Russian Maritime Register of Shipping
February 2004
British Foreign Secretary to Visit Pakistan on Wednesday
Jack Straw, the British Foreign Secretary, is set to visit Pakistan for two days to discuss various issues including bilateral relations and the war against…
Debate Over a Temporary Constitution in Iraq - 2004-02-28
Iraqis are in a deadlock over a temporary constitution that was due for completion, with key issues such as the role of Islam, women's rights,…
More than 6,000 International Peacekeepers to be Sent to Ivory Coast
The UN Security Council has authorized the deployment of over 6,000 international peacekeepers to Ivory Coast, including existing West African troops. This move, supported by…
Los Angeles Report: Opinions of Various Writers and Researchers on the Parliamentary Elections - 2004-02-27
The article presents opinions from various writers and researchers about the upcoming parliamentary elections in Iran. This discussion is significant as it reflects the political…
Clashes Between Moroccan Police and Earthquake Survivors
Moroccan police and soldiers clashed with earthquake survivors protesting the government's inadequate response to a recent disaster that killed 571 people. The situation escalated at…
Muammar Gaddafi Opens African Union Summit
Muammar Gaddafi opened the African Union summit in Libya, calling for unity among African leaders to enhance their global influence. The conference will address key…
Real Madrid Establishes First Football School in Iran
Real Madrid has signed an agreement to establish its first football school in Bam, Iran, to aid earthquake victims. The initiative is in collaboration with…
Clashes Between Israeli Forces and Palestinian Protesters Outside Al-Aqsa Mosque - 2004-02-27
Israeli security forces engaged in clashes with Palestinian protesters outside the Al-Aqsa Mosque after stones were thrown during prayers. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in…
Five Afghan Aid Workers Killed in Ambush in Eastern Kabul
Five Afghan aid workers were killed in an ambush in eastern Kabul while working on government reconstruction projects. The attack highlights the ongoing dangers faced…
Two Palestinians Killed in Shooting in the West Bank - 2004-02-26
Two Palestinians were killed by Israeli soldiers during a protest against a security fence in the West Bank. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the…
One Person Killed in Police Shooting in Kashmir, India - 2004-02-26
A police shooting in Kashmir resulted in one death and four injuries during a protest against human rights violations. Hundreds of villagers attempted to disrupt…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 26, 2004
Persian-language journalists from Voice of America provide an overview of the Washington newspapers on February 26, 2004. This review highlights the significant news and opinions…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 24, 2004 - 2004-02-25
On February 24, 2004, journalists from the Persian section of Voice of America provided an overview of Washington newspapers. This review highlights the media landscape…
Death Toll in China Mine Explosion Rises to 32
A mine explosion in Heilongjiang, China, has resulted in 32 fatalities, with rescuers still searching for 5 missing miners. The mine owners ignored a closure…
Crash of a US Army Reconnaissance Helicopter - 2004-02-25
A US Army reconnaissance helicopter crashed in western Iraq, killing two crew members. The cause of the crash is reported as potential technical issues, although…
Flood of International Aid to Northern Morocco - 2004-02-25
A significant earthquake in northern Morocco has resulted in at least 564 fatalities, prompting an influx of international aid. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but locals…
69 People Prosecuted in Turkey for Involvement in 4 Deadly Explosions
In Turkey, 69 individuals are being prosecuted for their involvement in four deadly explosions that killed over 60 people in November. The attacks targeted Jewish…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 25, 2004
On February 25, 2004, journalists from the Persian section of Voice of America provided an overview of the major newspapers in Washington, D.C. This analysis…
Haitian Opposition Requests 24-Hour Extension
Haitian opposition leaders have requested a 24-hour extension to consider an international peace plan amid ongoing political unrest. The U.S. and allies have agreed to…
Rejection of Human Rights Advocates' Request to Attend Terrorists' Trial in Guantanamo - 2004-02-24
Human rights organizations have had their request to attend the trials of suspected terrorists at Guantanamo Bay denied by the U.S. Department of Defense. This…
