The world in brief

— QUOTE OF THE DAY “We don’t think the

results reflect the true desires of the Egyptian people.”

Khaled Dawoud,

spokesman for the Egyptian opposition

National Salvation Front on the country’s passed constitutional referendum Article, 1ARebels seize town

in Central Africa

BANGUI, Central African Republic - Rebels in Central African Republic have taken the key town of Bambari under their control just days after they said they were halting their advance, officials and residents said Sunday.

Regional official Jean-Baptiste Manikaou said the rebels had gained control of Bambari, about 240 miles from the capital.

Maxime Andjingbayo, a local priest, said government forces fled the city of about 40,000 after about two hours of gunfire, and several of their vehicles were seized by the rebels.

Rebel Col. Djouma Narkoyo denied that the group’s actions challenged the recommendations made in the capital of neighboring country Chad on Friday. Leaders of Central African states called for a cessation of hostilities in a statement at the end of a one-day summit.

Won’t seek bid, says Italy’s Monti

ROME - After keeping Italians, and the rest of Europe, in suspense for weeks, recently resigned Premier Mario Monti on Sunday ruled out campaigning in February elections, but said he would consider leading the next government if politicians who share his focus on change request it.

The decision positions him to take the helm again without having to get into the political nitty-gritty of an election - preserving his image as someone above the fray who can make tough decisions on imposing austerity. His previous measures have boosted confidence in Italy’s finances, and fellow European leaders have made no secret they want to keep them in place.

Silvio Berlusconi, the expremier considering another run, commented on Monti’s openness to another term.

“I had a nightmare - still having a government with Monti,” the media mogul said in an interview on state TV.

He has said in the past that he would run again if Monti did not, but made no commitment Sunday about his own political future.

Swedish princess

to wed on June 8

STOCKHOLM - Sweden’s royal family said Princess Madeleine’s wedding will take place June 8 at the Royal Palace chapel in downtown Stockholm.

King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia’s youngest daughter was engaged to U.S.-British boyfriend Christopher O’Neill, a 38-year-old New York banker, in late October. The 30-yearold Madeleine is fourth in line to the Swedish throne.

The royal family’s chief spokesman, Bertil Tenert, said Sunday that wedding organizers will start planning details of the nuptials. He added that Madeleine’s wedding will be smaller than Crown Princess Victoria’s wedding two years ago.

The Swedish royal family has only ceremonial duties, such as supporting charities and promoting Swedish businesses.

Putin to visit India, cement trade ties

MOSCOW - Russia’s President Vladimir Putin arrives in India today on a visit intended to help cement Russia’s position in the growing Indian market and reinvigorate political ties.

After Putin’s talks today with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and other Indian officials, Moscow and New Delhi will sign agreements on trade, science, education and law enforcement.

Front Section, Pages 6 on 12/24/2012

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