November 2009

Bing criticised for China search resultsAudio

Updated 30/11/2009 13:59:59

A Microsoft search engine is at the centre of a new controversy over Internet censorship of sites about issues sensitive to China.

India's Reliance looks to become world's largest chemical firmAudioTranscript

Updated 30/11/2009 13:59:59

India's biggest private company, Reliance Industries, is hoping to achieve its global ambitions by buying a bankrupt European chemical and fuel business.

US missed opportunity to capture Bin LadenAudioTranscript

Updated 30/11/2009 14:00:01

A new report says the US military's failure to kill or capture Osama Bin Laden eight years ago forever altered the course of the conflict in Afghanistan.

Troops return as Obama's decision loomsAudioTranscript

Updated 30/11/2009 14:00:01

The US President, Barack Obama is set to reveal the most critical and strategic decision yet of his presidency - whether he'll approve a massive escalation of America's involvement in Afghanistan.

Muslim world shocked at Swiss minaret bandAudio

Updated 30/11/2009 10:28:48

Switzerland's muslim community is in shock, after voters supported a proposed ban on the building of minarets.

Japanese PM in hot water over loansAudioTranscript

Updated 30/11/2009 13:59:59

In Japan, prosecutors are investigating a series of suspicious political payments made to the Prime Minister, Yukio Hatoyama.

CHOGM lays groundwork for CopenhagenAudioTranscript

Updated 30/11/2009 13:59:59

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's climate change policies may be locked in uncertainty, but overseas, he's intensifying his efforts to strike a global deal at next week's Copenhagen conference.

Muslim world shocked at Swiss minaret banTranscript

Updated 30/11/2009 13:59:59

Switzerland's muslim community is in shock, after voters supported a proposed ban on the building of minarets.

Australian opposition looks to new leadershipAudio

Updated 30/11/2009 13:59:59

The Australian government's plan to have an emissions trading scheme enshrined in law in time for the U-N climate change summit in Copenhagen next week is in tatters but it's the country's opposition Liberal and National parties that are responsible, as they tear themselves apart over the issue.

President hands nuclear keys to Prime MinisterAudio

Updated 30/11/2009 13:59:59

To the epicentre of the war against terrorism, and Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari has relinquished control of the country's nuclear arsenal, in what's seen as another step towards empowering parliament.

Labor MP pushes for population freezeAudioTranscript

Updated 30/11/2009 13:59:58

An Australian federal member of parliament says the government's push to reduce the size of Australia's environmental footprint is not helped by its population policy which is adding more people.

Wal Mart's China suppliers accused of employee abusesAudioTranscript

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:36

The American retail giant Wal Mart has run into trouble in China again, after some of its suppliers were accused of serious abuses against their workers.

Climate change on Commonwealth meeting agendaAudioTranscript

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:36

Climate change is expected to dominate the Commonwealth Heads of Government summit in Trinidad.

Greenpeace urges binding emission targetsAudioTranscript

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:36

Greenpeace International's new head, Kumi Naidoo, is critical of Australia for a lack of leadership on climate change.

Empire of the Sun win at music awardsAudioTranscript

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:36

At the 2009 Australian Recording Industry Awards last night, the electro-rock duo, Empire of the Sun, was the the night's big winner, picking up four awards.

Outback under siege from feral camelsAudio

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:36

The local government in Australia's Northern Territory has declared part of the outback under siege from thousands of marauding feral camels.

China builds replica NZ city to woo touristsAudio

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:35

An unusual project is underway in northern China. to build a replica of a New Zealand city.

China, US leaders to attend UN climate summitAudioTranscript

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:36

China's Premier Wen Jiabao is the latest world leader to confirm he'll be attending next month's UN climate summit in Copenhagen.

Turnbull hangs tough in face of mutinyAudioTranscript

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:36

In Australia, the politics of climate change have left the opposition in complete dissaray.

China explores disease prevention optionsAudioTranscript

Updated 27/11/2009 13:08:36

Some answers on the question of how to close the health gap between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians may be about to come from an unusual source.

Arroyo's coalition expells members over killingsAudio

Updated 26/11/2009 11:50:56

In the Philippines President Gloria Arroyo's ruling coalition has expelled three members of a prominent political family, accused of involvement in a political massacre that killed at least 57 people.

Obama's one day in CopenhagenAudioTranscript

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:30

US President Barack Obama is hoping to provide some new momentum for next month's climate talks in Copenhagen.

India to face serious water shortage by 2030Audio

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:30

India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been visiting the United States, where he signed a deal with President Obama to strengthen cooperation on climate change.

Inquiry hears Iraq no threat to UK before invasionAudioTranscript

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:30

An inquiry in London has heard that Britain's Foreign Office told former Prime Minister, Tony Blair ten days before Britain invaded Iraq, that Saddam Hussein's weapons of mass destruction had been dismantled.

Seven charged on Mumbai attacks anniversaryAudio

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:29

A court in Pakistan has charged seven suspects in connection with last year's Mumbai attacks that killed 166 people.

International climate health council establishedAudio

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:29

Senior doctors from every continent have joined forces to create a new International Climate and Health Council.

Falun Gong marks 10 years of being banned in ChinaAudioTranscript

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:29

Falun Gong practitioners are marking ten years since China banned the spiritual and exercise movement as a national security threat, in the wake of a mass demonstration by adherents in Beijing in April of 1999.

