International
InternationalWorld Hypertension Day: WHO says avoid processed, canned and ready-to-eat-foods
At least 30% of people in the Americas suffer from hypertension, or high blood pressure, for which excessive dietary salt is the main risk factor. For 1 of 3 people who have hypertension, cutting sodium intake can reduce their blood pressure to normal levels. Reducing dietary salt could also prevent an estimated 25% of heart attacks and strokes worldwide.
Pope Francis condemned the global ‘cult of money’ and the ‘new idols’
Pope Francis has condemned the global “cult of money” and urged world leaders to do more for the poor. In his first major speech on finance and the economy, the pontiff said money should be made to “serve” people, not to “rule” them.
Uruguay’s José Mujica lauds booming Brazil ties
By Jude Webber in Montevideo - The Financial Times has published a piece on Uruguayan president Jose Mujica and his view on the future and his government’s policy towards two powerful neighbors, Argentina and Brazil.
Prince Harry and PM Cameron launch in New York global campaign to promote Britain
HRH Prince Harry and UK Prime Minister David Cameron this week kicked off a global tour promoting Britain as a world class destination for trade, tourism, investment and education as part of the GREAT Britain campaign.
The Arctic eight-member Council has accepted China and India as ‘observer states’
New emerging powers including China and India have been accepted as “observer” states in the eight-nation Arctic Council and a new deal was signed to improve oil spill response to safeguard the fragile eco-system of the region, as Canada begun its chairmanship.
Solar activity at its 11-year peak; major flares could impact Earth over the weekend
Between Sunday and Monday, and within a 24 hour period, the sun has let lose three major flares, all in the X range. Solar flares are rated on a scale with X flares being among the largest possible. The latest flare erupted Monday night and registered as an X3.2, which is so far the most powerful solar flare of 2013.
Falklands’ war: Defense releases stats on deaths of military personnel
A comprehensive statistical study of the deaths of personnel deployed to the Falklands since the end of the conflict has been published in the UK. The study, by Britain’s Defense Analytical Services and Advice (DASA) was published on Tuesday 14 May and is the first of its kind.
US scientists with cloning techniques created human embryonic stem cells
For the first time, Oregon State researchers in the US have used cloning techniques to create human embryonic stem cells that could offer hope for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
Communist Germany allowed Western pharmaceutical firms testes new drugs in hospital patients
Western pharmaceutical firms allegedly conducted drug tests on unwitting patients in communist East Germany. The lucrative clinical trials enabled the GDR government to bring much needed hard currency according to a report from Deutsche Welle.
UK parliament rejects EU referendum amendment despite 114 Tories votes
A total of 114 Conservative MPs have backed an amendment to the Queen's Speech “expressing regret” an EU referendum bill was not part of the government's agenda for the year ahead. Euro-sceptic Tories forced the vote as part of efforts to make Prime Minister David Cameron's pledge for a poll in 2017 binding.
