text:
NATO Secretary General stresses importance of Chicago Summit to Alliance's future at Berlin talks
NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen stressed the importance of this month's Chicago Summit to the future of the Alliance and its mission in Afghanistan, in talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin on 4 May 2012.
Mr. Fogh Rasmussen praised Germany's steadfast support for the Alliance and its missions, notably in Afghanistan, Kosovo and off the coast of Somalia.
"Germany has stood shoulder to shoulder with NATO Allies to promote security and stability for us all," said Mr. Fogh Rasmussen.
Germany has over 4,900 troops in Afghanistan and has just over 1,200 troops in Kosovo. It also provides the commander for the KFOR mission.
The Secretary General discussed the 20-21 May Chicago Summit agenda in his meeting with the Chancellor. He said that the Chicago Summit will be a crucial one for the Alliance. The Summit will have three main goals: Afghanistan, capabilities and partnerships.
"This will be a vital moment, as we set out how to keep NATO of the future as strong and successful as the NATO of the past," said Mr. Fogh Rasmussen.
The Secretary General said that on Afghanistan, NATO would complete its ISAF mission by the end of 2014, but added that the Alliance would remain committed to a long-term partnership with Afghanistan. "Afghan troops and police are already in charge for the security of half the population – soon they will be in the lead for most of the country. At Chicago, we will make clear our commitment to complete transition by the end of 2014 and how to support Afghanistan beyond 2014," he said.
Mr. Fogh Rasmussen also raised future NATO capabilities, and the importance that European allies work closely together and with the European Union. He said that despite tough economic times, NATO can help nations with limited resources build greater security.
"At Chicago we will adopt a new culture of cooperation – Smart Defence. And we will continue to ensure that NATO and the European Union reinforce each other rather than compete with each other," he said.
The Secretary General also visited the Mauer Museum at Checkpiont Charlie where he was given a tour of the "NATO-Mission for Freedom" permanent exhibition. The exhibit brings together thousands of previously unpublished documents illustrating the history of NATO from its foundation to the present day and highlights the achievements of the North Atlantic Alliance for freedom and democracy.


text: Hi! I was sucked into Twilight after a friend recommended it, it's not my usual reading material (and I have quite a few criticisms about it) but I found it enjoyable light reading, and I like Eclipse best. My favourite character is Jacob, although I like Edward too, and I can identify with Bella also she infuriates me at times! My favourite minor character is either Alice or Emmett. My hobbies mainly revolve around books, I guess I'm very much like Bella in that aspect!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Remains of a Roman settlement mark the point where the Fosse Way crossed the River Soar, and Leicester had a considerable burgess community by Norman times. The medieval castle was dismantled in 1645, but a few ruins remain. The abbey was founded in 1143. A royal charter of incorporation was granted in 1589. In 1832 the railway joined the town with the small Leicestershire coalfield to the northwest, and rapid industrial development followed. The oldest industry is hosiery and knitwear, but in the 19th century Leicester became famous for footwear manufacture. Light engineering followed.
The focal centre of the town is the Clock Tower, from which shopping streets radiate. The central area has been redeveloped since World War II, and modern housing estates have replaced the deteriorating dwellings of the Industrial Revolution. A modern concert hall is named after Simon de Montfort, earl of Leicester. Nearby is the University of Leicester (chartered 1957; formerly a university college, founded 1918). There are also technical and arts schools. The Guildhall, Newarke Gateway to the castle, and Trinity Hospital all date from the 14th century, and Wyggeston School from the 16th. St. Martin's Church became a cathedral in 1926 when the diocese of Leicester was constituted. Area 28 square miles (73 square km). Pop. (1998 2005 est.) 294288,300000.


text:
Redwood Credit Union Collects for Philippines Typhoon Relief
The $2.3 billion Redwood Credit Union in Santa Rosa, Calif., said its 18 branches have been designated as American Red Cross collection sites for relief for Philippines storm victims and their families.
More than 1,800 people are confirmed dead, a number expected to rise, after Super Typhoon Haiyan roared across the Pacific island nation last Friday.
Donations collected at RCU branches will go directly to the American Red Cross, the credit union said.
"Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this disaster," said RCU President/CEO Brett Martinez. "Supporting the American Red Cross efforts by accepting contributions at our branch locations is our way of offering assistance, and responding to the requests of members who would like to help."
The World Council of Credit Unions also is participating in the global relief effort.