Originally published by the Voice of America (www.voanews.com).
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World Welcomes 2006
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=10634AF:3919ACA Crowds of
Australians welcomed in new year with huge fireworks extravaganza at
Sydney's landmark waterfront Opera House Crowds of Australians have
welcomed in the new year with a huge fireworks extravaganza at
Sydney's landmark waterfront Opera House.







People watch as fireworks flash above Sydney HarborAustralia is among
the first countries to celebrate the arrival of 2006 as people around
much of the rest of the world await their chance to join the
festivities.

Celebrations with fireworks, music and much fanfare are planned for
major Asian cities, followed by events across South Asia, the Middle
East, Africa, Europe and Latin America.

The United States is among the last to usher in the new year. A huge
celebration is planned for New York where revelers will say goodbye to
2005 in Times Square.

President Bush has issued a message of reflection for the outgoing
year, and of hope for 2006. Some information for this report was
provided by AP.


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