Catholic church celebrates 350 years in VietnamAudio

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:29

Tens of thousands of Catholics gathered yesterday at a church in Northern Vietnam to celebrate the 350th anniversary of the country's first Catholic Diocese and to mark the launch of a Holy Year.

Arroyo's coalition expels members over killingsAudio

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:30

In the Philippines President Gloria Arroyo's ruling coalition has expelled three members of a prominent political family, accused of involvement in a political massacre that killed at least 57 people.

New book celebrates Thai street foodAudio

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:20

For many visitors to Southeast Asia, one of the region's great attractions, apart from its beauty & affordability, is food.

Prosecutors demand life for Khmer Rouge prison chiefAudio

Updated 26/11/2009 13:54:30

The first defendant in Cambodia's Khmer Rouge trials has made a final plea for clemency as lawyers wind up the case against him.

US offers India energy incentives on climate changeAudioTranscript

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:53

The US and India have also announced more talks on greater economic cooperation. It was just last week that US President Obama went over the same ground with China's leaders. So closer ties with India will take into consideration America's blossoming relationship with China.

Australia's climate change legislation a political footballAudioTranscript

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:53

The Australian government has sealed a political deal which it hopes will get its long-delayed climate change legislation through Parliament. After five weeks of negotiations, Canberra has agreed to give billions more dollars in compensation to the country's biggest polluters, mainly the coal and electricity industries, in exchange for decisive opposition votes in the Senate. But green activists say they're horrified, accusing the government of turning its back on both developing countries and future generations.

Cooperation the key note to US India relationsAudio

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:53

The United States President will hold a black tie dinner at the White House Tuesday night, where India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will be the guest of honour. Talks between the two leaders during Mr Singh's five-day visit to the US have already covered nuclear cooperation, the long running India-Pakistan conflict and climate change.

Dangerous Aussie pest invades JapanAudioTranscript

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:52

In Japan, there are fears that a potentially deadly Australian invader is beginning to close in on some of the country's most crowded urban areas. It's believed that redback spiders originally hitched a ride to Japan in a container ship, possibly one carrying woodchips.

Outrage in Indian parliament over Ayodhya reportAudioTranscript

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:52

There's been uproar in the Indian parliament after a leaked government report into the destruction of the Ayodhya mosque 17 years ago included serious allegations against leaders of the BJP political party. The incident in which Hindu extremists stormed the mosque in northern India led to widespread riots, in which hundreds of people died.

Sri Lanka to allow displaced civilians to return homeAudio

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:53

Sri Lanka has promised to free nearly 140,000 Tamil civilians being held in detention camps by December the first, and to close the controversial camps down altogether by the end of January.

Sri Lanka urged to move fast on Tamil reconciliationAudioTranscript

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:53

The Sri Lankan government is being urged to allow international involvement in the nation's reconciliation process.

Displaced people from region languishing in Malaysian campsAudioTranscript

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:53

Refugee advocacy agencies in the Asia region are warning that more asylum seekers are likely to be heading to Australia in the coming months with more Burmese refugees in particular setting their sights on the land down under. Malaysia is a key transit point for many refugees and pressure is mounting on the government of Najib Razak to do more after the US earlier this year listed the country as one of the worst offenders for human trafficking and smuggling. It stands accused of standing idly by or worse even facilitating this tragic trend.

New climate change data shows problem's urgencyAudio

Updated 25/11/2009 15:53:53

It's been two years since the landmark intergovernmental panel on climate change report gave its most recent assessment on the state of the planet's changing climate. Now, 26 international scientists have collated the most recent data and observations, and they've found that climate change is accelerating beyond expectations.

Price of gold spikesAudio

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:01

The continuing weakness of the US dollar and worries about the world's largest economy are driving up the price of gold. Gold was fetching more than 1,164 US dollars an ounce in Hong Kong today, a jump of around twenty dollars from its last closing price, on Friday.

President opposes relocation South Korean ministriesAudioTranscript

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:00

A plan to relocate 49 government agencies out of the South Korean capital Seoul is opposed by the country's President Lee Myung-bak. But Mr Lee's opposition to the relocation of the government agencies does not extend to stopping 22.5 trillion won being spent on a new city 120 kilometres from Seoul.

Praise for China's expanding peacekeeping roleAudioTranscript

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:01

China continues to win praise as it aims to expand the already significant role it plays in United Nations peacekeeping. Last week, Beijing hosted what's been described as an unprecedented conference on international peacekeeping.

SBY backs anti-corruption officialsAudio

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:02

The Indonesian President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, has used a nationally televised address to try to placate public anger over a massive corruption scandal.

UK university denies manipulating climate dataAudioTranscript

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:01

The University of East Anglia in Britain has hit back at suggestions that it tried to manipulate scientific data to support flawed climate change research.

EXTENDED INTERVIEW: Izumi NakamitsuAudio

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:01

Izumi Nakamitsu, Director of Policy, Evaluation and Training with the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations in New York, speaks to Linda Mottram in Canberra about trying to get greater international commitment to UN peacekeeping.

Questions remain over Indonesian bank bailoutAudio

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:02

President Yudhoyono's own Democratic Party and other coalition parties are backing an enquiry into the Bank Century bailout.

Korean river project raises environmental concernsAudio

Updated 24/11/2009 12:39:57

South Korea has launched an ambitious and costly project this week to overhaul its major rivers.

