081112-Europe Agrees On Stimulus

Europe Agrees On Stimulus

European leaders agree an economic recovery package to revive Europe's flagging economies.

Meeting in Brussels, Britain's Prime Minister Gordon Brown said it was "ambitious stimulus package" that would provide "a good platform to build on."

The global car industry has been one of the worst hit since the credit crisis began.

Manus Cranny from MF Global says we may see a much smaller car industry in 2009.

SOUNDBITE: Manus Cranny, MF Global Spreads, saying (English):

"I think there's root and branch change going to come in 2009 which is going to be a good thing in terms of efficiencies and actually facing up to some of the harsh realities in terms of what the consumers, and indeed the consumer market can actually bear next year. It may be we end up with a much diminished or reduced global car industry and there are some very substantial employment and deceleratory effects that will come with that."

Japan's Prime Minister Tara Aso, announced a stimulus package today, worth 251 billion dollars.

He said the U.S. financial crisis is starting to affect the Japanese real economic at a much faster rate than expected.

In the U.S, the senate failed to agree a 14 billion dollar bailout for Detroit's big three car makers.

The problem was getting Republican Senators to back the plan.

This sent the Yen to a 13-year high against the U.S. dollar and Asian stock markets tumbled.

The failure of any of America's big three carmakers would threaten countless jobs and send shock waves around the world.

SOUNDBITE: Manus Cranny, MF Global Spreads, saying (English):

"I personally don't see a situation where GM, Ford and Chrysler will be allowed to all fail all at the same time. I think there's been such a substantial bailout of Wall Street that the political, the social and economic political fallout, one million jobs and many many more attached to it. I cannot see that the Americans will allow these car companies to go to the wall."

The question now is which industry is next to need taxpayers money - and can they survive without it?

Hayley Platt Reuters

081112-Hamilton Combats Drunk Driving

Hamilton Combats Drunk Driving

Lewis Hamilton is the Formula One world champion.

But for at least one day, he could be found behind the wheel of one of London's iconic black cabs to back an anti-drunk driving campaign.

Hamilton along with double world champion Mika Hakkinen of Finland drove cabs across Tower Bridge towards City Hall to hail public transport drivers who get people home safely as "the real champions."

Hamilton, who is the youngest driver to win the world title, says he wants to enjoy life a bit more that he did this year.

SOUNDBITE: Lewis Hamilton is the Formula One world champion, saying (English):

"There was so much pressure on me this year, that I didn't go out, I didn't socialize, I've stayed at the hotel every night at the race weekends. So I, people say you get to travel to all this countries but I never really get to see anything because I'm in my hotel room the whole time. So I want to enjoy it more."

Now that he has a taste of the street life in London, a new kind of race may be on.

Deborah Lutterbeck, Reuters.

081111- Five Star Canine Comfort

Five Star Canine Comfort

This is Munich's newest luxury hotel.

But if you haven't got paws and a waggy tail, don't even think about trying to book a room here - as it's strictly for dogs.

The Canis Resort, opening soon in the southern German city, says it is the world's first five star canine getaway.

Dog-lover Sabine Gerteis helped set up the hotel - she says they want to offer four-legged friends a little bit of luxury.

SOUNDBITE: Sabine Gerteis, Canis Resort manager, saying (German):

"The dog can decide for itself if it wants to lie indoors, or be outside and it can also relax. If it wants to be stroked, there's a dog sitter there. We have a big meadow where the dogs can run around and play, and they are looked after individually by our dog sitters."

These so-called dog lodges can each hold up to five pooches and have an outdoor space with a lawn.

20 dog sitters will be on hand to look after a maximum of 40 guests.

Gerteis thinks the hotel is perfect for people who travel a lot, and want their pets to have a little holiday too.

SOUNDBITE: Sabine Gerteis, Canis Resort manager, saying (German):

"Our check-in is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That's useful for business travellers, as we are nine kilometres away from Munich airport."

The dogs can relax during the day while their owners are busy, before being transported to the airport to meet them in the arrivals hall.

Or they can book in for an overnight stay, which costs 80 euros - or just over a hundred U.S. dollars.

While some humans may balk at paying so much for a room for their dog - Canis Resort's managers have big expansion plans - with a second dog hotel planned in Munich, and later on in Stuttgart and Zurich.

Joanna Partridge, Reuters

081109-Greek PM On Riots

Greek PM On Riots

Stepping into the limelight, and facing a political crisis in the aftermath of three days of rioting and unrest across Greece, Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis sounded a tough line on dealing with the rioters:

(SOUNDBITE) (Greek) GREEK PRIME MINISTER COSTAS KARAMANLIS SAYING:

"I have updated the president on the situation of the last days after the unfair loss of the student. No mercy will be taken in the placing of responsibility, no one has the right to use this incident as an excuse for acts of violence against innocent citizens, against their property, against all society and against democracy. In these crucial hours all political parties are obliged to condemn the perpetrators of this violence, this is our democratic duty, this is what citizens want and it is what our national obligation dictates."

The riots have left an ugly mess on the streets of Greek cities which reflects the mood of the nation, if its newspapers are to be believed.

Karamanlis has the narrowest of majorities in the Greek parliament, and the riots are partly a reflection of popular disenchantment of his economic reform programme.

Greece is starting to feel the effects of the economic slowdown - some analysts say the current unrest could topple the fragile conservative government.

Benet Allen, Reuters

limelight - a focus of public attention; "he enjoyed being in the limelight"
aftermath - effects of, a period of time following a disastrous event: in the aftermath of war.
tough strong and difficult to break, cut, or tear: this fabric is tough and water-resistant
unrest - a feeling of restless agitation
topple - fall down, as if collapsing

081126- China Fights Weak Eyesight

China Fights Weak Eyesight

Traditional Chinese massage combined with everyday life.

To fight bad eyesight, schoolchildren are learning eye exercises in Beijing classrooms.

Some study results have showed that nine out ten school children here have bad eyesight.

A school doctor says a new series of massages are aimed at combating the deterioration of eyesight.

(SOUNDBITE) (Mandarin with English translation) SCHOOL MEDIC, DR SHAO, SAYING:

"It is a combination of massage and applying pressure to pressure points, a mixture of sport and medicine, all merged together."

Children's eye woes have been blamed on too much studying in an overly competitive school system.

Eye exercises have been common practice in Chinese schools since Mao's era.

But the new treatment focuses on pressure points around the head, including the back of the neck and ears.

Some doctors say the solution to the problem may be even simpler.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) FOUNDER OF SEKWA EYE HOSPITAL LI XIPU SAYING:

"Yes, they have to spend less time in the classroom in reading and spend more time outdoors."

A Xinhua news report cited experts saying excessive eyestrain, not genetic weakness, accounts for 45 percent of problems, while over 80 percent of university students are afflicted.

Kitty Bu reporting for Reuters in Beijing.

eyesight - normal use of the faculty of vision
aim To determine a course or direct an effort: aim for a better education.
merge To combine or unite: merging two sets of data.
woes misfortunes or problems: economic woes
blame To place responsibility for (something): blamed the crisis on poor planning.

081119-Auto Makers Need Help

Auto Makers Need Help

The leaders of the so-called Big Three of the U.S. auto industry-- General Motors, Ford and privately-held Chrysler-- were on the hot seat on Capitol Hill as they pleaded with members of the Senate Banking Committee to pass a 25 billion dollar rescue package --aimed at bolstering struggling automakers.

GM CEO Rick Wagoner warned of dire consequences for the auto industry if just one of Detroit's Big Three had to file for bankruptcy.

