Virtual Casa Asia

Last news

Asia Stocks Advance for a Third Day on U.S. Home, Retail Sales

03/09/2010 - 04:13

Asian stocks rose, extending the benchmark index?s advance for a third day, after U.S. reports showed an unexpected increase in pending home sales, a decline in initial jobless claims and improved retail sales.

North Korea’s First Congress in 30 Years Has Succession Roots

03/09/2010 - 04:10

North Korea is preparing its biggest political gathering in 30 years, drawing parallels with the 1980 summit that ensured Kim Jong Il?s succession amid speculation he will transfer power to his youngest son.

Typhoon kills 5 South Koreans (AP)

03/09/2010 - 04:02

AP - The death toll from Typhoon Kompasu, which battered the Korean peninsula with strong winds and heavy rains, rose to five in South Korea, an official said Friday.

S.Korea´s Kia to recall 35,000 cars in US (AFP)

03/09/2010 - 04:00

AFP - South Korea´s second largest carmaker Kia Motors said Friday it is recalling about 35,000 vehicles sold in the United States due to faulty wiring in interior lights that could cause fires.

World Briefing | Asia: Pakistan: I.M.F. Offers $450 Million in Emergency Aid

03/09/2010 - 03:30

The International Monetary Fund will provide some relief for a government overwhelmed by the disaster and facing renewed militant violence.

China’s Stock Futures Rise as U.S. Data Signal Global Recovery

03/09/2010 - 03:27

China?s stock-index futures rose, signaling the benchmark index may extend the biggest weekly gain in a month, after better-than-expected U.S. pending home sales and retail sales bolstered confidence about a global recovery.

Sukuk Beaten by Emerging Debt for Fourth Month: Islamic Finance

03/09/2010 - 03:22

Islamic bonds lost to emerging- market debt for the fourth month in August and fund managers say returns won?t catch up until trading increases and Persian Gulf companies restructure their debt.

Alberta Fund Got Chinese Approach on Potash Corp. Bid, CEO Says

03/09/2010 - 03:20

Chinese investors approached Alberta Investment Management Corp. to consider a joint counterbid for Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan Inc., the Canadian pension fund?s chief executive officer said.

Tropical hotspot

03/09/2010 - 03:14

Why tensions are rising in the South China Sea

Sumitomo Plans to Boost Shale Gas, Energy Assets by 50 Percent

03/09/2010 - 03:10

Sumitomo Corp., Japan?s third- largest trading company, plans to increase investments in energy assets by 50 percent in five years amid a boom in shale-gas exploration.

Japan Said to View U.S. as Yen Intervention Obstacle

03/09/2010 - 03:06

Japan views probable U.S. opposition to intervention in the foreign-exchange market to address the appreciating yen as an obstacle to taking unilateral action, according to three Japanese government officials.

Asia Stocks Advance for a Third Day on U.S. Economic Data

03/09/2010 - 02:59

BOJ May Forego Further Stimulus Until Forecast Review

03/09/2010 - 02:53

The Bank of Japan may seek to delay implementing further monetary easing until at least October, waiting to see whether the yen?s gains and a U.S. slowdown will force it to abandon a forecast for a sustained recovery.

Indonesian volcano spews new burst of ash (AP)

03/09/2010 - 02:47

AP - An Indonesian volcano sent a new, powerful burst of hot ash and debris two miles (thousands of meters) into the air early Friday, sending villagers fleeing back to emergency shelters.

Asian Stocks Advance on U.S. Home Sales, Falling Jobless Claims

03/09/2010 - 02:24

Asian stocks rose for a third day after U.S. reports showed an unexpected increase in pending home sales, a decline in initial jobless claims and improved retail sales.

Japanese, Australian Stock Futures Advance Following U.S. Data

03/09/2010 - 01:57

Japanese and Australian stock futures rose after U.S. reports showed an unexpected increase in pending home sales and improved retail sales.

Samsung, Toshiba ‘Me-Too’ Tablets Seek Price Edge to Fight IPad

03/09/2010 - 01:51

Samsung Electronics Co. and Toshiba Corp. unveiled tablet computers in Berlin yesterday, aiming to take market share from Apple Inc.?s iPad with their lower-priced ?me-too? devices.

S.Korean economy grew revised 1.4 pct in Q2: central bank (AFP)

03/09/2010 - 01:41

AFP - South Korea´s economy grew 1.4 percent in the second quarter from three months earlier, slightly less than earlier predicted due to weaker construction investment, the central bank said Friday.

South Korea’s Economy Grew 1.4% in the Second Quarter

03/09/2010 - 01:38

South Korea?s economy expanded at almost the same pace in the second quarter as initially estimated, fueled by demand for the nation?s exports of semiconductors and electronic products.

Srinagar Journal: In Kashmir, the Front Lines of a Conflict Run Through a Hospital?s Wards

03/09/2010 - 01:30

Just getting to work is an ordeal for staff members, who have also had to face chanting protesters in their emergency room.

North Korea Appears Ready to Extend Dynastic Rule

03/09/2010 - 01:23

North Korea?s leader is to convene a ruling party meeting where it is expected that his son will be given an official post, a step on the road to leadership.

Pension fund approached on Potash bid (AP)

03/09/2010 - 00:36

AP - The head of a major Canadian pension fund says a Chinese sovereign wealth fund is interested in making a joint-bid with a Canadian pension fund for fertilizer-maker Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan Inc.

Obama adviser Summers to visit China September 4 (Reuters)

03/09/2010 - 00:36

Reuters - The White House said on Thursday that President Barack Obama´s top economic adviser will visit China from Saturday for three days of meetings.

