SEOUL, South Korea (CNN) -- North Korea fired two short-range missiles from its east coast Tuesday -- a day after conducting a nuclear test -- South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported, citing a South Korean official.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-II is suspected to have suffered a stroke last August.
"The North is continuing its saber-rattling," the unnamed official said.
The firings came a day after the reclusive communist state conducted a nuclear test and fired another short-range missile.
U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice said Tuesday the international community would not be intimidated by North Korea's "provocative and destabilizing" missile tests.
"If they want to continue to test and provoke the international community, they're going to find that they will pay a price, because the international community is very clear -- this is not acceptable, it won't be tolerated, and they won't be intimidated," Rice told CNN's "American Morning." Watch Rice's reaction »
The U.N. Security Council -- which includes North Korea's closest ally, China -- on Monday unanimously condemned Pyongyang's nuclear test as a "clear violation" of international law.
After passing the non-binding statement of criticism, the Security Council is now working on passing "a strong resolution with teeth," Rice said. "Those teeth could take various different forms - they are economic levers, they are other levers that we might pursue," she said.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
North Korea confirms nuclear test
SEOUL, South Korea (CNN) -- North Korea has conducted its second nuclear test, the country's state news agency announced Monday.
This screen grab from North Korean television on April 9 shows leader Kim Jong Il in Pyongyang.
The confirmation came little more than an hour after the U.S. Geological Survey reported a magnitude 4.7 seismic disturbance at the site of North Korea's first nuclear test in October 2006. The North Korea's Korean Central News Agency said Monday's test was conducted "as part of the measures to bolster up its nuclear deterrent for self-defense in every way."
In Seoul, South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak's office said the country was investigating the reported test and would hold an emergency meeting of its national security council.
And in Tokyo, Prime Minister Taro Aso's office said it has set up a special task force to look into the test and how to respond.
There was no immediate response from Washington or Beijing.
"The current nuclear test was safely conducted on a new higher level in terms of its explosive power and technology of its control and the results of the test helped satisfactorily settle the scientific and technological problems arising in further increasing the power of nuclear weapons and steadily developing nuclear technology," KCNA announced.
There was no immediate information on the yield of the weapon used. But the first North Korean test produced, according to U.S. intelligence estimates, an explosion equal to less than 1,000 tons of TNT -- a fraction of the size of the bombs the United States dropped on Japan at the end of World War II.
This screen grab from North Korean television on April 9 shows leader Kim Jong Il in Pyongyang.
The confirmation came little more than an hour after the U.S. Geological Survey reported a magnitude 4.7 seismic disturbance at the site of North Korea's first nuclear test in October 2006. The North Korea's Korean Central News Agency said Monday's test was conducted "as part of the measures to bolster up its nuclear deterrent for self-defense in every way."
In Seoul, South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak's office said the country was investigating the reported test and would hold an emergency meeting of its national security council.
And in Tokyo, Prime Minister Taro Aso's office said it has set up a special task force to look into the test and how to respond.
There was no immediate response from Washington or Beijing.
"The current nuclear test was safely conducted on a new higher level in terms of its explosive power and technology of its control and the results of the test helped satisfactorily settle the scientific and technological problems arising in further increasing the power of nuclear weapons and steadily developing nuclear technology," KCNA announced.
There was no immediate information on the yield of the weapon used. But the first North Korean test produced, according to U.S. intelligence estimates, an explosion equal to less than 1,000 tons of TNT -- a fraction of the size of the bombs the United States dropped on Japan at the end of World War II.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Chinese boats harassed U.S. ship, officials say
By Barbara Starr
CNN Pentagon Correspondent
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Two Chinese fishing vessels came "dangerously close" to a U.S. military ship in the Yellow Sea off the coast of China last week -- the fifth such incident in the past few months, two U.S. officials told CNN Tuesday.
The USNS Victorious is an unarmed ocean surveillance ship operated by a civilian crew.
The officials -- who could not be identified because the incident has not yet been formally announced -- said the two Chinese boats approached the USNS Victorious, a military sealift command ship, in international waters Friday in the Yellow Sea, which lies between China and North and South Korea.
Over a period of several hours, the officials said, the Chinese vessels repeatedly came close to the Victorious in what was described as deliberate maneuvers -- once coming within 30 yards of the U.S. vessel.
