Last Updated, 31 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- French PM resigns, two days after treaty defeat
French President Jacques Chirac accepted outgoing Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin's resignation this morning. Deeply unpopular with the public, Raffarin appears to have been made the scapegoat for his government's crushing referendum defeat two days ago, although in his resignation speech he said the two were not linked. His economic reforms and poor record on jobs have been blamed by many commentators for the scale of the failure. He said that what was good for the nation was not necessarily popular with the public. He added that he would return to the heart of the country and would continue to serve the people. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Will Dutch voters follow France in rejecting EU constitution?
Encouraged by the French rejection of the EU constitution, campaigners in the Netherlands hope to get a majority of no voters on board. But while latest opinion polls in the run up to tomorrow's poll suggest 65 percent of the Dutch are against the charter, this referendum, unlike in France, is not binding on the government. And the differences do not stop there. The conspiracy theory of an Anglo-Saxon liberal plot hold no sway. Domestic issues such as immigration and opposition to Turkey's bid are important to some. For many ordinary voters what matters is preserving what they see as a relaxed Dutch society. It is not certain that Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende is risking his reputation by backing the treaty. Fellow "Yes" campaigners may be reeling after the French vote, but they are not giving up. Wednesday will prove a turning point for the EU, either a much-needed boost or a second nail in the constitutional coffin. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Italian helicopter crashes in Iraq
Four Italian soldiers have died in a helicopter crash in Iraq. It is unclear if the crash was accidental or the result of hostile fire. The two pilots and two gunners were part of the 3,000-strong Italian contingent based in Nasiriya and were returning from Kuwait City, where they had dropped off a soldier on compassionate leave, when the incident occurred. Climatic factors may have been responsible, as an Iraqi
plane also crashed in the last 24 hours due to a sandstorm, killing
four Americans and an Iraqi. The Italians have opened an investigation
into the crash. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 30 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- France rejects EU Constitution
France has voted against adopting the European Union's proposed Constitution. Early exit polls indicate 55 percent of the population rejected the treaty which needs to adopted by all the EU's 25 members. Turnout is estimated to have been around 70 percent. A No vote could scupper the entire project - at the very least it is going to cause some major headaches and may even weaken France's position in Europe. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jacques Chirac reacts to referendum "No" vote
"France has expressed itself democractically," said the French President Jacques Chirac."The majority of you have rejected the European constitution. It's your sovereign decision and I take notice of it. It has to be said though that our interests and ambitions are profoundly linked to Europe.France, which is a founding member of the union, naturally stays in the union. I say to our European partners and everyone in Europe that France will continue to maintain its position, respecting all of its commitments.I will take care of this. "The ratification process is underway in the union. Nine countries have already said 'Yes'. Our other partners are going to express themselves soon. The European Union will continue to function on the basis of actual treaties.We have before us, on the 16th of June, a meeting in Brussels. I will defend our country's position, taking into account the message from the French people. "However, France's decision creates a difficult context for the defence of our interests in Europe. We will have to respond to that by coming together on the demands concerning our national interests. "You have also expressed your worries and expectations. I expect to respond by giving new and strong energy to the force that drives the government. I will keep you posted on my decisions concerning the government and the priorities of its actions." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- France votes, Europe waits.
After months of debate, voters in France have finally had the chance to express their views on the European Union's constitution at the ballot box. The treaty has to be ratified by all member states if it is to become law. The outcome of France's referendum is expected to be close but opinion polls in the run-up to the ballot predicted victory for the No camp. However one in five voters were said to be undecided right up until the eve of the referendum. EU leaders have been watching events closely - many commentators believe a "No" vote could kill off the treaty and weaken France's role in Europe. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mixed reaction to hostage video
They were troubling images but a video released by the captors of Clementina Cantoni brought qualified relief to the family and friends of the Italian aid worker kidnapped in Afghanistan. The tape which was broadcast on a private Afghan TV station was at least evidence she is alive. The channel did not say how it got the film. Appearing tense, Cantoni mentions family members' names and incorrectly states the date. She did not making any appeals. The Italian Foreign Ministry said the tape "appeared authentic and calming" A spokeswoman for Care International - the charity for which Cantoni works - gave a mixed reaction. "We're worried but encouraged by the fact that she's alive," she said. The abduction has appalled many in Afghanistan. Since Cantoni was seized in Kabul on May 16 Afghanistan's top Islamic scholars have issued a religious decree ordering the safety of foreigners. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Iraqi forces launch Operation Lightening to stamp out insurgent attacks
Iraqi security forces have started their biggest crackdown on insurgent attacks since the fall of Saddam Hussain. In Operation lightening, which was launched on Sunday, 40,000 Iraqi troops, backed by 10,000 U.S. troops will seal off Baghdad and comb the city district by district. The operation's launch follows a sharp rise in attacks by insurgents, who have killed about 700 people since the new government was announced last month. On Sunday morning a British soldier was killed in the Kahla area, south of Amara when the military convoy he was travelling in was hit by a roadside bomb. Several other people were wounded. Nine Iraqi soldiers were also wounded on a car bomb attack north of Baghdad. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lebanon election heading for low turnout
People in Lebanon are voting for the first time in 30 years in an election free of Syrian influence but how many are having their say? Early indications were that turnout would be low, as some analysts had predicted. Many Lebanese are unhappy with the current electoral law which benefited Syria's allies in the last election five years ago. They believe that choice is limited because politicans have reverted to the bargaining among parties that typified earlier votes. The widely predicted success of Saad al-Hariri, son of the assassinated former Prime Minister, Rafik al-Hariri, is cited an example. Nine of Beirut's 19 seats have already gone to his list of candidates because rivals opted not to stand. Similar deals have been done elsewhere in the election which is taking place region by region over the next four weekends. But others are hopeful that this election will usher in a new era. For the first time foreign observers are monitoring the poll with a more than one hundred-strong team led by the EU. And this time there are no Syrian soldiers outside the polling stations. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 29 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northern Ireland man charged with murder in Omagh case
A 35-year-old electrician has become the first person to be formally charged with murder over the 1998 Omagh bombing in Northern Ireland. Sean Hoey, currently in jail for alleged possession of explosives, has been charged with the deaths of the 29 victims. The bombing was the worst atrocity in 30 years of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland. Michael Gallagher, whose son Aidan was killed in the blast, wanted to be in court. "I think it's important to be here, it's important to see how the process works, it's better to come and see it firsthand," he said. The 200-kilo car bomb exploded in the middle of the market town on a busy Saturday afternoon. Among the victims was a pregnant woman carrying twins. A further 200 people were injured. The bomb was claimed by the Real IRA - a breakaway faction of the mainstream Irish Republican Army - opposed to the 1997 ceasefire. The only person jailed so far in connection with the attack, publican Colm Murphy had his conviction for conspiracy to cause an explosion, quashed in January. He is facing a retrial. In a landmark civil action, relatives of the some of the victims are suing five men they blame for the attack. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Street battle for France's swing voters
