The World Bank and U.S. lawmakers, concerned with how Americans' tax dollars are being spent, launched a new forum on Wednesday to improve cooperation between the poverty-fighting institution and Congress.

The new bipartisan Caucus for Congressional-World Bank Dialogue hopes to deepen, and in some cases launch discussions between the bank and the U.S. Congress on development, poverty and trade issues.

Under World Bank rules, the bank's head and senior officials are barred from testifying before congressional committees and discussions are restricted to closed-door meetings.

"With the world changing at a rapid pace, this new caucus makes sense," said Rep. Kevin Brady, a Texas Republican who is co-chair of the new caucus.

Rep. Betty McCollum, a Minnesota Democrat, said global challenges like climate change, rising food prices and energy security needed more attention by the World Bank and Congress.

"Our executive branch is calling upon Congress to invest in the World Bank -- over $1 billion a year. As an investor, we must ask questions and should share our views with the leadership of the bank," McCollum said.

The launch of the caucus comes as U.S. policymakers are discussing ways to overhaul foreign assistance under the next administration.

Congressional hearings have long focused on the effectiveness of the World Bank in reducing global poverty and delved into how much of the bank's money is wasted on corruption.

Recently, several legislators sought assurances from the World Bank that it was not lending to Iran, which Washington accuses of seeking to develop nuclear bombs.

"Now more than ever the United States needs to focus on its international relationships and its international strategies, and focus on multilateral institutions that make a real difference," said Phil English, a Pennsylvania Republican.

"What is important about this caucus is it will cultivate a dialogue with the World Bank which will be important not only for making sure U.S. tax dollars are used most effectively but also for coordinating Congress' strategy in dealing with global poverty and promoting capitalism worldwide in creating a rising tide that lifts all boats."

World Bank President Robert Zoellick said with many pressing issues in the U.S. Congress "it is not surprising sometimes that the World Bank has had only periodic attention."

Still, Zoellick said a more integrated world through globalization had brought with it new challenges that could no longer exclude the developing world, including emerging powers such as China and India, where the bank is most active. (Editing by Chris Wilson)
Read More from: Reuters.com

The Bank of Japan cut its economic growth forecast, raised its inflation estimate and kept its benchmark interest rate at 0.5 per cent, saying higher commodity prices are hurting the expansion.

The world's second-largest economy will grow 1.2 per cent in the year ending March 31, slower than the 1.5 per cent forecast on April 30, the central bank said. Consumer prices, excluding fresh food, will climb 1.8 per cent, more than the 1.1 per cent projected three months ago, it said.

Growth is "slowing further" because higher energy and raw materials costs are discouraging businesses and consumers from spending, the bank said.
Read More from: canada.com

Bahmas Map


Bahmas Population and Geography

Country Name: Bahamas
Country code: BS
Capital: Nassau
Currency: Bahamian Dollar
Currency code: BSD
Land area: 10,070 sq km
Population: 307,451 (2008 est)
Literacy rate: 98.8% (1999 est.)
Total area: 13,940 sq km
Language: English
Religion: Baptist, Anglican, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal

India is a democratic country situated in the Asian continent. It is the only country in the world which has four names as Bharat, India, Hindustan, and Aryavart. It is the second most populous country in the world. It is bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the west, the Bay of Bengal on the east, and by the Himalaya on the north. It’s neighboring countries are Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Burma, Shri Lanka, the Maldives, and Indonesia. India has four seasons like winter, summer, autumn and rainy. The natural beaty of India is charming and leaves a long lasting effect on our soul and mind. The flowing rivers with green surface add an extra beauty to the environment. The green meadows and falling waterfalls make you feel like heaven. The running deer and roaring tigers make you feel like crazy and full of energy. You can see snake charmers and magicians here and there. It is also famous for its regional diversities as well as its cultural heritage.

India is a mysterious country. The villagers are superstitious and still believes in ghosts and witches. They lead a ordinary life and often live a hard life. Most of the villager still don’t know to use mobile phones. Though it is totally like passing day for them yet they are happy with their life. India’s past was very glorious and based on idealism.

The ideals of Ramayana and strategy of Mahabharata is very famous all over the world. The new generation is getting a lot of morals form thesee holy epics. The caves of Aganta and Ellora are world famous. The wonderful work of art is reflected in the carvings of these caves. The Taj Mahal, Kutub Minar and Imambara are some amongst the best creatinns. The world famous forts includes The Red Fort in Delhi, The Amer Fort in Jaipur, The Gwalior Fort and Mysore Palace. Through these historical monuments, we get a chance to see the past of ancient India and the craft of the masons who were like magicians and their immortal craft will be remembered as long as the this earth survives.

