March 2002
The Pope Led the Candle Lighting Ceremony for Easter - 2002-03-31
Pope John Paul II led the Easter candle lighting ceremony in Rome while millions of Christians celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He will also…
Collision of Two Trains in Eastern Spain - 2002-03-31
Two passenger trains collided in eastern Spain, leading to at least 4 deaths and 90 injuries. The accident took place at Torre de Embarral station,…
Has One of Al-Qaeda's Leaders Been Arrested in Pakistan?
This article discusses the arrest of a suspect in Pakistan believed to be linked to Al-Qaeda. Investigators are trying to confirm if this individual is…
The Catholic Church of England Opposes U.S. Military Action
The Catholic Church of England and Wales has publicly opposed U.S. military action against Iraq, warning it could escalate tensions in the Middle East. Cardinal…
Report by Shahid: Interview with Dr. Shapour Rasekh about Western Civilization - 2002-03-31
The article features an interview with Dr. Shapour Rasekh discussing the absence of culture and humanity in Western civilization. It is reported by Mohammad Reza…
Report by Shahid: France's Reaction to the Arab Leaders' Conference - 2002-03-31
France has expressed its support for Saudi Arabia's peace proposal, indicating a diplomatic alignment in the region. This report highlights the involvement of France and…
Reports from Quds Razavi in Los Angeles - 2002-03-31
Quds Razavi reports from Los Angeles for Voice of America, providing access to audio reports for listeners. The reports can be accessed via links on…
Britain and the United States Should Not Take Military Action Against Iraq - 2002-03-30
Cardinal Murphy O'Connor has called on Britain and the US to refrain from military action against Iraq, warning it could escalate tensions in the Middle…
Continued Imprisonment of Journalist in Zimbabwe - 2002-03-30
Peta Thornycroft, a journalist for the Daily Telegraph and Voice of America, remains imprisoned in Zimbabwe despite no longer being deemed a threat to public…
The Life of Condoleezza Rice, U.S. National Security Advisor - 2002-03-30
The article discusses the life and career of Condoleezza Rice, who served as the U.S. National Security Advisor. It highlights her significance in American politics…
Traditional Easter Ceremony at the Colosseum
Pope John Paul II showed signs of illness during the Easter ceremony at the Colosseum, reducing his participation and refraining from the traditional walk with…
Mobile Hospitals for Afghan Earthquake Victims - 2002-03-30
International peacekeepers have established mobile hospitals in northern Afghanistan to assist earthquake victims after a devastating quake reportedly killed around 800 people. The response has…
Reports by Mohammad Reza Shahid from Paris - 2002-03-29
Mohammad Reza Shahid, a reporter for Voice of America, provides reports from Paris. These reports are available for transcription and audio access on the website.…
Under the Microscope: Analyses by Ali Reza Nourizadeh - 2002-03-29
Ali Reza Nourizadeh, an Iranian journalist in England, discusses current events and answers questions from a Voice of America reporter. The reports are available for…
Reports by Nasrin Mahdavi - 2002-03-29
Nasrin Mahdavi, a reporter for Voice of America, provides audio reports from Europe. These reports are accessible online for transcription and listening, catering to varying…
Arrest of a Drug Trafficker in Mexico - 2002-03-29
Adan Medrano, a dangerous drug trafficker linked to the Gulf Cartel, was arrested in Mexico. He is wanted in the U.S. for threats against drug…
Reports by Nazi Baghlari - 2002-03-29
Nazi Baghlari, a reporter for Voice of America, provides reports for the Persian section of the radio. These reports are available for transcription and listening…
Journalist Arrested in Zimbabwe - 2002-03-28
Peta Thornycroft, a journalist for the Daily Telegraph, was arrested in Zimbabwe for allegedly publishing false information and inciting unrest under a new security law.…
Guaranteeing Equal Rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina - 2002-03-27
Major political parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina have reached an agreement on constitutional reforms to ensure equal rights for ethnic minorities, including Serbs, Croats, and…
Interview with Moradian, Tanbur Player - 2002-03-27
Moradian, a tanbur musician, recently performed a concert in Paris. The report by Mohammad Reza Shahid highlights this event, showcasing the cultural contributions of Iranian…
Continued Media Censorship in Iran - 2002-03-27
The Committee to Protect Journalists reports ongoing media censorship and journalist arrests in Iran during 2001. Payman Pejman from Voice of America covers this issue.…
Partnership Agreement Between Swiss International Air Lines and American Airlines - 2002-03-27
