Categories
- Russia
- Europa
- World
- Business
- Sport
- Health - Science
- Travel
- Travel .DE
- Hotspots and Incidents
- Arts and Style
- Opinion
The front page
Russia
Russia will join WTO
Posted by newsfromrussia.com on 07.2010Ongoing plans for Russia to join the World Trade Organization continue to inspire journalist’s reports coming out of the RIA Novosti news agency. Although the desire remains true for Russia, a few roadblocks may cause a delay. The earliest expected date for acceptance into the WTO would be no earlier than the spring of 2011 as reported by the RIA’s online sources. The reason for this anticipated date relates to the approvals needed by other participating members, particularly the U.S. President Barack Obama has voiced his support for Russia’s request but the process requires time and needs additional support from a majority of members.
What this Means to the WTO
Russia’s desire to join the WTO is not a new proposition. Ongoing negotiations have been continuing for over 16 years spanning the ups and downs of the country’s economic turmoil. Russia is the only major trade center not associated with the organization. Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s newest President, is taking an active role in getting his country accepted into this valuable trade mechanism.
The general consensus of representatives of the WTO from the U.S. and EU is that having Russia as a partner in the “Club” will be beneficial to all parties. From the U.S. standpoint, Russia’s support during 9/11 was commendable and a new relationship has formed between the two leaders. The feelings expressed by EU advisors state that having Russia involved will provide sound advice and direction that affects the large commercial trade markets between the countries.
It is also believed by most of the participating parties that Russia will benefit greatly as a member. The country’s economic growth should strengthen with the help of WTO policies and increased investment into Russian businesses and markets will bring greater prosperity. A new level of self sufficiency should also become a benefit as dependency on importing raw materials lessens.
Will Russia’s Bid be accepted?
One of the main roadblocks affecting Russia’s acceptance into the WTO is the lack of a well-functioning national intellectual security system. Medvedev vows to tackle this issue as a main priority in his agenda to help move Russia forward as a participating member of the global economy. He has stated in the past that acceptance is not a prize for good behavior but should follow a systematic approach. Other former Soviet Union countries including Belarus and Kazakhstan hope to join Russia in their bid to be part of the WTO. Their involvement may come simultaneously or at some later date. Regardless, Russia plans to make the move as soon as possible. Medvedev is counting on the full support of the U.S. and plans to actively pursue acceptance into the WTO as long as he holds the office of President.
Bloggers awarded in Moscow, winners of contest for journalists
Posted by newsfromrussia.com on 07.2010The Russian International News Agency (RIA) recently conducted a contest for Russian journalists to publish an essay using the agency’s online source. Bloggers and journalists were asked to discuss their feelings about the vast changes that have occurred in society since the fall of the Berlin wall. The “Generation 20 Years after the fall of the Berlin Wall” competition was designed to generate interesting text from political journalists who are familiar with the ins and outs of online publishing. The contest provided an opportunity to discuss both a motivating topic and to utilize a new method of journalism.
The RIA chose the Internet for publication in order to demonstrate the value of online communication in today’s world. By using the Internet as a resource for communication, journalists and bloggers may immediately share their views and obtain the ability to review the opinions of other professionals. With the discussion of the changes to society after the fall of the Berlin Wall, an open forum was established that allows ideas to be shared and writers to be stimulated to include their views. Both the European Union office and the Russian RIA Novosti News Agency participated in designing and implementing the contest rules.
Other important items recently published through the RIA Novosti involve the questions raised during the Russia-EU summit about Russia’s role as a part of Europe in regard to returning illegal immigrants to their native land. The discussions revolved around how the process is implemented and whether illegal persons should be immediately turned over to Russian border guards. Another question under discussion involved whether the need for Visas should be dissolved between Russia and European countries with some in favor and others opposed. Leaders Medvedev and Merkel have suggested a proposal to create a Russia-EU security committee to study interaction between bordering countries.
