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Philippines Objects to Australia Slam

The Philippines angrily summoned the Australian ambassador Wednesday, saying it objected to criticism that a concession to Iraqi insurgents to save the life of a Filipino captive has encouraged terrorism. Ambassador Ruth Pearce was called in after Australian Foreign Secretary Alexander Downer blamed the Philippines and Spain for a new threat against Australia by a purported al-Qaida affiliate. Downer said terrorists had been energized by the Philippines’ early withdrawal of troops from Iraq to save hostage Angelo dela Cruz from being beheaded, and by Spain’s pull out after the Madrid train bombings in March.Full Story