Swiss International Air Lines has formed a partnership with American Airlines, allowing mutual use of frequent flyer miles. This new airline, replacing the bankrupt Swissair,…
Political Asylum for Vietnamese in America - 2002-03-27
The U.S. is offering political asylum to around 1,000 Vietnamese refugees who fled to Cambodia due to government repression. The Vietnamese hill tribes sought asylum…
An Interview with Sandra Day O'Connor, U.S. Supreme Court Justice - 2002-03-27
Mahtab Farid interviews Sandra Day O'Connor about global women's issues. O'Connor, a significant figure as the first female Supreme Court Justice, shares her insights. This…
President Bush's Message of Sympathy for Hamid Karzai - 2002-03-27
A devastating earthquake in Afghanistan has resulted in significant casualties and destruction, prompting President Bush to send a message of sympathy to interim president Hamid…
America Exits Economic Recession - 2002-03-27
Recent reports suggest that the U.S. is emerging from economic recession due to increased consumer confidence and rising industrial orders. This development is significant as…
Chinese Authorities Arrest Underground Catholic Bishop
Chinese authorities have arrested Bishop Jia Zhiguo, an underground Catholic leader, at his home in Zhengding. The Cardinal Kung Foundation reported the arrest, while local…
Six Hundred People Killed in Afghanistan Earthquake - 2002-03-26
A severe earthquake in northern Afghanistan has resulted in at least six hundred deaths, with some reports suggesting the toll could reach 1800. The remote…
President Bush's South American Trip Concludes - 2002-03-25
President Bush concluded a four-day trip to Latin America, focusing on drug trafficking, terrorism, trade, and economic growth. He promised to push Congress for a…
Abuja Conference Commences - 2002-03-25
The Abuja Conference has started in Nigeria, with leaders from around 20 African countries discussing economic revitalization strategies. The conference aims to attract $64 billion…
Nowruz in Los Angeles: A Report by Abbas Malayeri - 2002-03-25
Abbas Malayeri reports on the Nowruz celebrations in Los Angeles just before the New Year. His coverage highlights the diaspora's cultural practices and community engagement…
Report by Nazi Baghlari: American Movies in Kabul - 2002-03-25
The article discusses the presence and popularity of American movies in Kabul, highlighting interviews with locals and a movie rental business owner. This reflects cultural…
The Pope and Palm Sunday - 2002-03-24
Pope John Paul II was unable to attend the Palm Sunday service due to knee issues, marking the first time in 23 years of his…
Two-Day United Nations Leaders Conference - 2002-03-23
President Bush and Mexican President Vicente Fox met in Monterrey to discuss immigration and border security issues following a UN leaders conference. They addressed concerns…
Pakistan and American Diplomats - 2002-03-23
In response to a deadly bombing in Islamabad that killed two Americans, the U.S. is recalling non-essential diplomatic staff and their families from Pakistan. This…
Funeral of Marco Biagi - 2002-03-23
Marco Biagi, an architect of labor reforms in Italy, was assassinated by terrorists in Bologna. Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has pledged to continue reform efforts…
Discovery of a Biological Weapons Production Workshop in Afghanistan - 2002-03-23
American forces discovered a biological weapons production workshop in Afghanistan, linked to al-Qaeda, during a military operation. This discovery prompted the British government to send…
Delay in the Arrival of Mohammad Zahir Shah - 2002-03-23
Mohammad Zahir Shah's return to Afghanistan has been delayed by a few days, as announced by Hamid Karzai following an Italian Foreign Ministry statement. This…
Friendly Basketball Match in Kabul Turns Violent - 2002-03-22
A friendly basketball game in Kabul escalated into violence when an Afghan spectator attacked an American player, leading to a shooting incident involving an Afghan…
EU's Decision to Retaliate Against Bush's Steel Tariff Increase - 2002-03-22
The EU is set to impose over $2 billion in tariffs on U.S. imports in retaliation for President Bush's steel tariff increase. This move targets…
Egyptian Co-Pilot Responsible for Plane Crash
The family of the Egyptian co-pilot involved in the 1999 EgyptAir Flight 990 crash disputes an American investigation that blames him for the incident. They…
Invention of Anti-Smallpox Drug - 2002-03-21
American scientists have developed a new oral medication for smallpox, derived from an existing injectable drug. This development is crucial as the smallpox virus poses…
Results of a Survey on Religion - 2002-03-21
A recent survey reveals that only 37% of Americans believe the influence of religion is increasing, a significant drop from 78% post-9/11. While Americans generally…
Confronting Warlords in Afghanistan - 2002-03-21