SOUNDBITE: GM CEO Rick Wagoner, saying (English):

"This is all about a lot more than just Detroit. It's about saving the U.S. economy from a catastrophic collapse."

Democrats in the Senate support a loan package arguing that up to three million U.S. jobs would be lost from an auto industry collapse.

But even supporters of a congressional bailout like Senator Chuck Schumer of New York warned against giving the automakers a blank check.

SOUNDBITE: Senator Chuck Schumer, saying (English):

"We must be assured that whatever aid we give you is accompanied by a real plan that shows you recognize the direction that this industry must take in order not to survive but to thrive."

Most Republicans are opposed to an auto industry bailout arguing that the rescue package is not a wise use of taxpayer money.

Senator Richard Shelby is the ranking member of the Banking Committee.

SOUNDBITE: Senator Richard Shelby saying (English):

"Are we here in the Senate being asked to facilitate a stronger more competitive auto manufacturing sector or to perpetuate market failure."

While lawmakers debated the merits of a congressional auto industry bailout, the Bush Administration let it be known that the White House is opposed to such a loan package.

Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson.

SOUNDBITE: Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, saying (English):

"I believe that any solution must be a solution that leads to long-term viability -- sustainable viability here. I don't see this as the purpose of the TARP."

Analysts say it's unlikely that a bailout plan gains Congressional approval during this week's lame duck session -- which means as automakers continue to bleed cash, a rescue package may be one of the first acts that Barack Obama undertakes after he's sworn in as president in January.

Jon Decker, Reuters.

bolster to support or strengthen
undertake To take upon oneself; decide or agree to do: undertake a task.

081113-Fears For Congo's Gorillas

Fears For Congo's Gorillas

The vast camp at Kikuku is home to thousands of people fleeing the fighting in eastern Congo.

Among them are rangers who normally protect the country's rare mountain gorillas.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) JEAN BAPTISTE KADEGA, RANGER, SAYING:

"When they came to attack Rumangabo one month ago, we got aid from our director of ICCN. He gave us some vehicles, cars to take first our families."

Virunga's Gorilla Sector has been in the hands of rebel fighters for more than a year.

Last month the Rumangabo park headquarters also fell to a rebel assault, putting an end to conservation work.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) DIDDY MWANAKA, DIRECTOR OF TOURISM, VIRUNGA PARK, SAYING:

"Militias from Nkunda's rebels have taken the area, the sector where the gorillas live. We don't know if they are healthy, we don't know about their security, if they remain in security or not."

Diddy Mwanaka is Virunga's Director of Tourism.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) DIDDY MWANAKA, DIRECTOR OF TOURISM, VIRUNGA PARK, SAYING:

"It is very very frustrating to not live near the gorillas because gorillas are creatures who we love very much."

50 rangers are among the camp's 200,000 residents.

And one of them says conditions are dire.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) BALEMBA BAHAGIZI, RANGER, SAYING:

"We don't have any medical attention here. One week ago we had about ten cases of cholera in this camp."

While the rangers live in fear of fighting and disease their charges too may be suffering.

There are only 700 mountain gorillas left in the world - 200 of them are in Virunga.

Without protection its feared extinction is a real possibility.

Sonia Legg, Reuters.

dire Urgent; desperate: in dire need; dire poverty.

charge
a. Supervision; management: the scientist who had overall charge of the research project.

b. Care; custody: a child put in my charge.

081106- Leaders Congratulate Obama

Leaders Congratulate Obama

Worth staying up all night for.

In Germany, Democrats Abroad members saw Barack Obama elected President of the United States.

Across Europe, the continent's leaders began to send Obama their congratulations.

Many Europeans have been hoping that transatlantic relations would improve with Obama in the White House.

That's a view echoed by the European Union's policy chief, Javier Solana:

SOUNDBITE: Javier Solana, EU Foreign Policy Chief, saying (English):

"Many problems we have on the table, and I very much hope that we will be able to do it together, find a solution to them, together between the European Union and the United States. The European Union is willing, the European Union is ready."

Barack Obama's popularity in Europe was evident during his summer tour of the continent.

Around 200,000 people came to listen to him speak in the German capital.

At the time, he also met with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. She says she wants to build on the discussions begun in the summer:

SOUNDBITE: Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, saying (German):

"We will be able to continue our talk we started in summer and based on deep friendship and partnership between Germany and the United States of America we will be able to solve the current problems, I am convinced of that."

The election campaign was watched closely in Berlin, Paris and London, especially given the current global financial turmoil.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown says he and Obama have already been discussing economic problems:

SOUNDBITE: British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, saying (English):

"I believe that over the next few months and years we can work together, first of all to sort out the economic problems that exist, secondly to build stronger economies for the future and thirdly to sort out some of the world problems, for example, in the Middle East."

While some European leaders are unsure what Obama's priorities will be when he moves into the White House in January, there's some confidence he'll bring what many see as a welcome shift in U.S. foreign policy.

Joanna Partridge, Reuters

081105-Obama Captures Historic Win

Obama Captures Historic Win

(With a projected win in California,) Democrat Barack Obama has won the 2008 presidential election -- becoming the 44th president of the United States and the first African-American to hold the nation's highest office.

Less than an hour after he was projected to receive enough electoral votes to pass the 270-vote threshold, Obama (-- with his wife Michelle by his side --) addressed hundreds of thousands of supporters in Chicago's Grant Park.

SOUNDBITE: Barack Obama, president-elect, saying (English):01:29

"It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America."

Obama's message as President-elect was the same unifying message he ran on in his quest for the White House.

SOUNDBITE: Barack Obama, president-elect, saying (English):

"Out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes We Can."

For John McCain -- he saw his hopes for victory evaporate with losses in a string of key battleground states -- including Ohio, Virginia and Florida.

McCain was gracious in defeat as he addressed disappointed supporters at a hotel ballroom in his home town of Phoenix, Arizona.

SOUNDBITE: U.S. Senator John McCain, saying (English):

11:22 "I urge all Americans who supported me ... we inherited."

Obama led a Democratic electoral landslide that also expanded the party's majorities in both chambers of the US Congress.

In a campaign dominated at the end by a flood of bad news on the economy, exit polls showed that Obama's leadership and proposals on how to handle the crisis tipped the race in his favor.

The win by Obama, son of a black father from Kenya and a white mother from Kansas, marks a milestone in U.S. history-- coming 45 years after the height of America's civil rights movement.

Jon Decker, Reuters.

creed - any system of principles or beliefs
sum up

To present the substance of (material) in a condensed form; summarize: sum up the day's news; concluded the lecture by summing up.
defeat Failure to win.

gracious

Adjective

1. showing kindness and courtesy

2. characterized by elegance, ease, and indulgence: gracious living

in·her·it

v. in·her·it·ed, in·her·it·ing, in·her·its

v.tr.

1.

a. To receive (property or a title, for example) from an ancestor by legal succession or will.

b. To receive by bequest or as a legacy.

2. To receive or take over from a predecessor: The new administration inherited the economic problems of the last four years.

3. Biology To receive (a characteristic) from one's parents by genetic transmission.

4. To gain (something) as one's right or portion.

v.intr.

To hold or take possession of an inheritance.
tipped - departing or being caused to depart from the true vertical or horizontal; "the leaning tower of Pisa"; "the headstones were tilted"
milestone

Noun

1. a stone pillar that shows the distance in miles to or from a place

2. a significant event in a life or history: a milestone in Turkish-Bulgarian relations
height - the highest level or degree attainable; the highest stage of development;

081015-UK Unemployment Soars

UK Unemployment Soars

UK unemployment rose at its fastest pace since the early 1990s recession and experts expect even bigger rises ahead.

