Obama, Harper stay apart on pipeline issue, ink other agreements
Washington, D.C., United States (AHN) – The visiting Canadian leader and the American president on Wednesday remained noncommittal on a controversial oil pipeline linking the two countries but signed a border deal.
Addressing a joint press conference at the White House, with Canada’s Prime Minister Stephen Harper, U.S. President Barack Obama said, “With respect to the politics, look, this is a big project with big consequences.”
Asking for a assessment for environmental impact, Obama said, “We’ve seen Democrats and Republicans express concerns about it. And it is my job as president of the United States to make sure that a process is followed that examines all the options.”
Harper, on the other hand refused to be drawn into any controversy saying, “You can appreciate that I would not comment on the domestic politics of this issue or any other issue here in the United States.”
Harper added that Obama had an “open mind” on the project, but wanted a full assessment carried out. “He’s indicated to me, as he’s indicated to you today, that he is following a proper (process) to eventually take that decision here in the United States, and that he has an open mind in regards to what the final decision may or may not be,” Canadian leader said about the 1,600-mile pipeline that would run from Canada to the Texas coast.
“My position, the position of the government of Canada on this issue, is very well known,” said Harper, hinting at his backing for the Keystone XL plan, which is projected to create jobs in the U.S. and in Canada and to enable oil from the Canadian province of Alberta to reach the world market.
The two leaders announced signing of a trade deal and perimeter security agreement, which would allow easier access to ports and increase harmonization of security checks and procedures at land borders.
“Together, they represent the most significant steps forward in Canada-U.S. cooperation since the North American Free Trade Agreement,” Harper said.
View full post on Trade Agreements Stories
U.S. encourages SAARC but hesitant to get more involved
Washington, D.C., United States (AHN) – The United States encouraged the participating nations of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, also known as SAARC, but Washington had no intentions to increase its own involvement with the association according to one of the top U.S. diplomats.
Addressing journalists at a special briefing at the State Department, Robert Blake, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs said, “We’re an observer country and we welcome that role, but we’re not seeking to enhance our role in any way.”
Assistant Secretary Blake returned from a trip to the Maldives as head of the U.S. observer delegation to the 17th Summit of the SAARC which has eight member nations and nine observers.
The U.S., however, urged the participating South Asian nations to not only cement ties among themselves but also to enlarge cooperation with Central Asian countries to accelerate the building of a New Silk Road.
Assistant Secretary Blake said, “I explained our support for greater regional integration not only within South Asia, but between South and Central Asia and Secretary Clinton’s vision of a New Silk Road linking the economies of South and Central Asia in a web of trade, transit, and energy connections.”
“The SAARC states hope to implement a South Asia free trade agreement by 2016, and there was some progress that was announced during the recent summit,” said Blake, lamenting the fact that the SAARC members were “not ready to endorse proposals to move up the date for SAFTA implementation.”
The SAARC leaders agreed “to finalize a regional railways agreement in the next year and to create an Indian Ocean cargo and ferry service by 2012,” said Assistant Secretary Blake.
The U.S. has enjoyed observer nation status since 2007 in SAARC, which groups Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
View full post on Trade Agreements Stories
Iran, North Korea cloud Obama, Lee interaction with press
Washington, D.C., United States (AHN) – President Barack Obama on Thursday shelved his policy of diplomatic negotiations as he noted his administration’s goal to make “sure that they (Iranians) pay a price,” while seeking to “isolate” Iran — not only over the alleged assassination plot, but over its nuclear program and ties to terrorism.
Addressing a joint press conference with visiting South Korean president Lee Myung Bak at the White House, Obama refused to say explicitly whether he believed Iran’s leaders knew about a plot to assassinate the Saudi Arabian ambassador in Washington, but the Iranians should be held accountable in any event, reiterated Obama.
“Even if at the highest levels there was not detailed operational knowledge, there has to be accountability with respect to anybody in the Iranian government engaging in this kind of activity,” Obama said.
President asserted himself when he replied to one conservative channel correspondent saying, “Well I did not know you were the spokesman for Romney.”
Smiling Obama answered when he was asked if he considered the alleged Iranian assassination plot to be “an act of war.”
The journalist framed his question citing Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney as saying earlier, “what specific steps will you take to hold Iran accountable? Especially when Mitt Romney charged last week, quote, ‘If you do not want America to be the strongest nation on Earth, I am not your President. You have that president today.’”
