China mourns death of ex-ROK president

South Korea’s former president Kim Dae -jung died on Tuesday. Once political prisoner, Kim was instrumental creating a modern democracy in South Korea. He later won the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to engage North Korea. Kim was 85.

Attacks kill 26 on Afghan election day

Afghans went to the polls yesterday to choose a new president, but 26 more people were killed in election-day violence across the country. Experts say the attacks have already reduced turnout, but results are not expected until tomorrow.

Blasts in Baghdad kill at least 95

In Iraq, a wave of explosions killed at least 95 people and wounded 400 more in Baghdad on Wednesday. It was the worst set of bombings in the city since early 2008.

Miss Universe pageant

On a happier note, however, the Miss Universe pageant began this week in the Bahamas as contestants recorded their opening performances which are supposed to show some aspect of the contestants’ home country’s culture.

China becomes Japan's No.1 trade partner

China has passed the United States to become Japan’s largest trading partner, in part, experts say, because the global financial crisis has impacted the United States more than it has China.

Children sickened by lead again

Approximately 100 children reportedly have lead poisoning in Hunan Province as a result of toxic leaks from an unlicensed metal factory. This is the second lead poisoning incident in China this year.

Officials resign over Morakot mishandling

Taiwan’s leader, Ma Ying-jeou, has apologized and three of his senior aids have offered their resignations over the island’s slow response to Typhoon Morokat. The typhoon has already claimed 136 lives but officials say the death toll could go as high as 500.

Exhibitions to mark the 60th anniversary

Finally, we leave you with a look at several new museum exhibitions opening in Beijing to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. a

An exhibition entitled “Exploration of Ancient Mysteries: Archaeology and Discovery” opened on Tuesday in Beijing’s Capital Museum. It shows visitors some of the most significant archeological discoveries made in China in last few decades.

The Capital Museum is also displaying of roughly 800 pieces of basic household furniture collected in Beijing since the founding of China. Through them, visitors can see just how much the country has changed over the last sixty years.

The National Center for the Performing Arts, has also opened an exhibition. It displays all the diplomatic gifts given to China from foreign leaders since 1949.

These three exhibitions have been opened celebrate the 60th anniversary of the founding of China, and both the capital museum and the national center for performing arts say that there will be more to come over the next few weeks.

Related links:

National Gifts on display

Exhibitions to celebrate 60th anniversary