PANETTA

Ahead of the ECB's decision about developing a digital euro in October, European banking lobbies have warned that a central bank-backed currency could take deposits and business away from commercial lenders.

The ECB has already promised another large rate hike in March and policymakers are also hinting at a move in May, pushing up mortgage costs, thwarting corporate investment and raising governments' debt burden just as consumers feel their first price...

In addition, the military has jealously guarded its perks and resources that insulate uniformed personnel from many of the economic hardships suffered by their countrymen.

Former CIA director Leon Panetta, also the former US defence secretary, said it has been a challenging period to develop the relationship with Pakistan.

"He thinks he's found a solution for catching terrorists; I think he's found, a strategy that's going to create more terrorists," Beers said.

Other US officials also made clear in other meetings their belief that Pakistan was protecting Mullah Omar and other elements of the Taliban, the report said.

Over the last four years, the Obama administration has repeatedly said that Assad needs to step down - but has done very little to make that a reality.

ISI's links with terror groups was the reason why US did not share ntelligence about the raid on Osama bin Laden's hideout with Islamabad.

ISI having close ties with terrorist groups is an open secret, former Defense Secretary and ex-CIA Director Leon Panetta has said.

With Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Michele Flournoy listening in and taking notes, Mullen placed the call and informed Kayani that "we had conducted a covert operation against bin Laden".

After Osama was shot dead, Panetta said, as planned body of world's most wanted terrorist was transported by marines flying Osprey to waiting aircraft carrier.

US safer from 9/11 type of attacks because of the actions taken against terrorists in the Af-Pak region: Leon Panetta

His comments came as media reports were claiming that he might not be interested in holding this top Pentagon position.

The official, Ashton B Carter, said there are many things the US needs to change in its export control regulations.

Pentagon today refuted the Taliban statement that New Delhi resisted his call for greater Indian involvement in Afghanistan.

Panett underlined the importance of India, along with ASEAN countries as part of the US strategy for supporting peace in Asia Pacific.

India is ready to seal more arms agreements and further boost defence cooperation with the US but remains unwilling to ink the foundational military pacts.

Noting that its relationship with Pak was "complex", US Defense Secretary said "the problem" lies with Islamabad's perception of being "threatened by India".

In escalating war of words, US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta has warned Iran that "all options" are on the table if Tehran blocks the Straits of Hormuz or if it goes nuclear.