On the recent nod from U.S. Congress for the free trade agreement with Korea, President Lee said he is confident Korean parliament will ratify the deal soon.
“I am confident that the Korea National Assembly will soon ratify this very important agreement in the near future,” Lee said. “It is a win-win agreement that will benefit both of our economies in countless ways.”
Calling the FTA an “historic milestone,” Lee said the countries have set an example of job creation and economic growth through free trade.
Highlighting the ongoing concern in Europe, Lee noted the global economy’s present challenges, saying, “the Korea-US Free Trade Agreement will demonstrate to the world that we can create good quality jobs and stimulate growth through open and fair trade.”
Obama summed up the agreement effect as, “In short, this agreement will boost American exports by up to $11 billion and support some 70,000 American jobs.”
The occasion was also used by Obama to warn North Korea, saying, “If Pyongyang continues to ignore its international obligations, it will invite even more pressure and isolation.”
“If the North abandons its quest for nuclear weapons and moves toward denuclearization, it will enjoy greater security and opportunity for its people,” Obama offered as a choice for North Korea.
View full post on Trade Agreements Stories
U.S. signs antitrust cooperation agreement with Chile
Washington, DC, United States (AHN) – The United States on Thursday signed a cooperation agreement with Chile to enable antitrust agencies in the two countries to improve their law enforcement relationships.
“Chile has one of the most advanced antitrust systems in Latin America,” said FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz in a statement after the signature ceremony, adding, “They are natural partners for us, and I’m pleased that we can formalize and strengthen the great relationship we have with them.”
Leibowitz signed the agreement with Felipe Irarrázabal, Chile’s national economic prosecutor. Christine Varney, assistant attorney general in charge of the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division also signed on behalf of the department.
“This new agreement is a significant step in developing a close relationship between the antitrust agencies of the United States and Chile. It is an important tool that will be used to protect consumers in both countries,” said Varney.
She said provisions in the agreement “provide a sound basis for enhanced cooperation on a day-to-day basis, while minimizing possible conflicts between the two nations’ antitrust enforcement activities.”
“We look forward to working more closely with our Chilean colleagues at a time when sound antitrust enforcement is a high priority in both the United States and Chile,” Varney added.
U.S. antitrust agencies already have similar agreements with Brazil, Canada, the European Union, Israel, Japan and Mexico.
View full post on Trade Agreements Stories
U.S. signs antitrust cooperation agreement with Chile
Washington, DC, United States (AHN) – The United States on Thursday signed a cooperation agreement with Chile to enable antitrust agencies in the two countries to improve their law enforcement relationships.
“Chile has one of the most advanced antitrust systems in Latin America,” said FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz in a statement after the signature ceremony, adding, “They are natural partners for us, and I’m pleased that we can formalize and strengthen the great relationship we have with them.”
Leibowitz signed the agreement with Felipe Irarrázabal, Chile’s national economic prosecutor. Christine Varney, assistant attorney general in charge of the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division also signed on behalf of the department.
“This new agreement is a significant step in developing a close relationship between the antitrust agencies of the United States and Chile. It is an important tool that will be used to protect consumers in both countries,” said Varney.
She said provisions in the agreement “provide a sound basis for enhanced cooperation on a day-to-day basis, while minimizing possible conflicts between the two nations’ antitrust enforcement activities.”
“We look forward to working more closely with our Chilean colleagues at a time when sound antitrust enforcement is a high priority in both the United States and Chile,” Varney added.
U.S. antitrust agencies already have similar agreements with Brazil, Canada, the European Union, Israel, Japan and Mexico.
View full post on Trade Agreements Stories
Arsenic found in U.S. chicken supply
Washington, DC, United States (AHN) – The Food and Drug Administration released a statement Wednesday revealing that some chicken meat may contain small amounts of arsenic. The agency claims, however, that the actual amount is too minute to pose a danger to people who eat it.
The findings were revealed in a study developed by the FDA that reported Roxarsone, an ingredient in chicken feed, contained a potentially carcinogenic form of arsenic and was finding its way into the livers of animals treated with the drug. Roxarsone has been used by poultry producers since 1944.