Israeli Bulldozers Flatten Palestinian Lands
Israeli bulldozers have begun flattening Palestinian lands for a security wall despite ongoing legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice. Palestinian villagers attempted to…
Payam Fazli Nejad Arrested - 2004-02-24
Payam Fazli Nejad, an Iranian writer and journalist, was arrested again after revealing details about the parallel intelligence operations in Iran. He had previously been…
Gholamali Haddad Adel: The New Parliament Does Not Intend to Go Back
Gholamali Haddad Adel, a prominent conservative figure, claims that the new parliament will not reverse reforms made by the reformists. The counting of votes is…
The Persian Section of Voice of America Celebrates Three Years Online
The Persian section of Voice of America marks its third anniversary, reflecting on its challenges and achievements in providing news to Iranians amidst censorship. The…
Free Persian Books Available Online - 2004-02-24
A website dedicated to free Persian books is launching a project to digitize and make Persian literature accessible online, inspired by the Gutenberg Project. This…
Report by Nasrin Mahdavi: German Chancellor's Visit to Turkey - 2004-02-23
German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder has started an official visit to Turkey to discuss reforms with Turkish leaders. This visit highlights Germany's interest in Turkey's political…
Life and Progress in America: Mardi Gras - Louisiana Spirit Exhibition - 2004-02-23
The article discusses the Mardi Gras tradition and the cultural spirit of Louisiana as reported by the Persian section of Voice of America. It highlights…
Sunday Night Phone Program, February 22: Conversation with Hassan Masali and Morteza Anvari - 2004-02-22
The Sunday night phone program featured a discussion with Iranian political analysts Hassan Masali and Morteza Anvari. They addressed listener questions regarding Iranian political issues,…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 21, 2004
On February 21, 2004, Voice of America’s Persian section provided an analysis of Washington newspapers regarding Iranian events. This reflects the U.S. media's focus on…
Analysis of Voter Participation in Iran's Elections on Friday - 2004-02-22
The article features an interview with Dr. Hossein Lajevardi analyzing voter participation in Iran's elections. It discusses the implications of this participation for the future…
At least eight killed and over 60 injured in suicide bombing in Jerusalem - 2004-02-22
A suicide bombing in Jerusalem killed at least eight and injured over 60, with the attack claimed by the 'Brigade of the Martyrs of Al-Aqsa.'…
Nasrin Mahdavi's Report: Reflection of the Seventh Parliamentary Elections in Europe - 2004-02-22
Members of parliaments from Norway, Belgium, and Germany have commented on the Iranian elections. The report highlights international perspectives on Iran's political developments. This is…
Report Witness: Interview with Reza Moieni, Iranian Representative of Reporters Without Borders - 2004-02-22
Reza Moieni discusses the recent suspension of two newspapers in Iran and the implications of the recent elections in a radio interview. His insights highlight…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 22, 2004
On February 22, 2004, journalists from the Persian section of Voice of America provided an overview of the newspapers in Washington, D.C. This review highlights…
Reactions to the Results of Iran's Elections in French Media and Protests Outside the Iranian Embassy in Paris: Mohammad Reza Shahid - 2004-02-21
The article discusses the reactions of French media to the results of Iran's elections and highlights protests by the Association for the Defense of Political…
Report from VOA Correspondent in the Region on Friday's Elections - 2004-02-21
The report discusses the elections held on Friday, highlighting the involvement of various political factions and the implications for regional stability. It is significant as…
Iranian Elections in the Media of the Political Capital of the United States - 2004-02-21
The article discusses the coverage of Iranian elections in U.S. media, emphasizing the attention these elections receive from international observers. This is significant as it…
Haitian President Says He Agrees to International Plan for New Government with Political Opponents - 2004-02-21
Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide has agreed to an international plan to form a new government with his political opponents amid ongoing violence that has resulted…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 19, 2004