'Extinct' crocodile gets new lease on lifeAudioTranscript

Updated 24/11/2009 12:39:57

Twenty years ago Siamese crocodiles were declared effectively extinct in the wild, hunted beyond the brink for their soft leather. But conservation efforts have received a significant boost with the news that more than 30 crocodiles at a wildlife refuge outside Phnom Penh are purebred, making a proposed breeding and release programme much more viable.

Microsoft to get exclusive access to News Corp's contentAudioTranscript

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:01

Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation has held talks with Microsoft on a plan to remove his News Corporation content from the rival search engine Google.

Cambodian torture chief accused of duping courtAudio

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:00

In Cambodia, closing statements have begun at the trial of the only Khmer Rouge leader to apologise publicly for his actions.

State of emergency declared in the southern PhilippinesAudio

Updated 24/11/2009 12:40:00

Military officals in the Southern Philippines have recovered the bodies of 36 people abducted and kidnapped on Monday, in what authorities believe was a politically motivated attack.

Group promotes Scientology leader in schoolsAudioTranscript

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:06

A group sponsored by the Church of Scientology says it's been targetting children in thousands of schools across Australia.

New autopsy for Malaysian opposition aideAudioTranscript

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:06

A second autopsy has been held on the body of a Malaysian opposition aide who fell to his death from anti-corruption offices where he was being questioned earlier this year.

The body of Teoh Beng Hock was exhumed on Saturday after an independent Thai pathologist had earlier said that marks on Mr Teoh's body suggested he had been beaten and strangled before he fell. Officials had claimed Mr Teoh, who was being interrogated in a probe of opposition-led Selangor state at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission had committed suicide.

Presenter: Bo Hill
Speaker: Gobind Singh Deo, the lawyer for Mr Teoh's family

Questions raised over e-waste schemeAudio

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:06

The announcement that Australia's environment ministers have come up with an agreement on how to dispose of computers and televisions has drawn some gushing praise in recent weeks.

Massive Nepali animal slaughter condemnedAudioTranscript

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:00

Thousands of Hindu devotees have flocked to a village in Nepal ahead of this week's planned sacrifice of around half a million animals in a ceremony condemned by animal rights activists, including French actress Brigitte Bardot.

Priests are preparing for the slaughter of more than 15,000 buffaloes and 300,000 birds, goats and sheep during the event, which starts Tuesday and is thought to be the biggest ritual sacrifice anywhere in the world. Nepal's government has refused to put a stop to what it says is a centuries old religious tradition.

New test gives hope to cancer sufferersAudio

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:06

A new blood test is being developed which will not only detect 15 per cent of all cancers but will also help in anti cancer treatments for some of the most aggressive cancers.

Taiwan offer university places to Chinese studentsAudio

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:05

In another sign of improving relations, Taiwan has announced it'll allow Chinese students to attend its universities.

China increasing attempts to recruit American spiesAudio

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:05

China is sharply stepping up espionage against the United States, a report to the U-S Congress says.

Violence flares at detention centreAudioTranscript

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:06

Australia's Immigration Department has launched an inquiry into weekend rioting at the immigration detention centre on Christmas Island.

Ferry sinking kills dozens in IndonesiaAudio

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:06

A ferry in Indonesia has sunk in heavy seas, killing 29 people and again raising questions about the country's maritime safety standards.

Crunch time for ETS debateAudioTranscript

Updated 23/11/2009 13:59:06

The Australian Goverment has delivered an ultimatum to the Opposition - if it agrees to a deal on the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme , it must vote for it this week.

Debate continues over Australian handling of Oceanic VikingAudioTranscript

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:52

There has been intense debate in Australia over how Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's government handled the month-long saga of the 78 Sri Lankan asylum seekers who spent a month moored off Indonesia on the Australian ship, the Oceanic Viking.

Twenty years of child rights conventionAudioTranscript

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:52

Twenty years ago today, the Convention on the Rights of the Child became the first legally binding international treaty to affirm human rights for all children.

Asia leading world's economic recoveryAudioTranscript

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:52

The latest global economic forecast from a leading regional research body says Asia is leading the recovery from the global recession.

School leavers converge on Gold CoastAudio

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:49

In the 1970's a group of school leavers headed to the Gold Coast for two weeks of celebration...marking the end of their school days.

Financial crisis hits women hardestAudioTranscript

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:51

From the rights of children to the rights of women and more than 300 women's representatives from 60 Asia Pacific countries are in Bangkok reviewing gains made since the world conference on women in Beijing in 1995 and coming ahead of a major meeting in New York in March next year.

Singapore concerned about brain drainAudio

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:51

In Singapore, where authorities are concerned about a potential brain drain.

Hamid Karzai sworn in for second presidential termAudioTranscript

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:52

The Afghan President Hamid Karzai was sworn in today for a second five-year term, promising to fight corruption and put August's fraud-ridden elections behind him.

China's low currency is a big cost for the USAudioTranscript

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:52

Members of the United States Congress have asked the Commerce department to investigate allegations that the government of China manipulated its currency, the renminbi.

Vietnam to hold $US1 billion government bond saleAudio

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:52

With interest rates at record lows and stock markets around the world still looking shaky, governments all over the world are competing to attract big investment dollars, and Vietnam has entered the race, saying it will issue government bonds with a view to raising $US1 billion.

US postal service failing to deliver on the Christmas spiritAudio

Updated 20/11/2009 12:55:52

The global financial crisis and privacy concerns have claimed another victim - Santa Claus.