The jobless figure in Britain now stands at 5.7 percent, some analysts say it could peak around eight percent in early 2010.

Banking and construction firms have been toughest hit by the financial turmoil and housing slump but jobs are being cut across the economy.

Tough work ahead for British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, (who) got a boost after his plan to recapitalise financial institutions was taken up around the world.

World governments have pledged USD 3.2 trillion to shore up banks and try to make them lend to each other again.

But although the banking crisis may have been averted, recession has not - a fact market seized upon.

Indices across Europe were well in the red with the FTSEurofirst 300 index was down over six percent.

Although only a handful of economies are officially in recession, the world's three biggest - the USA, Japan and Germany, are on the brink.

But MF Global analyst Ian Jenkins thinks some may remain relatively unscathed.

SOUNDBITE: MF Global Head of Spread Betting, Ian Jenkins saying (English):

"Maybe the ones that are going to fare slightly better than the rest are the South Americans and the emerging economies because once they've dusted themselves down they still do have a voracious consumptive base - we don't. Our consumption is going to go down. For the last year or so, or for the last ten years, has all been built on our consumption and the use of credit. They haven't gone down that road and I think they'll probably fare better."

And case in point, European new vehicle registrations fell 8.2 percent year on year in September, despite two extra working days.

The auto manufacturer's association said carmakers are finding it increasingly hard to finance their daily operations and invest in new technologies for greener vehicles - as consumers become unwilling to make large purchases or just can't find lenders willing to finance them.

rise

Verb

[rising, rose, risen]

to move from a lower to a higher position or place
pace - the rate of moving (especially walking or running)
tough strong; not easily broken, worn out etc Plastic is a tough material. hart
turmoil - a violent disturbance; "the convulsions of the stock market"
slump a severe decline in commercial activity or prices; depression
shore up - support by placing against something solid or rigid; "shore and buttress an old building"

avert
1. To turn away: avert one's eyes.

2. To ward off (something about to happen); prevent: averted an accident by turning sharply. See Synonyms at prevent.

seize (sometimes foll. by on, upon)to understand quickly: she immediately seized his idea
on the brink of very near, on the point of: on the brink of disaster

unscathed - not injured
fare To go or happen: How does it fare with you?
dust To remove dust from by wiping, brushing, or beating: dust the furniture.

081015-usa-retailsalesdrop

US Retail Sales Drop

A day after the U.S. government outlined a plan to invest (billions) ($250 billion) in the country's banks U.S. stocks stumbled in early Wednesday as bleak retail sales numbers took center stage. Retail stores saw a 1.2% decline last month--the biggest pullback in more than three years as consumers, fearing a recession, kept a tight grip on spending. The headline number, as well as sales excluding autos, was far worse than economists expected. Some said the report pointed to a strong chance of negative GDP growth in the third quarter and possibly another interest rate cut up to 50 basis points in the next few months.

Added to the ugly retail sales report--a regional manufacturing gauge from New York state hit its lowest level since its inception in 2001.

Both overshadowed a dip in wholesale inflation for September as well as a strong earnings report from Coca-Cola.

Also turning in quarterly numbers, JP Morgan and Wells Fargo. The two posted better than expected earnings despite higher credit losses. Meantime Delta's third quarter loss was wider than forecast in the face of record high oil costs over the summer. Executives said looking ahead that the recent slide in oil prices could save Delta money but that the outlook for next year is still murky.

Jeanne Yurman reports from New York.

stumble 

1. to trip and almost fall while walking or running

2. to walk in an unsteady or unsure way

3. to make mistakes or hesitate in speech

bleak Providing no encouragement; depressing: a bleak prospect.
grip

1. a very tight hold: he felt a grip at his throat

2. the style or manner of holding something, such as a golf club or tennis racket

3. power or control over a situation, person, or activity: rebel forces tighten their grip around the capital
GDP gross domestic product
gauge - a measuring instrument for measuring and indicating a quantity such as the thickness of wire or the amount of rain etc.

inception The beginning of something, such as an undertaking; a commencement. See Synonyms at origin.
overshadow To make insignificant by comparison; dominate.
wholesale To sell in large quantities for resale.
outlook Expectation for the future: the long-term outlook for economic growth.
murky Dark, dim, or gloomy: a murky dungeon. See Synonyms at dark.

081013-japan

Asian markets surge

A bit of a bounce for battered stock markets.

Asian shares were cautiously higher on Monday after G-7 officials took steps to repair the world's broken financial system.

Many nations agreed to buy stakes in troubled banks over the weekend.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy:

(SOUNDBITE) (French with English translation) FRENCH PRESIDENT NICOLAS SARKOZY SAYING:

"We need to ensure that healthy banks can find the financing conditions which gives them the support needed to lend to firms and to household. To that end eurozone governments will give public guarantees to banking re-financing operations.

Australian markets jumped at the open - the first major world market to react to statements over the weekend.

Hong Kong stocks opened higher, but pared gains as investors again became worried about the outlook for the global economy.

Resource stocks were among the biggest gainers - with Australian gold firms like BHP Billiton up sharply.

China stocks fell in early trade -- Shanghai investors remained mired in worries about the global economy. Many businesses are braced for a sharp slowdown in exports to the U.S. and Europe.

Tara Joseph-Hui reporting for Reuters.

081010-Pressure On G7 Nations

Pressure On G7 Nations

Behind the sturdy columns of the Treasury Department in Washington, finance ministers and central bankers of the world's seven richest democracies are in crisis mode - what else can they do to calm world markets running on fear and panic.

Asian and European stocks are again, day seven, in free fall, tracking the Dow's extraordinary plunge.

Citing a lack of buyers, Paris shut itself down right after it opened.

Group of Seven economies have thrown everything at the system to try to stem the slide - rescuing banks, slashing interest rates - but nothing's worked; investors are still spooked.

Why from Reuters Treasury Editor Nick Edwards.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) NICK EDWARDS, REUTERS TREASURY EDITOR, SAYING:

"It's because markets still don't have what they are looking for, which is a global security blanket. That's what investors need. It's what policymakers keep talking about but as yet there has been no single global policy response. Lots of ad hoc, lots of individual measures but really it's a single, unified self-reinforcing response that investors are looking for."

On the front page of a British broadsheet, an appeal for such action written by Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

"Ground-breaking" is how he describes his move to take a government stake in stricken banks - an 880 billion dollar package that aims to restore trust between banks and get them lending again, to each other and their customers.

Economist David Kern of the British Chambers of Commerce says that and more government intervention is needed.

(SOUNDBITE)(English) DAVID KERN, ECONOMIC ADVISER, BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE, SAYING:

"What is important is for the authorities to demonstrate that if that's not enough now more will be forthcoming. At the end of the day, the governments are more powerful than the markets which are testing them."

For now, the balance of power is tipping the way of the free-falling markets.

If the G7 doesn't manage to come up with some impressive, united moves, speculation may move on to how long and deep a global recession will be.

Susan Flory, Reuters

sturdy strongly built or made
plunge - a steep and rapid fall
stem to stop or hinder the spread of (something): to stem the flow of firearms
slashing cut with a sharp quick stroke, gash, wound; reduce, lower; make sharp quick strokes; strongly criticize; create a way by cutting
spook - frighten or scare, and often provoke into a violent action; "The noise spooked the horse"
blanket - anything that covers; "there was a blanket of snow"
broadsheet a newspaper in a large format
stake a strong stick or post, especially a pointed one used as a support or as part of a fence.
stricken - grievously affected especially by disease

081010-China Confident Over Crisis

China Confident Over Crisis

China is "fully confident and capable" it can overcome current economic difficulties, a top official said on Friday.