Kokusai Buys Record World Bank Bonds in Overseas Push for Yield

03/09/2010 - 00:30

Japanese investors are scooping up record amounts of bonds sold by the World Bank and state-backed lenders, seeking higher returns as government debt yields tumble.

Diplomat Endorses Cricket Conspiracy

03/09/2010 - 00:13

Pakistan´s top diplomat in Britain suggested on Thursday that three of his nation´s cricket stars, accused of agreeing to take part in a betting scam, were ´innocent´ victims of a plot against them.

Pakistan Floods Risk Aid Dependency, Army Chief Tells Mullen

02/09/2010 - 23:52

The worst flooding in Pakistan?s history has the country?s army struggling to provide relief without creating greater dependency on aid in the long run, officials told President Barack Obama?s top military adviser.

Alberta Fund Got Chinese Approach on Potash, CEO Says

02/09/2010 - 23:09

Chinese investors approached Alberta Investment Management Corp., a Canadian pension fund, to consider a joint counterbid for Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan Inc., the fund?s chief executive officer said.

Butt, Asif, Aamer charged by ICC (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 22:38

AFP - The International Cricket Council said Thursday it has charged Pakistan´s Salman Butt, Mohammad Aamer and Mohammad Asif with various offences under its anti-corruption code.

US sorry over ´mistreatment´ of Pakistan military delegation (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 22:33

AFP - The United States has apologised to Pakistan over ´mistreatment´ of a Pakistani military delegation at a US airport this week, the Pakistani defence ministry said Friday.

Pakistan´s Butt, Asif, Aamer suspended by ICC (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 22:27

AFP - * The International Cricket Council said Thursday it has provisionally suspended the three Pakistan players *accused of involvement in a betting scam.

Afghanistan assures bank customers amid graft fears (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 22:26

Reuters - Afghanistan´s government sought to avert a run on the country´s top private bank by nervous investors after directors at Kabulbank resigned, ostensibly to meet new rules but also amid media allegations of graft.

Chan gets Grand Slam breakthrough at US Open (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 22:23

AFP - Taiwan´s Chan Yung-Jan advanced to the third round of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time in 17 attempts on Thursday when she defeated Austria´s Tamira Paszek 6-3, 6-3.

Defeated China saved by Puerto Rico in world basketball (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 22:19

AFP - China slumped to a crushing 87-40 defeat to Turkey in their final group game at the world basketball championships on Thursday, but still reached the second round thanks to Puerto Rico.

US defence chief Gates meets Karzai amid disagreement (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 22:07

AFP - US Defence Secretary Robert Gates on Thursday visited Afghanistan for military and government talks that highlighted tensions and disagreement between President Hamid Karzai and his top Western sponsor.

Pakistan to Get $450 Million Emergency Loan From IMF

02/09/2010 - 22:07

Pakistan will receive $450 million in emergency financing from the International Monetary Fund to help the country rebuild an economy ravaged by record flooding, said Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the fund?s managing director.

Martyrs in the Valley of Peace

02/09/2010 - 21:58

In the Cemetery of the Martyrs of the Army of the Imam Mahdi, death is not mourned. The men here have died as martyrs, and sacrifice is exalted.

Afghan govt declares bank safe amid rush for withdrawals (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 21:43

AFP - Afghan financial authorities and the owners of Afghanistan´s biggest bank said Thursday that Kabul Bank was in no danger of collapsing, as people across the country rushed to withdraw their money.

Alberta Fund Approached by Chinese on Potash Bid, CEO Says

02/09/2010 - 21:41

Ford says August China, India sales up (AP)

02/09/2010 - 21:40

AP - Ford Motor Co. said Thursday that its August sales in China and India rose 37 percent, reflecting the rapid growth in those regions for the U.S. automaker.

Afghan Taliban faces ´cash flow´ problem: US general (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 20:54

AFP - Taliban insurgents in southern Afghanistan are facing a ´financial crisis´ as NATO-led troops have disrupted the center of their lucrative opium trade, a top US general said on Thursday.

Pakistan Gets I.M.F. Relief, Tightens Security

02/09/2010 - 20:50

The International Monetary Fund will give Pakistan $450 million in emergency flood aid, providing some relief for a government overwhelmed by the disaster and facing renewed militant violence.

Philippines Said to Have Approval for $1 Billion Peso Bond Sale

02/09/2010 - 20:39

The Philippine central bank approved the government?s plan to sell as much as $1 billion worth of global peso bonds, bringing the nation a step closer to its debut sale of the notes.

Chinese Investors Approached Alberta Pension Fund Over Potash

02/09/2010 - 19:58

Chinese investors approached the Alberta Investment Management Corp., a Canadian pension fund, to consider a possible joint bid for Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan Inc., the fund?s chief executive officer told BNN Television television today. Leo de Bever said the Alberta fund wasn?t interested in a bid for the fertilizer maker, which is the target of a hostile bid from BHP Billiton Ltd.

Ping An Share Offering Priced at High End of Range, Terms Show

02/09/2010 - 19:54

Ping An Insurance (Group) Co.?s share offering was priced at HK$65.30 each, the high end of the offering range of HK$64.68 ($8.32) to HK$65.30, according to terms of the sale obtained by Bloomberg News.

U.S. to start NATO talks on Afghan transition: Petraeus (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 19:44

Reuters - The United States will start preliminary talks with its allies in Afghanistan soon on next year´s planned ´transition,´ expected to include withdrawal of some U.S. forces, the top NATO commander in the country said on Thursday.

Pakistan win but down to 11 on troubled tour (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 19:28

AFP - Pakistan´s first match since a betting scandal engulfed the team on their tour of England ended with them having just 11 fit players at their disposal on Thursday.

