Italian leftist leader seeks way out of deadlock
Italian leftist leader Pier Luigi Bersani admitted Tuesday he had "come first but not won" key elections and asked parties to help him push through reforms amid a political deadlock that sent markets tumbling.
Iran, world powers respond to counter-offers
World powers and Iran were due Wednesday to respond to offers presented by both sides in a final day of talks aimed at breaking a decade of deadlock over Tehran's nuclear drive.
Hagel confirmed as next US secretary of defense
The US Senate confirmed Chuck Hagel to be secretary of defense Tuesday, ending a long and acrimonious nomination process and handing President Barack Obama a boost as he fills his second-term cabinet.
Australia dismisses Assange fears as 'fantasy'
Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr has dismissed as "fantasy" claims by WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange that Sweden's case against him is a conspiracy to have him extradited to the United States.
Split vote throws Italy into political gridlock
Italy headed for gridlock and financial markets tumbled with a stalemate in parliament between right and left after critical elections in which the real winner might be a new protest party calling for a referendum on the euro.
Iran and 5+1 may hold bilateral meetings in Almaty
Iran might have bilateral meetings with representatives of 5+1 international negotiators on the Iranian nuclear program in Almaty.
World powers give Iran new offer at crunch talks
World powers were offering Iran a softening of sanctions in exchange for concessions over its controversial nuclear program.
Chavez congratulates Castro for re-election
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who is convalescing in a Caracas hospital, issued a statement Monday congratulating President Raul Castro for his re-election to a final five-year term.
Kazakhstan to take part in G20 summit
Kazakhstan has been invited to take part in G20 summit in Saint-Petersburg in September.