North Korea's new era can't be any worse
In situations as dire as that of North Korea, any change is a harbinger of hope. As much is true of the death of the reclusive nation's leader, Kim Jong Il, and the ascension of his youngest son, 20-something Kim Jong Un. Even though this has triggered immediate fears of instability throughout northeast Asia, the longer-term outlook is surely one of enhanced optimism, for the Korean people and the rest of the world.
US steps into a virtual Iranian world
The administration of United States President Barack Obama has launched a virtual US Embassy in Iran that, as expected, has been immediately filtered. Tehran sees it as yet another subversive initiative by Uncle Sam to sow divisions between the people and the Islamic regime that overthrew a US-friendly dictator and then took American diplomats as hostage for 444 days in 1979-1980, prompting the US to sever diplomatic ties with Iran
Iran looks to its allies
Iran is facing ominous rhetoric and deadly explosions as the United States, Israel and Saudi Arabia step up efforts to open Iran's nuclear facilities to inspection. Tehran is gauging its support from abroad. Syria, a longstanding ally, is in turmoil and Hezbollah in Lebanon would be of only limited help.
Russia rejects sanctions on Iran's energy sector
Russia announced that it will not join any efforts to sanction Iran’s oil and gas sector..
Russia prepares for opposition protest in Moscow
Security is being stepped up ahead of an opposition rally in Moscow on Saturday expected to draw 30,000 people.
US, S Korean envoys discuss DPRK's nuclear program
Washington hopes to have another round of rare denuclearization talks with Pyongyang, said Thursday Glyn Davies, new US special representative for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).
Russia says time running out for NATO missile deal
Russia warned Thursday time was running out to conclude a missile defence deal with NATO after the two failed again to bridge differences on a project the alliance says is aimed at countering threats from states like Iran.
India, Israel close to finalising free trade pact
With India and Israel being at an advanced stage of finalising a free trade agreement, the bilateral trade is likely to touch $15 billion from around $5 billion now, said Mr Alon Ushpiz, Ambassador of Israel to India.
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