Afghan govt declares bank safe amid rush for withdrawals (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 19:08

Stalled funding hits Pakistan aid effort: UN (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 19:01

AFP - Relief efforts in flood-ravaged Pakistan are being stretched by the ´unprecedented scale´ of the disaster, with the flow of international aid almost at a standstill, the UN said Thursday.

Chinese accused of honey smuggling

02/09/2010 - 18:24

US authorities indict 11 German and Chinese executives for conspiring to illegally import $40m worth of honey from China.

China census highlights growing rights awareness (AP)

02/09/2010 - 18:21

AP - Census takers counting China´s more than 1.3 billion people already face a daunting task, and it´s getting harder for the latest once-a-decade update.

Jiangling Motors, Vanke, ICBC: China Stock-Market Preview

02/09/2010 - 18:16

The following companies may have unusual price changes in China trading. Stock symbols are in parentheses, and share prices are as of the last close.

Cambodian rights groups face worsening repression: activists (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 18:12

AFP - Human rights workers in Cambodia face ´an increasingly hostile environment´ as authorities use violence, intimidation and ´trumped-up´ criminal charges to silence them, activists warned Thursday.

Delhi pledges ´great´ Commonwealth Games despite concerns (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 18:11

AFP - Commonwealth Games organisers on Thursday dismissed widespread criticism ahead of the event and said athletes could expect top-class facilities when the action starts in Delhi on October 3.

EU´s Ashton urges China on trade, Iran (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 18:10

AFP - EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton urged China Thursday to create a better investment environment for European businesses and maintain a joint stand on the Iranian nuclear issue.

China pays highest-level visit to Taiwan in 12 years (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 18:09

AFP - Chinese Culture Minister Cai Wu flew into Taiwan Thursday to become the highest-ranking mainland official to visit the self-governing island in 12 years, officials said.

Malaysian blogger faces jail over satirical post (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 18:06

AFP - A Malaysian journalist was charged Thursday over a satirical blog which made fun of the state power firm Tenaga, and faces a year´s jail if convicted.

Marine general says Taliban drug trade faltering (AP)

02/09/2010 - 18:05

AP - A Marine two-star general says the Taliban is experiencing a serious cash flow problem after losing an estimated half of its annual revenue from the drug trade in southern Afghanistan.

Thousands stuck in China traffic

02/09/2010 - 18:05

More than 10,000 vehicles are stuck in a 120km (75-mile) traffic jam on China´s Beijing to Tibet motorway.

Malaysia Refrains From Raising Interest Rate as Rebound Cools

02/09/2010 - 18:01

Malaysia?s central bank left interest rates unchanged after three consecutive increases, choosing to support growth as the global recovery slows.

IMF, World Bank step up aid to Pakistan (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 18:01

AFP - The IMF and the World Bank have stepped up aid to flood-hit Pakistan to help the country cope with its worst-ever humanitarian disaster, officials said Thursday.

IMF, World Bank step up aid to Pakistan (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 17:50

AFP - The IMF and the World Bank have stepped up aid to flood-hit Pakistan to help it cope with its worst-ever humanitarian disaster, officials said Thursday.

Watching a Girl Die by Mortar

02/09/2010 - 17:48

In war, emotions run high. Adam Ferguson has found that can help as well as hinder, Eirini Vourloumis reports.

Afghanistan Official Tries to Ease Depositors? Worries About Troubled Bank

02/09/2010 - 17:42

Afghanistan?s top bank official tried to calm fears of a meltdown at Kabul Bank, while scores of Afghans were unable to withdraw money from the bank.

Accounts Differ on Fatal NATO Strike on Afghans

02/09/2010 - 17:01

Did the attack hit a team of election campaign workers, including a parliamentary candidate, or a group connected with an Uzbek terrorist network?

Archive: Working With China´s Generation Y

02/09/2010 - 16:59

Typhoon Kompasu batters South Korean capital

02/09/2010 - 16:56

Three people die as Seoul is hit by its strongest typhoon in 15 years, while storms continue to cause heavy rain and landslides in China.

Pakistan cricketers claim innocence in betting scam (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 16:33

AFP - Three Pakistan cricketers accused of involvement in an illegal betting scam maintained their innocence Thursday after withdrawing from their team´s scandal-tainted tour of England.

Afghan govt says bank safe amid rush for withdrawals (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 16:22

Gates Lands in Kabul

02/09/2010 - 16:02

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates arrived on an unannounced visit for meetings with American military commanders and President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan.

10 killed in NATO airstrike in Afghanistan

02/09/2010 - 15:41

Ten parliamentary campaign workers were killed in a NATO air strike in northeastern Afghanistan on Thursday, a provincial official said.

Pakistan cricketers meet over bet scandal

02/09/2010 - 15:34

Three Pakistani cricket players at the center of an alleged betting scandal were due to meet their country´s cricket authorities Thursday morning in London.

AIG Unit Said to Submit Preliminary IPO Application

02/09/2010 - 15:22

AIA Group Ltd., the main Asia unit of American International Group Inc., submitted preliminary documents to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for an initial public offering, according to two people familiar with the filing.

Gates arrives in Afghanistan

02/09/2010 - 15:07

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates arrived in Afghanistan Thursday to consult with political and military officials.

NATO air strike kills 10 civilians: Afghan president (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 15:02

AFP - Ten Afghan civilians were killed Thursday in a NATO air strike on three vehicles carrying election campaign workers in northern Afghanistan, President Hamid Karzai said in a statement.

Letter from China: A China Newly Rich and Still Quite Poor

02/09/2010 - 15:01

China has had an amazing 30-year sprint to wealth for many of its people. But the distribution of wealth is nowhere near equal.

Afghan leader condemns air strike as Gates arrives (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 14:48

Reuters - Afghan President Hamid Karzai strongly condemned an air strike by NATO-led forces which he said killed 10 campaign workers for this month´s election, a sour note as U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates arrived for talks.