Both officials said the Chinese vessels came to a dead halt in front of the Victorious at one point, in heavy fog, causing the U.S. ship to have to come to a dangerous sudden stop. The officials did not know the exact size of the Chinese ships but described them as being smaller than the 235-foot long U.S. vessel.
The crew of the Victorious turned its fire hoses on to keep the Chinese ships away but did not directly spray them at the smaller boats, one official said. The Victorious also sounded its danger alarm system and radioed for assistance to a larger Chinese fisheries service vessel nearby. That vessel did shine a light on the small Chinese vessels but took no further action, the official said.
The USNS Victorious is an unarmed ocean surveillance ship operated by a civilian mariner crew working for the Military Sealift Command. The mission is to conduct authorized undersea listening operations in international waters, according to the U.S. Navy. There is video of this latest incident, but it has not been released by the Pentagon.
The Victorious was involved in another incident with a Chinese ship on March 4 in the Yellow Sea, when a Chinese Bureau of Fisheries Patrol vessel used a spotlight to illuminate the Victorious and crossed the U.S. vessel's bow "at a range of about 1,400 yards in darkness without notice or warning," according to a Pentagon statement.
CNN Pentagon Correspondent
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Two Chinese fishing vessels came "dangerously close" to a U.S. military ship in the Yellow Sea off the coast of China last week -- the fifth such incident in the past few months, two U.S. officials told CNN Tuesday.
The USNS Victorious is an unarmed ocean surveillance ship operated by a civilian crew.
The officials -- who could not be identified because the incident has not yet been formally announced -- said the two Chinese boats approached the USNS Victorious, a military sealift command ship, in international waters Friday in the Yellow Sea, which lies between China and North and South Korea.
Over a period of several hours, the officials said, the Chinese vessels repeatedly came close to the Victorious in what was described as deliberate maneuvers -- once coming within 30 yards of the U.S. vessel.
Both officials said the Chinese vessels came to a dead halt in front of the Victorious at one point, in heavy fog, causing the U.S. ship to have to come to a dangerous sudden stop. The officials did not know the exact size of the Chinese ships but described them as being smaller than the 235-foot long U.S. vessel.
The crew of the Victorious turned its fire hoses on to keep the Chinese ships away but did not directly spray them at the smaller boats, one official said. The Victorious also sounded its danger alarm system and radioed for assistance to a larger Chinese fisheries service vessel nearby. That vessel did shine a light on the small Chinese vessels but took no further action, the official said.
The USNS Victorious is an unarmed ocean surveillance ship operated by a civilian mariner crew working for the Military Sealift Command. The mission is to conduct authorized undersea listening operations in international waters, according to the U.S. Navy. There is video of this latest incident, but it has not been released by the Pentagon.
The Victorious was involved in another incident with a Chinese ship on March 4 in the Yellow Sea, when a Chinese Bureau of Fisheries Patrol vessel used a spotlight to illuminate the Victorious and crossed the U.S. vessel's bow "at a range of about 1,400 yards in darkness without notice or warning," according to a Pentagon statement.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Barack Obama Memorabilia - Making History
On January 20, 2009, Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States and a new chapter in American History officially began. Barack's campaign and presidency have created Obama mania and people cannot seem to get enough. The intense search for any and all Barack related news, memorabilia and family information has swept the country, and folks are clamoring for anything that has to do with our new president. The reality is this: the demand of Obama related merchandise has exceeded the supply. Advise: don't wait any longer if you want your piece of this groundbreaking history.
Barack Obama memorabilia is amongst some of the most highly sought after merchandise and there are hundreds of websites to search for that special item you may be looking for. The disappointment comes when you find it, but it's sold out. However, there are some very industrious people who have created websites that deal exclusively with Barack Obama collectibles, memorabilia and other Barack information. If you are interested in learning the latest newsworthy information coming from the Oval Office, speeches from the campaign, inauguration or current day-to-day Obama news, it can be found quickly and easily. Keep up with Michelle Obama and the girls as well by using one website for everything!
Books (like Barack Obama's book, "Dreams from My Father"), DVDs and posters are just a few of the items people are searching for. Unique pieces such as limited edition framed artwork and even snowboards depicting Obama in a superman suit are amongst the hottest merchandise to find. Tote bags bearing a photo of Barack, stars and stripes hockey jerseys with the Obama name emblazoned on the back, presidential action figures, Barack and Michelle bobble heads, 44th president buttons, and "Yes We Did" T-shirts are a few more of the hot items to own. Collectibles such as 24K gold coins, engraved crystal plates, and shot glasses bearing the image of Barack and even trading cards are all highly sought after merchandise.