Vigil for separated twinsAudio

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:42

Surgeons at Melbourne's Royal Children's hospital will deliver an update this afternoon on the progress of twins, Krishna and Trishna, who were joined at the head, until an operation separated them this week.

World's carbon footprint continues to growAudioTranscript

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:38

As the world prepares for next month's UN climate change conference in Copenhagen, the latest annual global carbon report has been released in London.

Asia fares poorly in corruption indexAudio

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:42

The latest edition of Transparency International's "Corruption Index" has found that instability and the global financial crisis are both driving factors in political corruption and how it's perceived by the public.

Anti-war protests ahead of Obama's South Korea visitAudioTranscript

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:43

A group of anti-war demonstrators has staged a protest in the South Korean capital Seoul, ahead of US President Barack Obama's arrival in the country.

Oceanic Viking leaves Indonesia after four week stalemateAudioTranscript

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:43

After spending four weeks off the coast of Indonesia, the Australian customs ship, Oceanic Viking weighed anchor last night and began the journey back to Australian waters.

Democrats reject Hong Kong 'democracy blueprint'AudioTranscript

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:43

Pro-democracy politicians in Hong Kong have rejected a new government proposal to change the way it chooses its leader and legislators.

How well prepared is Australia for 2009 bushfire season?AudioTranscript

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:42

After issuing a "catastrophic" fire warnings for the first time today, Australian authorities were relieved no bushfires broke out in areas covered by the warning.

BHP Billiton CEO says Australia's growth tied to China'sAudioTranscript

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:42

In China, an estimated 50-thousand skyscrapers will be built over the next 20 years.

Malaysian team prepares for world cycling comp.Audio

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:38

The world's best track cyclists have begun arriving in Melbourne for this weekend's world championships.

UN: Too many women dying in childbirth in Asia-PacificAudioTranscript

Updated 19/11/2009 13:36:42

The United Nations Population Fund has put out its annual State of the World Population report, which focuses on the human dimensions of climate change, and in particular its effects on women.

Senator says Church of Scientology is 'rife with shocking crimes'AudioTranscript

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

Australian independent Senator Nick Xenophon has used parliamentary privilege to launch a scathing attack on the Church of Scientology.

Korea considers women for combat rolesAudio

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

South Korea is the latest nation to consider introducing women into senior positions in the military.

Panda TV captivates ThailandAudioTranscript

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

Seinfeld was the long-running American TV show about nothing.

Detained Vietnamese rights campaigner suffers strokeAudio

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

Vietnamese Catholic priest and human rights campaigner, Father Nguyen Van Ly, has suffered a second stroke.

Tensions high on Thai-Cambodia borderAudio

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

There's's growing concern that tensions between Thailand and Cambodia could erupt into violence.

Afghanistan president establishes anti-corruption agencyAudio

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai has established a new anti-corruption unit, ahead of his swearing-in on Thursday.

Obama cements China relationshipAudioTranscript

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

US President, Barack Obama first official visit to China comes as America's relative strength in world affairs is weighed down by the financial crisis, a ballooning debt and the crippling wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

SBY under pressure on corruption findingsAudio

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

Indonesia's President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will today receive the findings of an independent investigation into the country's corruption commission - the KPK.

Poor sanitation a killer in poor countriesAudio

Updated 18/11/2009 11:01:19

To East Timor, where lack of access to fresh water and poor sanitation are continuing to kill young children.

Japanese economy emerges from recessionAudioTranscript

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:26

Japan's worst recession on record may be nearing its end, with the economy posting a second straight quarter of positive growth.

UN warns of fresh food price crisisAudio

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:26

The United Nations World Food Summit is underway in Rome, and more than 60 heads of state are there, but the majority are from countries in need of help, rather than those in a position to give.

Aung San Suu Kyi seeks talks with regimeAudioTranscript

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:26

In Burma, where detained Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi has written to the head of the military regime, seeking direct talks.

SBY delays Australia visitAudio

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:26

After a gruelling few weeks over the issue of Sri Lankan asylum-seekers, Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono met on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Singapore last weekend.

China shows no sign of giving ground on currencyAudio

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:26

President Obama is in Beijing now and will hold a summit with President Hu Jintao later today.

Obama visit to China overshadowed by trade tensionsAudioTranscript

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:26

U-S President Barrack Obama has urged China to take on the "burden of leadership".

Indonesia deports Greenpeace activistsAudio

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:23

A group of Indonesian villagers have rallied together to force officials not to proceed with plans to close down an environmental camp in the jungle.

Climate ministers hold out hope for Copenhagen talksAudioTranscript

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:23

The world's environment ministers haven't given up hope for a climate change deal in Copenhagen next month but a binding deal may have to wait until the end of next year.

New emission technology will save millionsAudioTranscript

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:26

It's less than three weeks to the Climate Change summit in Copenhagen but already, the international political will to reduce carbon emissions appears to be faltering.

Former Sri Lankan army chief likely to stand in 2010 pollsAudio

Updated 17/11/2009 14:13:26

Sri Lanka's President Mahinda Rajapakse has put off a widely anticipated announcement of dates for next year's presidential and parliamentary elections. He didn't give a reason, but it follows the resignation on Friday of army chief General Sarath Fonseka, who's considered likely to enter politics and stand against Mr Rajapakse.

