All Quiet in the South China Sea
Beijing adopts a more conciliatory tone in its maritime border disputes with Southeast Asian countries.
Nick Ottens
Nick Ottens is a public affairs officer for the Dutch Animal Coalition and a board member for Liberal Green, the sustainability network of the Dutch liberal party VVD. He is a former political risk consultant and a former research manager for XPRIZE, where he designed prize competitions to incentivize breakthrough innovation in agriculture, food and health care. He has also worked as a journalist in Amsterdam, Barcelona and New York for EUobserver, NRC, Trouw, World Politics Review and Wynia’s Week, among others.
Ryan: “We Want to Avoid a Debt Crisis”
The Republican chairman of the House budget committee says his spending plan would levy taxes “in a fairer way.”
Left Wing, Unions Stall Italian Labor Reforms
There is little doubt that Italy’s employment system must change but left-wing parties and unions are critical.
America Giveth, North Korea Taketh Away
Less than three weeks after America promised to supply humanitarian aid, North Korea announces a missile launch.
Beyond the Mandate: The Mess That’s Obamacare
There are many practical problems with President Barack Obama’s health reform law.
The Maoist Revival That Wasn’t
The purge of a provincial Communist Party chief proves that China’s elite has no desire to relive the past.
Peru Displays “Latin American Solidarity,” Britain Shrugs
Peru sends away a British frigate to show support for Argentina’s claim to the Falkland Islands.
Saudi Arabia Arming Syrian Opposition
A top Arab diplomat tells the AFP press agency that Saudi weapons are underway to Syria.
French Election, Proxy Battle Over Austerity
Right wing parties across Europe have lined up behind incumbent Nicolas Sarkozy while the left supports his socialist challenger.
Cameron Struggles With “Responsibility to Protect”
The British leader says if there is a chance to “save lives,” he doesn’t need UN approval.
Three-Way Tie in Republican Primaries Deep South
Neither Newt Gingrich nor Rick Santorum manages to beat Mitt Romney decisively.
Americans Urge Saudi Arabia to Boost Oil Output
The kingdom insists that it will raise production if Iranian oil exports fall.
Shale Gas Boom Could Reinvigorate Rust Belt
Former coal and steel areas in the Northwestern United States could prosper again if there is a shale gas boom.
Kirchner’s Popularity Drops as Economy Slows Down
Is her protectionist economic policy finally catching up with Argentina’s tough talking president?
Ahead of Election, Sarkozy Advocates Protectionism
The French president decried “savage competition” from abroad.