Stories for February 2011

Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 06:23 UTC
Gaddafi denies he fled to Venezuela while cracks begin to appear in the regime

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi appeared Monday on state television signalling his defiance in the face of a mounting revolt against his 41-year rule.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 06:19 UTC
“Multiple fatalities” as quake strikes New Zealand’s second city at busy mid-day

Rescuers dug frantically for bodies and people trapped after a major 6.3 earthquake caused “multiple” deaths in New Zealand's second city of Christchurch Tuesday, crushing buildings and vehicles.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 06:11 UTC
Ireland main parties’ leaders pledge to condition any trade deal with Mercosur

Leaders of Ireland’s three main parties pledged on Monday to oppose any trade deal with Mercosur countries which could damage Irish exports if EU standards of production are not adhered to, reports the Irish Times.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 04:18 UTC
Uruguay/Argentina working on ‘fast track’ to address trade differences

Uruguay and Argentina are discussing a ‘fast track’ mechanism that will allow Uruguayan exports to have quick access to the neighbour’s market thus avoiding the controversial trade restrictions recently announced by the administration of President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and which have surprised Mercosur partners.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 03:52 UTC
FT warns Brazil could be approaching a “US like sub-prime” situation

The Financial Times warns that in spite of the current optimism about the performance of the Brazilian economy, the country could be heading to a ‘sub-prime’ crisis ‘worryingly’ similar to that experienced by the United States.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 00:58 UTC
Toledo set to repeat in Peru, but ex mayor Castañeda can still give surprise

Former Peruvian president Alejandro Toledo continues to lead public opinion polls for the April 10 presidential election followed in a tight race by Congress member Keiko Fujimori and the ex mayor of Lima, Luis Castañeda.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 00:19 UTC
President Rousseff promises Brazilian economy will speed up in 2012

Brazil’s economy will pick up speed in 2012, said President Dilma Rousseff on Monday addressing northeast governors concerned that recent announced budget cuts could limit economic activity and support for the area that depends from federal handouts.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 00:10 UTC
US offering Brazil “significant technology transfer” in jet fighters operation

Brazil would receive a “significant technology transfer” if it buys US-made fighter jets, a US Defence Department official said, seeking to ease concerns before Brazil selects a winning bidder.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 00:03 UTC
China raised fuel prices for the second time in three months

China has raised fuel prices for the second time in three months as it looks to offset a jump in global crude costs. However, the move has raised questions over government attempts to slow inflation.
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011 - 00:00 UTC
A fatiguing marathon ahead for debt strained Euro zone countries, says ECB

European Central Bank policymaker Axel Weber said that debt-strained Euro zone countries must make the most of the breathing space bought by aid measures and warned them the hardest part of the reform process was still ahead.