These specialized shopping websites not only have an inventory of the latest merchandise, but they also have the latest top news from the office of the President. Read what the Chicago Tribune or Newsday has to say about decisions coming from White House. Stay abreast of what is happening on the Hill while you are doing your one-stop shopping for Barack Obama specialty items. Be the first one to own limited edition collectibles and memorabilia depicting this historical figure as he begins his journey as the 44th President of the United States. Wear your rhinestone jeweled Obama hat or your winter beanie with Barack's name across the front with pride and let people know you were a part of the greatest election ever!
Begin now searching for the website that will give you everything you could possibly want to know about Barack, Michelle and the White House. Look for all of those incredible memorabilia items that will last and be talked about for generations to come. The definition of memorabilia is: things worthy of remembrance. Remember this time in history with something special and unique. Have fun finding the perfect Barack Obama merchandise to commemorate this incredible time in our history!
Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Barack Obama Memorabilia.
Barack Obama memorabilia is amongst some of the most highly sought after merchandise and there are hundreds of websites to search for that special item you may be looking for. The disappointment comes when you find it, but it's sold out. However, there are some very industrious people who have created websites that deal exclusively with Barack Obama collectibles, memorabilia and other Barack information. If you are interested in learning the latest newsworthy information coming from the Oval Office, speeches from the campaign, inauguration or current day-to-day Obama news, it can be found quickly and easily. Keep up with Michelle Obama and the girls as well by using one website for everything!
Books (like Barack Obama's book, "Dreams from My Father"), DVDs and posters are just a few of the items people are searching for. Unique pieces such as limited edition framed artwork and even snowboards depicting Obama in a superman suit are amongst the hottest merchandise to find. Tote bags bearing a photo of Barack, stars and stripes hockey jerseys with the Obama name emblazoned on the back, presidential action figures, Barack and Michelle bobble heads, 44th president buttons, and "Yes We Did" T-shirts are a few more of the hot items to own. Collectibles such as 24K gold coins, engraved crystal plates, and shot glasses bearing the image of Barack and even trading cards are all highly sought after merchandise.
These specialized shopping websites not only have an inventory of the latest merchandise, but they also have the latest top news from the office of the President. Read what the Chicago Tribune or Newsday has to say about decisions coming from White House. Stay abreast of what is happening on the Hill while you are doing your one-stop shopping for Barack Obama specialty items. Be the first one to own limited edition collectibles and memorabilia depicting this historical figure as he begins his journey as the 44th President of the United States. Wear your rhinestone jeweled Obama hat or your winter beanie with Barack's name across the front with pride and let people know you were a part of the greatest election ever!
Begin now searching for the website that will give you everything you could possibly want to know about Barack, Michelle and the White House. Look for all of those incredible memorabilia items that will last and be talked about for generations to come. The definition of memorabilia is: things worthy of remembrance. Remember this time in history with something special and unique. Have fun finding the perfect Barack Obama merchandise to commemorate this incredible time in our history!
Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Barack Obama Memorabilia.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
How To Find Work Overseas - 5 Tips To Get That Job Abroad
So you want to know how to find work overseas?
First you need to know, working in your own country alone can be a challenge so if you desire to work abroad then there is one quality that you simply must have. Determination. If you are planning to work, move or travel to say, Italy , France , Thailand or some exotic island, then this quality is vital.
Once you have the determination you then need to have a strategy on how to find work overseas and getting that job abroad. So how do you make it happen?
Here are 5 strategies that you can use to start your journey.
1) Just Do it
Pack your bags and GO. Now this strategy is simple but definitely not for the weak of heart. Pick a country, go there and hope all goes well. But of course you need to so some planning before hand. Do some research on your chosen countries job market, get some contacts that you can use or call when you arrive. Be sure you have some pocket money on the side to last you until you find a job there.
As you can see, there are risks involved. You may, or may not find a job. If anything else, you have had an adventurous experience.
2) Get Posted Abroad
Find a company that is known for sending their employees abroad and work for them. Of course its no guarantee that you will be chosen when the next posting comes around so letting your manager know of your interest might help. I know of a few friends who worked for 5 star hotels and actually got transferred abroad.