On February 19, 2004, journalists from the Persian section of Voice of America provided an overview of Washington newspapers discussing Iran's events and developments. This…
Talk, Q&A, February 16: The Situation in Iran, 25 Years After the Revolution - 2004-02-18
This article features a discussion between Parichahr Farzam and Dr. Ali Parsa regarding the state of Iran 25 years post-revolution. It highlights the historical context…
Over 200 Dead in Train Explosion in Iran - 2004-02-18
A train carrying fuel and chemicals derailed and exploded in Khorasan province, resulting in over 200 deaths and hundreds of injuries, primarily among firefighters. The…
Life and Progress in America: The Contributions of George Washington - 2004-02-18
American historians periodically assess the contributions of past presidents, with George Washington consistently ranking first. This highlights the enduring legacy and positive evaluation of Washington's…
USA: Venezuelan Election Officials Should Support the Referendum
The U.S. is pressing Venezuelan officials to support a referendum against President Hugo Chavez, citing significant public demand with 4 million signatures gathered. This situation…
United Nations Report on the Rise of AIDS Cases - 2004-02-17
The UN has reported a significant rise in HIV cases in Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia and Ukraine, potentially reaching 1.8 million infected individuals. The…
Second Day of Talks Between Indian and Pakistani Officials - 2004-02-17
Indian and Pakistani officials are in the second day of talks to prepare for a meeting of their foreign ministers, focusing on a peace negotiation…
The Role of Tamil Rebels in Sri Lanka's Parliamentary Elections - 2004-02-17
Tamil rebels in Sri Lanka are preparing to play a significant role in the upcoming parliamentary elections, with the Tamil Tigers' political leader indicating support…
Letter from Dozens of Reformist Members of Iran's Parliament to the Supreme Leader
Dozens of reformist parliament members criticized the exclusion of reformist candidates from upcoming elections in a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader. They accuse the Guardian…
Harun Dogan Joins Turkish National Team at Takhti Cup
Harun Dogan is joining the Turkish national wrestling team for the Takhti Cup in Iran, which has attracted teams from various countries. This event highlights…
An Iranian Disabled Person Enters India to Travel Around the World in a Wheelchair
Kiumars Alimardani, a 33-year-old Iranian man with a disability, has entered India as part of his two-and-a-half-year journey around the world in a wheelchair. His…
Kim Clijsters Wins the Gas de France Tennis Tournament
Kim Clijsters won the Gas de France tennis tournament in Paris, defeating Mary Pierce in the final. This victory marks her 20th career title and…
Israeli Transportation Minister's Plan for the West Bank - 2004-02-16
Israeli Transportation Minister Lieberman has proposed settling Palestinians in four separate areas of the West Bank, contrasting with Prime Minister Sharon's withdrawal plan from Gaza…
Registration of Seven Afghan Widows to Join the Police Force
Seven Afghan widows have registered to join the police force, marking a significant step for women's participation in law enforcement in Afghanistan. This initiative, supported…
Interview with Hossein Lajevardi Regarding Elections in Iran - 2004-02-16
The Iran Researchers Association conducted a survey on Iranian opinions about elections under the Islamic regime. Ramesh from Voice of America interviewed Hossein Lajevardi, the…
Senior Iraqi Officials and Neighboring Countries Call for a Central Role for the UN in Baghdad
Senior Iraqi officials and foreign ministers from eight neighboring countries have urged the UN to take a leading role in forming a new government in…
Former Head of Ba'ath Party in Iraq Arrested
Mohammad Zama Abdul Razak, the former head of the Ba'ath Party in Iraq, was arrested by Iraqi police and is on the U.S. wanted list.…
Anti-Government Protests in Haiti - 2004-02-15
Opponents of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide are set to hold anti-government protests in Haiti, despite government forces blocking their planned route. The opposition demands Aristide's resignation,…
Meeting of Indian and Pakistani Officials to Resolve Kashmir Issue - 2004-02-15
Indian and Pakistani officials are meeting to discuss the Kashmir issue, aiming to set the stage for a future meeting between their foreign ministers. This…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 15, 2003 - 2004-02-15