Vice Premier Wang Qishan was quoted by state media saying that China will work closely with other countries to guard the stability of the global financial system.

Wang did not elaborate on steps Beijing might take to help calm the worldwide financial storm, but his comments underline that China may yet play an important part in confronting a crisis from it has been largely sheltered because of its capital controls.

China's central bank cut interest rates earlier this week, and speculation is swirling Beijing could pledge to hold onto its vast dollar assets and even buy more to help fund the massive bailout of the U.S. financial system now under way.

U.S. bonds make up the lion's share of China's over 1.8 trillion dollars in foreign exchange reserves.

But as Wang made the comments, Chinese stocks fell sharply at the opening Friday amid a plummeting of global share prices.

A government fund bought stocks in September as part of a market rescue plan, but the key Shanghai index was nearing levels seen before the package was announced.

Kitty Bu, reporting for Reuters.

swirl - the shape of something rotating rapidly
bailout A rescue from financial difficulties
amid in the middle of; among
plummet - drop sharply; "The stock market plummeted"

081007-Penguins begin journey home

Penguins begin journey home

These Magellan penguins are being prepared to head back into the wild after they were washed up on the beaches of north-eastern Brazil.

Hundreds of the birds have been stranded since June.

Many died despite the best efforts of animal experts to save them.

Only 50 have recovered fully enough to be released after rehabilitation at Rio de Janeiro zoo.

SOUNDBITE: Andre Sena, vet, saying (Portuguese):

"They undergo rehabilitation here at the zoo to gain weight and have their injuries treated. Later they are taken south to be released into the Malvinas current which should take them to the Straits of Magellan where they originally came from."

It's not clear why so many penguins have been washed up in Brazil.
Biologists believe unusually strong ocean currents may have pulled the birds off course.
Others suggest overfishing near Patagonia and Antarctica may be forcing them to swim further afield in search of food.
Paul Chapman, Reuters
afield - far away from home or one's usual surroundings; "looking afield for new lands to conquer"- R.A.Hall

081003-Palin, Biden square off

Palin, Biden square off

In the only vice presidential debate ahead of the November election, Republican Sarah Palin exceeded expectations and held her own while Democrat Joe Biden turned in a solid performance of his own.

The two vice presidential hopefuls clashed on the economy and Iraq but focused most of the criticism on their rivals at the top of the ticket.
 
SOUNDBITE: Sarah Palin, Republican vice presidential candidate, saying (English):

"Barack Obama, of course, he's pretty much only voted along his party lines. In fact, 96 percent of his votes have been solely along party line, (not having that proof for the American people to know that his commitment, too, is, you know, put the partisanship, put the special interests aside, and get down to getting business done for the people of America.)"

SOUNDBITE: Joe Biden, Democratic vice presidential candidate, saying (English):
 
"Two years ago Barack Obama warned about the sub prime mortgage crisis. John McCain said shortly after that in December he was surprised there was a sub prime mortgage problem. (John McCain while Barack Obama was warning about what we had to do was literally giving an interview to The Wall Street Journal saying that I'm always for cutting regulations.)"

With all eyes on Palin in her national debut in an unscripted format, the Alaska governor turned in a steady and aggressive performance that featured repeated attacks on Barack Obama and his position on the Iraq war.

SOUNDBITE: Sarah Palin, Republican vice presidential candidate, saying (English):

"I know that the other ticket opposed this surge, in fact, even opposed funding for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Barack Obama voted against funding troops there after promising that he would not do so. And Sen. Biden, I respected you when you called him out on that."

Biden, who voted to authorize the war in Iraq, was in the unusual position of defending Obama's opposition to the war and his strategy for ending it.

SOUNDBITE: Joe Biden, Democratic vice presidential candidate, saying (English):

"Barack Obama and I agree fully and completely on one thing. You've got to have a time line to draw down the troops and shift responsibility to the Iraqis. We're spending $10 billion a month while Iraqis have an $80 billion surplus."

Both candidates sought to connect with voters -- with Palin emphasizing her middle-class roots and maverick record as the Governor of Alaska.

SOUNDBITE: Sarah Palin, Republican vice presidential candidate, saying (English): "I want to assure you that John McCain and I, we're going to fight for America. We're going to fight for the middle-class, average, everyday American family like mine. I've been there. I know what the hurts are. I know what the challenges are. And, thank God, I know what the joys are, too, of living in America."

Joe Biden, meanwhile, had an emotional moment-- choking up when recalling having to raise his two young sons alone after their mother died in a car crash.

SOUNDBITE: Joe Biden, Democratic vice presidential candidate, saying (English):

"I am much better off now. But the notion that somehow, because I'm a man, I don't know what it's like to raise two kids alone, I don't know what it's like to have a child you're not sure is going to -- is going to make it -- I understand. I understand, as well as, with all due respect, the governor or anybody else, what it's like for those people sitting around that kitchen table."

Vice presidential debates are rarely game changers. But in a week in which Barack Obama has solidified his lead in national opinion polls, John McCain is hoping that the solid debate performance from his running mate could help slow Obama's momentum.
Jon Decker, Reuters.

square off

To assume a fighting stance; prepare to fight.

steady firm
maverick - someone who exhibits great independence in thought and action
seek To try to locate or discover; search for

Fossett mystery clues found

Steve Fossett's flying adventures are world renown and for the past year his disappearance has looked equally legendary.
The 63-year-old, who holds more than 100 world records, vanished after taking off from a private airstrip in California.
He was declared legally dead in February but no wreckage was found - until now.
Preston Morrow was hiking in Mammoth Lakes, 90 miles south of Fossett's take-off site, when he found some of the millionaire pilot's personal possessions, including several 100 dollars bills.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) PRESTON MORROW, THE HIKER WHO FOUND FOSSETT'S ID CARDS, SAYING:
"It wasn't just the money -- those ID cards. Those three cards were kind of sticking up out of the ... it was kind of brown and black. And the ID was black or blue. But the other cards are white, that really stands out. And the money in the dirt didn't stand out, but the other one or two hundred dollar bills that were kind of bleached white, they stood out."
Local officials have confirmed the items are authentic.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) JOHN ANDERSON, MADERA COUNTY SHERIFF, SAYING:
"It's the National Aeronautics Association membership and also his pilot's license issued by the FAA. And it has been confirmed that it belongs to Stephen Fossett."
A sweat shirt has also been found in the area and what appears to be plane wreckage has now been spotted from the air close to where the cards were found.
Foot searchers are now on their way to the site.
Fossett's widow say she hopes they'll locate his remains and bring an end to speculation by some that his disappearance was more than a tragic accident.
Sonia Legg, Reuters.
clue something that guides through an intricate procedure or maze of difficulties ; specifically : a piece of evidence that leads one toward the solution of a problem
wreckage 

Noun

the remains of something that has been destroyed or badly damaged, such as a crashed car or aircraft
hiking - a long walk usually for exercise or pleasure; "she enjoys a hike in her spare time"
stand out to be noticeable

Celebrity and politics collide

Celebrity is playing an unprecedented role in the 2008 U.S. presidential election. For both Republicans and Democrats, Hollywood "star" power has become a key factor in the race for the White House.