Kidneys openly sold online in ChinaAudioTranscript

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:34

It wasn't long ago when the Chinese government launched a national organ donation system in a bid to crack down on organ trafficking, but it has been revealed that organ trading has become more active than ever and people can buy and sell kidneys openly on line in a dozen cities across the country.

Abhisit earns poll boost from Cambodia spatAudioTranscript

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:37

Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva met his Cambodian counterpart for an hour on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.

Obama in first official visit to ChinaAudioTranscript

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:38

Meanwhile, the presidents from the two largest carbon-emitting countries will still attempt to seek a way forward on climate change.

Japan's PM urges respect for indigenous minorityAudioTranscript

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:34

Japan's newly installed prime minister has used a parliamentary address to urge respect for the history and culture of the Ainu people.

APEC fails to set specific greenhouse targetsAudioTranscript

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:38

Asia Pacific leaders representing about half the world's economy have conceded there'll be no legally binding deal at the Copenhagen summit in just over twenty days' time.

Giuliani angry at terrorist trial in NYAudioTranscript

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:37

The man who was mayor of New York City when terrorists struck on September Eleven has criticised the decision to put the accused mastermind of the attack on trial in New York, just a short walk from where the twin towers once stood.

Australian supplied boat in Afghans shootingAudioTranscript

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:37

Indonesian police have confirmed that an Australian-supplied fast boat was involved the interception of Afghan asylum seekers which led to two men being shot.

Hun Sen defiant on Thaksin roleAudio

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:37

In Thailand 15,000 People's Alliance for Democracy members rallied over the weekend to denounce convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Girl's home residents join hundreds for apologyAudioTranscript

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:37

Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is in parliament this morning issuing an apology to a group known as the "Forgotten Australians".

Obama may offer China concessionsAudio

Updated 16/11/2009 13:46:38

President Obama's meeting with handpicked chinese students may provide him an unscripted opportunity to engage with China's future players, but the US leader will also explore a whole range of issues with Chinese leaders, as China assumes its spot as a key global player.

Media allowed into Tamil campsAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:10

Sri Lanka's government says it's on track to have most of the Tamils living in its camps, back in their home villages by early next year.

Despite new jobs, Australian unemployment still risingAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:06

Australia can boast having added nearly 25,000 new jobs to the labour force in October.

Obama to offer more talk than action on Asian tradeAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:10

The APEC summit marks US President Barack Obama's first presidential visit to Asia, covering Japan, Singapore, China and South Korea in eight days.

APEC adopts growth first strategyAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:09

APEC finance ministers have committed themselves to a growth first strategy, to quote US Treasury secretary Timothy Geithner at the end of the ministers' APEC meeting in Singapore.

20 asylum seekers set to leave Oceanic VikingAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:10

After weeks of stalemate, it appears there could be some developments onboard the customs ship, the Oceanic Viking.

Soccer success in balanceTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:06

The Socceroos have already qualified for next year's World Cup and this weekend a win in Oman will almost guarantee them a place at the next Asian Cup.

Australia considering extra aid for BurmaAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:10

In the wake of Hillary Clinton's call yesterday for ASEAN states to put more pressure on Burma to hold democratic elections, Australia's Foreign Minister Stephen Smith Smith says Canberra is considering extending development assistance to Rangoon.

Obama rejects new war plans for AfghanistanAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:10

The U-S President Barack Obama's War Council has been sent back to the drawing board after the President rejected all four Afghan war options it had placed before him.

Australian football pushing into ChinaAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:09

China is well on its way to becomming a force to be reckoned with in the world of sport.

Rudd stops short of promise on stopping student violenceAudioTranscript

Updated 13/11/2009 14:04:10

The Prime Minister has refused to apologise for the failure to stop the violence against Indian students in Australia.

Disease outbreaks strike flooded PhilippinesAudio

Updated 12/11/2009 13:22:02

Five weeks after Typhoon Ketsana, and having weathered two more typhoons since then, tens of thousands of Filippinos are still living in flooded villages and towns.

Sri Lankans wary of promised dealsAudioTranscript

Updated 12/11/2009 13:22:02

The Sri Lankans onboard the Oceanic Viking have also been promised English language classes while their claims are being processed.

New deal offered to Oceanic Viking's Sri LankansAudioTranscript

Updated 12/11/2009 13:22:03

A new deal has been offered to the Sri Lankans who are refusing to leave the Australian customs ship, the Oceanic Viking, in Indonesia.

Editor of groundbreaking Chinese magazine quitsAudio

Updated 12/11/2009 13:22:02

China's international reputation for media freedom sank further this week, after Hu Shuli resigned as editor from the groundbreaking magazine Caijing, which she founded 11 years ago.

China's Hu Jintao concludes deals with MalaysiaAudioTranscript

Updated 12/11/2009 13:21:59

China's President Hu Jintao has made a state to Malaysia, where he signed several new economic and trade deals. It was the first Malaysian visit by a Chinese leader in 15 years, and is an indication of the growing links between China and the rest of South East Asia.

US pressures ASEAN to push for Burmese electionsAudio

Updated 12/11/2009 13:22:03

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has arrived in Singapore for APEC meetings, and immediately moved to ramp up pressure on ASEAN nations to do more about Burma.

APEC could cut business cost by 25 per centAudioTranscript

Updated 12/11/2009 13:22:02

The US views APEC as an "essential forum" and has given its support to a continuing role for the forum, including its free trade agenda.