As French President Jacques Chirac rounds off his efforts to persuade the nation to back a referendum on the European Constitution. On the streets the foot soldiers of the 'Yes' camp are also working hard. They are trying to convince doubters the constitution will create a more efficient Europe. But the 'No' camp is equally active, worried its supporters may relax in the face of 11 consecutive polls showing them ahead and not turn up on the day. As interviews show, there is still everything to play for with many French saying they could change their mind. One man told journalists he would vote no but when asked why he simply replied: "Because." Another woman said she would vote yes but she did not know why yet. And another said: "It is not about us today but about the young tomorrow. They need a united Europe, a strong Europe to face America, China and India." All this just three days before France has to make its choice. At the European parliament in Strasbourg, there is little doubt how most MEPs feel. They arrived in the chamber proudly waving 'Oui' signs. The constitution has to be ratified by all 25 member states to be enacted. So far eight countries have signed up. Sunday represents the first real danger that a member might reject it. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 28 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Outlawed Basque party denounces leader's arrest
A banned Basque nationalist party has blamed the Spanish government for the jailing of their leader Arnaldo Otegi and has called on its supporters to demonstrate against it. Otegi has been imprisoned on suspicion of belonging to the armed separatist group ETA. However, he may be released from jail if he can raise 400,000 euros in bail. Last week the Spanish parliament backed a plan to allow peace talks with ETA if they laid down their arms. Batasuna spokesman Joseba Permach said that just as the party was starting to put out feelers regarding dialogue, Otegi was arrested. "It's a direct attack and slams the door on hopes for a peaceful and democratic solution to the conflict," he told reporters. Both the ruling PSOE Socialists and the opposition Popular Party are in agreement over Otegi's detention. PSOE spokesman Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba said the Socialists respect the sentence handed out by the judge. ETA are believed to be behind a car bomb in Madrid yesterday. Five people were treated in hospital after the explosion and a further 45 were slightly injured. The group's campaign for an independent Basque state has been blamed for some 850 deaths since the 1960s. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 27 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spanish police smash "baby rape" paedophile ring
Some of the most disgusting and disturbing pictures they ever come across - that is the view of Spanish police who say they have broken up a paedophile ring or in their words a "network of baby rapers". One of the five men arrested worked at a computer store in south east Spain, the rest came from around the country. With help from Interpol police were able to smash the ring which traded pictures and videos of dozens of babies and young children - all boys - being sexually abused. The Spanish interior minister was shocked too. Jose Antonio Alonso said: "I have been a judge for much of my career and have come across a lot of horror but nothing like this." Investigators say paedophiles made CDs and videos which were swapped on the internet through a secret website. One of the men arrested posed as a baby-sitter to find new victims. Police were able to track him down because one video clearly identified him while he was abusing a two year old. While the police believe they have the ringleaders in custody they are still investigating whether they were part of an international paedophile network. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 26 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bush pledges to back creation of Palestinian state
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has concluded a historic visit to the White House, the first by a Palestinian leader since the Middle East peace process broke down nearly five years ago. Abbas called on Washington to press Israel to start heeding the so-called road map to peace. US President George W Bush pledged millions of dollars in aid for the Palestinian Authority and said it had Washington's backing for the creation of an independent state: He said: "The Palestinians voted against violence and for sovereignty because only the defeat of violence will lead to sovereignty. Mr President, the United States and the international community applaud your rejection of terrorism." Abbas also reiterated the need for Israel to resume withdrawing its troops from the West Bank, and denounced the continued building of the West Bank Wall. He said time was running out: "Time is becoming our greatest enemy. We should end this conflict before it's too late." Following a recent spate of attacks, Israel has refused
to resume talks until Abbas manages to subdue Palestinian factions,
one of the preconditions for moving ahead with the "road map". ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 25 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Iraqi minister confirms militant leader is wounded
Iraq's interior minister has said he can confirm Internet reports that the Jordanian militant, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, has been wounded. The comment from Bayan Jabor is the first concrete development after days of website claims and counter claims over the leader of the anti-American insurgency in Iraq. This morning an apparently official announcement from al-Qaeda in Iraq said a deputy had been had appointed to replace Zarqawi. The news appeared on an Islamist website but just a short while later another message - again purporting to come from the group - denied everything. All this while western intelligence was still trying to verify the authenticity of Tuesday's alleged statement from the group saying their leader had been injured. Even if Zarqawi is out of action, violence continues across the country. By mid-morning at least nine people had been killed in the capital Baghdad alone. A car bomb exploded near an Iraqi police station in the northern Shula district as people headed to work - three policemen and two civilians died in that attack. Another device, targeting a US military convoy, went off near the Shaab Stadium. And two policemen were shot dead in the southern Risala neighbourhood on their way to work. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 24 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Germany's socialists tense as voters go to polls in NRW
Voting is underway in the German state of North-Rhine Westphalia where Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder's Social Democrats could suffer a potentially fatal blow. The SPD has ruled the country's most populous state for close to four decades but controversial labour market reforms - intended to spur growth - are making some voters switch allegiance. The state has suffered dramatically from a decline in the coal and steel industries. Almost a million people are unemployed. The Social Democrat's candidate and current state governor Peer Steinbrueck has been rallying supporters, and disillusioned voters, who he hopes will swing his way today. His main challenger is Jurgen Ruettgers, the conservative opposition Christian democrats candidate. If, as expected, he benefits from the poll it could boost the position of its national leader Angela Merkel. Some analysts predict she could become Germany's first female Chancellor. The vote's outcome is being seen as a pre-2006 general election test for Schroeder's government. Thirteen million people are eligible to vote. The result is expected later tonight. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 23 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Greece enjoys Eurovision triumph in Ukraine
In some countries the Eurovision Song Contest earns disdain, in others it gets presidential endorsement. Ukraine, last year's winner and this year's host, took it very seriously. President Viktor Yuschenko presented the country's own special prize to the winner, Helena Paparizou of Greece. Her song "My Number One", proved to be the number one for millions of viewers across Europe who voted for it by telephone. In Greece there were celebrations not seen since the country won the European football championship last summer. It was the 50th year of the contest which has grown in numbers of entrants, if not in stature, over the years. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ETA strikes again in northern Spain