The substance is produced by Pfizer Inc. and subsequently officials are removing if from the U.S. market. Additionally, the FDA has suspended the drug and poultry producers have stopped using the ingredient – initially used to kill parasites and promote growth in the bird feed.
The announcement of the FDA sales suspension came after an FDA study of 100 broiler chickens detected inorganic arsenic at higher levels in the livers of those treated with Roxarsone than in those who did not get the drug.
The FDA is stressing that people should not stop eating chicken that may have been treated with the drug, as the study was meant to raise “concerns of a very low but completely avoidable exposure to a carcinogen.”
Organic arsenic naturally forms in the livers of chickens. However the inorganic form, such as with Roxarsone, is more toxic than the naturally occurring form.
View full post on Economy, Business And Finance Stories
Recession, bad economy seen as prescription for bad health
Miami, FL, United States (AHN) – In 2009, stress caused by the recession caused many to suffer a rise in health ailments. Many Americans had their income cut, workload increased and took on additional employment.
All of this combined with making ends meet and fearing the other shoe would drop and losing the ability to support their household.
The fear of losing your job in the midst of the Great Recession sent many to the hospital.
However, even as the economy makes efforts to recover, sluggish job growth and falling home prices are torpedoing Americans’ health and taking a toll on their overall well being.
Thirty-five percent of middle class Americans said they or someone in their household has experienced a physical symptom of stress related to the economy, according to a recent report by First Command Financial Services, a financial service provider.
Some of the most reported issues include anxiety, changes in weight, sleeplessness, low energy and irritability.
According to mental health experts, at the start of the recession calls to suicide hotlines jumped dramatically with 30 percent of the calls related to economic distress
Health proponents advise that if people can’t afford professional health services, they should go to community health clinics. However, at a time when people should be proactive about their health care, many are putting off those visits as a result of the recession.
According to the survey, 26 percent of those surveyed said that they have put off doctor visits due to economic conditions — up from 15 percent in 2010.
“There are short-term, mid-term and long-term implications,” said Kathryn Power, director of the Center for Mental Health Services, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in a CNN report. “If people are forgoing regular check ups or medical appointments, there will be long-term health consequences across the board.”
In March 2009, an American Heart Association survey of 1,000 people found that 57 percent reported the economy had affected their ability to take care of their health. The AHA survey also found that:
- 32 percent had delayed preventive care, skipped doctor’s appointments, or stopped taking medication to save money.
- 25 percent with gym memberships had canceled them in the previous six months.
- 42 percent planned to buy fewer fruits and vegetables.
“We’ve made dramatic gains in recent years in our fight against heart disease and stroke, but trends like these threaten to reverse these gains,” says Dr. Timothy Gardner, president of the AHA. “We need to remind people that even in hard times, their health is important.”
View full post on Economy, Business And Finance Stories
Bravo! issues nationwide recall of Bravo! Pig Ears Dog Chews because of possible salmonella health risk
Vernon, CT, United States (AHN) – Bravo! is voluntarily recalling select boxes of Bravo! Pig Ears Chews because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The products affected by this recall includes only Bravo! 50 ct bulk Oven roasted Pig Ears Product Code: 75-121 Lot # 12-06-10.
Salmonella can affect animals and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any other surfaces exposed to these products.
Healthy people with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms including, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare provider.
Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets will have only have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
The company has received no reports of illness in either people or animals associated with the product. Bravo! is issuing this action out of an abundance of caution and sincerely regrets any inconvenience to pet owners as a result of this announcement.
Bravo! Pig Ears were distributed to retailers on the East and West Coasts. They were shipped to distributors and retailers between January 1 and February 28, 2011, where they were available for purchase.
The recall is the result of routine sampling program by the Washington State Department of Agriculture which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. The company has no product left in inventory from this batch of pig ears.
Consumers who have purchased any of these pig ears are urged to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions about the recall, should visit www.bravorawdiet.com or call toll free 1.866.922.9222 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday.
View full post on Economy, Business And Finance Stories
Vancouver businessman expected to buy NHL’s Dallas Stars
Dallas, TX, United States (AHN Sports) – Vancouver business magnate Tom Gaglardi is expected to acquire the cash-strapped Dallas Stars, a source close to situation reported Friday.
Gaglardi will reportedly shell out around $250 million and at least 50 percent of lease to the American Airlines Arena in an effort to purchase the money-losing Stars.
