China's Prime Minister seeks closer African ties

Premier Wen Jiabao landed in South Africa Wednesday in a campaign to strengthen ties within the African continent.

Wen will visit seven nations during his African tour in one of China's most energetic efforts to spur economic cooperation between the two regions.


Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao , center right, embraces a local chief during his visit in Accra, capital of Ghana, Monday, June 19, 2006 during his seven-nation African tour to boost economic and political bonds. AP/Xinhua, Li Xueren photo via Yahoo News.

Key areas of cooperation include expanding nuclear power generation and pushing the developing world's agenda in international forums.

China is also making cash contributions to the African Union and for humanitarian aid relief to show its goodwill.

For its part, China needs to keep Africa's rich resources flowing in to fuel its burgeoning economy.

World eyes North Korean missile test sites

North Korea said it had the right to test its ballistic missiles amidst warnings from other nations after reports the country was preparing launch sites.

The South Korean spy agency said that it didn't believe North Korea had completely fueled its test missile because there were only 40 fuel tanks around the launch site -- not enough for a weapon estimated at 65 tons.


Kim Jong-Il in a photo released on June 16, 2006 by the official North Korean news agency. AFP/KCNA photo from Yahoo News.

Stormy weather over the area on Tuesday may also delay any imminent test of the missile according to South Korean sources. The Meteorological Administration said that rain was expected into Wednesday morning.

The 116-foot long Taepodong-2 has an estimated range of 9,300 miles.

Aung San Suu Kyi turns 61 under house arrest

Pro-democracy activist Aung San Suu Kyi celebrated her 61st birthday on Monday under house arrest in Yangon, Myanmar.

Supporters protested her detention in front of Yangon's Town Hall, while others held rallies in more than 25 countries.


Supporters of Aung San Suu Kyi demonstrate in front of party headquarters in Yangon, Myanmar. Police later dispersed the crowd. AFP photo from Yahoo News.

Suu Kyi was placed under detention on May 30, 2003 after fighting broke out between her supporters and pro-government demonstrators.

Myanmar says that Suu Kyi's house arrest is a domestic issue and has resisted international pressure demanding her release.