A bomb has exploded near the home of a businessman in the Basque region of Northern Spain. The separatist group ETA is believed to have planted the device which caused no injuries when it went off. A second bomb was defused before exploding in a nearby park. Both were left in the town of Zarautz near San Sebastien and are thought to be connected to something dubbed the 'revolutionary tax' which ETA is said to levy on businesses. It follows a recent vote in the Spanish parliament to allow the government to start peace talks with the Basque separatist group, but only if it lays down its arms. The group has been responsible for around 850 deaths since it began its fight for an independent Basque state in 1968. The motion was put forward by the ruling Socialists, led by Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, but fiercely opposed by the conservative Popular Party who accused him of surrendering to terrorists. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 22 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Last push for votes in French constitution referendum
Supportors of the European Constitution in France have been rallying for a final drive to win votes ahead of next Sunday's referendum. The 'yes' camp has recruited help from abroad in the form of pro-Constitution politicians from Italy, Poland and the UK. The leader of France's UDF party, Francois Bayrou, said he believed the French electorate would prove the pollsters wrong: "French people will unite to vote 'yes' for different reasons. It wll not be a vote by the elite but by ordinary people," he said. The 'No' camp have also been come together for one last effort. It brings together some of the main opposition Socialist party and a range of other political and pressure groups. Campaigner Jose Bove said a 'no' vote would give people some kind of hope. It would open doors where a "yes" vote would close them, he said. "People are afraid their future would be imprisoned," he added. Rallies and conferences have taken place across France this weekend. Polls last week give the treaty's opponents a slim lead but it's thought many people are still undecided. Analysts say a "no' vote could kill off the constitution. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cuban dissidents plan protests at rare open rally
A group of Cuban dissidents taking part in an unprecedented meeting to discuss democracy say they are planning massive peaceful protests. Around 200 supporters gathered openly in Havana, in scenes that are rare in Cuba. Leading dissident and economist Marta Beatriz Roque, who has spent the last four years in jail, is expected to be elected head of the group. "The assembly has managed to consolidate and above all else prepare the base for our future work," she said. European politicians and observers trying to enter the country to attend the meeting were deported. But Fidel Castro's government made no attempts to stop the actual meeting. Dissidents chanted 'freedom and democracy now!' ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 21 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chilean soldiers freeze to death in Andes
It is a tragedy which has bewildered families. In Chile, up to 45 soldiers are believed to have perished after being sent to their deaths on the freezing Andes. Military officers have been criticised for leading the new recruits, some with just a months training, in to one of the country's worst blizzards in decades. Many soldiers froze to death, some lucky ones were rescued. A Chilean army official has launched an investigation after it was revealed the recruits were not given the right equipment. A number of army officers have been fired. Some local media have called it the worst peacetime military tragedy in the south American country's history. Ricardo Lagos, the president, has offered his condolences
to victims' relatives and declared three days of national mourning. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 20 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Britain calls for probe into Uzbek violence
Britain has backed a call by the United Nations for an independent inquiry into reports that hundreds of people were killed by Uzbek security forces last week. Uzbek officials have been showing foreign diplomats around Andizhan, the town where the clashes took place. Britain's ambassador, David Moran, welcomed the move, but said much more needed to be done. "What we need now as a next step is a systematic process of openness that will enable the international community to make an authoritative assessment of the scale and nature of what happened here," he said. The diplomats were heavily guarded during the two hour visit and were not taken to the site where the alleged massacre took place. Afterwards Interior Minister Zakirdzhon Almatov repeated the government's claims that rebels, not Uzbek troops, were responsible for the killings. But many locals are in no doubt as to who was behind the attack. One woman told reporters that her son, who was killed, was not involved with any movements and had only gone to town to see what was going on. A local man says Uzbek troops fighters were shooting from tanks with machine guns. He says there were also helicopters everywhere. Uzbek authorities, meanwhile, have named Qabuljan Parpiev as the man they believe was behind the violence in Andizhan. They have given no information about whether he is alive or dead. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Last Updated, 19 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Boeing France signs agreement with EuroNews
Air companies are competing with each other to provide passengers with more high tech services. Both business people and holidaymakers like to use computers during their flights and, for a year now, Connexion by Boeing has offered a high speed wireless internet service in aircraft belonging to several airlines. Surveys show the service is highly appreciated by passengers. A year on, Connexion by Boeing is launching a new service - television, through the internet. And EuroNews is among four channels that will be broadcast straight away, the only one in seven languages. An agreement has been signed between the president of Boeing France, Yves Galland, and the president of EuroNews, Philippe Cayla. So how does it work? From its headquarters in Lyon, EuroNews sends its signal in seven languages to a network of satellites, which transmit the signal to the aircraft. With onboard WiFi facilities, the programmes can be seen on a personal laptop or over the plane's information system. Where can you watch it? The satellite network around the equator means that most routes will be covered. Yves Galland said: "The world of travel is changing. The professional passenger wants to be connected to the business world - computer, televised information. Tourists want to be connected to leisure pursuits - the world of sport. And so that's why we chose EuroNews as one of four channels as it provides sport and business information. In that way, the passenger can have everything he or she wants." Phillipe Cayla said: "EuroNews is already a channel of travellers, we're in hotels, we're on mobile phones, we're already in planes - on recorded cassettes. So, I think that for us this system is a great chance to allow all passengers, on all airlines, to watch EuroNews live." The Connexion by Boeing television service will initially be available on Singapore Airlines flights. It will be expanded later this year to other airlines with the high speed internet service. Taking off once meant leaving the world behind - if just for a few hours - but now all passengers have the chance to stay up-to-date with real-time television throughout their journey. ------------------------------------------------------------------ |
Last Updated, 18 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Latest Star Wars film rakes in the cash
There is no escaping the Star Wars phenomenon, with the release this week of "Episode III - Revenge of the Sith". In most English-speaking countries, the film hits the screens on Thursday. The sale of merchandise linked to the film is expected to go galactic. Turnover is expected to reach almost 80 million euros in Europe alone. Since 1977, when the saga began, Star Wars merchandise has generated seven billion euros. Big gains on one hand, but losses on the other. In the US, thousands are camping out in front of cinemas. And that means lost productivity. Arik Hesseldahl, from Forbes.com, said: "I've seen some estimates that the loss of productivity is somewhere in the neighbourhood of six hundred million dollars. I don't know exactly how you would quantify that, you know, because everybody is productive at a different rate." Some of those waiting in line are managing to get some work done though, thanks to a bus donated by a computer support company. And with tongue in cheek, alibis are even available. A spokesman said: "We actually put a downloadable excuse note on our website geeksquad.com, which just basically allows you to fill in all this information letting your employer know where you will be, why you're not going to be at work, anything from a hamster attack to dismemberment". One of the big winners of the merchandising mania will be creator George Lucas. When the series began he opted to have no salary, in order to hold on to the commercial rights. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 15 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 15 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Confusion in Uzbekistan as soldiers fire on protesters
