A roundup of today's other world news in brief
Charges over theft of Van Gogh work
CAIRO – Egypt’s general prosecutor said yesterday he had referred 11 officials from the culture ministry to appear in court on September 14th to be charged with negligence that led to the theft of a Van Gogh painting worth an estimated $55 million (€43 million).
The painting, known in Egypt as Poppy Flower but listed on art websites as Vase with Viscaria, was stolen last month from the Egyptian capitals Mahmoud Khalil Museum. – (Reuters)
Putin hints at hopes for second term
SOCHI – Russian prime minister Vladimir Putin gave a strong hint yesterday that he would run for a second spell as president in 2012, a step that would almost certainly give him a further six-year term in the Kremlin.
Mr Putin is the dominant partner in a tandem with President Dmitry Medvedev, the man he backed as his successor. The Russian constitution prevented Mr Putin from running in 2008 but he will be free to run again in 2012. Mr Medvedev has extended the presidential term to six years. – (Reuters)
Iran uranium output on rise, report says
VIENNA – Iran’s total production of low-enriched uranium has risen by about 15 per cent since May to reach 2.8 tonnes, a report has said, showing Tehran is pushing ahead with disputed nuclear work. The confidential report also said the International Atomic Energy Agency remained concerned about possible activity in the Islamic republic to develop a nuclear payload for a missile. – (Reuters)