India to open Bhopal disaster site to visitorsAudioTranscript

Updated 12/11/2009 13:21:59

India will mark the 25th anniversary of the world's worst industrial accident by throwing open the disaster site to visitors.

US looks to reconciliation not democracy in BurmaAudioTranscript

Updated 12/11/2009 13:22:03

Southeast Asian nations are under strong pressure from the US to help ensure Burma's elections next year are democratic.

Cambodia rejects Thaksin extradition requestAudioTranscript

Updated 12/11/2009 13:22:02

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia show no signs of easing, after Cambodia rejected a Thai request to extradite former prime minister-turned-fugitive Thaksin Shinawatra.

SAS Trooper gets VC from QueenAudioTranscript

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:38

In a private ceremony at Windsor Castle, the Queen has awarded an Australian soldier the Victoria Cross for his bravery in Afghanistan.

Tobacco industry accused of targetting youthAudio

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:34

A global tobacco industry meeting opens today in the Thai capital, Bangkok, to great opposition from anti-smoking advocates.

Business leaders urge APEC to move on trade dealAudio

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:38

World leaders will converge on Singapore this weekend for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.

Doubts over APEC deadlinesAudioTranscript

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:38

Asia Pacific leaders are raising a toast to 20 years of APEC the Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation forum - though the celebrations in Singapore come amid doubts APEC can meet its own deadlines on opening up trade and business in the region.

North using battle for diplomatic gainAudioTranscript

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:38

North and South Korea have been bitterly divided since the 1950 war ended three years later without a peace treaty.

High alert between Koreas after naval fightAudioTranscript

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:38

The militaries of North and South Korea are on high alert after a brief skirmish between their navies in the Yellow Sea.

Pakistan's energy sector and the great gameAudioTranscript

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:37

The war in Afghanistan is often called the Great Game because its outcome may well determine who gains access to oil and gas reserves in Central Asia.

Veteran remembers Thai-Burma railwayAudio

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:34

Around the world today the lives of fallen soldiers will be remembered.

Japan's centre-left government losing favour with votersAudio

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:37

Two months after being elected, Japan's centre-left government appears to be losing its shine for voters.

Australian diplomat urges Sri Lanka to resettle TamilsAudioTranscript

Updated 11/11/2009 14:27:38

The man spearheading the Australian government's response to people smuggling says the issue requires a joint law enforcement and humanitarian-based solution.

Kevin Rudd criticised over asylum policyAudioTranscript

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:35

In Australia opinion polls show many Australians disagree with their leader's handling of the asylum seeker issue.

Philippine authorities blame Abu Sayyaf for teacher's deathAudioTranscript

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:34

Just days before US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton arrives in Manila to discuss security issues, the protracted Muslim separatist conflict in the southern Philippines has claimed a fresh casualty.

Koala population under threat

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:31

Australia's koalas are a great hit with visitors - but there's a real fear their numbers are falling.

Economics to dominate Obama's Asia tourAudioTranscript

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:34

When US President Barack Obama visits Asia this week, his policy agenda will be crowded with a long list of issues.

Drug conviction for Japan's pop princessAudioTranscript

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:31

She's one of Asia's most famous pop princesses,she's now also a convicted drug user.

India may soon withdraw economic stimulus measuresAudio

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:34

India might be the first economy to withdraw its economic stimulus measures according to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Warnings more Tamils will flee Sri LankaAudioTranscript

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:35

With the government facing continued pressure over asylum seekers, Australia's Foreign Minister Stephen Smith is in Colombo to seek a solution to what is a growing problem at home.

China heading for housing bubbleAudioTranscript

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:34

Well while India considers withdrawing its stimulus - China is asking the question has its stimulus gone too far?

Thaksin Shinawatra threatened with extradition from CambodiaAudioTranscript

Updated 10/11/2009 14:06:34

Thailand says it will seek to extradite former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, if he arrives as expected in Cambodia later this week.

Radio Australia launches Burmese serviceAudio

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:39

The region's media gets a new addition this week, as Radio Australia begins its Burmese service today.

China angered by Dalai Lama's India visitAudio

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:39

China has long tried to rally support for its policy in Tibet, by discouraging countries from hosting the Dalai Lama.

Australian chasing world computer games titleAudioTranscript

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:36

In less than a year the Socceroos will head to South Africa to take another shot at World Cup glory.

US bases to dominate Obama Japan visitAudio

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:39

The US President, Barack Obama heads off on his Asian tour this week, and he'll fly straight into a storm in Japan about American military bases.

Humanitarian crisis developing in AfghanistanAudioTranscript

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:40

Aid workers are warning the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is worsening.

China extends "soft power" in AfricaAudioTranscript

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:40


China has strengthened its influence on the African continent, by pledging ten-billion dollars worth of loans, over the next three years.

Twenty years since the Berlin wall came downAudioTranscript

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:39

Twenty years ago today, one of the most enduring symbols of the Cold War - the Berlin Wall - began to fall, taking with it divisions that had cleaved both the city and the world for decades.

Asylum seeker "Alex" details his pastAudioTranscript

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:40

The spokesman for more than 250 Sri Lankans still aboard a wooden cargo boat in western Java has revealed that he's a former member of a violent Tamil gang in Canada.

Deal possible for Oceanic Viking passengersAudioTranscript

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:40

Australia and Indonesia are believed to be close to finalising a deal which the Federal Government hopes will convince the 78 Sri Lankan asylum seekers onboard the Oceanic Viking to leave the customs ship and go ashore.