Troops in Uzbekistan are claiming to have brought an end to violence and protests in the eastern city of Andizhan after a day of conflicting reports. Soldiers say they have dispersed thousands of people who had been gathering in the city, following an overnight prison break-out. Although it is not entirely clear, the latest tension in this city near the border with Kyrgyzstan, is said to have started when gunmen stormed a prison freeing hundreds of inmates. These same rebels were said to have taken a number of people hostage in government buildings. Soldiers were deployed across the city. But there is conflicting information as to whether the unrest has ended - the US has urged the government to exercise restraint against protesters - following earlier reports soldiers fired on them. Dozens of people are feared dead or injured. Rumours that President Islam Karimov was travelling to the city have so far not materialised. The unrest is said to have developed from long-standing anger over poverty, unemployment and the treatment of prisoners. The UN described the use of torture in the country as 'systematic'. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 14 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Troops seize rebel held building in Uzbekistan.
Uzbek troops have stormed a state building being held by rebels in Andizhan, according to reports coming out of Uzbekistan. The rebels had raided a police station and military barracks, freed inmates of a local prison and then seized the state building. Their action prompted thousands to protest with some demanding that President Islam Karimov stand down. Troops opened fire on the square in Andizhan where the protestors gathered At least 50 people have died as a result of the violence, but some media reports suggest that total could be higher. Uzbekistan is a Central Asian country bordering Afghanistan. It is home to a US air base and is seen as one of Washington's strongest allies. But Karimov rules with an iron fist. He's been in power since the country won independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Human rights groups say the country has at least 6000 religious and political prisoners. Russia, alarmed by a string of revolutions that have replaced governments in ex-Soviet republics, says it fully supports Karimov. The White House has urged the Uzbek government and protestors to show restraint. Peaceful protests had broken out in Andizhan earlier this week to demand the release of 23 Muslim businessmen, which one rights group says are facing trumped-up charges of religious extremism. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- US imposes textile quotas on China.
The United States has reimposed quotas on Chinese textile imports which have rocketed since the beginning of the year, and according to American producers, threaten the jobs of thousands. When China entered the World Trade Organisation the US secured the right to provisionally limit Chinese imports if they became a threat to home industries. There will now be restrictions on Chinese made cotton shirts and blouses, and cotton trousers and underwear. According to the US textile industry, 18 factories have closed, and almost 17 thousand people have lost their jobs since quotas were lifted. The EU is conducting its own investigation into Chinese clothing imports. It'll take about 60 days to complete but the French want quotas imposed now. As an example imports of pullovers and trousers have shot up by 400 per cent this year. Two and a half million jobs in the union rely on the textile trade. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 13 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bloodshed and chaos in Uzbekistan
Rebels in Uzbekistan have brought bloodshed and chaos to the streets of the eastern town of Andizhan. There have been confused reports emanating from the area, but it appears that violence has left dozens dead and wounded. Events seemed to spin out of control after rebels broke into a jail releasing an unconfirmed number of prisoners and taking ten police officers hostage. There were initial reports of nine deaths and now of a further 20 killed in protests in the town centre. This is the worst violence the ex-Soviet state has seen since bombings in the capital Tashkent last year. Several buildings were ablaze. It is not clear who is in control, though negotiations with the rebels are now said to be underway. Uzbek President Islam Karinov has flown to Andizhan. The authoritarian leader has previously warded off criticism over his hardline policies saying they are necessary to fight the rise of militant Islam. The US has hailed Uzbekistan an ally in its war on terror. The violence comes after a rare protest this week by hundreds of people demanding the release of 23 jailed Muslims on trial for religious extremism. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pope John Paul II to be made saint
The Vatican has signalled the late Pope John Paul II is to be made a saint. His successor, Pope Benedict XVI, has said the process of beatification has begun. That is the last step before sainthood is conferred. The move is in line with the wishes of many Catholics who made their feelings clear at the funeral of John Paul. Pope Benedict XVI told a meeting of priests that he had dispensed with rules that impose a five-year waiting period before the procedure can even start. The new pontiff is considered a conservative who shares much of the philosophy of John Paul. One of the hallmarks of the late Pope's pontificate was the large number of saints he created. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash pledged to keep Chernobyl safe
Cash to build a new cover for the Chernobyl nuclear reactor has been pledged as scientists warn a fresh nuclear disaster could be just around the corner. Donor nations in the EU and G8 group of industrialised nations promised an extra 157 million euros towards the 788 million euro price tag for a new shield. "The goal is to stabilise the sarcophagus," explained the Ukrainian deputy energy minister. "The dismantling can only begin once a new cover has been built." The current concrete construction was put over the failed reactor soon after it exploded in 1986. It is now letting in water. Professor Alexei Yablokov says that could spell trouble: "If this chain reaction happens inside, deep inside this mass of nuclear fuel, an explosion is possible, the chances are few, but it is possible." The Chernobyl blast in what was then the Soviet Union sent radioactive clouds across Europe and contaminated vast tracts of Ukraine and Belarus. Several thousand people died, and thousands more became ill. Work can now begin on entombing the reactor, but progress is slow, not least because radiation means construction crews can only spend a limited amount of time on site ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 12 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- France plans crackdown on illegal immigrants
France's interior minister, Dominique de Villepin, has announced a get-tough policy that aims to increase the number of expulsions of illegal immigrants to 20,000 a year, up by 4,000 from last year. "We need to be strict and firm on illegal immigration," de Villepin said. "We can't on the one hand make more efforts towards integration while on the other have the country turn into a sieve where, day after day, more and more illegal immigrants turn up." France will set up an inter-ministerial service to assess the situation and triple the budget assigned to expulsions to 100 million euros. The EU has no common immigration policy. But its biggest members are keen to see border controls at the edge of the Union tightened. Later today de Villepin will host a special meeting on immigration with ministers from Germany, Spain, Britain and Italy. France estimates that it is home to up to 400,000 thousand illegal immigrants. Pro-immigration groups say France's policy risks turning immigrants into scapegoats and stirring xenophobia. They want to see Spain's system adopted where around 700,000 illegal immigrants have been allowed to apply for an amnesty in the past three months. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Calm seas bring new wave of illegal immigrants to Italy.
