Briefly World

Panetta sworn in as new Pentagon chief

WASHINGTON: A day after stepping down as CIA director,Leon Panetta was sworn in Friday as secretary of defence. Panetta said that in his 2 1/2 years as CIA chief he appreciated the militarys capabilities,and he promised that as Pentagon chief he would do all he could to maintain that strength.

Zuckerberg promises something awesome

BOSTON: Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg said his company is planning to launch something awesome next week. It is being speculated the new feature could be in mobile or tablet space.

Chavez admits he got tumour removed

CARACAS: Venezuelas President Hugo Chavez,56,confirmed in a stern speech late Thursday that he had surgery in Cuba to remove a cancerous tumor. He said he needed time to recover before returning to Venezuela.

Greece bars boats leaving ports for Gaza

ATHENS: Authorities said they have barred Greek and foreign-flagged ships heading to the Gaza Strip from leaving Greek ports. A flotilla of nine vessels have said they want to break Israels sea blockade to the Palestinian territory.

Moroccans vote on kings new constitution

RABAT: Moroccans voted Friday on whether to adopt a new constitution that the king has championed as an answer to demands for greater freedoms. The referendum is near certain to result in a resounding yes vote.