Islamist party demands divorce pledgeAudioTranscript

Updated 09/11/2009 13:01:39

Malaysia's Islamic PAS party has been criticised over a loyalty oath sworn by some of its legislators who have pledged to divorce their wives if they ever switch parties.

Khalid Samad, a member of the Pan-Malaysia Islamic Party, which is part of the opposition alliance, said he took the oath when he was selected to contest the 2008 general elections. Party-hopping has become a hot political issue in Malaysia .... the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition, which rules nationally, earlier this year managed to claw back one of the states it lost in the polls by luring opposition legislators to switch sides.

Public anger over conspiracy to undermine Indonesia's corruption watchAudioTranscript

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

Two members of Indonesia's police and judiciary have resigned, in the wake of allegations they were involved in a conspiracy to frame two leaders of the KPK, Indonesia's anti-corruption commission.

UN set to relocate Afghanistan staff after suicide attackAudio

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

The United Nations says it will relocate more than half its staff in Afghanistan in the wake of last week's suicide bombing of a guesthouse which killed five UN staff.

UNICEF exhibition highlights children's rightsAudioTranscript

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

It's 20 years since UNICEF opened up the Convention on the Rights of the Child for countries to sign.

SLankan group pushes for resolution of Oceanic Viking stand offAudioTranscript

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

Chanaka Bandarage is a Canberra based barrister, and a leading figure in the Sri Lanka Support Group in Australia.

Asylum seekers' final decision - "We're staying"Audio

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

After weeks of negotiations aboard the Australian customs vessel, the Oceanic Viking, 78 Sri Lankan asylum seekers have declared that their "final decision" is to not leave the ship.

Bangkok faces flood threat from rising seasAudio

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

As the world countdown's to next month's global climate talks in Copenhagen, several reports say rising sea levels are threatening major river delta regions, including Thailand's Chao Phraya River, and Bangkok itself.

Job offer threatens to spark diplomatic disputeAudio

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:06

A job being offered to Thailand's convicted former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, is threatening to turn into a full-blown diplomatic incident.

Scientists decode the domestic horse genomeAudio

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

Newly published research from Australian and American scientists points the way to the breeding of healthier, stronger and faster horses.

Japan's most wanted proves illusiveAudio

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

He's Japan's number one fugitive, and he's been outwitting the police for more than two and a half years and now it appears that Tatsuya Ichihashi has been using cosmetic surgery to change his appearance to avoid capture.

East Timor signals compensation claim over leaking oil rigAudioTranscript

Updated 06/11/2009 13:39:05

East Timor says it will seek compensation from Australia if its waters or shores are polluted by a leaking oil rig.

Environmentalists blamed for driving developing countries into povertyAudio

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:43

An Australian think tank is blaming environmental groups campaigning against palm oil for pushing people in developing countries further into poverty.

Central Vietnam hit by widespread floodingAudio

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:45

At least 90 people have been killed after Tropical Storm Mirinae caused widespread flooding in central Vietnam and there have also been deaths in Cambodia and the Philippines.

Afghanistan's re-elected President Karzai struggles to emerge from poll cloudAudio

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:44

Afghanistan's president Hamid Karzai is struggling to emerge from the cloud of a hotly disputed election process. His former rival Abdullah Abdullah guaranteed the president a second-term by withdrawing from run-off polls, but today he's called Mr Karzai's re-election illegal, although he stopped short of calling for protests. Mr Karzai's also under pressure from the United States and its allies to fight corruption.

World Bank warns China's dominance masks lasting economic problemsAudioTranscript

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:45

In its latest economic update for the East Asia and Pacific, the World Bank has heaped praise on the region's swift rebound from the global financial crisis. But the Bank notes that China's obvious role in leading the reversal is masking problems related to growth and viability elsewhere in the region.

Australia's Deputy Opposition leader raises Stern Hu case in BeijingAudioTranscript

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:43

Australia's Deputy Opposition Leader and Foreign Affairs spokeswoman, Julie Bishop, says she's raised her concerns about the Stern Hu case directly with Chinese Government officials.

Top ranking American diplomat meets Aung San Suu KyiAudio

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:43


The highest ranking American official to visit Burma in more than a decade has held talks in Rangoon with the country's detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Drive to raise global awareness on haemophiliaAudioTranscript

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:43

The World Federation of Haemophilia estimates there are 400-thousand people with the rare bleeding disorder, but up to two-thirds of sufferers are not properly diagnosed, while others miss out on treatment, often suffering crippling pain and chronic disability as a result.

National sex education policy needed for overseas studentsAudioTranscript

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:43

Researchers are calling for a national sex education strategy for international students coming to Australia.

The hardships facing migrant workers in South KoreaAudio

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:42


There are approximately 500,000 low-skilled migrant workers in South Korea, with most employed as low-skilled labourers in factories, construction sites and on farms.

British soldiers murdered by Afghan police officerAudioTranscript

Updated 05/11/2009 12:04:44

The Taliban has claimed responsibility for the killing of five British soldiers, who were shot dead by one of the Afghan police officers they were training in Helmand Province.

US diplomatic drive under way in BurmaAudioTranscript

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:42


The United States has begun its diplomatic drive in Burma, with two top envoys holding talks with the military regime.

Fiji expels top New Zealand and Australian diplomatsAudioTranscript

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:42


Australia and New Zealand's top diplomatic envoys in Fiji are being expelled.

