for Keltic

Keltic,

Why dont you like Flamenco ?- I think its a brilliant dance form and so is Spanish music. !!

RE: WORLDS MOST POWERFUL NATIONS – 2003!!!

I agree with Keltic power is not translated in military terms alone but also includes industrial, economic, global influence, geographical locations, raw materials and resources etc.

In my view the following would be the ranking of nations:

1. The US: For obvious reasons.

2. France: totally independent, armed forces capability indegeniously sponsored. Seat at the UN Sec. Council. Economically, industrially strong. Capable of projecting power out of Europe. One of the top countries in the Space race.

3. Japan: Fantastic armed forces, economically strong ( yes I know they are in recession as of now) Industrial might, extremely innovative workforce, superb R&D base. In USA’s nuke umbrella.

4. Russia: Seems to have had their worst days behind them. Superb industrial base especially military. Rich in raw materials. Second best space power. Putin makes the right strategic partnerships and geo-political tie-ups that will pay dividends soon.

5. India ( call me biased ): best military capability in the region and getting better fast. Strategic tie ups with Russia and Israel will boost an indigenous hi-tech military cap. Already one of the leading countries in Space race. Economy growing fast with nearly 6% growth rate targeted to increase to 8% in the next 2 years. Largest pool of technical workforce in the world. Second largest IT power in the world. To be one of the largest markets in the world. Known as the back office of the world, one of the most favourite destinations of all MNC’s. Exports are shifting to hi-tech sectors like software, R&D, military etc. Slated to receive membership to the UN security council. Nuclear cap with delivery systems to cover almost most of Asia.

6. China: A big enigma. Large but obsolete armed forces. Said to have over 7% economic growth, but figures are not verifiable. Doesn’t attract as much forex as India from MNC’s ( most investment is from overseas Chinese ). A police state, therefore a simmering pot, armed forces are more busy looking inwards, suppressing dissent and making themselves rich. One day people are going to ask for more freedom, then the bubble will burst. Exports are mostly cheap, low tech stuff. Cannot be called a superpower as yet as they cannot project power beyond their shores due to a largely coastal navy.

7. UK: Superb military, seems to have lost its industrial edge since the war. Too tied up with the US, has lost its individuality. Loosing influence in the world.

8. Israel: Brilliant armed forces, Superb R&D / Industrial base, innovative people – made that desert bloom. Nuke capable. Big brother USA’s blessings are with them. Just hope they can get out of this current mess they are in and grow stronger.

9. Germany: Professional Armed forces, economy bogged down currently but will be the engine of Europe someday, US support guaranteed, brilliant R&D and industrial base. They can come up these rankings easily if they decide to march once again down the Champs Eleysse again ;-). But i think they are good boys now.

10. South Korea: Good Armed forces with US backing, industrial and Technical base to rival Japan. Will always be a strong power in its region but not beyond.

I am tempted to put up my list of the bottom ten in the world. But I don’t want to be called a Flamer again 😉 he he…..

RE: What can´t you stand about your country?

India:

1. Chaotic Traffic and no driving sense.
2. Corruption
3. Bureaucracy.
4. Indians at times have a problem saying no directly so in business sometimes you dont know where you stand.
5. Trying to imitate the west, when we have our own culture and way of life.
6. We are not a particularly aggressive and bloody minded people – that can be a weakness dealing with our neighbours and in sports etc. Else i think its a plus.

RE: Home-cooking

Geforce i make the best scrambled eggs on the planet.

break eggs in a non-stick pan, add salt, little milk, bit of oil and stir continiously over a fire till it starts getting a texture. Remove it from the fire depending on whether you want it light or thick. Get some toasts ready, nice smattering of butter or cheese spread, nice salami and cold cuts and you have yourself a squasher special.

Remember – non-stick utensils otherwise scrambled egg pans are real tough to clean.

Bet nobody knew this :+

Kabir if I ever meet you, I’m going to take you up on the Fish Pulow.

RE: User names

Squasher – coz i am mad for squash- plus it has an atavistic touch to it…… atleast so I think.

RE: How old are you?

30 from Bangalore – India –

Old farts make way for one more.

RE: Name your five all time favourite songs!

Lets see not really in any order and the first 5 I can remember:

1. Sounds of Silence – Simon and Garfunkle.

2. Piano Man – Billy Joel

3. Diamonds and Rust – Joan Baez

4. Road to hell – Chris Rea

5. Nothing Compares to you – Sinead O’Connor

RE: Mugabe

Mugabe is just another populist ‘dictator’ creating enemies ( white farmers ) to divert his peoples attention from their real problems and needs. How often we see this charade being played out.

Personally I feel that land holdings should not be only concentrated in the hands of the whites and re-distribution should take place to deserving and responsible blacks but not like this. They will only create a mess and then ask the world to bail them out – pity.