Democratic nominee Barack Obama, whose celebrity-style persona has come under attack, has taken heat for his Hollywood dinner party, with a plate price of more than 28,000 dollars.

Republican nominee John McCain has used ads featuring Britney Spears and Paris Hilton: creating a Hilton backlash and an ensuing media frenzy.

So how do the real Hollywood celebs feel about their politicians being judged on personality?

SOUNDBITE: Kate Hudson, actress, saying (English):

"Hopefully we don't get distracted by the things that I think we're being distracted by right now, and we just stick to the issues."

SOUNDBITE: Billy Bob Thornton, actor, saying (English):

"You have to have people running for office these days, which is sad, that either look good or appear appealing in some sense on television. If you're not good on TV, you're not gonna win."

And what about the Republican's new media darling, Alaskan governor and nominee for Vice President Sarah Palin? Actor John Cusack says she's just another example of the Hollywood connection.

SOUNDBITE: John Cusack, actor, saying (English):

"Let's get this new celebrity, you know, Sarah Barracuda, and we'll make her like a Roseanne Barr, fighting for the little guy, but with lots of sex. And she'll be the perfect new celebrity to attack Barack Obama for being a celebrity."

How far celebrity and personality will actually influence the American voters is hard to say, but with a tight election drawing closer, be prepared for the Hollywood-political connection to grow even bigger.

backlash reaction
ensuing - following immediately and as a result of what went before; "ensuing events confirmed the prediction"
distracted showing a lack of attention or care
stick adhere

Women's skirts soccer ban

Sexy football it isn't...but the decision of FC de Rakt's ladies soccer team to play the game in skirts and tight tops has fired women's football into the headlines.

Since the amateur team from Uden in southern Holland changed their kit the club's website has racked up hundreds of thousands of hits every week.

21-year-old team captain Rinske Temming denied the new feminine strip was a publicity stunt.

(SOUDNBITE) (English), RINSKE TEMMING, TEAM CAPTAIN, SAYING:

"We think they are far more elegant than the traditional shorts and furthermore they are more comfortable because the shorts are made for men"

The amateur team's new clothing initially faced a ban due to strict equipment rules but upon closer inspection the Dutch football association said it was acceptable after all as the women were still playing in shorts, albeit with a skirt over them.

The club's chairman, Jan van den Elzen says 'moving the goalposts' on what's still perceived to be a male sport is long overdue.

(SOUNDBITE) (English), JAN VAN DEN ELZEN, CHAIRMAN OF THE SOCCER CLUB "DE RAKT", SAYING:

"Many girls would like to play in skirts but they didn't think it was possible."

No doubt Fifa president Sepp Blatter would approve of FC de Rakt's new look.

The world soccer chief scored an own goal four years ago after famously urging women footballers to wear skimpier kits to boost the popularity of the women's game.

Helen Long, Reuters

rack up Informal

To accumulate or score: rack up points.

stunt 1. an acrobatic or dangerous piece of action in a film or television programme

2. anything spectacular or unusual done to gain publicity
albeit Even though; although; notwithstanding: clear albeit cold weather.

overdue late, tardy; payable, due; past due

skimpy adj. barely adequate, scanty, sparing, meager

Leaders back Bolivia's Morales

It's a sight which would warm the heart of any President.

A march by supporters backing his policies.

But Bolivia's President Evo Morales is particularly in need of shoring up right now.

In eastern Bolivia regional leaders have called for autonomy and a greater share of wealth from natural gas.

Morales is trying to formalize rights for the country's Indian majority and redistribute land to poor peasant farmers.

The clash in views is de-stabilizing Bolivia with violent outbreaks between pro autonomy activists and Morales supporters last week leaving at least 16 dead.

South American leaders threw their support behind Morales after an emergency meeting in Chilean capital Santiago.

They fear a civil coup being forced through by leaders in Bolivia's regions.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet made clear such a leadership would not be recognised.

SOUNDBITE: Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, Saying: (Spanish)

"We energetically reject and will not recognise any situation that implies a civil coup, a break in institutional order, or anything that compromises the territorial integrity of the Republic of Bolivia."

There is widespread suspicion that America is backing the breakaway regional leaders.

Morales and Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez expelled the U.S. ambassadors in their countries last week.

But there are few signs of the situation stabilizing soon.

Martial law has been declared in one province after a suspected massacre by opposition supporters in which officials say between 16 and 28 people died.

Penny Tweedie, Reuters.

shoring up supporting
peasant farmer, agriculturalist; rustic, person who lives in a rural area; hillbilly, ignorant person
clash sound of objects banging together; confrontation, conflict
coup sudden successful stroke; revolution, takeover, overthrow

Pope's first France visit

It's his first visit to France as Pope and the Elysee Palace was his first stop.

He discussed the role of religion in a secular society with President Nicolas Sarkozy - a leader who rarely attends mass but considers himself a "cultural Catholic."

France maintains a strict separation of church and state - the mere mention of your personal faith has traditionally been taboo for politicians.

But religion has returned to the public life in recent years and the French leader says he welcomes that.

(SOUNDBITE) (French) FRENCH PRESIDENT NICOLAS SARKOZY SAYING:

"I call once again for a positive secularism. A secularism that respects and brings people together and that promotes dialogue - not one that excludes or denounces. In this era a positive secularism allows us to go beyond our faiths and rituals in order to discuss the sense that we want to give to our existence."

The 81-year-old Pontiff was equally keen to persuade the French people that religion can contribute to a modern secular society.

(SOUNDBITE) (French) POPE BENEDICT SAYING:

"At this moment in history, when cultures continue to cross paths more frequently, I am firmly convinced that a new reflection on the true meaning and importance of secularism is now necessary. In fact, it is fundamental, on the one hand, to insist on the distinction between the political realm and that of religion in order to preserve both the religious freedom of citizens and the responsibility of the State towards them.

The German-born Pope knows France well.

He speaks fluent French and will deliver an address on faith and culture to 700 intellectuals and artists.

He'll also celebrate open-air mass in Paris and visit Lourdes - the popular Catholic pilgrimage site.

It's celebrating the 150th anniversary of the apparition of the Virgin Mary there.

The Pope will no doubt hope to avoid controversy on this trip.

It's exactly two years since he made the Regensburg speech that angered Muslims.

denounce To condemn openly as being evil or reprehensible.
realm A field, sphere, or province: the realm of science.

Zimbabwe power sharing deal

Morgan Tsvangirai, Movement For Democratic Change (Mdc) Leader saying (English):

"I just want to say that President Mbeki is going to give a press statement but I can say that we got a deal".

Those words from Morgan Tsvangirai confirming Zimbabwe's opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change and the ruling ZANU-PF have at last reached a deal to share power.

The two parties have been locked in talks for four days with South Africa's President, Thabo Mbeki, acting as mediator.

SOUNDBITE: South African President Thabo Mbeki saying (English):

"The government of Zimbabwe with the support of the region and the African continent, will from then onwards work very hard to mobilise support from the region, from the African continent and the rest of the world, necessary support that is needed to assist the people of Zimbabwe."

The Movement for Democratic change won an initial election in March but failed to secure an outright victory.

Tsvangirai pulled out of the presidential run-off three months later citing election rigging.

Since then the two sides have been unable to agree on power sharing.

There's been no comment from Mugabe so far.

It's thought he'll remain President but in a more cermonial role while Tsvangirai becomes Prime Minister.

Mebeki said a formal signing ceremony was expected on Monday.

The agreement opens the way for the international community to step in and help revive Zimbabwe's economy.

