Saturday, October 24, 2009

World News Briefs -- October 24, 2009


Japan Pushes for East Asia Bloc, U.S. Role Uncertain -- Yahoo News/Reuters

HUA HIN, Thailand (Reuters) – Japan's prime minister backed a U.S. role for a proposed EU-style Asian community on Saturday, telling Southeast Asian leaders Tokyo's alliance with Washington was at the heart of its diplomacy.

Making a case for an East Asian Community at a summit of Asian leaders in Thailand, Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama said there should be some U.S. involvement in the bloc, which faces stiff obstacles including Japan's historic rivalry with China.

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MIDDLE EAST

Iranian site prompts US to rethink assessment.

US embassy in Baghdad faces $130 million repair bill after errors.

Palestinians now have voting date, but no unity.

ASIA

NATO members support US troop hike in Afghanistan.

Pakistani Taliban are putting up a tough fight in Waziristan operation, analysts say. Army captures Pakistani Taliban leader's hometown.

ASEAN summit hits snag on new rights panel. Asian leaders eye EU-style bloc.

Group says China has executed 4 for roles in Tibet riots.

AFRICA

Ahoy, pirates! U.S. drones are on your case.

Seven Algerian security guards killed in ambush.

Zimbabwe police 'raid MDC office'.

Islamists in Somalia threaten Other nations.

EUROPE

Lisbon Treaty end in sight as EU satisfies demands of President Klaus.

German coalition agrees tax cut.

Pirate Bay back in the courtroom.

AMERICAS

US swine flu deaths surpass 1,000.

Zelaya pronounces end to crisis talks.

US balloon mother 'admits hoax'.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Terror suspect arrested at O'Hare.

Why Al Qaeda wants a safe haven.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Obama wants banks to lend more to small businesses.

Bank failures hit 106 for year; many more are weak.

Record recession for UK economy.

Australia approves biggest ever Chinese takeover.

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