However, the potential sale faces several requirements, including the approval by bankruptcy court of Fort Worth and the creditors of current owner Tom Hicks.
The Stars lost millions of dollars a year under Hicks, who also sold the Texas Rangers and shares of the Liverpool soccer club.
Still, the source added the structure of the deal nears completion and expected to be approved by the NHL in July.
The Stars, who missed the postseason for the third straight year, could benefit under new management after slightly improving their record to 42-29-11 during the 2010-2011 NHL season.
View full post on All Stories
Former Mayor Daley joins law firm
Chicago, IL, United States (AHN) – Former Chicago Mayor Richard Daley has joined a prominent law firm that will draw on his two decades as the city’s top executive.
Daley, 69, will serve as counsel for Katten Muchin Rosenman, which has offices in the city, as well New York, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and London.
The firm will use his “vast knowledge, experience and relationships globally to contribute to [its] continued growth,” according to a statement. The Democrat will not be part of work involving the city and public agencies.
Daley served as Cook County state attorney and state senator before becoming mayor. He surprised many when he announced his retirement last September after 22 years in office, the longest of any mayor, including his father. He had a choice of several law firms but opted for Katten, a firm recognized as one of the best for women and gays.
“They have an innovative yet practical approach to helping clients accomplish their goals, and they are expanding globally,” the former mayor said in a statement. “The firm also has a demonstrated commitment to giving back to the community, which is important to me.”
“We are honored that Mayor Daley has chosen to join Katten,” said Vincent Sergi, national managing partner for Katten. “In joining our firm, he clearly recognizes what we have accomplished and that we are poised for significant growth nationally and internationally. His advice and counsel will be invaluable.”
View full post on Economy, Business And Finance Stories
Day Trading- Eurozone service sector shrinks, raising recession fears
- Automated Forex Trading with the Best Software can Produce Huge Returns if Perfected
- U.S. markets quiet as investors worry about Greece
- Odyssey Marine Exploration has to give shipwreck treasure back to Spain
- Odyssey Marine Exploration has to give shipwreck treasure back to Spain
- Fuji recalls women’s cruiser bicycles over fall hazard
- Get fully automated day trading system
- Wal-Mart reports more sales but lower Q4 profits
- SEC Warns Top Banker of Charges Over Magnetar Deal
- Taco Bell to launch new Dorito shells
- Forex
- Getting Started In Forex – The Proven Best Strategy For Getting Started In Forex
- Forex Secrets – Delusion Number 2 – Who Prompts Forex Quotation to Traders?
- Summary Box: Stocks fall as dollar jumps
- Ava Forex Broker-Providing An Apparent Platform To Trade For Both Traders And Investors
- Forex Trading Strategies – How to Be a Super Successful Forex Trader! AAA+++
- Fed stands pat on interest rates and bond purchases
- Managed Foreign Exchange – Tips And Tricks to Manage Your Forex Account
- Car sales in Philippines jump 29 percent
- Suicide Won’t End Madoff Suits
- What to Look for in Opening a Free Forex Account
-
- Investors
- Comparison Shopping for Personal Loans
- Comparison Shopping for Personal Loans
- Bank of America repurchases $2.5 billion debt from Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac in settlement
- Bank of America repurchases $2.5 billion debt from Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac in settlement
- Illinois Firm Recalls Raw and Ready-To-Eat Sausage Products Due To Possible Adulteration
- DeLisha Milton-Jones shines as Sparks topple Liberty in historic rematch
- June 20, 2011: Braves 2* vs. Blue Jays 0 (MLB)
- Debt Consolidation – Savior in Debt Crisis
- Government Check List for Starting a Business
- Rohingyas in Malaysia seek education, opportunities
- Eco friendly Business
- Stella McCartney’s sunglasses are eco-friendly
- Climate-vulnerable countries to seek help from rich nations
- Bangladesh, India vulnerable to climate change
- Disease concerns as flash floods hit Kenyan coastal area
- Nalgae leaves 18 dead in the Philippines
- Rising sea level could wipe out California’s billion-dollar beaches
- Two million hit by floods in Sindh Province
- Drought – the view from the ground
- British Columbia sends more firefighters to Ontario
- Long and intense drought hurting 14 states
