Solar Semiconductor , a rapidly growing producer of high-quality photovoltaic (PV) modules, has announced its merger with US based Trans-India Acquisition Corporation. 

According to an official release, Trans-India has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire not less than 80% shares in the privately held Solar Semiconductor Ltd.

The proposed acquisition is valued at $375 million, which would be formalized once the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) formally approves the amalgamation. 

Washington - The White House refused to comment Monday on reports of a deadly US military strike in Syria near the border with Iraq that has outraged Damascus and other Arab countries.

"I'm not going to comment on it at all," White House spokeswoman Dana Perino said.

The Syrian government and Arab leaders in the region have expressed anger over the purported US helicopter raid Sunday targeting militants in the town of Abu Kamal.

The Syrian government says civilians, including children, were among the eight dead.

Los Angeles - Author Tony Hillerman, whose mystery novels shone a light on the clash between Navajo traditions and modern society, has died at aged 83 from pulmonary failure.

Hillerman died Sunday at the Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Born in Oklahoma in 1925, he grew up surrounded by Native Americans and their culture, and his work was characterized by intricate plots and fascinating accounts of tribal rituals.

Maputo - The international financial crisis is unlikely to lead to a significant fall-off in foreign aid and investment in Mozambique because it is well-governed, a senior US diplomat told a press conference in the capital Maputo Monday.

Todd Chapman, business affairs officer at the US Embassy in Maputo said Mozambique stood to receive "much more financial support" because of its stable business environment and the commitment of President Armando Guebuza's government to reform.