Each state of India has its own culture and language still it has no effect on the unity of the Indian people.You will see a life of celibacy and sanctity of the monks who only survive on just having air only. They are able to tell future and don’t have any interest in wealth and material world. They are just having air to survive. All these mysterious treasure is hidden in the old historical buildings.These historical monuments are the witness of Indian prosperity and architecture. These are like treasures for India. It’s quite interesting to observe the life and culture of villagers. Your visit to India and particularly villages will be quite educative, surprising and amusing.

Amer Fort, The Gwalior Fort, Red Fort in Delhi and The Mysore Palace. It is the birth place of “Ayurvedha”. Our old rishis-munis have followed age old Vedas and puranas and they have given the medicine world a new dimension which is used for the welfare of the mankind.

India has largest democracy in the world. It has number of states. Each state has its own regional features which are very peculiar. There are different cultures and traditions of every region. If we make a survey of all the regions we can find a good detail of information about the various dances, music of each state. As India presents a perfect picture of unity with diversity, there are lots of things which make each state different from another. You can find great number of languages that are spoken in India.It is a land of great saints and scholars.

The great preachers of Sikhs were born on this land which has given people distinct teachings.Different religions are practiced in India. You can find lots of gods and goddess that are worshipped in India. Various religious practices are followed by traditional rituals. People of India have strong bonding with their regional customs. It can be seen in their daily activities.

Food and cuisine that is taken by the people is a bit different in every state. Whatever the food is, the richness and nutrients are sure to be present in great quantities. Gujarati food is somewhat sweet whereas Punjabi food is generally very spicy laced with a lot of oil and butter. Like food, the regional dances also give a unique reflection of the heritage. The dances may be classical like Bhartya Natyam or Kuchipuri or Kathak, each dance has some religious importance. Folk music and instruments which have been in practice from decades give a unique blend of traditions.India has lots of adventures that are unique.

The presence of various places whether they are historical or religious, makes India very appealing for the tourists. For those bent on serious adventure, a number of agencies can organize cross-country tours through spectacular regions.

Whether it is Himachal or Darjling or Haridwar, every place has something to offer. Shimla which is known as queen of hills was once the favorite place of British officials and dignitaries. This is a beautiful place which is blessed by the Mother Nature with unique locations.

India is land where every region holds its annual fairs. Among the various fairs popular fairs include fair of Pushkar where cattle trade is done in large quantities. Then Kullu Dashera is the very popular among the locals and tourists.

Then there is Maghii Mela in Punjab. India is a land where lots of festivals are celebrated. There are some common and some regional festivals. Whatever be the occasion, the zeal and enthusiasm of the people is unmatched. The markets, streets and houses are given new looking with lots of decorations. Lots of shopping is done and festivals are celebrated with lots of gaiety and fervor.

Azerbaijan Map:

Country Name: Azerbaijan

Country code: AZ

Capital: Baku

Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (Russian Ruble)

Currency code: AZM

Location: western shore of the Caspian Sea

Population: 8,177,717(2008 est)

Literacy rate: 98.8% (1999 est.)

Total area: 86,600 sq km

Language: Azerbaijani Turkic

Religion: Islam

Austria Map:





Austria Travel Map:



Austria Population and currency Information:

Country Name: Austria
Country Code: AT
Capital: Vienna
President: Heinz Fischer (2004)
Population: 8,205,533 (2008 est.)
Currency: Euro
Currency Code: EUR
Climate: cold winters and frequent rain, snow in mountains and snow in lowlands
Total Area: 83,870 sq km
water Area : 1,426 sq km
land Area : 82,444 sq km
Language: German
Location: Central Europe, north of Italy and Slovenia

-------------------*********------------------------

The newspaper published no actual election results and attributed its conclusion to analysts. But the report is likely to be perceived as a decision by President Robert Mugabe to continue his fight to hold on to the presidency rather than yield it to the challenger Morgan Tsvangirai.

Earlier this week, with unofficial results showing Mr. Mugabe behind, close advisers to the president were split about whether he should concede or force a second vote, according to a Western diplomat with knowledge of the talks.

By law, if no candidate gets more than 50 percent of the ballots, a second round of voting must take place within 21 days between the two top candidates.