More than 600 illegal immigrants have landed on the Italian island of Lampedusa in less than 24 hours. And yet more are expected after they were plucked from a boat by a coastguard patrol. The coastguard said the island, just off the North African coast, had not seen such an influx for at least five months. In March more than 400 migrants arrived in Lampedusa and Italy immediately flew almost 200 of them back to Libya. It was a move criticised by the UN and Amnesty International, who asked if the group had been given a fair hearing. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 11 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sixty years ago Victory in Europe proclaimed.
The US president is in the Netherlands for a Victory Day ceremony near Maastricht in which he is to pay tribute to the around 8,000 US soldiers who died there fighting Nazi Germany. Historical rows and present day disagreements are following George W. Bush on his European tour to mark 60 years since the end of the Second World War. It was a more recent conflict that brought several thousand protesters onto the streets of Amersterdam. The crowd condemned the US-led war in Iraq, telling Bush to go home. The Dutch government did have troops in the US-led coalition, although they were recently withdrawn from Iraq. Earlier, in Latvia, Bush described the Soviet Union's domination of eastern Europe during the Cold War as "one of the greatest wrongs of history". He held up the three Baltic states as examples of how to transform from communism to democracy. And he kept up pressure on Moscow. "All the nations that border Russia will benefit from the spread of democratic values and so will Russia itself," he said. "Stable, prosperous democracies are good neighbours trading in freedom and posing no threat to anyone." Bush also admitted America's own responsibilty for the division of Europe after the war in signing the 1945 Yalta accord. On Monday he will be in Moscow, together with other world leaders, for the major 60th anniversary celebrations. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 10 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tight security in Moscow ahead of World War II commemoration
In Moscow, a slightly different interpretation of events sixty years ago has been championed by President Vladimir Putin. The Soviet Union's role in bringing down Nazi Germany is a huge source of pride in Russia. After laying a wreath in memory of Russia's war dead, Putin hailed the Red Army as the liberator not the oppressor of eastern Europe. But three Baltic states backed by the EU see things differently. Their calls for an apology have sparked anger in Russia. It is against this backdrop that Moscow is preparing lavish celebrations to mark the anniversary of the end of World War Two. More than fifty world leaders are expected to attend. Amid fears of a Chechen terrorist attack, security is being stepped up in the capital. Some 30,000 police officers have been called in and aircraft violating a no-fly zone over the city could be shot down. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 9 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Germans hold vigil against neo-Nazism
Tens of thousands of Germans have taken part in a candlelit vigil against right-wing extremism. Some 25,000 people formed a human chain that stretched more than 30 kilometres across Berlin. Coming on the eve of the 60th anniversary commemorations, it was a chance for demonstrators to recall Germany's Second World War record. "I find it extremely important that we remember this day, especially in Germany - what can happen in 12 years, when Germany had a criminal government," said one demonstrator. "We must again and again remember what happened at the time." They were also protesting at a neo-Nazi march to be held today. The far-right National Democratic Party is to hold a rally in the capital, denouncing what it calls a "cult of guilt" over Germany's role in the Second World War. Riot police will be out in force amid fears of clashes with anti-Nazi demonstrators. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 8 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spain workers' amnesty ends in controversy
In Spain, a three month amnesty granting foreign workers the chance to legalise their status has drawn to a close amid controversy. While the government has hailed the operation a resounding success, claiming700,000 jobs have been brought out of the black economy, the opposition argues the figures do not add up. Labour Minister Jesus Caldera said that thanks to the measures only very few workers were not registered: "There won't be many people who aren't part of this process". But, for opposition minister Ana Pastor, the project is a failure. She claimed that only a fraction of those who took part were really in work and estimated that barely 20,000 had a job. To be eligible for the amnesty, foreign workers had to supply proof of residency and a work contract in Spain of at least six months and have a clean criminal record. Critics say some applicants' papers were fake. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 7 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- US President arrives in the Baltics.
