North Asia

Summit between EU, US, Russia and China is to take place on Monday to prepare IAEA meeting on Iranian nuclear issue. Rice and Straw exclude use of force.

Nobody knows where North Korea's 'Dear leader' is and what he might tell Chinese and Russian leaders. For experts, the six-nation talks, North Korea's economic situation and Kim's succession are likely on the agenda.

A Neo-Nazi is suspected in the wounding of eight worshipers at prayer. Catholic Metropolitan Kondrusewicz and Orthodox Patriarch Aleksij II send messages of solidarity.

EU3 foreign ministers are scheduled to meet tomorrow. China is hopeful that Iran-EU3 talks might prove useful. Russian foreign minister in Moscow says he is concerned, might not use veto in Secuirty Council.

In yesterday's celebration in Moscow, the Patriarch invited all not to be "slaves of idols imposed by the modern world" and to turn to Christ, who is truly Good. A Russian-Orthodox priest drew attention to Chechnya as one of the world's tragedies today: may the birth of Jesus be a time which spurs Christians not to allow themselves to be "trapped by the fluid sands of fear".

There have been several outbreaks of infection in Russia, Roumania and Turkey. Four Turkish siblings are not infected with the disease. There is a new suspect death in Indonesia.

Local security forces are accused of errors and shortcomings in the initial findings of a Russian federal inquiry. Everyone in Beslan is sure that they will never know the truth.

During Christmas celebrations in Moscow's Catholic Cathedral, Mgr Kondrusiewicz turns his thoughts to Orthodox believers, who will celebrate the festivity on January 7 in accordance with the Julian calendar. A planned picket line "to defend the Russian Christmas" was called off.

The deacon who launched the initiative has had a small message posted on his website to call the picket off. Catholics are still worried: "Thousands of people know about the picket, but few are aware it's been called off".

OPEC chief leaves for China, Russia

The initiative has been launched by an Orthodox deacon who enjoys favour with the Patriarchate, and by a right-wing nationalist movement, described as "Putin-Jugend". Concern and silence among Catholics.

ASEAN leaders want Japan, China and South Korea alongside to create an East Asian economic community. Russian President Putin attends ASEAN-Russia summit. Koizumi of Japan and Wen of China shake hands.