The country’s election commission has now gone nearly four days without releasing any results from Saturday’s presidential election, and the only announcements have been about seats for Parliament. The Herald said that “the two parties were likely to win between 96 and 99 House of Assembly seats each.” There are 210 Parliament seats. Read more from: http://www.nytimes.com/

Australia Map:



Australia Travel Map:





Australia Population and currency information:

Country Name: Australian

Country code: AU

Currency: Australian Dollar

Capital: Canberra

Currency code: AUD

Population: 20,264,000 (2006 est)

Land Area: 7,617,930 sq km

Languages: English

Religions: Anglican, Catholic

Australians are the world's richest superannuation holders, thanks to a stronger domestic currency and the previous government allowing people to put as much as $1 million tax-free into their retirement savings, a report shows.

Australians had an average of $63,794 invested in managed funds at the end of the last financial year, the AFG Global Fund Management Index showed.
Local super funds, on average, outperformed their peers in a top-10 list that included the United States, Canada and France.
In the year to June 30, 2007, the amount managed by Australian managed funds grew by 32.4 per cent.

By comparison, the value of American managed funds climbed by 8.5 per cent to $43,458 and UK funds rose by 23.2 per cent to $17,515.

AFG Financial Planning dealer principal Ross Nayler said the stronger Australian dollar, now trading at around 90 US cents, and laws allowing people to put up to $1 million tax free into their super savings helped make Australia a world leader.
"One of the key messages is we've been at the top of the table for quite some time and we're getting further ahead," he said.

Australian managed funds, over the five years to the second quarter of 2007, posted per capita growth rates of 97.7 per cent.

But they was pipped by Swedish funds, which grew by 114.3 per cent to $24,567 and UK retirement savings -- which expanded by 105.2 per cent.

World leaders or not, another survey, the AMP Superannuation Adequacy Index Report, for January to June last year, found that 30 per cent of Australian workers under 40 would not have enough savings to retire comfortably.
Read more from: businessspectator.com

Aruba map

Country Name : Aruba

Country code : AW

Currency : Florin

Capital : Oranjestad

Currency code : AWG

Population : 100 000

Total Area : 193 sq km

Languages : Dutch (official), English, Spanish, Papiamento

Religions: Roman Catholic 82%, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, Protestant

Country name : Armenia

Country Code : AM

Capital : Yerevan

Currency : Dram

Currency Code : AMD

President : Robert Kocharian (1998)

Prime Minister : Serge Sargsyan

Climate : Hot summers, cold winters and highland continental

Official Language : Armenian

Other Languages : Yezidi, Russian

Population : 2,971,650 (2007 EST)
Total Area : 29,800 sq km

*************** Armenia Tour Map *************************



******************* Armenia Tour Places ********************

Oberoi Udaivilas Hotal has won the world’s No. one best hotel award and also NO.1 hotal in Asia and India. Asia Hotals always get high rank but in 2007 it has got No. 1 rank among all the best world hotels, and also got top rank in list of small hotels.

Oberoi Udaivilas Hotal of the India has got first place in the world, Asia and list small hotels.





Its placed in Udaipur in India. India is a best tourism place in the world for luxury tour and medical tours. Udaipur is a city of palaces and lakes. So many beautiful lakes are there. It is a Ist choice of travelers. Oberoi Udaivilas Hotal is the main attraction of the visitors in Udaipur. It provide all luxury services to visitors like luxury guest room, luxury bathroom, meeting rooms, function rooms, The Candle Room, Spa Therapy Room and baar etc.

First victim of bird flu was in Pakistan. It’s adapted by Pakistan health official. The sufferer worked-up in Pakistan's NWFP (North West Frontier Province) at a poultry farm. And his brother also died latterly noxious with influenza.

Other five people also infecting the death-dealing H5N1 ache of bird flu from the same area. Some patients are in segregation and two have cured according to Pakistani authorities.

WHO said that, in Pakistan’s Peshawar region some doubtful cases (around eight) of H5N1 bird flu and says that more than two hundred people worldwide have died by bird flu since 2003.

Bill Gates (full name: William Henry Gates-III) was born in 1951 at Seattle, Washington. His father’s name is “William H. Gates-II” and mother’s name was” Late. Marry Gates”. He got married in 1994 and his wife (Melinda French.) is a Charity Worker. He has a 4 yrs old daughter named Jennifer Katherine and a son named Bory John Gates of 1 yr. Gates plans to spend 95% of all his earnings when he is old and donates thousands of dollars to Habitat for Humanity. These types of activities make him great and unique.
He believes in hard working and doesn’t believe in luck for his success. He says that we should choose right place in right time and competitiveness is the only way of success.

