Defections harry Syria regime, but core intact: analysts
The defection of Syria's prime minister was a boon for the opposition, heightening regime paranoia, but as rebels and their allies await mass defections, analysts say the ruling core remains intact.
Assad says key battle afoot as UN says rebels have tanks
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said on Wednesday that the army was fighting for the nation's future as UN officials said the regime was using fighter jets against rebels armed with tanks.
Olympics: Chinese doctor reveals state-sponsored doping
Chinese Olympians were subjected to a state-sponsored doping regime in the 1980s and 1990s, a retired chief medical supervisor revealed to Australian media on Friday.
Foreigners join fight against 'apostate' Syria regime
In restive northwest Syria, the uprising has found an unlikely new partner in the struggle against the regime of President Bashar al-Assad: foreign Islamists who are joining the fight.
US warns Syria against using chemical weapons
US President Barack Obama has warned Syrian strongman Bashar al-Assad it would be a "tragic mistake" to unleash chemical weapons, after Damascus admits it has a stockpile and will use them if attacked.
Canada slams China, Russia for UN Syria vetoes
Canada issued a scathing retort on Thursday after Russia and China vetoed another UN resolution to pressure the Syrian regime to rein in its crackdown on a 16-month-old rebellion.
Arab Spring demands change in UK arms policy: report
Britain must exercise more caution in granting licences for the export of arms to authoritarian regimes such as Bahrain in light of the Arab Spring uprisings, a parliamentary report has urged.
Russia, Assad foe seek common ground in Moscow
Russia will host a top opponent of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on Wednesday hoping to find common ground with one of the most scathing critics of its refusal to turn against the Damascus regime.
Syria opposition meets as UN slams new violations
Exiled opposition groups tried to forge a common vision for a transition in Syria as they met Monday in Cairo as the UN rights chief accused both the regime and opposition of "serious" violations.
Kazakhstan mulls to cancel need for visas for citizens of OECD countries on July 1
Kazakhstan is mulling to introduce visa-free regime for the citizens of 34 member-countries of OECD.
Bulgaria simplified visa regime for Kazakhstan citizens
Those who already have a Shengen visa will not have to submit additional documents for a trip to Bulgaria.
Kazakhstan is to introduce visa free regime with OECD countries in 2012
Starting from 2012 Kazakhstan is planning to introduce visa free regime with the countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.