Flood-hit Pakistanis and Afghans may cross to Iran: UNHCR (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 14:36

Reuters - Dismal conditions in flood-hit areas in southwest Pakistan could force thousands of Pakistanis and Afghan refugees to cross the border into Iran, the U.N. refugee agency warned Thursday.

Karzai says NATO airstrike kills 10 civilians (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 14:21

AFP - Ten Afghan civilians were killed Thursday in a NATO airstrike on three vehicles carrying election campaign workers in northern Afghanistan, President Hamid Karzai said in a statement.

China landslides kill eight, 40 missing (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 14:17

AFP - At least eight people died and 40 were missing after rain-triggered landslides struck a community in southwestern China, state media reported on Thursday.

NATO probes Afghan civilian deaths claims (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 14:09

AFP - An Afghan official said Thursday that 10 election campaigners had been killed in an airstrike by international forces in the relatively peaceful north of the country.

Macau’s August Casino Sales Rise 40% on New High-Stakes Tables

02/09/2010 - 13:55

Casino revenue in Macau, the world?s biggest gambling hub, rose 40 percent to 15.8 billion patacas ($2 billion) in August after SJM Holdings Ltd. and its rivals added tables for high-stakes bettors.

Clashes in Indonesia after prisoner dies

02/09/2010 - 13:54

The death of a man in police custody has led to deadly riots and six deaths in Indonesia, police said on Thursday.

Thai Prosecutor Seeks to Withdraw Charges Against Russian Bout

02/09/2010 - 13:52

Thailand?s state attorney asked the nation?s criminal court to withdraw new charges against suspected Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout, a move that may accelerate plans to extradite him to the U.S.

´Lifeline service´

02/09/2010 - 13:51

BBC Burmese marks 70 years of broadcasting

Esprit Plans Stores in 400 China Cities as Europe Sales Fall

02/09/2010 - 13:47

Esprit Holdings Ltd., the Hong Kong- based clothing retailer that derives 83 percent of its sales from Europe, plans to expand its operations to 400 Chinese cities as revenue from the continent declines.

Troops in Afghanistan thwart attack

02/09/2010 - 13:47

Coalition troops in southeastern Afghanistan fought off insurgents after a failed assault on a combat outpost on Thursday.

Bumper-to-bumper as epic China traffic jam returns (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 13:40

AFP - A huge traffic jam stretching at least 120 kilometres (75 miles) reappeared in northern China Thursday, with thousands of cargo trucks stuck in a bottleneck, state media said.

Typhoon Kompasu kills 3 in South Korea

02/09/2010 - 13:35

Three people died after Typhoon Kompasu hit central South Korea Thursday morning, the Yonhap News Agency reported.

US defence chief Gates on surprise Afghan visit (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 13:34

AFP - US Defence Secretary Robert Gates arrived in Kabul Thursday on a surprise visit following a trip to Iraq, where he attended ceremonies to mark the formal end of the American combat mission there.

Pakistan cricketers in bet scandal innocent: envoy (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 13:32

AFP - Three Pakistan cricketers at the centre of illegal betting allegations are innocent, Pakistan´s ambassador to Britain said Thursday after meeting the players.

Saab Turns to Asia, East Europe in Bid to Save Gripen

02/09/2010 - 13:28

Saab AB is stepping up a campaign to sell its Gripen warplane in Asia and eastern Europe as Switzerland?s decision to delay a $1 billion fighter purchase threatens to curtail production of the 1,320 mile-per-hour jet.

Embrace Delhi, says Australian CGames chief (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 13:11

AFP - Australia´s Commonwealth Games chef de mission Steve Moneghetti said Thursday New Delhi Games organisers should be congratulated and not castigated.

Pakistan cricketers in betting probe dropped (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 13:09

AFP - The three Pakistan cricketers at the centre of a betting scandal have been released from the squad for the remainder of the tour of England, team manager Yawar Saeed said Thursday.

Pakistan mourns triple bombing as death toll rises (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 13:04

AFP - The death toll from suicide attacks that targeted a busy procession in Pakistan´s eastern city of Lahore rose to 31 on Thursday as six people succumbed to their injuries, officials said.

Afghan officials defend crisis-stricken bank

02/09/2010 - 12:55

The Central Bank of Afghanistan has said it won´t allow the country´s biggest private financial institution to collapse in the wake of U.S. media allegations of corruption and heavy losses.

Malaysia Refrains From Raising Rate as Rebound Cools

02/09/2010 - 12:50

Malaysia?s central bank left interest rates unchanged after three consecutive increases, choosing to support growth as the global recovery slows.

Walkman outsells iPod in Japan for first time (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 12:46

AFP - In a rare victory for Sony over arch-rival Apple, the Walkman portable music player outsold the iPod in Japan in monthly sales for the first time in August, a survey showed Thursday.

Manila in hostage coffin ´mix-up´

02/09/2010 - 12:42

The Philippines vows to probe claims that coffins of three of Hong Kong´s eight victims of last week´s hijacking in Manila were wrongly labelled.

Asian Stocks Rise to Two-Week High on U.S. Manufacturing Report

02/09/2010 - 12:26

Asian stocks rose, lifting the MSCI Asia-Pacific Index to a two-week high, as faster-than-estimated growth in U.S. manufacturing supported confidence in global economic growth.

Asia Stocks Rise on U.S. Factory Data; Ping An Climbs

02/09/2010 - 12:16

Asian stocks rose, lifting the MSCI Asia-Pacific Index to a two-week high, as faster-than-estimated growth in U.S. manufacturing supported confidence in global economic growth.

