Dan Roberts collects shortwave news reports from around the world:
From GERMANY- At the UN there is a summit to create a treaty to regulate global trade on conventional arms- Germany wants the treaty to include small arms and ammunition. The Italian Prime Minister Monti made it clear that his country is not seeking a financial bailout from the EU.
From SPAIN- A Spanish court has opened a case against former executives of the lending institution Bankia, while in the UK Barclay's executives were questioned by MPs. Finland and the Netherlands will block the Eurozone's permanent bailout fund from buying bonds in secondary markets. The Greek government is increasing privatization of ports, railway system, and airports. New French president Hollande moved forward with tax hikes for the richest households and corporations. The European Parliament has rejected ACTA, the global agreement against copyright theft on the internet.
From CUBA- Ecuador is considering finally expelling US Agency for International Development, because of the political interference that is financed by the agency. Supporters of ousted President Lugo of Paraguay continue to demand that he be reinstated. Three peace activists in New York remained in jail for protesting the US policy of drone strikes.
From RUSSIA- The cause of death of former Palestinian leader Yassar Arafat in 2004 has been questioned, following laboratory findings of Polonium on his belongings.
From JAPAN- An Insight on questions surrounding the restart of the Ohi nuclear power plant in Japan, which has seen significant protest by citizens who want to cease nuclear power on the island.