US President George W.Bush has arrived in Latvia at the start of a European trip during which he will attend commemoration ceremonies in Moscow marking the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. Before leaving, Bush said he would raise with President Putin the issue of what people in the Baltic regard as the occupation by Soviet forces of their countries after the war. Russia denies it was occupation. Lithuania and Estonia have declined to send representatives to the event over the dispute. Georgia has said it will not take part because of Russia's continued maintenance of military bases on its soil. After talks in Moscow, Georgia said the two sides could not agree on a timetable for withdrawal. The boycott brings relations between the two nations to a new low and causes further embarrassment to the Kremlin. The rows have cast a shadow over preparations for the commemoration ceremonies which will be attended by leaders from around the world -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Blair wins and says lessons are learned
Tony Blair has announced a new cabinet following his victory in the UK election. Among the key developments, the British prime minister has kept Gordon Brown as finance minister and Jack Straw as Foreign Minister. David Blunket has returned as Work and Pensions Minister. John Reid has the defence portfolio. After his Labour Party lost a sizeable number of seats in parliament, Blair said he would not take his victory for granted: "It is a tremendous honour and privilege to be elected for a third term and I am acutely conscious of that honour and that privilege. The great thing about an election is that you go out and you listen to people for week upon week," he said. "I have listened and I have learned and I think I have a very clear idea of what the British people now expect from this governement for a third term. "Firstly, they like the strong economy, but life is still a real struggle for many people, many families in this country." "Secondly, in relation to the public services, health and education, again people like the investment that has gone into public services, they welcome it, I have found absolutely no support for any suggestion that we cut back on that investment." Blair, who is 52 today, has made history by becoming the first Labour leader to win three elections in a row. But, with a reduced majority, his chances to push through major new legislation could be hindered. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lib Dems claim 'new era' in UK politics
Striding into a new era of three party politics - that is how the Liberal Democrats are interpreting their performance in the election. They are in line for more than 60 seats and their best showing in decades. Of the three main parties, they enjoyed the biggest rise in their share of the vote. Leader Charles Kennedy said: "I think we are profoundly a party of the future as of today because theConservatives - do recall - have not been able to get their national share of the vote above and beyond anything that they have lost two general elections on already and now a third. The real story of this election, I think, is that when the tide goes out, as one day it inevitably will for Labour, people will look for a national credible, political alternative. And I think they've got it in front of them and it's the Liberal Democrats." But the Liberal Democrats failed in their aim of ousting the Conservatives as the main opposition. In some places they lost seats to the Tories. Whether Britain has entered a real era of three party politics is open to debate. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Deadline looms for Spain's immigrants to register to work
Lengthy queues formed outside social security offices across Spain yesterday as tens of thousands of unregistered foreign workers raced to beat a deadline to legalise their status. Some 700,000, mainly from Latin America, have already completed the paper work. Around another 100,000 have still not registered and spent the night waiting in line. They have until Saturday evening. One man from Brazil wanted to get his papers to allow him to work with dignity, but it has not been that simple for everyone. Another said his boss would fire him as soon as he gets his work permit while another person was waiting for the right paperwork to arrive from China. It probably would not reach Spain in time. Some 1.7 million people work in Spain illegally. But only those who registered with a Spanish local council before August last year have been given the chance, over three months, to legalise their status ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 6 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I.N. Iraq recruits targeted again by bombers
A series of bloody attacks on security targets in Baghdad have left over 20 people dead. At least 11 were killed when a suicide bomber struck at an army recruitment centre in the former Muthanna airbase in the Iraqi capital. The facility has been targeted several times in the past as insurgents try to disrupt the process of building a new military force. A separate attack in western Baghdad saw gunmen ambush several police cars, reportedly killing nine officers. Today's violence is part of an upsurge in killings which has spread around the country. In the Kurdish city of Arbil yesterday a suicide bomber targeted the offices of a Kurdish political party. About 60 people were killed and 150 injured in the blast. The building was also used as a police recruiting centre. Just a week ago the new Iraqi government said it would bring stability and security to the country -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- British PM casts his ballot in general election
Tony Blair has cast his ballot at his Sedgefield constituency, hoping Britain's electorate will hand him an historic third term in office today. The prime minister has campaigned on his economic record, and asked voters not to judge him on the war in Iraq. Turnout in this election could be one of the ruling Labour Party's greatest enemies - some pundits have predicted the number of people casting their ballots could slip below the 59 per cent record low in 2001. The Conservatives have waged a personal campaign against Blair, putting his credibility under question. The centre-right party has targeted marginal constituencies where it hopes to overturn Labour majorities. The anti-war party, the Liberal Democrats, are predicting they will claim voters from both Labour and the Conservatives, and make gains if turnout is low. They have rejected negative campaigning, and are couching themselves as the "real opposition". Voting began at seven AM local time and ends at ten PM tonight. The first exit polls will be released soon afterwards -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Blast outside British consulate in New York
On the day the UK goes to the polls, there has been
an explosion outside the British consulate in New York. There are
no reports of injuries, but some shop fronts in the area have been
damaged. Police and bomb squad officers were quickly on the scene,
examining vehicles and searching for clues. There are no reports of
damage to the consulate itself. Some media reported that two small
blasts were heard near the consulate. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Berlusconi says relations with US intact
Italian-American relations remain intact.That is the message Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has delivered to parliament concerning the US shooting of an Italian secret service agent in Iraq.He says ties with his ally will not be hurt, and Rome has no intention of speeding up its withdrawal from Iraq. "It's been shown that the discrepancies about the causes and circumstances of that tragic accident can't be worked out, making it impossible to reach a common conclusion." "We have no intention of establishing any link between the evaluation of this event, in which Nicola Calipari was killed, and the role of our country in Iraq." Calipari was shot dead at a US military checkpoint near Baghdad airport in March, as he was escorting an Italian hostage to freedom. Both Italy and the US held a joint inquiry into the killing, but then issued conflicting reports on the incident. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 5 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I.N. Dozens killed in suicide attack on Iraqi Kurds
