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Ján Kubiš, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan and head of UNAMA, briefs the Council.

South Korea is ratcheting up its criticism of its northern neighbor, as Pyongyang shows no sign of backing away from plans to conduct what it says would be its third space launch, next month.

Citizens of East Timor, one of the world’s newest and poorest nations, headed to the polls Saturday to vote for the country’s next president. On the brink of civil war in 2006, the country has achieved a measure of political stability over recent years. This year’s campaign period has been markedly peaceful, but the election is a key test for the impoverished, yet oil-rich nation.

Syria's Interior Ministry has warned that it would not hesitate in dealing "decisively" with anyone, who compromises the security and stability of the country.

The United States has warned Iran that they would suffer the consequences if they make "a gross misjudgment" of American will on preventing a nuclear-armed Tehran.

The United States is likely to impose sanctions on India, and other Asian countries if they fail to meet the American demand to cut oil imports from Iran.

What does a child, an editor, a carpenter, a fisherman and a student have in common? "Thank you, Taiwan" is their denominator. The victims of the 311 Earthquake in Japan last year put together, with the aid of the Interchange Association, Japan, a video that express their heart-felt gratitude to the prompt aid from the people of Taiwan, which amounted to more than US$243 million (90% from private donors).

Syrian protesters.

When violence in Syria escalated last year, the Philippine government ordered its citizens working there to return home, and more than 1,100 have. Reporter Simone Orendain met up with recent arrivals at Manila’s international airport to find out about their experiences.

Iran's suspected desire to become a nuclear weapons power is affecting not only diplomatic maneuvering, but also internal political debate in several countries.