China tops medal table in Asian Youth Games

SINGAPORE: The Asian Youth Games are underway in Singapore. China tops the medals table with six golds, followed by South Korea and Japan after the second full day of the competition.China took on hosts Singapore in boys under-14 football. The hosts trailed early when China's captain Peng Yan struck in the 26th minute.Peng doubled China's lead with a rasping right-foot shot from the edge of the area less than ten minutes later.Then it was also Peng Yan who scored at the end, completing the match with a hat trick. China defeated Singapore 3-0, finishing second in Group A and advancing to the semis.

Gayle signs with WA

SYDNEY: The Western Australia signing West Indies superstar Chris Gayle for a cameo appearance in next summer's domestic Twenty20 competition.WA Cricket Association chief executive Graeme Wood and Warriors coach Tom Moody unveiled Gayle as their marquee player for five games in December and January.Gayle, 29, who will be on tour with the West Indies side in Australia at the time, will use the break between the Test and one day series to turn out for Western Australia.

Kaka receives roaring welcome from Real Madrid fans

MADRID: With the crowd chanting his name, Kaka received a roaring welcome Tuesday when he was introduced at his new home of Real Madrid before at least 50,000 fans.The 27-year-old Brazilian playmaker, acquired from AC Milan for $92 million, was presented by team president Florentino Perez at Santiago Bernabeu. Kaka shook his head in delight at the response by the fans.Kaka, who passed his medical earlier Tuesday, and Cristiano Ronaldo are Perez's major summer signings as the team tries to make up for a season without a trophy.Kaka agreed to a six-year contract with Madrid and will team with Cristiano Ronaldo, the world player of the year who was acquired by Madrid for a record transfer of $131 million.

BCCI announces venues for India-Australia ODI series

MUMBAI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Tournament and Fixture Committee declared on Tuesday the venues and dates of the seven One-day International series in which India will host Australia. The ODI series will be played between October 25 and November 11.The seven venues that will be hosting the matches are: Guwahati, Mumbai, Jaipur, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Mohali and Nagpur. Australia will tour India shortly after the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in South Africa in September. The dates of seven matches are as follows: Oct 25, Oct 28, Oct 31, Nov 2, Nov 5, Nov 8 and Nov 11.Though the committee declared the dates of the matches, it will later announce the dates for each venue after putting the logistics in place.The fixtures for Sri Lanka’s tour of India and the Tri-series between Sri Lanka, India and New Zealand will be finalised during the working committee meeting in August.Sri Lanka is scheduled to tour India for three Tests and five ODIs shortly after Australia’s visit to the country.

Hussain praises Vaughan

LONDON: Former England skipper Nasser Hussain praised Michael Vaughan as "one of the very best England captains”."To win more than half your games in charge is a phenomenal achievement, and while I do not like comparing people of different eras it is hard to think of anyone who could have been better," Hussain wrote in a local newspaper. "He just ticked so many boxes, an excellent leader of men, a cool and calm captain who developed into an astute tactician."

Sri Lanka steps up security for Pakistan series

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka has stepped up security for the visiting Pakistan team and slapped new restrictions at match venues, officials said Wednesday.Fireworks, musical bands, glass bottles, tin cans, sharp objects, laser pointers and mirrors have all been banned from the grounds where the matches are slated to be played."Other than national flags of Sri Lanka and Pakistan, no banners, posters and discriminating slogans will be allowed," Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said.The series comes about a month after Sri Lanka ended a bloody, four-decade ethnic war against Tamil Tiger rebels."We are not taking any chances," police spokesman senior superintendent Ranjith Gunasekara told AFP."We want to avoid a Lahore," he said, referring to a gun and grenade attack on the Sri Lankan team by militants in March outside the Gaddafi stadium in Lahore, Pakistan.Pakistan's three-day warm-up game against a Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo that ends Wednesday saw hundreds of police commandos sealing off the ground while spectators were thoroughly frisked.The first of the three Tests begins on July 4, followed by five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 game.

PCB fines Asif for Dubai drugs detention

LAHORE: Pakistani cricket authorities on Thursday fined Mohammad Asif one million rupees (12,500 dollars) over the fast bowler's 19-day detention at Dubai airport for alleged drug possession. Asif, 26, was detained last June on his way back home after playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). A three-member Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) committee headed by former captain and PCB director Wasim Bari investigated the matter. "On recommendation of the committee we have fined Asif one million rupees," the PCB said in a press release. Dubai authorities found opium in Asif's possession, but a prosecutor determined that the quantity was small and deported the bowler. Asif is also banned from playing international cricket until September after testing positive for the banned anabolic steroid Nandrolone last year. "Asif will be available for selection once he completes the IPL ban," said the release. The mercurial fast bowler also tested positive for Nandrolone during tests conducted by the PCB in 2006. He and fellow bowler Shoaib Akhtar, who failed the test too, were banned for one and two years respectively. Asif has taken 51 wickets in 11 Tests since making his debut in Australia in 2005. He also has 36 wickets in 31 one-dayers.