On February 15, 2003, journalists from the Persian section of Voice of America provided an overview of the newspapers published in Washington. This review highlights…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 14, 2004
On February 14, 2004, Voice of America's Persian section analyzed Washington newspapers' coverage of Iran and Middle Eastern events. This reflects the U.S. media's focus…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 12, 2004
On February 12, 2004, journalists from Voice of America's Persian section reviewed Washington newspapers, focusing on coverage of Iran and Middle Eastern events. This analysis…
A Member of the U.S. National Guard Arrested on Charges of Collaborating with the Terrorist Group Al-Qaeda - 2004-02-13
Ryan Anderson, a member of the U.S. National Guard, was arrested for allegedly collaborating with Al-Qaeda. This incident raises concerns about security and potential infiltration…
Another Suspected Al-Qaeda Member Arrested in Pakistan Near Afghanistan Border - 2004-02-13
A suspected Al-Qaeda member was arrested by paramilitary forces in Pakistan's Jamrud area near the Afghanistan border. This operation is part of Pakistan's continued efforts…
Review of Washington Newspapers, February 13, 2004
On February 13, 2004, Voice of America's Persian section journalists analyze Washington newspapers focusing on Iran and Middle Eastern events. This review highlights the U.S.…
South Korean Scientists Extract Pluripotent Stem Cells from Embryos - 2004-02-12
South Korean scientists have cloned a human embryo and extracted pluripotent stem cells, sparking renewed debate over human cloning. The research, conducted at Seoul National…
U.S. State Department Expresses Concern Over Palestinian Officials' Actions
The U.S. State Department is concerned about the military trial of four Palestinians accused of involvement in a bombing against an American diplomatic mission. The…
Meeting of Security Officials and Experts from 16 Asian Countries in Almaty - 2004-02-11
Security officials and experts from 16 Asian countries convened in Almaty to establish a legal framework for a regional security organization. The discussions will focus…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 11, 2004
On February 11, 2004, Persian-language journalists from Voice of America provided an analysis of Washington newspapers regarding developments in Iran and the broader Middle East.…
Demonstrations on the Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution - 2004-02-11
Demonstrations were held in Iran to commemorate the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. A report from a Voice of America correspondent highlights the events. This…
Forty Dead in Iranian Plane Crash - 2004-02-10
An Iranian passenger plane crashed near Sharjah Airport, resulting in at least forty fatalities. Kish Airlines operated the aircraft, a Fokker 50, which was involved…
Bill to Ban Religious Symbols in French Schools Approved
The French National Assembly has passed a bill banning religious symbols in public schools, including Islamic headscarves, with significant support. This legislation aims to reinforce…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 10, 2004
On February 10, 2004, the Persian section of Voice of America provided an analysis of Washington newspapers focusing on Iranian events. This highlights the media's…
Nasrin Mahdavi's Report: Conference on the Status of the Mojahedin in Iraq - 2004-02-10
A conference in Berlin discussed the situation of Mojahedin-e Khalq members in Iraq, featuring insights from international lawyers and an independent journalist. This event highlights…
Bomb Explosion in Iraq Kills One American Soldier - 2004-02-09
A bomb explosion in Iraq killed an American soldier, while U.S. forces responded to an attack in a Sunni area, resulting in one death and…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 9, 2003 - 2004-02-09
On February 9, 2003, journalists from Voice of America’s Persian section analyzed Washington newspapers focusing on Iranian and Middle Eastern events. This review highlights the…
Under the Microscope: Prince Charles's Visit to Iran and Student Protests - 2004-02-09
Prince Charles visited Iran amid significant student protests at major universities. Dr. Alireza Nourizadeh discusses the implications of the visit and the protests. This situation…
Interview with Engineer Barghai from the Association of Architects and Urban Planners about the Reconstruction of Bam - 2004-02-08
Engineer Barghai discusses the efforts and plans for the reconstruction of Bam following its devastation. The conversation highlights the involvement of Iranian architects and engineers…
Finance Ministers of the Wealthiest 7 Industrialized Countries Condemn Currency Trading Disruptions - 2004-02-08