Hamid Karzai is ready to confront local warlords in Afghanistan and has called for European support to expand peacekeeping operations beyond Kabul. His government is…
Warning from American and Canadian Commanders Regarding the Presence of Thousands of Al-Qaeda and Taliban Fighters - 2002-03-20
American and Canadian military leaders have issued warnings about the presence of thousands of Al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters in eastern Afghanistan following a major offensive.…
Theft of Three Million Dollars in Cash at London Airport - 2002-03-20
Thieves stole three million dollars from a cash truck at Heathrow Airport, marking the second similar incident in over a month. The robbery occurred shortly…
President Bush's Nowruz Message to Iranian Americans - 2002-03-20
President George Bush sent a Nowruz message to Iranian Americans, emphasizing their contributions to society and condemning terrorism. He highlighted the significance of the holiday…
Italy's Leniency Towards Iraqi Kurdish Refugees - 2002-03-20
Italy is facing a situation with over 900 Iraqi Kurdish refugees who entered the country illegally. President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi advocates for humanitarian treatment, while…
Morgan Tsvangirai's Views on Negotiations with Robert Mugabe - 2002-03-19
Morgan Tsvangirai, the opposition leader in Zimbabwe, claims that dialogue with President Robert Mugabe is currently impossible due to government-initiated violence against political activists. This…
Prosecutors in the U.S. Seek Death Penalty for Zacarias Moussaoui - 2002-03-19
U.S. prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for Zacarias Moussaoui, alleged to be the twentieth hijacker in the September 11 attacks. Attorney General John Ashcroft…
Negotiation of Leaders from South Africa, Nigeria, and Australia Regarding Possible Sanctions Against Zimbabwe - 2002-03-19
Leaders from South Africa, Nigeria, and Australia are convening in London to discuss potential sanctions against Zimbabwe's government following allegations of electoral fraud by President…
The U.S. Accepts Yugoslavia's Official Apology - 2002-03-19
The U.S. accepted an official apology from Yugoslavia after an American diplomat was detained and reportedly mistreated by Yugoslav security forces. The incident involved a…
The Deputy Prime Minister of Serbia May Be Accused of Spying for the U.S.
The Yugoslav Army may accuse Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Miodrag Pristich of espionage for the U.S. after he and an American diplomat were arrested during…
Mugabe Swears in for Another Six-Year Term
Robert Mugabe is being sworn in for another six-year term as President of Zimbabwe amid international criticism of his election victory. The EU has condemned…
Nasrin Mahdavi's Report from Germany (March 17, 2002): Interview with Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Foreign Minister of Afghanistan's Transitional Cabinet
Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, the Foreign Minister of Afghanistan's transitional government, discussed key issues including Afghanistan's foreign policy, the closure of a political office in Iran,…
Violation of Women's Rights in Iran - 2002-03-17
Eight women's rights advocacy groups in Washington condemned the violation of women's rights in Iran during a meeting. The event highlights ongoing concerns about the…
Los Angeles Report from Quds Razavi, March 11, 2002: An Interview with Professor Ehsan Yarshater - 2002-03-17
A fundraising event for 'Iranica' took place in Los Angeles, featuring Professor Ehsan Yarshater discussing the importance of Iranica and Iranian national heritage. This event…
Bomb Explosion in Islamabad - March 17, 2002
A bomb explosion in a Protestant church in Islamabad killed five people, including the wife and daughter of an American diplomat, and injured 45 others.…
Zalmay Khalilzad Thanks Iranians
Zalmay Khalilzad thanked Iranians for their solidarity with Americans after terrorist attacks. This gesture involved candlelight vigils in Tehran. It highlights a moment of empathy…
Half of Canadian Forces Return to Base - 2002-03-17
Half of the Canadian troops involved in operations in eastern Afghanistan have returned to Kabul after three days of engagement with Al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters.…
Los Angeles Report from Quds Razavi, March 13, 2002: Interview with Homa Sarshar about Fundraising for Iranica - 2002-03-17
Homa Sarshar, an Iranian writer in Los Angeles, talks about the fundraising efforts by a group of Iranian supporters for 'Iranica'. This highlights the diaspora's…
European Union Summit - 2002-03-16
The European Union summit in Barcelona has begun, involving leaders from 15 EU member states and 13 candidate countries discussing market integration and foreign policy…
American and Canadian Soldiers Kill Three Al-Qaeda Fighters - 2002-03-15
