South East Asia

International analysts stress China’s ambivalence towards the crisis on the Korean Peninsula. On the one hand, it fears the collapse of the Stalinist regime in the North, and needs it for its own domestic stability. On the other, it runs the risk of driving Tokyo and Seoul closer to the United States.

Receiving the bishops of the largest Church in Asia, Benedict XVI highlights the commitment of Catholics in the social field, where they must be free to make their voices heard. While "distinct" from political power, the Church must make its voice heard when "the fundamental rights require the person or the salvation of souls."

The funerals of soldiers killed by the North Korea bombing create further tensions in the area, on the eve of joint naval manoeuvres between Seoul and Washington. Pyongyang reiterates that it will strike “any invader without mercy" ". Clinton assures China that warns against "unauthorised military action " off its coasts.

The urgency to build the Church's communion through dialogue with God and cooperation with the government. And the need for a "balanced view" of the entire Church in Vietnam. These are the key points of the first day of the General Assembly of the People of God, opened on Nov. 21.

Parliament chooses Busyro Muqqodas, until now head of the Indonesian Commission of Justice. Critics accuse: too much money spent on an appointment that lasts only one year. Members of the KPK applaud the choice: "Welcome aboard." Post vacant for months after the former chief Azhar involved in a murder probe.

Threat of North Korea to Seoul on the eve of joint naval exercises with the U.S. South. Alarm this morning for a few explosions in the area the island targeted on Tuesday. No shells fell south of the border.Korea north south tension crisis japan US china military exercises war

The Burmese junta allows NLD facility to remain open. With a technicality: the permits must be renewed from week to week. The government called for its closure due to lack of hygienic conditions. But for the leaders of the centre it was only a political move against Aung San Suu Kyi.

Rumours about the involvement of Hizbollah officials in the Hariri murder have paralysed the government in some measure as the opposition boycotts the cabinet. However, in Lebanon few fear a possible coup by Hizbollah. The ongoing struggle involves regional and world powers.

Military ordinariate bishop pays tribute to the two soldiers killed in North Korean attack against Yeonpyeong Island, urges everyone to pray for country and victims.

The situation appears to be very bad in large parts of the world, especially in Asia where violence against minorities, especially Christians, is up. The situation is particularly worrisome in China, where it is also difficult to get information.

Sowing the seeds of tolerance, mutual understanding and a good knowledge of Islam is key to improving relations between the Christian and Muslim communities. In November, an interfaith meeting with students to educate young people to have an open mind.

Obama is "outraged". On Sunday joint US- South Korea military manoeuvres. EU delegation leaves Pyongyang ahead of schedule. Bodies found of two civilians killed in the bombing.