Hayley Platt Reuters.

onwards Moving or tending forward.
rig manipulate in a fraudulent manner

step in

1. To enter into an activity or a situation.

2. To intervene.

080909-New President for Pakistan

New President for Pakistan

His election was no surprise but what happens now Asif Ali Zardari is President isn't so easy to predict.
At his swearing in ceremony he made welcome promises.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) ASIF ALI ZARDARI, PAKISTAN PRESIDENT, SAYING:

"I will not allow my personal interests to influence my official conduct or my official decisions."
The widower of the former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto replaces Pervez Musharraf.
After accepting the Presidency he sat alongside his Afghan counter part and also accepted the difficult task ahead.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) ASIF ALI ZARDARI, PAKISTAN PRESIDENT, SAYING:

"We know we have problems, we know we've had problems in the past and we know we will have problems in the future but one thing I can assure you we will stand with our neighbours we will stand with the people of Pakistan and look at the problems in the eyes and tell the world we are bigger than the problems are."
Zardari has two main priorities - tackling rising extremism and a failing economy.
Inflation is running at almost 25 per cent and many Pakistanis doubt his ability to deliver.

(SOUNDBITE) (Urdu) MISUL KHAN, SAYING:
 
"We voted for this government; the poor public voted for them and what are they giving us in return? They have increased prices, they have shut off our electricity, they have put an end to employment. The poor man is miserable and unhappy."

Zardari has also vowed to defeat the Taliban but many say his support for the US-led campaign is the cause of the problem.
The day before the swearing in ceremony US planes killed 16 people in a religious school on the Afghan border.

(SOUNDBITE) (Urdu) DR. ABDUL WAHAB, DOCTOR FROM BAJAUR TRIBAL REGION, SAYING:

"Even now, westerners are coming into our region and attacking us. NATO planes are taking pictures there, and bombing the area. The Pakistani government says 'we are doing it,' but actually it is the Americans who are doing it. I have seen it myself."
Zardari must walk a political tight rope - he must satisfy the Americans without upsetting his own people.
And there'll be no shortage of people waiting for him to fall.
 
Sonia Legg, Reuters.

080908-Sarkozy brokers Georgia deal

Sarkozy brokers Georgia deal

French President Nicolas Sarkozy and EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso arrive at Meiendorf Castle near Moscow for talks with Russia's President Dmitry Medvedev on the crisis in Georgia.

Their mission was to persuade Russia to honour a deal to pull its troops out of Georgian territory.
And their meeting appears to have been a success.

Medvedev pledged to pull troops out of core Georgian regions.
He said he had received a guarantee from the EU that Georgia would not use force again.
He also said agreement had been reached in principle for the deployment of a 200 strong EU monitoring contingent.

Medvedev has agreed to pull out troops from the South Ossetia buffer zone if an international force was in place.
Sarkozy said Russian troops would leave Georgia's heartland within one month and checkpoints around Georgia's port city of Poti would be removed within a week.

He added if the deal with Russia was implemented there was no reason for EU-Russia partnership talks not to take place in October.
 
Penny Tweedie, Reuters.

deployment - the distribution of forces in preparation for battle or work

Batman escapes assualt charges

Christian Bale will not face charges over an alleged assault on his mother and sister. "The Dark Knight" star was arrested and held for more than four hours at a London police station in July. He was reported to have lashed out at his family members while promoting the film in the U.K.

Speaking of Batman, is "Dark Knight's" 4-week hold on the box office ever going to end? Variety magazine predicts that this weekend's "Tropic Thunder" will bump the "Dark Knight" down a notch to number two. "Thunder," is tracking strong for its mid-week Wednesday opening and is expected to top "Knight" by Sunday.

The other major release this weekend is the animated "Star Wars: The Clone Wars." While expected to open strong, critics say its numbers won't be able to earn it a top slot.

In other box office news, "Kung Fu Panda 2" may be kicking into development soon. DreamWorks Animation Chief Executive Jeffrey Katzenberg said his studio is in talks to make a sequel to the box office hit. With the original raking in $560 million, it's no wonder a sequel is on Katzenberg's mind; he says an official announcement could come within 2 months.

Fallen British rock star Gary Glitter will be deported from Vietnam to Britain on Tuesday. The glam rocker has completed a 27-month sentence there for molesting two young girls.

Finally, she may no longer be like a virgin, but Madonna is proving that 50 is fabulous. Madge will hit the big 5-0 on Saturday, but she won't have time to fret about getting older; the world's most successful female recording artist starts her "Sticky and Sweet" world tour on August 23.

lash out to hit out violently He lashed out with his fists.

Dollar regaining a foothold?

After 7 years of being in the dump - the dollar is making a bit of a resurgence.

The value of the greenback has only been down once since the month of August began. And in that same period the dollar has risen 4 percent against a basket of the world's major currencies.

The sentiment has definitely shifted in the dollar's favor, but not because of what's happening in the U.S, says Win Thin, senior currency strategist at Brown Brothers Harriman. but rather, what's happening in Britain and the rest of Europe.

SOUNDBITE: Win Thin, senior currency strategist, Brown Brothers Harriman (English) saying:

"For a long time it looked like everything was in favor of the euro zone to the detriment of the U.S. and now we are seeing, you know, the U.S. is kind of surviving its crisis. It's not going to grow back to trend for a couple of quarters, but gee, the outlook for the euro zone is even worse."

Investors have responded by pushing the euro to a six-month low against the dollar. It now only takes $1.49 to buy one euro. That's down from the record above $1.60 set earlier this summer.

The dollar did see a minor pullback on Tuesday, but that is to be expected, Win says.

SOUNDBITE: Win Thin, senior currency strategist, Brown Brothers Harriman (English) saying:

"So we may see some profit taking. We may poke back-up above $1.50 for the euro. But I think that just presents a very good dollar buying opportunity. Again the market has been buying dollars on the dips and I think that will continue. So strong dollar. Period."

That strength, however, is a mixed blessing. On the positive side: a stronger dollar is one of the reasons crude oil prices have dropped $34 from their all time high. But as the dollar flexes its muscles at the same time other economies falter - America could lose what some say has been keeping an economic recession at bay - strong exports.

Conway Gittens, Reuters.

Phelps makes Olympic history

American swimmer Michael Phelps' legend grew longer Wednesday, becoming the most successful Olympian of all time with his 10th and 11th gold medals.

Phelps broke his own world record in the 200m butterfly, then won in the 200m freestyle relay, breaking his tie with Mark Spitz and Carl Lewis, who had won nine.

The 23-year-old is five-for-five in world records, but all eyes are on whether he can top Spitz' single Olympic tally of seven golds set in Munich in 1972.

The Phelps phenomenon is dominating headlines in the Beijing Games first week, as well as making the biggest splash online.

The American is the most discussed of 50 high profile athletes online message boards, according to market researcher Nielsen.

Swimmers led in overall e-volume, followed by basketball players, gymnastics and beach volleyball.

Dan Sloan reporting.

Beijing discards recyclers

Tens of thousands of migrant workers scour Beijing for recyclable scraps.

But they won't be trading any trash this August as they are being pushed out of town as Beijing gears up to present a sanitized modern city to millions of Olympic visitors.

Liu, a trash collector, said this was his only source of income.

SOUNDBITE: (Mandarin with English ) MR. LIU, REFUSE COLLECTOR AND TRADER FROM HENAN PROVINCE, SAYING:

"Of course I don't want to leave Beijing, because here I can make around 30 to 50 yuan a day, if I go home I can't make anything."