Russia’s struggle with internal security questions continues while some Russian bloggers criticize major banks, institutions and airports within the country. This new trend toward open communication is causing many Russian establishments to be concerned about commentary occurring freely over the Internet.
Other Multimedia News
Celebrations honoring the twenty years following the fall of the Berlin Wall continue to inspire people throughout the world. Thousands gathered at the site that fell on November 9, 1989 to remember the remarkable change that would result from removing the barricade. Amazing photographs have been published on the Internet that document how the Berlin Wall appeared twenty years ago. The quick destruction of the barrier will be long remembered through the images and stories that appeared in newspapers throughout the world. The recent celebrations to commemorate the twentieth anniversary are now available worldwide through Internet publications and videos.
World
Obama's New Sanctions against Iran
Posted by newsfromrussia.com on 07.2010Journalists associated with the Russian Information Agency (RIA) Novosti recently reported that U.S. President Obama and Russian President Medvedev agree with imposing additional sanctions on Iran. The two world leaders took another step toward solving the issue of undeclared nuclear weapon development within the Iranian borders. The team effort of imposing additional sanctions may have some effect on encouraging the Iranian government to fully declare their activities. With the publicity surrounding the ongoing meetings of Obama and Medvedev, the entire world seems to be taking notice of their discussions. Using this platform as a stepping stone toward applying new trade sanctions may cause other world leaders to join the effort.
The law passed by President Obama restricts doing any business with over 30 specific companies in Iran that are involved in developing nuclear and missile technology. The financial impact will have an effect on both the U.S. and Russia who may lose billions due to breach of contract assessments with participating Iranian companies. The U.N. Security Council also imposed additional sanctions including more stringent financial controls and an additional arms embargo.
How the Iranian Government Responded
So far, the additional sanctions have not stimulated the Iranian government to take any change of course. They continue to deny reports of using their nuclear program for anything other than developing new sources of energy. President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad feels the sanctions are unjustified and expressed his reluctance to make concessions to any country or agency.
As a result of the imposed sanctions, the Iranian Parliament passed a bill to reduce the interaction and cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Some analysts regard this move as an additional retreat from the world accepted agency that monitors nuclear related programs, leaving Iran in a position to perform activities behind closed doors.
Future Predictions for Progress in Iran
Whether the new sanctions will encourage Iran to change its policy toward an open door system or whether the country remains isolated will be well-watched phenomena. Although initial reports from Iran stated that the nuclear sanctions would not affect production in any way, recent statements from Iran’s nuclear chief contradict that prediction. He stated that the sanctions are already slowing production to some degree but will not halt the entire program.
What the new restrictions in trade with Iran have done is to bring a sense of solidarity with the EU, Russia and the U.S. with regard to destructive nuclear programs. By creating a joint force that strictly bans any nuclear development other than for energy, the world may remain a relatively safe place. Russia’s Prime Minister stressed the importance of leaving the door open for future diplomatic talks with Iran should they decide to cooperate.
Sudafrica: are there any Economical changes after the World Cup?
Posted by newsfromrussia.com on 07.2010The World Cup ranks as the second most important sports event after the Olympic Games. Hosting this event is bound to bring a positive cash flow to any country provided that some careful planning took place prior the games.
For South Africa, changes in the economic structure, at least in the near future, will be part of the benefit received for facilitating the games. The Soccer City Stadium in Soweto proved to be the ideal venue to hold a major world soccer event. Spectators who hesitated about making the journey to Johannesburg for the games jumped at the opportunity after learning more about this welcoming arena. Plenty of quality seats allowed visitors to view the action in a comfortable and safe environment. Having this first class venue brought the business to South Africa and immediately improved their economic structure.
Economic Reports Indicate Substantial Gains
Prior to the actual events, South African business leaders prepared for the onset of a massive increase to their economy. Many workers were hired to help with construction projects for new stadiums, hotels and food venues. Roads and public transportation systems were also renovated with the hope that tourists would visit the area and leave with a positive attitude and the intention to return at a later date. Some economists were concerned that the reputation of South Africa with regard to AIDs, poverty and lingering racial tension would deter visitors. These negative concerns proved to be invalid and the money spent on improving the infrastructure brought tremendous financial gains to the area.