The finance ministers of the G7 countries condemned disruptions in currency trading, particularly the declining value of the dollar against the euro, which threatens European…
Issues with Broadcasting Voice of America Programs on the Persian Section Website - 2004-02-08
Voice of America has acknowledged issues with the repetitiveness and outdated content of its programs on the Persian section website. The organization is working to…
Sri Lankan President Dissolves Parliament and Calls for New Elections - 2004-02-08
Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga has dissolved parliament and called for new elections, accusing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe of being too lenient towards Tamil Tiger…
India and Pakistan Refuse to Sign Treaty on Prohibition of Production and Development of Nuclear Weapons - 2004-02-08
India and Pakistan have declined to sign a treaty aimed at prohibiting the production and development of nuclear weapons, as announced by their respective officials…
Opposing Suicide Bombers
Palestinian suicide bombers have recently attacked Israel, killing several people. The attacks were claimed by Hamas and the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades, leading to a growing…
Meeting of Finance Ministers from Seven Major Industrial Countries in Florida - 2004-02-07
Finance ministers and central bank heads from the G7 are meeting in Florida to address the declining value of the dollar and related economic issues.…
Terrorism Contradicts Islam
Sheikh Abdulaziz Al Sheikh, the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, condemned terrorism as contradictory to Islam during a sermon in Mecca. This condemnation comes amid…
UN Political Experts Arrive in Baghdad to Assess Possibility of Elections - 2004-02-07
UN political experts have arrived in Baghdad to evaluate the feasibility of holding elections in Iraq before the June 30 power transfer. Kofi Annan hopes…
Child Born with Two Heads Dies After Surgery to Remove Second Head
A 7-week-old girl born with two heads died following surgery to remove one of the heads in the Dominican Republic. The surgery, which lasted 11…
Azerbaijan's President Calls for Demilitarization of the Caspian Sea
Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has called for the demilitarization of the Caspian Sea during his visit to Moscow, emphasizing cooperation with Russia on resource utilization.…
Negotiations on the Reunification of Cyprus - 2004-02-06
Rauf Denktash, the leader of Turkish Cyprus, is set to attend UN-led negotiations for the reunification of Cyprus. He plans to submit a letter of…
Start of NATO Defense Ministers' Talks in Germany - 2004-02-06
NATO defense ministers are meeting in Germany to enhance military presence in Afghanistan and discuss leadership in Iraq. The focus is on increasing peacekeeping troops…
Human Traffickers Responsible for the Deaths of Nineteen Shellfish Fishermen in UK Coastal Waters
Nineteen shellfish fishermen died in northwest England due to rising waters, with human traffickers blamed for sending them to the dangerous area. At least fourteen…
Nasrin Mahdavi's Report on the NATO Defense Ministers Meeting - 2004-02-06
The NATO Defense Ministers meeting addressed security challenges and collective defense strategies among member countries. Key defense ministers participated, reinforcing their commitment to NATO's operational…
German Court Acquits Abdul Ghani Mzoudi
A German court acquitted Abdul Ghani Mzoudi of aiding the September 11 terrorists after a lengthy trial. The decision followed a request for a delay…
Kofi Annan: The U.S. Deadline for Establishing a Transitional Government in Iraq May Be Delayed - 2004-02-05
Kofi Annan indicated that the U.S. deadline for establishing a transitional government in Iraq might be delayed. This comes amid ongoing violence in Iraq, including…
Experts Doubt That Pakistani Nuclear Scientist Acted Alone - 2004-02-05
Abdul Qadeer Khan claimed he sold nuclear technology without higher authority's permission, but experts doubt this assertion. The Pakistani military is believed to have been…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 5, 2004
On February 5, 2004, journalists from the Persian section of Voice of America provided an overview of the major newspapers in Washington, D.C. This review…
Calendar Day, February 3, 2004: Clash Between Alabama State Police and Northern Political Activists - 2004-02-04
On February 3, 1965, Alabama state police clashed with political activists from northern states who were in Alabama to help African American voters. This incident…
Protesters Disrupt Tony Blair's Speech in British Parliament - 2004-02-04