2nd hockey match between England and Pakistan today

LONDON: The second match of the hockey series between England and Pakistan will be played today. Pakistan is leading the series 1- ...

David Lipton meets Tarin

ISLAMABAD: David Lipton, Senior Director for International Economics, National Security Council of USA, on Monday showed keen interest in the nine-point agenda of the government and assured cooperation in the development of Pakistan. David Lipton called on the Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Shaukat Tarin. During the meeting, Tarin briefed Lipton about the state of economy and emphasised that the government is determined to implement its agenda for the country’s progress, says a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance. He further said that it was really important that Pakistan progresses in the right direction.

Oil rises in Asia

SINGAPORE: Oil rebounded in Asian trade Wednesday after falling overnight on figures showing declining consumer confidence in the United States, the world's biggest energy user, analysts said. New York's main contract, light sweet crude for August delivery rose 66 cents to 70.55 dollars. Brent North Sea crude for August delivery advanced 75 cents to 70.05 dollars. Analysts expect the rebound in crude prices, coming mainly on the back of investors looking for an alternative to equities, to be temporary amid fresh worries about US energy demand.

PCB accepts Imran’s apology

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) accepted the apology of test cricketer Imran Nazeer and gave him go-ahead for inclusion in team for Sri Lanka series.Opening Batsman Nazeer violated the code of Conduct in twenty20 Cup final, for which he faced punitive action.Later on, PCB Chairman Iaz butt said in a news conference that the players like Imran Nazeer are not needed, he needs to improve his discipline.In a meeting with PCB Director HR Waseem Bari three days ago, Imran tendered him an apology about his behaviour and assured him of being on guard in future.The sources said the PCB accepted his apology, warning him and directed him to continue the practice.

Oil below 70 dollars in Asia

SINGAPORE: Oil prices recovered modestly but remained below 70 dollars in Asian trade Thursday after overnight losses on US energy demand concerns, analysts said.New York's main contract, light sweet crude for August delivery was 14 cents firmer at 69.45 dollars. Brent North Sea crude for August delivery rose 10 cents to 68.89 dollars a barrel. Crude fell at the close of US trading Wednesday as investors focused on weak American gasoline demand indicated by the latest government data which showed petrol stocks rising by 2.3 million barrels in the week ending June 26.

More funds needed for Malakand IDPs return: UN

ISLAMABAD: The United Nations officials said an office will be establish in Bhakkar for the affectees of Dera Ismail Khan and Tank whereas return of Buner affectees to their homes is underway which will be completed within ten days.In a media briefing here, UN officials said average 300 families of Buner affectees are returning back to their areas on daily basis and the process will be completed within ten days. The UN and NWFP government are working jointly for safe return and rehabilitation of IDPs. Sixty percent health facilities have been destroyed completely in the troubled areas. More funds needed for the safe return of IDPs and review commission sent in the affected areas will return back today.

Commander Nazeer vows to keep Peace Treaty in SWA

WANA: The extremist commander based in South Waziristan Mullah Nazeer Thursday announced to side with the government by keeping the peace treaty intact.During a Jirga held in SWA capital Wana, political administration directed the release of six arrested men.Political administration, 120-strong Peace Committee, trial veterans and ulema attended the Jirga. Prior to Jirga with political administration, Peace committee, veterans and ulema held negotiations with Commander Mullah Nazeer.Talking to Geo news, Jirga member Malik Ghazi Mhammed said the Jirga got along well for establishing peace and resolving other issues, adding consensus was achieved to act upon the Peace Treaty 2007.It was decided in the Jirga that the forces would not be attacked in line with the Peace Treaty; in case violation of the treaty was committed, the whole responsibility would rest with area veterans and the Political Officials would be fully entitled to take action.Malik Noor Ai, Maulvi Mirza Jan, Ameer Gulistan and other veterans addressed the Jirga.On the occasion Political Agent Shahab Ali Shah directed the release of six men on the demand by the veterans, urging them to play their role for enduring peace in the area.