Malaysia Keeps Key Rate Unchanged as Global Rebound Weakens

02/09/2010 - 12:16

Malaysia?s central bank left interest rates unchanged after three consecutive increases, choosing to support growth as the global recovery slows.

China calls for compromise on NKorea talks (AP)

02/09/2010 - 12:10

AP - China called Thursday for a compromise among the parties to talks aimed at disarming North Korea´s nuclear program in order to get the negotiations back on track.

Gates in Afghanistan to meet with Karzai, Petraeus (AP)

02/09/2010 - 12:08

AP - Defense Secretary Gates arrived in Afghanistan´s capital Thursday for meetings with President Hamid Karzai and top NATO commander Gen. David Petraeus.

Thai Court Lifts Ban on Stalled Industrial Projects

02/09/2010 - 12:04

A Thai court ruled that most of the 76 industrial projects halted last year because of pollution and licensing concerns can be restarted, a decision that may ease concerns about the nation?s investment regulations.

US defence chief Gates on surprise Afghan trip (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 12:03

(AP)

02/09/2010 - 11:54

AP - Defense Secretary Gates is in Afghanistan for talks with Karzai, Petraeus.

Pakistan militants kill female teacher (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 11:50

AFP - A female teacher was killed and two of her colleagues were wounded when masked militants shot them in an ambush in Pakistan´s northwest tribal belt on Thursday, officials said.

Philippines says UN poverty target won´t be met (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 11:50

AFP - The Philippines said Thursday it would fail to meet its UN development goal on halving poverty levels by 2015 after even more people were added to the ranks of the poor in recent years.

Two Indonesia police on trial for ´Qaeda´ arms sales (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 11:41

AFP - Two Indonesian police officers went on trial on Thursday charged with selling firearms to alleged Islamist extremists from a group dubbed ´Al-Qaeda in Aceh´, which plotted a series of attacks in Jakarta.

NATO checks claim air strike kills 6 Afghan campaigners (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 11:35

Reuters - An apparent air strike by foreign forces killed six election campaign workers in Afghanistan´s north on Thursday, a government spokesman said, and NATO-led forces said they were investigating the incident.

GM China Growth Slowest in 17 Months; Ford Sales Gain

02/09/2010 - 11:33

General Motors Co., the biggest overseas automaker in China, said sales growth fell in August to the slowest rate in at least 17 months after government stimulus measures wore off.

Kan and Ozawa Spar Over Economy, Scandals in Debate

02/09/2010 - 11:31

Japan?s Prime Minister Naoto Kan and opponent Ichiro Ozawa clashed on the economy and an accord over a U.S. military base on Okinawa in a debate ahead of a ruling party election that will determine who leads the country.

Pakistan players in betting probe dropped (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 11:28

AFP - The three Pakistan cricketers at the centre of a betting scandal have been released from the squad for the remainder of the tour of England, team manager Yawar Saeed said Thursday.

China’s Property Market in ‘Very Big Bubble,’ StarRock Says

02/09/2010 - 11:20

China?s property market is in a ?very big bubble? that may last until the government increases interest rates and introduces a real-estate tax to curb prices, according to StarRock Investment Management.

Three People Die in South Korea as Storm Lashes Seoul

02/09/2010 - 11:17

Three people were killed after Tropical Storm Kompasu came ashore in South Korea, lashing Seoul with rain and strong winds that knocked out power, forced flight cancellations and delayed the opening of schools.

Reshuffle after Tajik jail break

02/09/2010 - 11:14

Tajikistan´s security chief is replaced following the escape of 25 prisoners, including several Islamic militants, from a Dushanbe jail.

Pakistan cricketers face grilling over betting scam (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 11:07

AFP - Three Pakistan cricket players faced a grilling Thursday over allegations they were involved in a betting scam, amid uncertainty over their role in the rest of the team´s tour of England.

Long queues at Afghan bank amid corruption claims (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 11:05

AFP - Long queues formed at branches of Kabul Bank in cities across Afghanistan Thursday, a day after authorities denied allegations of corruption at the country´s biggest bank.

Two US soldiers killed in Afghanistan (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 11:04

AFP - Two US soldiers in Afghanistan died Thursday after separate insurgent attacks, NATO said, compounding the bloodiest year yet for American forces in the Afghan war.

Stalled funding hits Pakistan aid effort: UN (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 10:59

AFP - Relief efforts in flood-ravaged Pakistan are being stretched by the ´unprecedented scale´ of the disaster, with the flow of international aid almost at a standstill, the UN said Thursday.

Ping An to Merge Unit With Shenzhen Development Bank

02/09/2010 - 10:48

Ping An Insurance (Group) Co., China?s second-largest insurer, will pay 29.1 billion yuan ($4.3 billion) for a stake that will give it control of Shenzhen Development Bank Co. and bolster its banking operations.

Japan endures hottest summer on record (AP)

02/09/2010 - 10:44

AP - Japan is sweltering through its hottest summer on record, weather officials said Thursday.

Independent Lawmaker Supports Australian Leader

02/09/2010 - 10:40

In her bid to break a parliamentary deadlock, Prime Minister Julia Gillard won the tentative support of a key independent legislator from Tasmania.

Saab Courts Asia, East Europe in Bid to Save Gripen

02/09/2010 - 10:28

Pakistan mourns triple bombing as death toll rises (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 10:22

AFP - The death toll from suicide attacks that targeted a busy procession in Pakistan´s eastern city of Lahore rose to 31 on Thursday as six people succumbed to their injuries, officials said.

Goldman Boosts Japan Equity Sales Share to Record

02/09/2010 - 10:21

Goldman Sachs Group Inc. is capturing a record share of Japan?s equity underwriting market as foreign investment banks benefit from local companies selling a greater proportion of stock overseas.