At least sixty people are reported to have been killed and up to 150 others injured by a suicide bombing in the northern Iraqi city of Arbil. The attacker blew himself up at the office of the Kurdish Democratic party, one of two main parties in a Kurdish coalition that came second in January's election. The office also served as a police recruiting centre. Police and security officials said a large crowd was gathered outside the building when the suicide bomber struck. The blast follows a sharp rise in attacks by insurgents across Iraq in the last week. The attack in the Kurdish city will step up pressure on the new Iraqi government which was sworn in yesterday. However, it is incomplete, with five permanent ministers and two deputy prime ministers yet to be named. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UK parties make final push for voters
With less than 24 hours to go before Britain goes to the polls, there is one thing the three main parties are agreed on - the result cannot be taken for granted. The Prime Minister's itinerary today takes him to several marginal constituencies between London, Lancashire and Yorkshire as he appeals to voters to turn-out and give him an historic third successive term. With all polls predicting a comfortable Labour win, apathy looks likely to be the biggest threat to the government's massive parliamentary majority of 161. The Conservative leader, Michael Howard, is also engaged in frenetic campaigning on the final day. He is visiting Surrey, East Anglia and Yorkshire to highlight his plans for controlled immigration, school discipline and lower taxes. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chirac warns "no" on constitution bad for everyone
The French President Jacques Chirac has again appeared in a long television interview to bolster the "yes" camp ahead of France's May 29 referendum on the European Constitution. He will have been cheered by the latest opinion poll, which has put the "yes" camp ahead for the first time in months, but the result is still too close to call. "It's a constitution that allies the demands of a great market, and the demands of social harmonisation," insisted Chirac, rebutting the "no" camp's criticisms that the document did not do enough to protect workers rights or social security gains. He added that the document would also be the best possible future for France. The distinct possibility remains, however, that the "no" camp will win. If it does, said Chirac, the results could be dire. "Voting 'no' would mean what? It would mean interrupting 50 years of European construction, it would mean returning to the current treaties that everyone knows are insufficient and unadapted, and it would mean that France would be weakened, because it would not be able to count on having a voice in Council", he said. The vote is not just important for Europe, and France, but also for Chirac. A "no" victory would be a blow to his prestige at home and abroad, and would signal the electorate's sanction of his government and prime minister. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 4 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I.N.Italian report queries US claims Last Updated: Tuesday, 3 May, 2005, Entire pages of the US report had been blacked out
But it adds that it was difficult to pinpoint individual responsibility for Nicola Calipari's 4 March shooting. Calipari was killed as he escorted hostage Giuliana Sgrena to freedom. The Italian foreign ministry delayed the release of the 52-page report, and it was given to senior Italian officials and to US ambassador Mel Sembler ahead of publication. Disputed circumstances The report, published on the Italian intelligence services' website, says that the roadblock from which Calipari was shot was set up ineptly and there were no signals indicating its presence. DIFFERING ACCOUNTS Italian government: No warning signs to motorists about
impending checkpoint "It is likely that the state of tension stemming from the conditions of time, circumstances and place, as well as possibly some degree of inexperience and stress might have led some soldiers to instinctive and little-controlled reactions," the report said, quoted by the Associated Press news agency. It denied the US assertion that their military command in Baghdad was unaware of the Italian mission to secure the hostage's release, pointing out that the Italians had been allocated secure accommodation in an American-controlled area. It said that the Italian car had been travelling at 40-50km/h, while the American version said it was going at about twice that speed. The Italian report described the US soldiers' description of the car's speed as "emotionally biased". Observers say that following the report from the US military's investigation panel, relations between the two countries have deteriorated considerably. The findings in the US report were heavily censored, with large blocks of the text blacked out when it was published. However, a university student in Italy claims he was able to remove the censored parts using his computer and has passed a seemingly full US report to Italy's media. Details of personnel The Bologna student, after surfing the web on Sunday, found he could restore censored portions of the 40-page US report with a couple of clicks of his computer mouse. He passed the details to Italian newspapers, which put out the full text on their websites. The apparently full text contains a few details that US authorities would have preferred to remain secret - such as the names and ranks of the US military personnel involved in Calipari's death - the BBC's David Willey says from Rome. There are two tragedies here, the death of Mr Calipari, and the misuse of the event for political gains Have Your Say Our correspondent adds that the censored material also includes embarrassing details about communication failures and reveals the rules of engagement at checkpoints. The US invited two Italians to join in their inquiry, but the Italian representatives protested at what they claimed was lack of objectivity in presenting the evidence and returned to Rome. It is their dissenting report which has now been published. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Two US fighter jets lost over Iraq
American forces have found the body of a pilot of a fighter jet that crashed in Iraq, and a second F18 is missing. A military spokesman says there are no indications at this stage that the jets came under hostile fire. There is also no confirmation of reports that the aircraft may have collided. The F18s had taken off from a navy ship for a mission over Iraq.
Last push for undecided voters in UK
It is "make your mind up" time for undecided voters in the UK election. They have until Thursday to opt for a change of government or continue with Labour. Polls indicate Prime Minister Tony Blair's party will be returned to power but with a reduced majority. On the last leg of campaigning, Blair has returned to familiar themes. "Who is best for the future of the economy: Labour or the Conservatives? Who is best for your mortgage: Labour or the Conservatives? Who is best to continue investment in the National Health Service and schools: Labour or the Conservatives?" he asked at one event. The main opposition Conservatives, led by Michael Howard, have been targeting key marginal constituencies, which they believe they can snatch from Labour. The third largest party, the Liberal Democrats, appear in line for their strongest showing in decades. In some seats, votes for the Lib Dems, and a low turnout, could cost Labour dearly. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 3 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Blair faces Iraq families' anger
Mr Blair said he understood the widow's grief but defended his war decision. Relatives of troops killed in Iraq have now warned they intend to take legal action to force a public inquiry into the conflict. Mr Blair sent his "profound condolences" to Guardsman Wakefield's family.
Ann Toward, Conservative leader Michael Howard and Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy both sent their sympathy to the family, but said they did not blame Mr Blair for his death.