Federer, Haas, Murray, Roddick into semis of Wimbledon Tennis

WIMBLEDON: Roger Federer neutralized Ivo Karlovic's huge serves to reach the Wimbledon semifinals and move a step closer to a record 15th Grand Slam championship. Two-time finalist Andy Roddick, Andy Murray and Tommy Haas completed the final four.Federer conjured up a few great returns to break the 6-foot-10 Croatian twice and secure a 6-3, 7-5, 7-6 (3) victory at the All England Club.Federer's next opponent will be Germany's Tommy Haas, who upset fourth-seeded Novak Djokovic 7-5, 7-6 (6), 4-6, 6-3 to advance to his first Wimbledon semifinal.The 31-year-old Haas was the oldest player in the quarters, while the 22-year-old Djokovic was the youngest.Third-seeded Andy Murray swept Juan Carlos Ferrero 7-5, 6-3, 6-2 to reach his first Wimbledon semifinal.Murray will face the sixth-seeded Roddick, who served 43 aces and outlasted 2002 champion Lleyton Hewitt 6-3, 6-7 (10), 7-6 (1), 4-6, 6-4 in the day's most competitive match.

Tarin says will negotiate with IMF over power tariff

ISLAMABAD: Finance Advisor Shaukat Tarin said Pakistan will negotiate with IMF, World Bank and other organizations about increased power tariff. Talking to Geo News here, Tarin said the country is facing shortfall of 3,000 to 4,000 MW. The government is aware of the miseries of people created by load-shedding. Efforts are underway to overcome the crisis. He said an effective policy would be chalked out for dues of oil companies and elimination of circular debts.

Indian court legalizes homosexuality

Updated at: 1228 PST, Thursday, July 02, 2009 NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court on Thursday decriminalized homosexuality by reading down section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. The Section 377 of the IPC as far as it criminalizes gay sex among consenting adults is violation of fundamental rights, said the high court. However, Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code which criminalizes homosexuality, will continue for non-consensual and non-vaginal sex. Any kind of discrimination is anti-thesis of right to equality, said the court, while allowing plea of gay rights activists for decriminalization of homosexuality. The court said that this judgment would hold till Parliament chooses to amend the law.

16-hour long load shedding in Lahore enrages people

LAHORE: The duration of unannounced load shedding has touched to 16-hours in some parts of Lahore, forcing people to remain outside their homes under open air all night long.The most affected areas were Wapda Town, Behrin Town, Green Town, Town Ship, Kot Lakhpat, Kahna, Faisal Town, Model Town, Allama Iqbal Town and many more other areas.The last night rainfall also multiplied peoples’ miseries as it had left atmosphere hot and close all night long so people had to pass their night outside homes under open atmosphere.Power outages have also led to water shortages in many areas while people demanded government overpowering power crisis so that people may receive a sigh of relief, sources said.

3 militants, 3 volunteers killed in Upper Dir clash

SWAT: Three militants and three volunteers of national lashkar were killed during between militants and national lashkar in Upper Dir.According to sources, clash happened between national lashkar and militants in Dogdaga area of Upper Dir. Three militants and three volunteers of national lashkar including district ameer Naeemullah were killed and four injured in the trade of fire.National lashkar set ablaze three houses of militants including the house of Naeemullah. On the other hand, unknown gunmen shot dead two persons in tehsil Kabal of Swat.According to Swat media center, curfew will be relaxed till 6 pm in Khawazkhela, Madeen, Dareeshkhela and Bedra. Curfew relaxation also announced in district Shangla till 6 pm whereas in district Lower Dir, curfew has been eased till 8:00 pm in tehsil Maidan and Adeenzai.

KESC irregularities report tomorrow: PEPCO

ISLAMABAD: Managing Director Pakistan Electric Power Company (PEPCO) Tahir Bisharat Cheema has said that report on irregularities of Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC) will be presented to the Ministry of Water and Power by tomorrow.Speaking in Geo News program ‘Capital Talk’, he said KESC receives 600 to 700 MW electricity.MD PEPCO said the company has sent to former president Pervez Musharraf electricity bill amounting to Rs500,000 which still remains unpaid.He said the present power crisis is being faced by the country as no new power plants were established over many past years.

Sri Lanka tighten security for Pakistan series

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka has stepped up security for Pakistan team and slapped new restrictions at match venues, officials said Wednesday.Fireworks, musical bands, glass bottles, tin cans, sharp objects, laser pointers and mirrors have all been banned from the grounds where the matches are to be played."Other than national flags of Sri Lanka and Pakistan, no banners, posters and discriminating slogans will be allowed," Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said. The first of the three Tests begins on July 4, followed by five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 game.

