NATO, Russia to hold drills in Balkans
AP, Serbia
NATO is holding an emergency exercise drill in Montenegro while Russian troops will participate in a war game in Serbia as the two Balkans neighbors seem to be heading in different directions strategically.
The five-day drill in Montenegro that started Monday includes fighting floods and chemical attacks. It will include 680 personnel from seven NATO countries and 10 partner states.
US extends sanctions on Sudan
AFP, Khartoum
President Barack Obama has extended US sanctions on Sudan for another year, saying Khartoum’s policies remained an “extraordinary threat” to the national security of the United States.
Sudan has been subject to a US trade embargo since 1997 for its alleged support for Islamist groups. Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was based in Khartoum from 1992 to 1996.
Diwali celebrated at London temple
PTI, London
Hundreds of people celebrated Diwali at the famous BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir London in the UK, with Europe’s largest Hindu temple serving over 1200 vegetarian dishes to the devotees on the holy occasion of festival of lights.
The temple, also known as Neasden Temple, in north London was decorated with dazzling displays of bright, intricate Indian patterns and flickering lamps.
Hundreds of worshipers and visitors arrived at the temple throughout the day yesterday and offered their prayers.
In the evening, a special ceremony for home and business owners was held.