3) Volunteer Programs
Take time out and do something worthwhile! Volunteer. There are several volunteers programs you can check out. Often times volunteering can be very hard but the sense of achievement is enormous.
4) Go Back to School
There are plenty of opportunities in other countries, from teaching courses, language courses to ongoing programs in archeology. Once you are there, try and get as many local connections that you need in order to get a paid job. These information you can use later in the future. Having said that, you should also be fully aware of the rules and restrictions for work permits.
Remember, you are there under a student visa, so taking a full time job may get you into trouble. And that is the last thing you need.
5) Freelance
Everyone has their own skills that they could benefit from. What you can do here, you can most probably do overseas. You can freelance as consultants, technical writers, journalists, graphic artists, modeling, teach English or any language that you know. You will be surprised at how quickly your income generates by just freelancing.
Hope that helps and get you started on how to find work overseas.
First you need to know, working in your own country alone can be a challenge so if you desire to work abroad then there is one quality that you simply must have. Determination. If you are planning to work, move or travel to say, Italy , France , Thailand or some exotic island, then this quality is vital.
Once you have the determination you then need to have a strategy on how to find work overseas and getting that job abroad. So how do you make it happen?
Here are 5 strategies that you can use to start your journey.
1) Just Do it
Pack your bags and GO. Now this strategy is simple but definitely not for the weak of heart. Pick a country, go there and hope all goes well. But of course you need to so some planning before hand. Do some research on your chosen countries job market, get some contacts that you can use or call when you arrive. Be sure you have some pocket money on the side to last you until you find a job there.
As you can see, there are risks involved. You may, or may not find a job. If anything else, you have had an adventurous experience.
2) Get Posted Abroad
Find a company that is known for sending their employees abroad and work for them. Of course its no guarantee that you will be chosen when the next posting comes around so letting your manager know of your interest might help. I know of a few friends who worked for 5 star hotels and actually got transferred abroad.
3) Volunteer Programs
Take time out and do something worthwhile! Volunteer. There are several volunteers programs you can check out. Often times volunteering can be very hard but the sense of achievement is enormous.
4) Go Back to School
There are plenty of opportunities in other countries, from teaching courses, language courses to ongoing programs in archeology. Once you are there, try and get as many local connections that you need in order to get a paid job. These information you can use later in the future. Having said that, you should also be fully aware of the rules and restrictions for work permits.
Remember, you are there under a student visa, so taking a full time job may get you into trouble. And that is the last thing you need.
5) Freelance
Everyone has their own skills that they could benefit from. What you can do here, you can most probably do overseas. You can freelance as consultants, technical writers, journalists, graphic artists, modeling, teach English or any language that you know. You will be surprised at how quickly your income generates by just freelancing.
Hope that helps and get you started on how to find work overseas.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
IVA - Government Legislation Designed to Help You
IVA, Government Legislation can help those who are struggling with UK personal debt problems. Those who are struggling with debts over £12,000 may find that an IVA can help them to deal with their debts, without having to face the prospect of bankruptcy.
IVA stands for Individual Voluntary Arrangement, and was introduced as part of the 1986 Insolvency Act. This form of IVA government legislation can be seen as a more practical alternative to bankruptcy.
An IVA is the only debt solution, besides bankruptcy, which allows a certain amount of debt write-off. It means that you can avoid long term implications which are usually associated with bankruptcy. This includes the hindering of future career prospects and the loss of high-value assets, such as your home or your vehicle.
If you are accepted for an IVA, then you will find additional benefits. You only make payments to your creditors for an average period of 60 months. These payments will be based on what you can afford to pay.
IVA's are legally binding to both the debtor and their creditors. This means that, as long as you make the payments to your IVA, your creditors cannot continue to chase you for this debt. In fact, they will not be allowed to contact you at all.
Once you have completed your IVA, you can be debt Free with the help of this IVA Government legislation. After all payments have been made to your IVA, any unpaid debt will be written off and you will become debt free!
IVA stands for Individual Voluntary Arrangement, and was introduced as part of the 1986 Insolvency Act. This form of IVA government legislation can be seen as a more practical alternative to bankruptcy.
An IVA is the only debt solution, besides bankruptcy, which allows a certain amount of debt write-off. It means that you can avoid long term implications which are usually associated with bankruptcy. This includes the hindering of future career prospects and the loss of high-value assets, such as your home or your vehicle.