CORPORATE CAMPUS of MICROSOFT



Bill Gates has always wanted to make fun environment for product, such as a college campus. The suburban Microsoft "campus" is a group of 35 buildings, white pines & courtyards, lawns that appear like a state polytechnic college. He must always have enough money in the bank to run for a year even with no revenues rather than incurring debt for Microsoft.

Main strategies that Gate used for runs his company:

Until they get a best product, they do work their products continuously according to feedback. They have plan per year and think about the world that where world is heading.
He bats out a hundred or more E-Mail messages a day & night, he meets every month or so with a top management group that is still informally known as the Boop (Bill & the office of the President).

The key point for Microsoft has been that they’ve been hiring smart people. That’s why they win.

He always calculate and taking up 70% of his schedule. He take 2 or 3 review of meetings a day with a procession of teams working on the company’s various products.

His Favorite Novels are The Catcher in the Rye, The Great Gatsby and A separate peace. And Favorite authors are Philip Roth, John Irving and Ernest J. Gannes.

Bill Gates wrote a book “The Road Ahead” about information technology in 1995. Nathan Mythruold was the coauthor, who is chief technology officer in Microsoft. In 1996 "The Road Ahead" was revised.

Miss World 2007 has been started on December 1 2007. It’s celebrated in China for this year. Some handful persons have got right of entertaining Miss World 2007 face to face.

For the rest of us, television is the best medium to enjoy Miss World 2007 live.

106 beauty contestants participated from different countries of the world for this beauty contest. The last final was held in Sanya(China) and Zhang Zilin (only twenty three year old) was the winner of this contest.

At the second position Angola came and at the third Miss Mexico.

FINAL RESULTS

MISS WORLD 2007: CHINA PR
1st Runner-up: ANGOLA
2nd Runner-up: MEXICO

Get more from:

http://www.globalbeauties.com/world/2007/w07.htm

Antigua and Barbuda map



Antigua and Barbuda information:

Country code : AG

Currency : East Caribbean Dollar

Currency code : XCD

Population : 69,481 (2007 est.)

Total Area : 440 sq km

Languages : Dialects, English

Religions : Christian

WPP Group and Dell Inc. hopefully tie up with each other; it’s announced on Sunday by Dell Inc., the announcing extensive, to make a dealing department to manage $4.5 billion in Dell accounts accomplished with three years.


Casey Jones said that “We are creating a shared contribution or investment in people, technology and methods to specify more stability of the Dell brand world wide and also work combined as one communications and dealing or marketing team.”


Dell’s dealing and advertising business had been open out between 800 worldwide companies. Dell lost the first place in the personal computer market to the Hewlett-Packard Company, a few months after.

An excellent idea to figure out breast cancer chance in African American women have presented by researchers in the US. Till first off scientists were working with a plan depend on details from American women, but this new plan was presented using details from analyzing on black and white women. It has never been showing how well it evaluates risk for other ethnical groups, including black white women.


First of all, researchers have working with the “Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool or Gail model” that was presented by Mitchell Gail himself, to calculate breast cancer chances and thereby select women for breast cancer obstruction tests. But this model was developed using details on 240,000 American women.

Bird flue outbursts worldwide according to WHO (World Health Organization) and, there have been no justified cases in South Korea of humanistic with H5N1 to date.

On the other hand, a document from South Korea health officials delivered by Washington that a farm worker was distorted with H5N1 but because of "natural impunity” it did not grow up syndromes of the debility.

It was following sixth outbursts reports of the deadly bacterium between farm birds in South Korea in a year erstwhile that coincident, returning in destroy of over 2 million birds.

The deadly H5N1 pain of bird flu can open out to humans if they handle sick or dead birds infectious with the debility, and even so it is not easily open out from bird to human. Millions of domestic and wild birds worldwide have been destroyed as a result of H5N1 outbursts in recent years. Anyhow, although the current rate of human infection is low.

There are two reasons to be concerned about the spread of H5N1:

The first reason: It does not open out easily to humans, when it does, it is highly risk-taking.


The second reason to be concerned about the spread of H5N1: It does spread easily among humans. And the more opportunities the bacterium has to distort a large bird population, the more chances it has of evaluating into alike a form.