International

China raises rice prices to boost grain output
24/01/2009 05:00
China’s top economic planner said Saturday it would raise the minimum state purchasing prices for rice in major rice-producing areas by as much as 16.9 percent this year. The move was aimed at protecting farmers’ interests, keeping grain prices...
Gaza schools reopen after one-month suspension
24/01/2009 05:00
In the aftermath of the 22-day Israeli military offensive on Gaza Strip, which unilaterally ended a week ago, schools run by the Hamas-ruled Ministry of Education and the UN were back to work on Saturday. Gaza children pose for photos during their...
Having lost 6-7 kilos, Ronaldo is closer to return
24/01/2009 05:00
Ronaldo’s pre-season workouts appeared on Saturday to be paying off. His figure looks noticeably slimmer as he is close to reaching his ideal weight to return to the soccer field. Thus far, the athlete has lost somewhere between six and seven kilograms....
China says 90 percent of families take toxic milk deal
24/01/2009 05:00
A woman, whose child died from drinking tainted milk, holds a sign reading ‘Give me back my child’ outside Shijiazhuang Intermediate People’s Court, Hebei province January 22, 2009. Over 90 percent of Chinese...
Microsoft cuts hit home in city that loves $1,599 carbon bikes
24/01/2009 05:00
Matt Chapmanâs bicycle shop east of Seattle always gets a sales boost in summer. Not because of the weather. Itâs when Microsoft Corp.âs interns arrive, carrying $300 checks from their employer for transportation. âThree hundred dollars...
Salmonella death in U.S. rises to seven
24/01/2009 05:00
One Minnesota woman in her 80s has died from salmonella poisoning, bringing the total number of deaths related to the outbreak of salmonella in the U.S. to seven. Salmonella bacteria According to the officials, it was not clear whether the...
Obama envoy expected in Middle East next week
24/01/2009 05:00
Hamas supporters hold banners and flags as other supporters throw stones in the direction of Israeli troops (unseen) during clashes in the West Bank city of Hebron, January 23, 2009. President Barack Obama plans...