If you are accepted for an IVA, then you will find additional benefits. You only make payments to your creditors for an average period of 60 months. These payments will be based on what you can afford to pay.
IVA's are legally binding to both the debtor and their creditors. This means that, as long as you make the payments to your IVA, your creditors cannot continue to chase you for this debt. In fact, they will not be allowed to contact you at all.
Once you have completed your IVA, you can be debt Free with the help of this IVA Government legislation. After all payments have been made to your IVA, any unpaid debt will be written off and you will become debt free!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Government Help For Foreclosures
Foreclosures are the biggest financial problems in U.S. and have led the real estate market to crash badly while raising questions on the liquidity scenario in the economy. The banks initiate the foreclosure when the borrower is not able to pay the monthly installments. The banks in order to escape the NPA's, auctions the property for recovering the loan. This abrupt sale by the banks leads to reduced property prices in the market as the banks is initiating an immediate sale and the purpose behind sale is recovery of outstanding amount. The bank is not concerned with the market price of the property. This is the worst for any real estate.
As a result of the above problems, Government of U.S. has started working on methods to stop these increasing foreclosures.
Foreclosure destroy the Homeowner
Foreclosure is a serious problem for any homeowner and the same destroys the homeowner financially. There could be various reasons for a foreclosure which may be divorce, unemployment, interest rate hike, bankruptcy or death of the borrower. The homeowner who comes under foreclosure is deemed financially unfit for several years and the bad credit record does not allow any other institution to lend credit to him. The borrower has to immediately the house which makes him lose his shelter. The impact of foreclosure on homeowners affects their personal, financial and social life.
Steps taken by Government
The U.S. government is working on several methods to stop this increasing financial devil. The following are:
1. Bulk Auction Sale: This facility is provided by the government authorities to private lenders and banks to sell off their NPA to the government and recover their loan amount. The government authorities shall support the homeowners for some period to make them come back on payment cycle.
2. Providing protection to lending companies: The government is working on methods to provide cover to the lender in case of a lawsuit filed by the borrower which is the main reason why banks initiate foreclosures.
3. Freezing Interest Rates: The government is trying to freeze housing rates where the loan amount will not be increased and the installment shall be same for coming years which will not disturb the payment capacity.
4. Starting Research groups: The government has setup certain authorities which will be led by experts of finance to understand the problems faced by borrowers and work on solutions for them.
5. Control on Lending institutions: The government is planning take control of lending institutions which can not forcefully initiate foreclosures and help the borrowers in repaying.
These steps by the government shall help in understanding the problem f borrowers and solving the same by working out methods. The government is working on checking the increasing rate of foreclosures and is planning methods to resolve issues with banks and borrowers which brings the borrowers on payment cycle.
As a result of the above problems, Government of U.S. has started working on methods to stop these increasing foreclosures.
Foreclosure destroy the Homeowner
Foreclosure is a serious problem for any homeowner and the same destroys the homeowner financially. There could be various reasons for a foreclosure which may be divorce, unemployment, interest rate hike, bankruptcy or death of the borrower. The homeowner who comes under foreclosure is deemed financially unfit for several years and the bad credit record does not allow any other institution to lend credit to him. The borrower has to immediately the house which makes him lose his shelter. The impact of foreclosure on homeowners affects their personal, financial and social life.
Steps taken by Government
The U.S. government is working on several methods to stop this increasing financial devil. The following are:
1. Bulk Auction Sale: This facility is provided by the government authorities to private lenders and banks to sell off their NPA to the government and recover their loan amount. The government authorities shall support the homeowners for some period to make them come back on payment cycle.
2. Providing protection to lending companies: The government is working on methods to provide cover to the lender in case of a lawsuit filed by the borrower which is the main reason why banks initiate foreclosures.
3. Freezing Interest Rates: The government is trying to freeze housing rates where the loan amount will not be increased and the installment shall be same for coming years which will not disturb the payment capacity.
4. Starting Research groups: The government has setup certain authorities which will be led by experts of finance to understand the problems faced by borrowers and work on solutions for them.
5. Control on Lending institutions: The government is planning take control of lending institutions which can not forcefully initiate foreclosures and help the borrowers in repaying.
These steps by the government shall help in understanding the problem f borrowers and solving the same by working out methods. The government is working on checking the increasing rate of foreclosures and is planning methods to resolve issues with banks and borrowers which brings the borrowers on payment cycle.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)