade

Leading frontier African currencies are expected to hold steady against the dollar next week during thin end-of-year trade, although bad weather in Europe may undermine them slightly.
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Serb central bank buys 48.5 million euros

Serb central bank buys 48.5 million euros

The Serbian central bank purchased 48.5 million euros at an auction on Friday after the dinar appreciated 1.5 percent against the single currency a day earlier, dealers and traders said. The central bank has been buying or selling euros in the market to p
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Most LatAm currencies soften

Most LatAm currencies soften

Latin American currencies softened against the dollar on Thursday in light, pre-holiday trade after upbeat US economic data supported views of a solid US economic recovery. Brazil's currency weakened, however, after the country's central bank called an au
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Key Euribor rate falls after liquidity operations

Key Euribor rate falls after liquidity operations

Key euro-priced bank-to-bank lending rates ticked down on Friday, pushed down by excess liquidity and the ECB's promise to keep providing banks with unlimited cash until at least April. The three-month Euribor rate - traditionally the main gauge of unsecu
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Russian rouble sets three-month peak

Russian rouble sets three-month peak

The rouble set fresh three-month peaks against the euro-dollar basket on Friday, bolstered by the central bank delivering on market expectations of a deposit rate hike and thus raising the Russian currency's yield appeal. The central bank raised deposit r
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
European airlines seen set for take-off in 2011

European airlines seen set for take-off in 2011

Investors have started to buy back into European airlines in anticipation of a period of top-line growth, as business travel picks up and with more of the gains seen going to the bottom line. More profitable business travel is rising again, as economies e
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Deutsche Bank to pay $550 million over US fraud

Deutsche Bank to pay $550 million over US fraud

Deutsche Bank has agreed to pay nearly 554 million dollars and admit criminal wrongdoing in a tax fraud case that generated billions of dollars, the bank and New York prosecutors said. The German bank admitted taking part "in financial transactions which
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
ECB's Stark concerned about rating agencies

ECB's Stark concerned about rating agencies

Credit rating agencies have yet to overcome underlying conflicts of interest that have contributed to the current crisis and their approach was a reason for concern, an ECB Executive Board member said. "I am concerned about one development and that's the
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Dubai's DP World sells 75 percent Australian stake

Dubai's DP World sells 75 percent Australian stake

Dubai ports operator DP World said it has agreed to sell 75 percent of its stake in DP World Australia for 1.5 billion US dollars, as its debt-laden parent firm vies to reduce its liabilities. The world's fourth-largest port operator said in a statement i
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Repsol agrees to sell stake in YPF for $500 million

Repsol agrees to sell stake in YPF for $500 million

Spain's biggest oil company, Repsol, said it has agreed to sell 3.3 percent of its Argentine unit YPF SA to two US investment funds for 500 million dollars (381.5 million euros). Repsol will sell a 1.63 percent stake in YPF to Capital International for 25
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Kuwait bourse mulls over-the-counter

Kuwait bourse mulls over-the-counter

Kuwait Stock Exchange, the Arab world's second largest, is mulling launching an over-the-counter market in 2011 mainly for troubled listed firms, its director said. "The management of the bourse will submit this proposal to the bourse committee in January
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Canada's TD Bank to buy Chrysler Financial for $6.3 billion

Canada's TD Bank to buy Chrysler Financial for $6.3 billion

Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) said it will buy Chrysler Financial Corp for 6.3 billion dollars in cash, part of a major expansion of Canadian banking behemoths into the United States. The deal comes just days after the Bank of Montreal (BMO) doubled its stak
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
West African central bank blocks funds to Ivory Coast

West African central bank blocks funds to Ivory Coast

West Africa's central bank cut funds to Ivory Coast's Laurent Gbagbo on Thursday, adding to pressure on the defiant leader to step down after a disputed poll world powers and neighbours say he lost. At least 173 people have been killed following the Novem
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Rains reduce sugar content in Australia's 2010 crop

Rains reduce sugar content in Australia's 2010 crop

Australian sugar group Canegrowers said 18 percent of the 2010 sugar crop has been left unharvested due to heavy rains that decimated growing regions, with next year's plantings also showing damage. The fresh concerns over sugar yields from Australia, one
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Malaysia, Indonesia eye March wheat; India sells meal

Malaysia, Indonesia eye March wheat; India sells meal

Indonesia is likely to be in the market for some 100,000 tonnes of wheat for March shipment, while Malaysia is expected buy around 60,000 to 80,000 tonnes early January when traders and millers return from the year-end break. India, which sold around 10,0
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Australian sugar district braces for weekend deluge

Australian sugar district braces for weekend deluge

Australia's key sugar-growing district of Queensland is bracing for more drenching of its early crop, with flash flooding and mudslides and a possible cyclone predicted to accompany torrential downpours over the holiday weekend, forecasters said. But thi
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Argentine soya prices rise for fourth day on CBOT

Argentine soya prices rise for fourth day on CBOT

Argentina's soya closing prices and trends on Thursday: In the main grains market of Rosario, soya prices closed up for a fourth day at between 1,385 and 1,420 pesos ($339-$348) per tonne, a new record in local currency terms, tracking gains in the Chicag
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
Japanese firm eyes long-grain rice exports

Japanese firm eyes long-grain rice exports

Japan can export long-grain rice and cut surplus of its staple food by making better use of idle rice paddies and converting some fields to grow the type of grains popular to global markets, a leading trader said on Friday. Nobuyuki Chino, president of To
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
India to start sugar futures on Monday

India to start sugar futures on Monday

Indian commodity exchanges will start sugar futures from Monday, the regulator said, initially launching six contracts as the country revives exports and the government looks for ways to moderate food price inflation. India had banned trade in sugar futur
Published 26 Dec, 2010 12:00am
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