Climate change puts China harvests at risk (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 10:18

AFP - Climate change could reduce key harvests in China by a fifth if the gloomiest scenarios prove true, according to a study on Wednesday.

Indonesia urged to increase anti-piracy patrols (AP)

02/09/2010 - 10:11

AP - An international maritime group urged Indonesia on Thursday to increase patrols in the South China Sea after pirates attacked nine vessels in less than three weeks.

Esprit to Double China Sales After Decline in European Revenue

02/09/2010 - 09:48

Esprit Holdings Ltd., the biggest Hong Kong-listed clothier, aims to at least double China sales in the next five years after reporting an 11 percent drop in full-year profit. The stock fell the most in three months.

US ´milkshake murder´ convict seeks case dismissal (AP)

02/09/2010 - 09:45

AP - The expatriate American housewife who won a retrial after being convicted of murdering of her banker husband in Hong Kong with a drugged milkshake and a blow to the head will ask a judge to dismiss the case against her, a lawyer said Thursday.

Lahore mourns triple bombing as death toll rises (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 09:43

AFP - The death toll from suicide attacks that targeted a busy procession in Pakistan´s eastern city of Lahore rose to 31 on Thursday as six people succumbed to their injuries, officials said.

This Time Seen Different as Emerging Stocks Top World

02/09/2010 - 09:40

Emerging-market stocks are trading at the highest valuations relative to advanced-country shares in more than two years as faster economic growth persuades the biggest investors to look past historical sell signals.

Stalled funding hits Pakistan aid effort: UN (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 09:32

AFP - Relief efforts in flood-ravaged Pakistan are being stretched by the ´unprecedented scale´ of the disaster, with the flow of international aid almost at a standstill, the UN said Thursday.

Hanwha Chemical May More Than Double Sales With Solar

02/09/2010 - 09:16

Hanwha Chemical Corp., the best performer on South Korea?s Kospi 200 index last month, aims to more than double revenue by 2015 as it increases output of components used in solar-power panels and rechargeable batteries.

Obama urged to help end Japan´s dolphin hunt (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 09:15

AFP - Animal rights activists protested against Japan´s dolphin hunts in a rally outside the US embassy in Tokyo Thursday, calling on President Barack Obama to pressure the country over the issue.

Kan and Ozawa Spar Over Japan Economy, Scandals in Party Debate

02/09/2010 - 09:12

Pakistan Steps Up Security in Lahore After Attacks

02/09/2010 - 09:10

Street markets remained closed early on Thursday and police mounted patrols after a suicide attack claimed 31 lives among a procession of Shiite Muslim worshippers.

Toyota, Honda U.S. Sales Plunge

02/09/2010 - 09:07

Asian-based automakers suffered from a combined 29 percent drop in August, compared to just 14 percent for GM, Ford and Chrysler

U.S. charges Pakistani Taliban leader in CIA killings (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 09:06

Reuters - U.S. prosecutors have charged the leader of the Pakistani Taliban, Hakimullah Mehsud, in the plot that killed seven CIA employees at an American base in Afghanistan last December, the Justice Department said on Wednesday.

1 American servicemember killed in Afghan attack (AP)

02/09/2010 - 08:59

AP - An American servicemember died in fighting in eastern Afghanistan on Wednesday, while the coalition said it had killed the leader of an insurgent cell responsible for laying roadside bombs and smuggling foreign fighters into the country.

Death toll tops 30 in Lahore blasts

02/09/2010 - 08:59

The death toll from a trio of suicide attacks during a Shiite processions in Lahore, Pakistan, grows to 31, authorities say.

US soldier killed in Afghanistan (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:57

AFP - A US soldier in Afghanistan died Thursday after an insurgent attack, NATO said, compounding the bloodiest year yet for American forces in the Afghan war.

Stalled funding hits Pakistan aid effort: UN (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:57

AFP - Relief efforts in flood-ravaged Pakistan are being stretched by the ´unprecedented scale´ of the disaster, with the flow of international aid almost at a standstill, the UN said Thursday.

Shinhan Slumps as President Accused of Embezzlement

02/09/2010 - 08:55

Shinhan Financial Group Co. fell the most in seven months in Seoul trading after its banking unit asked prosecutors to investigate Shinhan Financial President Shin Sang Hoon for alleged embezzlement and breach of duty.

Pakistan boosts security after Lahore bombs (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 08:50

Reuters - Pakistan tightened security in the eastern city of Lahore on Wednesday after three bomb attacks killed 33 people and wounded 171 and pressured the U.S.-backed government already overwhelmed by floods.

Workers riot at Vedanta refinery in India (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:41

AFP - Thousands of workers in India ransacked the offices of a refinery run by British resource giant Vedanta, media reports said Thursday, in the latest of a series of difficulties for the company.

Thai Yellow Shirts convicted of slandering Thaksin (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:38

AFP - A Thai court convicted two prominent members of the royalist ´Yellow Shirt´ protest movement Thursday of defaming fugitive former premier Thaksin Shinawatra by accusing him of insulting the monarchy.

Barclays Bank Sells 143 Billion Yen of Samurai Bonds

02/09/2010 - 08:35

Barclays Plc?s banking unit raised 143 billion yen ($1.7 billion) from the biggest sale of Samurai bonds without a government guarantee since Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. collapsed.

Independent Wilkie backs Gillard

02/09/2010 - 08:34

One of four key independent lawmakers endorses Australian PM Julia Gillard, leaving her two seats short of the majority needed to form a government.

Singapore Airlines curbs crew´s Facebook musings (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:31

AFP - Singapore Airlines (SIA) has directed its flight attendants to avoid discussing work-related matters on Facebook and other social networking websites, company officials said Thursday.