Reports originating from South African sources indicate that the economy grew by nearly 80% during the World Cup events. The figures were calculated compared to a similar time period in 2009. These estimates were derived by evaluating credit card transactions, specifically Visa cardholders, for payment of accommodations, restaurants, air travel, shopping and car rentals. The conclusion made by economists evaluating the change in South Africa is that the credit card increases indicate a steady trend in a substantial boost to the local economy.
Economic Boosts outside the Cities
Johannesburg residents gained significant momentum in their economy during the 2010 World Cup. Restaurants, pubs, hotels and shops all were awarded the opportunity to receive increased revenues, in many cases more than an entire season would bring. In addition to a boost in the economic structure of the city, however, many visitors new to South Africa took advantage of traveling opportunities outside of the city.
The smaller villages in the region also received solid financial gains from the hordes of tourists who wandered beyond the city boundaries. A boost in tourism with safari tours, water sports and other adventure activities brought additional income to the region.
Sport
The best World's Cup soccer players
Posted by newsfromrussia.com on 07.2010Now that the 2010 World Cup is complete, sports enthusiasts are evaluating who ranks as the No. 1 player. With Spain the winner, the most obvious place to look is within the Spanish team players. This year a new method of rankings, the Castrol Index, makes it difficult to dispute each player’s performance. The technical ratings that arrived after the games indicate Sergio Ramos at the head of the pack. Other analysts may have formed different opinions but no one can deny that Sergio Ramos is the all around favorite player for the tournament with or without the factual data.
Castrol Index Rankings for World Cup
According to the Castrol Index Rankings, statistical data that was analyzed after viewing the World Cup indicates that Sergio Ramos deserves the number one spot. This sophisticated method of ranking soccer players uses a mathematical formula to evaluate each player’s performance throughout the World Cup series. Every detail is considered in the Castrol method including the strength of the opposition, individual actions, and timing of each performance. The results of the 2010 World Cup rank Sergio with a 9.79 rank, slightly above his teammate Joan Capdevila who captured a 9.74 index.
About Sergio Ramos
The 24-year old player from the Andalusia region of Spain is easily recognized by his flowing dark hair and powerful physique. His soccer career began in 2004 at age 17 and has continued to rise after he signed a contract to play with Real Madrid as part of the Spanish national team. Sergio creates continual excitement on the field where he demonstrates both skill and stamina and rarely is out of the starting lineup. His latest World Cup record brings a new height to his already famous career.
2010 FIFA World Cup Records
The 2010 FIFA World Cup will be remembered as an event that broke new ground in several areas. It was the first tournament to be held on African soil and proved to be a huge success for businesses and sponsors in South Africa. An impressive new stadium drew thousands to the region and the fans who attended returned with favorable reports. The tournament was also the first to be won by Spain and Sergio Ramos will be awarded much of the credit. It was also the first World Cup to be fully monitored using the Castrol Index Rankings proving that Sergio was indeed the number 1 ranked player.
Health - Science
10 Tips to Stay Slim during the Summer
Posted by newsfromrussia.com on 07.2010When the summer months arrive, eating more snacks, enjoying sugary drinks and relaxing every day become part of the normal routine. Unfortunately, these habits may lead to unwanted weight gain that can be difficult to control. Staying slim during the summer months is easily managed by keeping track of the way we eat and making sure to add regular exercise to our routines. Here are a few tips on how to stay slim and keep looking great during the summer:
Summer Diet Choices to Stay Slim
1. Take advantage of the fresh produce available during the summer. Eating more fruits and vegetables improves overall health and is a better alternative than snacking on fried foods, potato chips or pastries.