In eastern Afghanistan, American and Canadian soldiers killed three Al-Qaeda fighters during an armed clash. This incident is part of Operation Harpoon, which aims to…
Spacecraft Designed to Take Tourists to Space
Russian engineers and American contractors have revealed a new spacecraft designed for space tourism, allowing amateur astronauts to experience weightlessness for three minutes. The cost…
Controversial Victory of Robert Mugabe - 2002-03-15
Robert Mugabe has enacted a restrictive press law following his disputed election victory, which has faced condemnation from Western nations. South Africa is pushing for…
Kofi Annan: People of Zimbabwe Should Not Resort to Violence - 2002-03-14
Kofi Annan called on the people of Zimbabwe to avoid violence following a disputed election that saw President Mugabe declared the winner. Morgan Tsvangirai, Mugabe's…
The Destruction of Al-Qaeda Approaches Its Final Stages - 2002-03-14
The U.S. and Canadian forces are engaged in Operation Anaconda in eastern Afghanistan, aiming to eliminate remaining Al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters. President Bush asserts that…
Kofi Annan Urges People of Zimbabwe Not to Resort to Violence - 2002-03-14
Kofi Annan called on Zimbabweans to avoid violence following a disputed election where President Mugabe was declared the winner. Opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai rejected the…
Israeli Military Operations - 2002-03-13
Israeli forces have initiated a significant military operation in Gaza and the West Bank, resulting in numerous casualties among Palestinians and Israelis. The operation marks…
Pentagon Seeks to Alleviate Rising Concerns - 2002-03-13
The Pentagon is trying to reduce concerns after revealing a plan that suggests the potential use of nuclear weapons under less stringent conditions. This situation…
Los Angeles Report: The U.S. Economy After the September 11 Tragedy - 2002-03-12
This article discusses an interview regarding the state of the U.S. economy following the September 11 attacks. Dr. Jahan Farahi provides insights into the economic…
Report from the Site of the September 11 Tragedy in New York - 2002-03-12
Mahtab Farid reports from the site of the World Trade Center six months after the September 11 attacks, highlighting the devastation and ongoing impact of…
Iran Reflected in Global Media in the First Week of March - 2002-03-12
The article reviews various international media coverage of Iran in early March 2002, highlighting a security equipment exhibition, resource division in the Caspian Sea, an…
Nasrin Mahdavi's Report from Germany: Mohammad Khatami Arrives in Austria - 2002-03-12
Former Iranian President Mohammad Khatami has arrived in Austria, as reported by Nasrin Mahdavi from Germany. This visit is significant as it highlights Khatami's ongoing…
Bush: Success in Anti-Terror Operations Does Not Depend on Bin Laden's Fate - 2002-03-12
President Bush emphasized that the success of the anti-terrorism campaign should not be solely tied to Osama bin Laden's fate. He met with the families…
Nasrin Mahdavi's Report from Germany: Iranian Demonstrations in Front of the Dom Church in Cologne - 2002-03-11
Iranians demonstrated in front of the Dom Church in Cologne, Germany, organized by the Association for the Defense of Political Prisoners in Iran. This event…
Mexican Police Arrest Leader of the Country's Largest Drug Trafficking Cartel - 2002-03-10
Mexican police arrested Benjamin Arellano Felix, the leader of the largest drug cartel, without any gunfire. His arrest is seen as a significant victory for…
Reaction of French Circles to the Recent Meeting of the Iraqi Foreign Minister with Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations
The article reports on the French political circles' reactions to a meeting between the Iraqi Foreign Minister and UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. This meeting is…
Hubble Restored to Orbit
American astronauts have successfully restored the Hubble Space Telescope to its orbit after a week of repairs. The operation was executed effectively, and the telescope…
Zimbabweans Welcome Elections - 2002-03-10
Zimbabweans are actively participating in presidential elections, with significant voter turnout as opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai challenges long-time President Robert Mugabe. Despite reports of intimidation…
Suicide of an Iranian Asylum Seeker in Germany - 2002-03-10
In February 2002, Mohammad Hossein Tamanna, a young Iranian asylum seeker, took his own life in a German refugee camp. Mahin Arjomand from the Iranian…
Report: Iran's Foreign Policy in the Spotlight - 2002-03-10
The President of Iran has traveled to Greece and Austria, drawing attention to the country's foreign policy. This visit is significant as it highlights Iran's…
Repair of the Infrared Camera of the Space Telescope - 2002-03-09