Qantas engine blast ´like fireworks´, say passengers (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:21

AFP - Passengers on a Sydney-bound Qantas jet rocked by an exploding engine Thursday described how the plane felt like it had hit a ´speed bump´ and showered flames and sparks like fireworks.

Black box recovered from Nepal plane crash site (AP)

02/09/2010 - 08:16

AP - Nepalese investigators have found the flight data recorders from the wreckage of a small plane that crashed last week en route to the Mount Everest area, killing 14 people including six foreigners, officials said Thursday.

China coal miner digs down to dodge housing costs (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:16

AFP - A retired Chinese coal miner has found an underground solution to the country´s sky-high housing costs, by carving out a new home beneath the shack he lives in, state media reported on Thursday.

Typhoon hits South Korean capital

02/09/2010 - 08:15

Three people die and power lines are knocked down as Seoul is hit by its strongest typhoon in 15 years.

Australian independent MP backs Gillard (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:14

AFP - A key independent MP Thursday backed Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard to form a government after deadlocked polls, leaving her just two seats short of a parliamentary majority.

Slow funding hits Pakistan relief effort: UN (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 08:03

AFP - Relief efforts in flood-ravaged Pakistan are being stretched by the ´unprecedented scale´ of the disaster, while funding has almost stalled, the UN said Thursday.

Typhoon suspends SKorean flights, subway, kills 3 (AP)

02/09/2010 - 07:56

AP - Typhoon Kompasu slammed into South Korea on Thursday, killing three people in what was called the strongest tropical storm to hit the Seoul area in 15 years.

Three killed, flights halted as typhoon hits S.Korea (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 07:52

AFP - At least three people were killed and dozens injured Thursday when Typhoon Kompasu hit South Korea, cutting power to tens of thousands of homes and disrupting transport, officials said.

Esprit Net Income Declines 11% on Weaker Euro, Consumer Demand

02/09/2010 - 07:52

Esprit Holdings Ltd., the biggest Hong Kong-listed clothier, said full-year profit dropped 11 percent as consumer spending in Europe, where it made more than four-fifths of sales, weakened and the euro declined.

Lahore suicide blast death toll rises to 31 (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 07:49

AFP - The death toll from three suicide bombings in Pakistan´s eastern city of Lahore rose to 31 on Thursday as six people succumbed to their injuries, a rescue official said.

Slow funding hits Pakistan relief effort: UN (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 07:45

AFP - Relief efforts in flood-ravaged Pakistan are being stretched by the ´unprecedented scale´ of the disaster, while funding has almost stalled, the UN said Thursday.

Delta upbeat on Japan business amid strong yen (AP)

02/09/2010 - 07:43

AP - Delta is upbeat about its business in Japan as new routes and the surging yen boost travel and help along the recovery in the industry, a top executive said Thursday.

Australia PM boosted by opposition blunder (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 07:42

AFP - Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard´s hopes of forming a government after deadlocked polls rose Thursday when the opposition was accused of a policy blow-out of up to 10 billion US dollars.

Death toll from Lahore bombings rises to 31 (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 07:42

AFP - The death toll from three suicide bombings in Pakistan´s eastern city of Lahore rose to 31 on Thursday as six people succumbed to their injuries, a rescue official said.

China auto sales rebound to grow 56 percent in Aug (AP)

02/09/2010 - 07:38

AP - Auto sales in China, the world´s biggest car market, rebounded in August as subsidies for energy-efficient vehicles and a stronger currency spurred demand, while sales in the U.S. faltered.

Shinhan Shares Slump After President Accused of Embezzlement

02/09/2010 - 07:31

Shinhan Financial Group Co. fell the most in three months in Seoul trading after its banking unit asked prosecutors to investigate Shinhan Financial President Shin Sang Hoon for alleged embezzlement and breach of duty.

China coal trucks stuck in 120 km traffic jam (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 07:22

Reuters - More than 10,000 trucks mainly carrying coal are stuck in a 120 km (75 mile) traffic jam in the northeastern Chinese region of Inner Mongolia, in the latest dramatic snarl-up on the country´s roads.

India Asks RIM, Google, Skype to Build Local Servers

02/09/2010 - 07:22

India said it will ask Research In Motion Ltd., Google Inc., Skype Technologies SA and other service providers to set up servers locally and enable security agencies to monitor mail traffic.

Pakistan flood victims await help, one month on (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 07:20

Reuters - Day after day, Afshan Bibi, a mother of 11, trudges to the U.N. distribution center to get relief supplies to help her cope with the aftermath of Pakistan´s devastating floods.

Ban Pakistan trio if guilty of fixing: Warne (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 07:08

AFP - Three Pakistan cricketers should face a life ban if they are found guilty of being involved in a betting scam, Australian leg-spin great Shane Warne said on Thursday.

Pakistan Says Floods Will Spur ‘Massive’ Job Losses

02/09/2010 - 07:08

Pakistan?s unprecedented floods threaten to hobble the economy with a surge in unemployment, a spike in inflation and billions of dollars in crippled infrastructure, the country?s prime minister said.

Typhoon Kompasu strikes South Korea

02/09/2010 - 07:03

Typhoon Kompasu hit central South Korea Thursday morning, causing much of the metropolitan area´s subway service to halt, toppling trees and resulting in widespread power outages along the west coast, Yonhap News Agency reported.

Macau Casino Gambling Revenue Rises 40% on VIP Tables

02/09/2010 - 06:58

Gambling revenue in Macau, the world?s biggest casino hub, rose 40 percent to 15.8 billion patacas ($2 billion) in August after SJM Holdings Ltd. and its rivals added tables for high-stakes gamblers.

Shinhan Asks to Investigate Parent Company President

02/09/2010 - 06:56

Shinhan Bank asked South Korean prosecutors to investigate Shin Sang Hoon, the president of parent company Shinhan Financial Group Co., for embezzlement.