The estimated 170,000 unofficial recyclers make a meagre living collecting and selling anything recyclable, from plastic drinks bottles to cardboard.

The vast majority are migrants from rural areas of provinces like Henan and Sichuan.

This army recycles a fourth of Beijing's trash.

According to Beijing Municipal Administration Commission, who advises the city government, the migrants present a host of problems for the coming green Olympics.

Their recent survey shows that more than 70 percent of the collectors have contracted infectious diseases and more than half have criminal records..

Wang Weiping advises the government.

SOUNDBITE: (Mandarin with English translation) WANG WEIPING, EXPERT FROM BEIJING URBAN ADMINISTRATION COMMISSION, SAYING:

"It's more about social order and safety, which includes preventing the spread of infectious diseases."

The government has already closed down scores of markets where trash used to be traded, cutting off the migrants' incomes.

But Wang expects the recyclers to be back after the games.

In Beijing, I'm Kitty Bu, reporting for Reuters.

Cuba economic health warning

The global economic crisis is slowing the pace of economic reforms in Cuba.

That's the message from President Raul Castro in his first speech to the National Assembly since taking office in February.

He says rising food and oil prices mean it'll take more time to lift wage caps - a key reform aimed at boosting incentives for workers.

(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) RAUL CASTRO, CUBAN PRESIDENT, SAYING:

"Socialism means social justice and equality, but equality of rights, of opportunities, not of income. Equality is not egalitarianism, the latter is also a form of exploitation -- that of the good worker because of the one who isn't, or worse yet, the lazy one."

Decentralizing food production is one of the key reforms introduced by Raul Castro.

Farmers are to be given more scope to decide how to use their land - which crops to plant and supplies to buy.

And unused state land is being lent to private farmers, part of a drive to boost agricultural output.

The Cuban leader told the assembly it wouldn't be "ethical to create false expectations" of quick action on reforms.

He sat beside an empty seat reserved for his brother Fidel, the former president.

(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) RAUL CASTRO, CUBAN PRESIDENT, SAYING:

"All of us who are here...are in agreement but, very importantly, he who sits over there (gesturing to Fidel's seat and making sign of a beard with hand) where I sit is also in full agreement."

A signal meant to reassure that his economic reforms have the full support of his brother, who hasn't been seen in public since having emergency stomach surgery nearly two years ago.

Susan Flory, Reuters

Colombia rebels allege betrayal

Cameras of the Colombian military captured that dramatic moment when Ingrid Betancourt and 14 other hostages realize they are free.

Now Colombia's FARC rebel group says it was betrayed by its own men in that daring escape --- the group's provided no details, but these are the two men it's pointing its fingers at---Cesar and Enrique, seen here after their capture by Colombian military last week.

Both men were guarding the hostages, before their rescue by Colombian intelligence agents posing as aid workers.

Colombia says it had infiltrated the FARC for the bloodless mission---A strategy that's part of a marked tactical shift for a military used to more traditional methods of confrontation----

Analysts attribute the change in course to this man----Colombia's Defence Minister Juan Manuel Santos---and his two-pronged approach-----infilitrate FARC and target their top leaders

Pedro Medellin, Colombia political analyst, saying, (Spanish):

"Upon the arrival of Minister Santos, there was a very important change in strategy, from the U.S. strategy of attack, of confrontation, of war on the guerrillas--- to a more efficient Israeli model. A model similar to the one followed with Hamas in which the top heads of the FARC were targeted, and that substantially modified conditions. They infiltrated and had successful infiltration"

It was the strategy that Colombia used in March 2008 when Colombian forces crossed the border into Ecuador and killed Raul Reyes--a top FARC commander

.

Laptops recovered from the raid provided Colombia crucial information about the FARC--but also sparked a regional crisis between a pro-US Colombia and its leftist neighbors, Ecuador and Venezuela.

But for Colombian president Alvor Uribe, the strikes against FARC have meant record approval ratings at home.

And with the success of last week's high-profile rescue under his belt, Uribe met with Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez at a summit aimed to repair ties between the neighbors.

(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) ALVARO URIBE, COLOMBIAN PRESIDENT, SAYING:

"We want the relationship with our sister country Ecuador to be reconstructed as quickly as possible. I've expressed all my willingness regarding this to President Chavez."

For much of the year, the two leader exchanged charges that each destabilized their nations, but on Friday they shared handshakes and pledges to boost $6 billion in annual trade.

Pavithra George,Reuters

G8 eyes oil woes

G8 summit leaders, facing record oil and food prices, tried to tackle a host of economic and environmental woes Tuesday.

Soaring inflation has hit developed and developing countries, while climate change is a centerpiece of the Toyako summit.

The G8 said serious economic risks and financial market strains exist, with commodity prices challenging global growth.

A world forum on oil prices is planned, bringing together major producers and consumers.

The G8 noted a "shared vision" to make 50% cuts in CO2 emissions by 2050, adding all major economies such as China and India need to contribute.

The statement included plans to develop new eco-technologies and provide funds to help poorer nations limit greenhouse gas emissions.

The G8 made a thinly-veiled call to let China's yuan appreciate, a subject leaders may address directly in meetings with Beijing's head of state later this week.

Dan Sloan reporting.

Italian fingerprint plans attacked

There are 140,000 Roma living in Italy.

Most of them live on squalid shanty sites with poor sanitation and no running water.

Now they are being targeted in a government crackdown on crime for which the Roma are widely blamed.

Interior department has ordered a census of Roma camps in which all Roma including children will be fingerprinted.

The plan has met with strong criticism from human rights and aid groups .

They say it is racist and treats Roma people like criminals.

One religious charity Sant'Egidio Community said the census went against the EU's anti discrimination rules because it was aimed at a single ethnic group.

He says:

SOUNDBITE: Sant'egidio's President, Marco Impagliazzo, saying: (Italian)

"I don't know if this is racism or not. But the new rules look confused to say the least. They seem wrong because they seem highly discriminatory".

Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's conservative government has also created "special commissioners" for what it calls the Roma emergency.

Sant'Egidio vowed that they will organise demonstrations if the government pushes forward with the new census procedures.

Penny Tweedie, Reuters

squalid

Adjective dirty, untidy, and in bad condition

shanty

Noun pl -ties a small rough hut

crackdown n.

An act or example of forceful regulation, repression, or restraint: a crackdown on crime.

v. vowed, vow·ing, vows

v.tr. To promise solemnly; pledge

Mugabe faces critics

Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe arrives at the African Union summit in Egypt to face his critics.

He's starting another five-year term in office after an election in which he was the only candidate.

The ballot has been branded unfair by all three African monitoring groups who oversaw the voting.

Despite a wave of international criticism, Zimbabwe's African Union neighbours are unlikely to back Western calls for tough sanctions.

They are expected to press for talks between Mugabe and opposition rival Morgan Tsvangirai who pulled out of the presidential race because of violence against his supporters.

Pan-African human rights group RADDHO says Zimbabwe's presidential election was a masquerade and is urging the AU leaders to add their weight to the international condemnation.

SOUNDBITE: Alioune Tine, President of RADDHO, saying (French):

"We are appealing to the heads of states, of governments meeting in Sharm el-Sheikh to refuse all recognition of the regime resulting from the electoral mascarade organised by Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe, and to refuse all compromise concerning a sharing of power."

Both Mugabe and Tsvangirai say they are ready for African-sponsored talks.

The big question is who would lead a unity government.