American astronauts are conducting repairs on the infrared camera of the space telescope after installing a new camera. This repair is significant as the infrared…
Dangers Faced by Journalists - 2002-03-09
Pervez Musharraf discusses the dangers journalists face, particularly in the case of Daniel Pearl, who was investigating Islamic extremists before his kidnapping and murder. A…
Hubble to Be Reestablished in Earth's Orbit
American astronauts have successfully completed repairs and upgrades to the Hubble Space Telescope, enhancing its observational capabilities. This mission marks a significant achievement for NASA…
Completion of Hubble Space Telescope Repairs - 2002-03-09
American astronauts have completed the final repairs on the Hubble Space Telescope, enhancing its capabilities for astronomical observations. This mission involved significant upgrades, including a…
Over 200 Al-Qaeda and Taliban Fighters Killed in Clashes So Far - 2002-03-06
In eastern Afghanistan, over 200 Al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters have been killed during ongoing clashes, as reported by the U.S. Department of Defense. Afghan and…
Deep Dish Group Guests on TV Roundtable Program - March 6, 2002
Ali Shirazinia and Shahram Tayebi from the music group Deep Dish appeared on a TV program to discuss their Grammy win for Best Remix. Their…
American Fighters Bomb al-Qaeda and Taliban Positions - 2002-03-05
American fighter jets bombed al-Qaeda and Taliban positions in eastern Afghanistan following fierce resistance faced by coalition ground forces. The battle involves 1,500 troops from…
Commonwealth Countries Delay Suspension of Zimbabwe's Membership Until After Elections
Commonwealth leaders have postponed the decision to suspend Zimbabwe's membership until after the upcoming presidential elections. The move has faced opposition from African leaders, while…
Retired American General Praises Fidel Castro for Drug Fight - 2002-03-05
Retired General Barry McCaffrey praised Fidel Castro for Cuba's efforts against drug trafficking, asserting that Cuba does not threaten the U.S. He had extensive discussions…
Supporters of Marc Ravalomanana, Leader of Madagascar's Opposition, Ignore Military Rule
Supporters of opposition leader Marc Ravalomanana in Madagascar are defying a military rule by establishing street barricades in the capital. This situation escalated following disputes…
Israeli Tanks Enter Rafah Camp in Gaza Strip - 2002-03-05
Israeli tanks have entered the Rafah camp in Gaza following a decision by the Israeli security cabinet to intensify military action against Palestinians after violent…
Death toll from India's worst communal violence exceeds 550
The death toll from severe communal violence in Gujarat, India, has exceeded 550, with ongoing clashes between Hindus and Muslims. The violence erupted following the…
African Leaders Decide to Support Zimbabwe - 2002-03-04
African leaders have chosen to support Zimbabwe amid attempts by white Commonwealth members to suspend its membership before upcoming elections. The political crisis in Zimbabwe,…
Swiss People Vote to Join the United Nations - 2002-03-04
Switzerland voted to join the United Nations, ending its long-standing political isolation. The proposal received 54.6% approval nationwide, despite opposition from some local governments. This…
American Spacecraft Successfully Connects to Hubble Space Telescope - 2002-03-04
American astronauts successfully connected their spacecraft to the Hubble Space Telescope as part of a week-long mission for repairs and upgrades. This mission involves replacing…
Attack on an Israeli Army Checkpoint - 2002-03-03
An attack on an Israeli army checkpoint in the West Bank resulted in 10 deaths, with a Palestinian gunman opening fire. This incident follows a…
Exploratory spacecraft discovers extensive areas on the surface of Mars
The Mars Odyssey spacecraft has discovered large areas on Mars that likely contain ice, revealing significant hydrogen levels near the south pole. This finding suggests…
Troublesome Joke - 2002-03-02
An Air India passenger was questioned by the FBI after being falsely identified as a terrorist suspect due to a prank by a Heathrow security…
Iranian Press Community's Reaction to the Murder of Daniel Pearl - 2002-03-02
The Iranian press community reacted to the murder of journalist Daniel Pearl, with the Islamic Republic's newspapers commenting on the statement issued by the Iranian…
On the Line: Pakistan in the War on Terror - 2002-03-02
The article features a discussion with Pakistani Ambassador Maleeha Lodhi about Pakistan's involvement in the war on terror and the significance of Afghanistan in this…
Iranians in Japan (Part One) - 2002-03-01
The article introduces a program titled 'Iranians in Japan' that will air on Voice of America, focusing on the lives of Iranians residing in Japan…