Protesters interrupted Prime Minister Tony Blair during a parliamentary discussion about the Hutton report, which cleared the government of exaggerating Iraq's weapons threat. The incident…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 3, 2004
On February 3, 2004, journalists from the Persian section of Voice of America reviewed the major newspapers in Washington, D.C. This analysis provides insights into…
Iran's Political and Electoral Crisis from the Perspective of Egyptian Newspapers - 2004-02-03
The article discusses the political and electoral crisis in Iran as viewed by Egyptian newspapers, highlighting the regional perspective on Iran's internal issues. This matters…
Report from Shahid: Reflection of the News on the Resignation of Iranian Parliament Members in France - 2004-02-03
The article highlights the recent developments concerning the resignation of Iranian parliament members, as reported by a correspondent in France. This situation is significant as…
Meeting of Dozens of Reformist Legislators with Mohammad Khatami - 2004-02-03
Dozens of reformist legislators met with former President Mohammad Khatami to demand the reinstatement of disqualified candidates and to urge a postponement of the upcoming…
Bomb Explosion Near a Commercial Center in Southern Russia - 2004-02-03
A bomb exploded near a commercial center in Vladikavkaz, southern Russia, resulting in at least one death and several injuries, including military personnel. This incident…
Student March Against Disqualification of Candidates Banned on Wednesday
The Iranian authorities have banned a student march protesting the disqualification of reformist candidates. This decision comes amid ongoing discussions between reformist lawmakers and President…
Nasrin Mahdavi's Report: Reflection of the Parliamentary Sit-in in German Newspapers - 2004-02-02
Nasrin Mahdavi reports on how the parliamentary crisis in Iran and the ongoing power struggle are being covered in German newspapers. This reflects international media…
Islamic Participation Front Boycotts Parliamentary Elections
The Islamic Participation Front has decided to boycott the upcoming parliamentary elections, citing concerns over fairness and the disqualification of their candidates. This decision comes…
According to the Japanese House of Lords Committee, Iraq is too unsafe for Japanese soldiers to be sent there - 2004-02-02
The Japanese House of Lords Committee has delayed a bill to send non-combat troops to Iraq due to safety concerns raised by opposition lawmakers. Prime…
The Match Between Persepolis and Esteghlal Ended in a Draw
The match between Tehran's football teams, Persepolis and Esteghlal, ended in a 1-1 draw. Both teams maintained their tactics throughout the game, leading to a…
Overview of Washington Newspapers, February 2, 2004
On February 2, 2004, journalists from the Persian section of Voice of America provided an overview of the newspapers in Washington. This review highlights the…
Paul Wolfowitz: The War in Iraq Was Necessary - 2004-02-01
Paul Wolfowitz, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense, argues that the Iraq war was justified despite the absence of found weapons of mass destruction. He…
Life and Progress in America: Criticisms of President Bush and a Summary of Editorials - 2004-02-01
The article examines criticisms of President George W. Bush's policies and their effects on American life, summarizing various editorial opinions. This matters as it reflects…
Historical Calendar: January 31, First Social Security Check - 2004-02-01
On January 31, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt issued the first social security check, marking a significant development in social welfare. This initiative has since benefited…
Powerful Bomb Explosion at Police Station in Mosul
A powerful bomb exploded at a police station in Mosul, killing at least 9 and injuring 45. Separately, three American soldiers died from a roadside…
Justine Henin-Hardenne Wins Australian Open Tennis Championship
Justine Henin-Hardenne won the Australian Open by defeating Kim Clijsters in the women's final. This victory adds to her impressive record against Clijsters in Grand…
Over 750 People Injured in Turkey During Eid al-Adha Celebrations
During Eid al-Adha celebrations in Turkey, over 750 people were injured while performing animal sacrifices. The Turkish government has recommended that butchers handle the sacrifices…
Super Bowl, the Biggest Sports Event in America - 2004-02-01
The Super Bowl, America's largest sports event, took place in Houston, Texas, featuring New England and Carolina as the finalist teams. New England won the…