Today's News..

1. North Korea confirmed it had shut down its nuclear reactor after receiving 6,200 tons of oil aid last Saturday..

2. Korea and the EU kicks off a second round of FTA talks today as negotiators prepare to haggle over contentious issues such as automobiles, pharmaceuticlas and cosmetics..

3. One of the most powerful storms in decades lashed the Japan coast killing three people and forcing tens of thousands of residents to evacuate their homes..

4. Chief Executives of securities companies will gather today to assess the stock market and discuss measure to prevent the bourse from overheating..

5. Bahrain scored in the 85th minute making a 2-1 comeback win over Korea yesterday dampening the nations chance of moving to the next stage of the Asian Cup..


Russia decides to abandon military treaty

Russian President Vladmir Putin has announced that Russia is withdrawing from the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty, indicating that Russa may be on a new collision course with NATO. The treaty was signed in 1990, and governs where NATO and Russia can keep troops in Europe. Putin's move signals an end to the short-lived detente with the U.S. following his casual summit with President George W. Bush in Maine two weeks ago. By dropping out of the treaty, which is considered important for arms control in the region, Putin has shown his displeasure with the Bush administration's plans for parts of its missile defense system to be placed in former Soviet countries.

Analysts say that the decision will probably not have much effect on Russian military capabilities. However, it will allow for Russia to carry out military exercises in the region without having to inform Western counterparts.


Famous coffee chain to close in Foridden City

Starbucks has closed its store in Beijing's Forbidden City, after months of controvery and protest over its presence there. The U.S.-based international chain made its decision after an announcement by the Forbidden City that it wants to operate all stores within the building complex itself. The Forbidden City Starbucks opened in 2000 at the invitation of Forbidden City managers, but attracted negative attention last year when a Chinese TV personality began a crusade against the store on his blog. The campaign garnered great support from those who thought the store marred the Forbidden City's solemn nature, and undermined Chinese culture.

The Forbidden City is a nearly 600-year old complex, and is one of the most popular tourist attraction in the world..


Form Morning Special..