International

Democrats look for White House, Congress clean sweep
Afp, Washington
Democrats are hoping to take a stranglehold on political power in Washington in Tuesday's election and are all but assured of expanding their majorities in the Senate and House of Representatives.

 
Cautious optimism six months after cyclone lashed Myanmar
Afp, Pyin Kayaing
Six months after Cyclone Nargis lashed Myanmar, the initial despair over the ruling junta's inaction has been replaced by cautious optimism that more aid can reach the country's needy.

 
Taiwan, China set for landmark talks
Afp, Taipei
Senior officials from Taiwan and China are scheduled to hold high-level talks this week on the autonomous island in a further sign of warming ties between the traditional rivals.

 
Cautious joy as blacks imagine Obama win
Ap, Washington
Lula Cooper expects the tears to flow if Barack Obama becomes the first black president. But she's not breaking out the tissues just yet.

 
West warns of humanitarian crisis in DR Congo
Afp, Kibumba, DR Congo
Thousands of displaced sought to return home Sunday in eastern DR Congo as a ceasefire held, but European diplomats warned 1.6 million were at risk despite a rebel charm offensive that included a parade.