Guardsman Wakefield, from 1st Battalion The Coldstream Guards, was the 87th UK soldier to die in the Iraq conflict. His widow, Ms Toward, said: "It's Tony Blair's fault. He sent all those troops out. "If he hadn't sent them out [Anthony] would still be here. He shouldn't have done it." Ms Toward - who was separated from her husband and lives in Newcastle - described him as "bubbly, outgoing, really fun to be with, smiling all the time". Heartbreaking task The guardsman's children - sons Scott, seven, and Corey, two - and his stepdaughter Stacy, 11, were distraught at their father's death. "Corey didn't understand but Scott and Stacy were devastated, cried and cried. They are still talking about him, watching him on the television." She said Scott had talked about his father and was planning to write him a letter telling him he was proud he had died for his country. He told reporters his father had died a hero. Ms Toward said she had learnt the news when an official from the Ministry of Defence knocked on her door at 0330 BST on Monday. She said: "It's just heartbreaking. Since yesterday, I've cried and stopped crying and cried. It was just so devastating." Ms Toward said she had begged her husband not to go to Iraq but he had insisted it was his job. Inquiry demand Earlier, Mr Blair again defended the Iraq war, and said: "I've expressed my deep sympathy and condolences to the family. "I really don't think there's anything I can and should say more than that, and I don't think it's right or appropriate to do so. HAVE YOUR SAY "As I said yesterday, the British soldiers have done an extraordinary job in Iraq helping that country become a stable democracy. "I totally understand the grief and distress of people who are bereaved by soldiers that have lost their lives doing their duty for their country". Ten families of other British troops killed in Iraq have served notice to Downing Street of their plans to take the government to court unless it sets up a public inquiry within 14 days. Phil Shiner, who has prepared the legal case, said it was important the families secured "closure" and knew lessons had been learnt. "As any parent or husband or wife in the circumstances, they are entitled to know why their loved ones died," he said. Lawyers for the families say they have at least a fifty-fifty chance of success. The troops' relatives, who are being backed by the Stop The War Coalition, are considering taking private prosecutions against Tony Blair and others for alleged war crimes. Tony Hamilton-Jewell, whose brother Simon was a military police officer killed in Iraq, said Mr Blair had sent troops to war "on a whim". Peter Brierley, whose son Shaun died in a road accident in Iraq, said: "If we were lied to and the war was illegal then getting rid of Saddam Hussein is no compensation for losing my son." The government has repeatedly insisted the war was legal under resolutions dating back to the 1990 Gulf War. It stresses that two parliamentary inquiries, the Hutton inquiry and the Butler inquiry have all looked into the circumstances around the war. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 2 May, 2005-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I.N.US clears troops who shot Italian agent in Iraq
The United States has confirmed it won't be taking disciplinary action against the soldiers who shot dead an Italian intelligence agent in Iraq during a hostage rescue drama. A newly-issued US report says the killing of Nicola Calipari was a "tragic accident" and that US troops acted within the rules of engagement. Calipari was shielding journalist Giuliana Sgrena, whose release from kidnappers he had just secured, when their car came under fire at a checkpoint near Baghdad. Although Rome disputes the US findings, deputy Fabrizio Cicchito of Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi's ruling party was keen to stress that differences in opinion won't dent the two countries co-operation in the war on terrorism. The row has however piled pressure on Berlusconi who has sent some 3,000 soldiers to Iraq. Alfonso Pecoraro Scanio, the leader of Italy's Green Party, has called for an independent, international inquiry and an immediate Italian troop pullout. The nation was plunged into mourning by the death of Nicola Calipari. The US claims the car he was in was travelling at high speed and ignored warnings to stop. It also says the Italians kept their mission to free Sgrena secret. A different version of events can be expected when Italy publishes its own report into the affair on Monday. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Blair admits Iraq may damage his election showing
British premier Tony Blair, set to win Thursday's general election, has admitted that new allegations over Iraq could harm the performance of his Labour Party. "The question is whether some of the mud sticks," as he put it. Secret documents published in today's press show that in April 2002- a year before the Iraq invasion- Blair told President Bush that "the UK would support US military action to bring about regime change." That summer, Foreign Secretary Jack Straw suggested the government should "work up" an ultimatum to Saddam Hussein regarding weapons inspections, provoking a confrontation that would "help with the legal justification for the use of force." Menzies Campbell, foreign affairs spokesman for the opposition Liberal Democrats said: "It's now clear that the government agreed illegal regime change with the Bush administration and set out to create circumstances in which they could claim a justification for going to war. They were not prepared to take yes for an answer, it was to be war by any means, at any cost." This week Michael Howard accused Blair of lying over the legal advice received before the Iraq war. But his Conservative Party backed Britain's involvement in Iraq and is concentrating its campaign on issues such as immigration. The latest polls put Labour on 36 to 39 percent, with the Conservatives on 31 to 33 percent and the LibDems on around 23 percent. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Foreigners injured in Cairo "suicide bombing"
A bomber and two women have attacked tourists in separate incidents in Cairo, killing at least two people. The first, in a square near the Egyptian Museum in central Cairo, is being described as a suicide attack. It is believed that an Egyptian man found dead had jumped off a bridge carrying an explosives device. The bombing reportedly injured three Egyptians, an Israeli couple, one Italian woman and a Swedish man. Egypt's government says the bomber was Yousri Yassin, a fugitive member of the group which planned a bombing on April 7 which killed three tourists in a Cairo bazaar. That bombing was the most serious in Egypt since attacks in Red Sea resorts killed 34 people last year. Shortly after the blast near the Egyptian Museum, two veiled woman opened fire on, and missed, a tourist bus on a main road through southern Cairo. In disputed circumstances at least one of the women was shot dead. Eye witnesses said security forces fired on the women. Officials say one of the women was probably the wife of Saturday's suicide bomber. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Last Updated, 1 May, 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Russians celebrate Orthodox Easter
It is Easter for Orthodox Christians around the world and in Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Saviour a special service has been held. The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church, Alexy II, led the proceedings. He has called on believers to show love and charity to those in need. A flame originating at one of Christianity's holiest sites, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, shone brightly as the congregation, including President Vladimir Putin, looked on. Outside, a spectacular laser show lit up the cathedral building. Since the fall of the Soviet Union, there has been a revival of religion in Russia and, for worshippers in the country, Easter Sunday marks the most important day in the Christian calendar. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- May Day numbers down as Moscow celebrates Easter
In Moscow, the largest May Day contingent on the streets was reportedly a trades union federation that supports President Vladimir Putin. The unions said 20,000 people gathered on the traditional workers' festival- they demanded the minimum wage be raised to allow for the cost of living. Other cities such as Vladivostock in the east saw large communist rallies but in Moscow police put their number at 9,000. In general fewer people attended May Day rallies in Russia, partly because Orthodox Christians are celebrating their Easter. In Naples in the south of Italy, the traditional demonstration called by the major unions was centred on the district of Scampia. It has seen deadly fighting between rival clans within the local mafia, known as the "camorra". Protestors denounced the violence. |