KSE-100 Index climbs over 7,200 level

KARACHI: The benchmark KSE-100 Index of Karachi Stock Exchange surged by 109 points on the opening day of the new financial year, closing at 7,270.The share market opened upbeat and the major Index was seen in the green territory throughout the session.Energy and cement sectors drew particular attention of the investors who took fresh positions in these sectors on reports of slashing of interest rate by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and reduction in profit rates on national savings schemes. Trade volume was recorded at 100 million shares.DG Khan Cement was today’s star performer in terms of volume which gained paisas 85 to close at Rs30.50.KSE-30 Index advanced by 141 points to peg at 7,711.

PM, Army Chief call on President

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani Wednesday called on President Asif Ali Zardari to discuss the issues relating to overall law and order situation in the country.According to a presidential spokesman, in the meeting at the Presidency the counterinsurgency operation in Malakand and South Waziristan region, rehabilitation of displaced persons and overall security situation in the country were discussed.According to the statement issued from the Presidency, President Zardari said the war against terrorism will be taken to its logical end until the absolute elimination of extremists.He said the enduring peace would be established in the country by completely exterminating the militants from the troubled areas.Zardari said government has in focus the relief and rehabilitation of Malakand affectees, adding government will ensure the safe return of all affectees.President Zardari said any reconciliation with the extremists is out of question.On the occasion, the Army Chief also apprised the President about his recent visits to France, Germany and Russia.According to Geo News sources, the army chief informed the PM and the President about the ongoing operation and current situation in Malakand and Waziristan.The sources said the military and political leadership agreed that the militants will have to accept the writ of government by surrendering with their arms.It was agreed upon in the meeting that the war against terrorists will continue until the absolute elimination of militants with no option of backtracking on table.On this occasion, rich tribute was paid to the jawans and officers who laid down their lives in the war against terrorism.

Terrorism claimed over 3,000 lives in tribal areas: report

PESHAWAR: Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) secretariat has issued the report of monetary and human losses done by terrorism and extremism in the tribal areas.A 21 pages report revealed that more than $2 billion damages were done by terrorism in tribal areas.Tribal areas suffered most as compared to other parts of the country. More than 3,000 people were killed in tribal areas during terror activities. Bajaur Agency was the worst hit area where 600 people were killed. The wake of terrorism claimed five hundred lives Kurram Agency, South and North Waziristan. The number of people wounded in terror incident is over 3,000.According to report, the initial property losses is estimated up to $103 million whereas the losses estimated in economic and social sectors are $119 million and $109 million respectively. Extremism takes its toll in agriculture sector also in the form of $188 million losses. Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) expenses estimated $572 million.The report disclosed that militants are equipped with latest weapons whereas in contrast of this, Khasadar Force have outdated arms insufficient for retaliatory action against militants.The personnel of Khasadar and Levies getting Rs.3,500 salary per month while militants getting Rs.10,000 to 15,000 per month. The report termed this major inequality as the basic reason of unrest in these areas. The estimated $two billion is needed for reconstruction and rehabilitation of tribal areas, it added.

UN votes for restoration of Honduras’ president

TEGUCIGALPA: Honduras' ousted president won overwhelming international support Tuesday as he planned a high-profile return to his chaotic country. The politicians who sent soldiers to fly him into exile in his pajamas said he will be arrested for treason if he tries.

The showdown was building to a climax as the presidents of Argentina and Ecuador signed on to accompany President Manuel Zelaya and other figures on a flight to Honduras on Thursday.

Attorney General Luis Alberto Rubi said Zelaya would be seized "as soon as he sets foot on Honduran soil" and face 20 years in prison on charges that also include abuse of authority.

"I'm going back to calm people down. I'm going to try to open a dialogue and put things in order," Zelaya said at the United Nations. "When I'm back, people are going to say ... `commander, we're at your service' and the army will have to correct itself. There's no other possibility."

The U.N. General Assembly voted by acclamation to demand Zelaya's immediate restoration, and the Organization of American States was meeting to consider suspending Honduras for straying from democracy.

With no international support but a significant following at home, the new Honduran leadership called thousands of flag-waving people into a downtown plaza. Soldiers fenced off the area around the presidential palace, where security forces used tear gas and water cannons Monday against Zelaya supporters, injuring and arresting dozens.

The interim president named by Congress, Roberto Micheletti, said Zelaya could be arrested for violating the constitution if he returns. He also said he would not resign no matter how intense the international pressure on Honduras becomes.

"No. I was appointed by Congress, which represents the Honduran people. Nobody can make me resign unless I break the laws of the country," Micheletti said in an interview with media at the presidential palace.

Zelaya — whose elected term ends in 2010 — had defied the Supreme Court and called a referendum on constitutional change that opponents worried would lead to Zelaya prolonging his presidency.