Paul Chapman, Reuters

brand tr.v. brand·ed, brand·ing, brands

1. To mark with or as if with a hot iron. See Synonyms at mark¹.

2. To mark to show ownership.

3. To mark with disgrace or infamy; stigmatize.

4. To impress firmly; fix ineradicably: Imagery of the war has branded itself into the national consciousness.

masquerade n.

1.

a. A costume party at which masks are worn; a masked ball. Also called masque.

b. A costume for such a party or ball.

2.

a. A disguise or false outward show; a pretense: a masquerade of humility.

b. An involved scheme; a charade.

Exclusive Russian President interview

Energy has pulled Russia out the economic doldrums.

It's now has one the fastest growing economies in the world.

But in a exclusive interview with Reuters Russia's President Dmitry Medvedev is urging caution.

He says he wants to reduce the state's role in the economy and curb government spending to combat inflation.

Prices are currently rising by 14 per cent - twice the government's target.

SOUNDBITE (Russian) MEDVEDEV SAYING:

" If we want to talk about economic threats, it's the threat of international financial instability, the crisis in production and all the related problems. If we're talking about other factors, they are also obvious, terrorism, rise in international crime - all are problems the Russian Federation has because we're an open society."

Medvedev admits Russia's new riches have also failed to solve two main problems.

SOUNDBITE (Russian) MEDVEDEV SAYING:

"Firstly, poverty which we haven't yet defeated. Resolving this problem is the main task for the government. We are going to work hard at this, using all of our economic might. And the second problem I must mention is corruption, corruption as a systemic challenge, as a threat to national security, as a problem which leads to a lack of faith among citizens in the ability of government to bring order and protect them."

Medvedev admits Russia has "practical problems" dealing with the E.U.

He also rejects claims by Russian analysts that the Kremlin has been shutting out alternative voices in television and the wider media.

SOUNDBITE (Russian) MEDVEDEV SAYING:

" Thank God we live in a free society where one can watch other channels, foreign channels, private channels, one can open a newspaper or go into the internet and download whatever you like. In this sense, the problem of restrictions on information doesn't exist in Russia today, didn't exist in the past and won't happen in the future I can assure you of that."

Neither - he added - will democracy be compromised.

SOUNDBITE (Russian) MEDVEDEV SAYING :

"The defining values are freedom, democracy and the protection of private property. And these are the values we will bring to our relations with our international partners. In this sense our foreign policy cannot be characterised as liberal or conservative or anything else. It must be a policy

that supports and furthers our national interests - that is its essence."

Medvedev took over from Vladimir Putin just seven weeks ago.

Putin is now the Prime Minister and many are wondering how much of his own man Medvedev will be when it comes to solving Russia's problems.

Sonia Legg, Reuters.

doldrums Noun the doldrums

1.a. A period of stagnation or slump.

b. A period of depression or unhappy listlessness.

2.a. A region of the ocean near the equator, characterized by calms, light winds, or squalls.

b. The weather conditions characteristic of these regions of the ocean.

Bolivia hunger crisis

Tens of thousands of people in Bolivia are hungry. It is South America's poorest country, where even the U.N. World Food Program is struggling to keep up with rising food costs and a growing number of mouths to feed.

Bolivian poverty is perhaps most glaring in the sprawling La Paz suburb of El Alto. A local polling agency recently reported that about 55 percent of the 900,000 residents live on less than one dollar a day.

The UN used to feed half a million Bolivians, but that number has slipped below 200,000 as a result of inflation.

42-year-old mother, Maxima de Alijo Ticona , struggles to put food on the table for her nine children.

SOUNDBITE: 42-year-old mother, Maxima de Alijo Ticonal, saying (Spanish):

"The kids don't get enough to eat. I feel bad. Sometimes I regret I had children. If they were food, I would eat them. But I can't do that. I can't give them any more. Food prices have gone up."

She and her sons wash the neighbor's laundry but are only able to bring in $7 on a good day, not enough to feed ten.

Experts say the global food crisis is due to the conversion of land to grow crops for biofuels, bad weather, surging consumption in fast-growing developing countries and higher fuel costs.

Deborah Lutterbeck, Reuters

keep up

1. To maintain in good condition: kept up the property.

2.

a. To persevere in; carry on: We asked her to stop talking, but she kept it up.

b. To preserve or sustain: kept up the appearance of friendship.
glaring - Conspicuous; obvious: a glaring error. See Synonyms at flagrant.

sprawling - spreading out in different directions

Cloned dogs detect cancer


They're cute, they're cuddly, and they could be a new weapon in the armoury against cancer in humans.

This litter of Labrador retriever pups has been cloned from a Japanese dog thought able to detect the disease by smell.

Scientists at South Korean firm RNL Bio which is behind the project say it's a big leap forward on several fronts.

SOUNDBITE: Kim Yoon, RNL Bio spokesman, saying (Korean):

"For the first time in the world four puppies were successfully cloned at the same time. It's shown the economic efficiency of cloning which is essential for commercial cloning projects."

The pups will be sent to Japan for training to see if they've inherited their mother's special sniffing skills.

Scientists are studying whether cancer cells give off a distinctive odour which dogs can spot by sniffing the breath or skin of patients.

Cloning has been a double edged sword for South Korea.

Seoul National University, which partners RNL Bio, is credited with producing the world's first cloned dog in 2005.

But national pride took a severe dent when team leader Hwang Woo-suk was charged with fabricating data in cloned human embryonic stem cell studies.

The team has since gone on to produce other cloned animals and the multiple birth of pups with possible cancer-sniffing qualities will ensure the country's place as top dog in cloning and stem cell research.

Paul Chapman, Reuters.

cuddly - inviting cuddling or hugging; "a cuddlesome baby"; "a cuddly teddybear"

cuddlesome

lovable, loveable - having characteristics that attract love or affection; "a mischievous but lovable child"

litter - the offspring at one birth of a multiparous mammal
retriever

Noun

a dog trained to retrieve shot birds and animals
leap The act of leaping; a jump.

give off

To send forth; emit: chemical changes that give off energy.
sword - a cutting or thrusting weapon that has a long metal blade and a hilt with a hand guard
dent - an appreciable consequence (especially a lessening); "it made a dent in my bank account"

Water-fuel car unveiled

With oil prices soaring and fuel protests spreading across the globe it almost sounds too good to be true - a car that runs on nothing but water.

And all kinds of water will do, river, rain or sea, they all make this car mobile - even tea works!

Japanese company Genepax unveiled the eco-friendly vehicle in Osaka.

Once water is poured into the car's tank, an energy generator takes hydrogen from the water, releasing electrons that power the car.

(SOUNDBITE) (Japanese) KIYOSHI HIRASAWA, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF GENEPAX, SAYING:

"The main characteristic of this car is that no external input is needed. The car will continue to run as long as you have a bottle of water inside for you to add from time to time."

According to Genepax a litre of water will keep the car running at a speed of 80 kilometers for around an hour.

The company hopes to go into mass production with a Japanese manufacturer.

With car users around the world looking for alternative fuels to power their vehicles Genepax may well have the solution they've been looking for.

Michelle Carlile-Alkhouri, Reuters

poured v. poured, pour·ing, pours

v.tr.

1. To make (a liquid or granular solid) stream or flow, as from a container.

2. To send forth, produce, express, or utter copiously, as if in a stream or flood: poured money into the project; poured out my inner thoughts.

v.intr.

1. To stream or flow continuously or profusely.

2. To rain hard or heavily.

3. To pass or proceed in large numbers or quantity: Students poured into the auditorium.

4. To serve a beverage, such as tea or coffee, to a gathering: We need someone to pour.