U.S. launches job program for Pakistan flood area

02/09/2010 - 06:43

The United States announced Wednesday that it is launching a new program to provide jobs for thousands of people in flood-ravaged Pakistan.

Blasts kill 20 in Pakistan´s Lahore, 170 hurt (Reuters)

02/09/2010 - 06:35

Reuters - Three bombs exploded at a Shi´ite procession in the Pakistani city of Lahore on Wednesday, killing at least 20 people and wounding over 170, piling pressure on a government already overwhelmed by floods.

Three People Die in South Korea as Tropical Storm Lashes Seoul

02/09/2010 - 06:35

Three people were killed after Tropical Storm Kompasu made landfall in South Korea, lashing Seoul with rain and strong winds that knocked out power, forced flight cancellations and delayed the opening of school.

Sri Lankan fishermen hard hit by peace (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 06:30

AFP - Fishermen in the Sri Lankan port of Trincomalee hoped the end of the island´s civil war would bring prosperity, but dynamite and corruption now threaten their livelihoods.

Coffins mis-labelled in Philippine hostage crisis (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 06:25

AFP - Three coffins with the bodies of Hong Kong tourists killed in a Philippine hostage crisis last week were mis-labelled, a government spokesman said Thursday.

August Auto Sales Rise in China

02/09/2010 - 06:22

SAIC Motor Corp. and FAW Car Co. led gains by China?s automakers after a research group said retail vehicle sales in the nation jumped 59 percent in August from a year earlier.

China’s Stocks Rise for First Time in Three Days; SAIC Jumps

02/09/2010 - 06:16

China?s stocks rose for the first time in three days, led by automakers and commodity producers, after vehicle sales surged and U.S. manufacturing grew faster than estimated.

Asian Stocks Rise on U.S. Manufacturing Data; Ping An Climbs

02/09/2010 - 06:13

Asian stocks rose, lifting the MSCI Asia-Pacific Index to a two-week high, as faster-than-estimated growth in U.S. manufacturing supported confidence in global economic growth.

Sri Lankan officials await response in maid torture case

02/09/2010 - 06:07

Despite reports that a Saudi couple accused of torturing a Sri Lankan housmaid was arrested, Saudi authorities have not verified the action, a Sri Lankan official told CNN.

Sri Lankan fishermen hard hit by peace (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:53

AFP - Fishermen in the Sri Lankan port of Trincomalee hoped the end of the island´s civil war would bring prosperity, but dynamite and corruption now threaten their livelihoods.

Sri Lankan fishermen hard hit by peace (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:53

AFP - Fishermen in the Sri Lankan port of Trincomalee hoped the end of the island´s civil war would bring prosperity, but dynamite and corruption now threaten their livelihoods.

Group: China failing to keep WTO access pledges (AP)

02/09/2010 - 05:52

AP - China has failed to honor promises to the World Trade Organization to open its oil and phone markets, a European business group said Thursday, adding to complaints of worsening conditions for foreign companies.

European firms in China urge level playing field (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:52

AFP - European companies in China on Thursday called for greater market access and a level playing field with Chinese rivals amid growing frustration among foreign firms over perceived unfair treatment.

European firms in China urge level playing field (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:52

European firms in China urge level playing field (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:52

Ping An to Merge Unit With Shenzhen Development Bank

02/09/2010 - 05:50

Hong Kong’s Central Pollution ‘Very High’ for 6th Day

02/09/2010 - 05:50

Hong Kong?s Air Pollution Index in the Central district stayed above ?very high? at the roadside level for the sixth straight day as a tropical storm slowed dispersion of motor-vehicle emissions in the city.

US charges Pakistan Taliban chief over CIA killings (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:47

AFP - The United States slapped Pakistani Taliban chief, Hakimullah Mehsud, with terrorism charges for his alleged role in the murder of seven Americans at a CIA base in Afghanistan.

US charges Pakistan Taliban chief over CIA killings (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:47

AFP - The United States slapped Pakistani Taliban chief, Hakimullah Mehsud, with terrorism charges for his alleged role in the murder of seven Americans at a CIA base in Afghanistan.

Manila ready to dazzle for historic gay beauty pageant (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:37

AFP - Fifteen muscular gay men strut the stage in a whirlwind of sequins, feathers, gold and glitter while a transvestite dressed as Lady Gaga performs the American pop-star´s latest hit.

Manila ready to dazzle for historic gay beauty pageant (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:37

AFP - Fifteen muscular gay men strut the stage in a whirlwind of sequins, feathers, gold and glitter while a transvestite dressed as Lady Gaga performs the American pop-star´s latest hit.

Google data gathering was not a crime: NZealand (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:31

AFP - New Zealand police said Thursday that Google did not commit a criminal offence when it collected data from wireless networks for its ´Street View´ mapping service.

Kookaburra sits in gum tree, but no longer ´gay´ (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:23

AFP - An Australian school was under fire Thursday after erasing the word ´gay´ from iconic song ´Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree´ to stop children tittering.

Goldman Boosts Japan Equity Sales Share to Record

02/09/2010 - 05:23

Goldman Sachs Group Inc. is capturing a record share of Japan?s equity underwriting market as foreign investment banks benefit from local companies selling a greater proportion of stock overseas.

Kookaburra sits in gum tree, but no longer ´gay´ (AFP)

02/09/2010 - 05:23

AFP - An Australian school was under fire Thursday after erasing the word ´gay´ from iconic song ´Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree´ to stop children tittering.

Names of the Dead

02/09/2010 - 05:12

The Department of Defense has identified 1,246 American service members who have died as a part of the Afghan war and related operations.

You are in Info Asia/ Front Page