Chechen leader's horse causes cup rumpusAudioTranscript

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:41

Australia's richest horse race, the Melbourne Cup, has again produced controversy.

The overstayer factor in Australia's immigration debateAudioTranscript

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:41

The rising number of asylum seekers attempting to reach Australia country by boat continues to dominate political debate.

Leaking oil rig in Timor Sea finally pluggedAudio

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:41

Two months after it began spewing oil and gas into the Timor Sea, the great leak on the West Atlas rig has finally been plugged, after thousands of tonnes were pumped into a relief well.

Nasdaq-style index hailed as big step forward for ChinaAudio

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:41

The ChiNext board has opened on China's Shenzhen Stock Exchange and pushed profit predictions over and above original listing prices.

Islamic insurgents suspected of fatal shootings in ThailandAudioTranscript

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:41

Thai police suspect Islamic insurgents were responsible for shooting five people dead during a spate of attacks across Thailand's mainly-Muslim south.

Two charged amid fears of Thai royal succession crisisAudio

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:42


Two people have been charged with spreading false information on the internet about the health of Thailand's 81-year-old King, who has been in hospital since mid-September with a lung infection and fever.

Distraught families seek information about missing Sri LankansAudioTranscript

Updated 04/11/2009 12:17:42

As a grim search continues for up to 12 people from a sunken boat off Australia's north west coast, a Tamil woman in Australia says she's spoken to distraught families in Sri Lanka desperate to know if the missing are their relatives.

Karzai declared winner as Afghan presidential run-off scrappedAudioTranscript

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47


Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission has cancelled the final round of voting in the country's presidential election, after the main opposition candidate, Abdullah Abdullah, pulled out in protest at wide spread ballot rigging.

Afghan president's legitimacy under scrutinyAudioTranscript

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47

The big question now is President Hamid Karzai's legitimacy.

Pakistan offensive against the Taliban intensifiesAudio

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47


Reports from Pakistan say up to a quarter of a million people have fled the tribal region of South Waziristan, as the military presses on with a major offensive against the Taliban, which the government says has been "very successful" and likely to achieve most of its objectives before the winter sets in.

Melbourne Cup fever spreads across AsiaAudio

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47


The hype surrounding the Melbourne Cup has spread far beyond Australia, with punters across Asia able to watch the big race, and in many countries, place bets as well.

Computer's Melbourne Cup top tip a rank outsiderAudio

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47

Australians will bet tens of millions of dollars on the Melbourne Cup runners today. Some will study the form guide, while others will just make a wild guess. But mathematicians at one Melbourne university are taking a far more scientific approach.

China's global economic influence growingAudioTranscript

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47

It has been a year since China overtook Japan, to become the United States' largest foreign creditor, with Beijing thought to be holding nearly one dollar in every ten of US public debt.

Corruption scandal costs China's education minister his jobAudio

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47


China's Education Minister has been sacked, amid a corruption scandal at Wuhan University and public concern about the poor quality of education.

Melbourne cup stakes are highAudio

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47


Melbourne Cup day is a day of high fashion, high stakes and, just occasionally, high drama.

Search continues for suspected asylum seekers lost at seaAudio

Updated 03/11/2009 12:37:47


An air and sea search is continuing in remote waters to the north west of Australia, with eleven people still missing after their ship sank on Sunday night.

Timor Sea oil rig leak will be investigated, says governmentAudioTranscript

Updated 02/11/2009 12:09:02

The Australian government has promised to set up an independent inquiry in to the leak of an oil well that's been generating headlines around the world.

Asian countries ponder new ways to curb tiger tradeAudio

Updated 02/11/2009 12:09:01

Several Asian countries have banded together to help save the tiger from illegal trade and trafficking.

China's heir apparent winds up key Australia visitAudioTranscript

Updated 02/11/2009 12:09:01

Ahead of a visit to Papua New Guinea, China's Vice-Premier Li Keqiang is in New Zealand, where he has opened the country's second Confucius Institute, in a move designed to strengthen cultural and educational cooperation.

Outside influence allegations dog Khmer Rouge trialsAudioTranscript

Updated 02/11/2009 12:09:02

The beleaguered Khmer Rouge trials in Cambodia have hit another obstacle. In a motion filed last week, two pre-trial judges, Australian Rowan Downing QC, and a Dutch national, have been accused of taking instruction from their respective governments.

The Philippines hit by Typhoon MirinaeAudio

Updated 02/11/2009 12:09:02

Work has begun has to restore power to 22 towns after another typhoon hit the Philippines, killing at least 14 people.

Afghan president 'under pressure' to cancel pollAudioTranscript

Updated 02/11/2009 12:09:02

Without an opposition candidate, holding a presidential election run off in Afghanistan would pointless. It would also be dangerous for voters, officials and those providing security for the poll.

Main opposition candidate withdraws from Afghan pollAudioTranscript

Updated 02/11/2009 12:09:02

Afghanistan's already tainted presidential election has been thrown into further doubt, with the withdrawal of opposition candidate Abdullah Abdullah, after the government rejected his demands for reform of the Independent Electoral Commission.

Australian specialists providing help to autistic kids in VietnamTranscript

Updated 02/11/2009 12:09:01

The lives of children with autism and their carers are often made even more difficult because of a lack of knowledge in the wider community, and in Asia autism is only just beginning to be properly diagnosed and understood.