2. Cook outside on the grill more often. Grilled chicken and fish provide healthy lower fat alternatives than meats roasted or sautéed in heavy sauces.
3. Replace sugary sodas or fruity drinks with water flavored with lemon, berry or melon. Staying hydrated during the summer months helps flush the body of toxins, maintains weight and keeps nutrients flowing.
4. Be aware of the calorie intake from alcoholic drinks. Stick to light beers, reduced sugar mixers such as light tonics and white wine.
5. Think creatively with salads. Adding some protein such as hardboiled egg, grilled chicken or salmon to fresh greens makes a substantial meal. Be sure to choose a low-fat salad dressing. Summer Exercise Choices to Stay Slim
6. Walking for 30 minutes a day at a moderate pace helps maintain weight throughout the summer. Add extra minutes to the routine or change the normal route to keep the exercise interesting.
7. Practice a few yoga poses every day. Yoga helps strengthen the muscles and burns fat. It’s easy to find a place in the house or in a hotel room to do yoga exercises. It also helps refresh the spirit.
8. Spend less time on the computer and more time outdoors. Sunshine adds Vitamin D to the body and encourages activity that will burn calories.
9. Plan an exercise routine with a friend or loved one. Making a commitment to walk, go to the gym or for bicycle ride on a specific day may be easier if someone else is going along.
10. Gardening burns calories and is good for the soul. Try to work in the garden each day or if garden space is not available, visit a local nursery each week to see what’s blooming. Even working with houseplants or patio plants is good therapy. The summer months are the ideal time for trying a new routine. The key is to be aware of fattening foods and drinks and to balance food intake with plenty of exercise.
Atopic dermatitis in Russia and Europe
Posted by newsfromrussia.com on 07.2010Although not considered to be a contagious disease, atopic dermatitis causes discomfort and embarrassment to many people who contract the illness. Children and infants often suffer the most from this disease that causes sore itchy skin and may affect the respiratory system. In recent years, an increase in cases of atopic dermatitis appears to be occurring in regions of Russia and Europe. In some reports, the increase is believed to be related to uncontrolled air pollutants. Recent studies indicate, however, that most cases are genetic in nature and are likely related to family history rather than to environmental conditions.
The Main Causes of Atopic Dermatitis in Russia and Europe
Having a family history of asthma is a leading cause of atopic dermatitis in children. Previous cases of eczema or skin rashes among parents and other siblings typically is a prerequisite for contracting the condition. The results of previous medical studies show that over 80% of new outbreaks occur in children under the age of five. A study performed in Denmark, for example, indicated that identical twins were more inclined to contract the disease regardless of their environment.
Industrial pollution in northern countries including Russia, Norway and parts of Germany has recently been shown to have a slight effect on additional cases of atopic dermatitis in adults. Other factors including amount of exposure and length of time, specific chemical components and natural filtering processes also affect the tendency for any population group to be susceptible to the conditions. Additional studies are currently being conducted in specific regions of Norway and Russia to determine the actual percentages of increased cases.
Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis
Patients who experience atopic dermatitis typically acquire a red, inflamed skin rash that could contain blistering bumps and sores. In Infants, the rash may appear on the cheeks, legs and arms and could cause oozing and scaly crusts on the skin. More serious cases of eczema often lead to asthma or respiratory problems in patients with chronic conditions.
Children who experience atopic dermatitis appear often display an allergic reaction to something in their environment by a sudden outbreak of blotchy red skin rash. They may suddenly develop an itching and burning of the skin. If children or teenagers are exposed to unusually high amounts of toxic chemicals, they are more susceptible to acquiring atopic dermatitis than adults.
Current Effective Treatments for Atopic Dermatitis
For children with atopic dermatitis, applying a topical moisturizer and anti-itch cream provides some relief. For teenagers or young adults with severe cases, a physician or dermatologist may recommend cortisone shots. Alternative treatments including homeopathic medicine may have some effect on reducing the symptoms of the disease and provide a safe alternative to other medications.