World News Briefs -- March 31, 2009

Workmen place wooden boards around a war memorial statue outside the Bank of England in London. US President Barack Obama arrived in London Tuesday ahead of the G20 economic summit, on his eagerly awaited first foray onto the global stage since he moved into the White House in January. (AFP/Ben Stansall)

MIDDLE EAST

Israeli military closes probe. More news here.

Doha Summit ends with a whimper.

Army Sergeant pleads guilty to murder in Iraqi prisoner deaths.

U.S. to retain pressure on Iran Guards.

ASIA

Australian Mmlitary not ready for war as fighter jets, choppers and submarines unfit for frontline.

Khmer Rouge genocide trial opens. Khmer Rouge defendant expresses 'heartfelt sorrow'.

Tamil leader killed in suicide fleet sea battle. Fierce clashes in North Sri Lanka.

Was the U.S. set up by an Afghan drug lord?

Lahore 'was Pakistan Taleban op'.

N. Korea to put American journalists on trial.

AFRICA

Arab leaders end summit with support for Sudan's embattled leader.

Southern African leaders discuss Madagascar, Zimbabwe.

Hundreds feared drowned off Libya.

Africa faces battle for G20 spotlight.

EUROPE

Obama arrives in London, 1st leg of Europe trip.

Walesa threatens to leave Poland.

Prominent Chechen killed in Dubai. More news here.

Russian court begins 2nd Khodorkovsky trial.

AMERICAS

Mexico rules out joint border patrols with U.S.

Obama's aunt becomes symbol in immigration debate.

Home prices in 20 U.S. cities fell by a record 19%.

Red River recedes below most sandbags in Fargo.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

U.S. drops 'War on Terror' phrase, Clinton Says. More news here and here.

FINANCIAL/ECONOMIC CRISIS

World Bank: global economy will shrink for first time on record.

World Bank offers trade boost ahead of G20.

Double-digit unemployment looms, OECD tells G8.

Russia, China cooperate on new currency proposals.

Chavez to seek Arab backing for `petro-currency'.

Russia backs return to Gold Standard to solve financial crisis.