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Issue: July 20th 2003
World News Choice

Independent judicial inquiry to be held into the death of British weapons scientist, Dr David Kelly

Prime Minister Tony Blair has said that there will be an independent inquiry into the death of British weapons scientist, Dr David Kelly. Dr Kelly had been in the spotlight as a possible source of alleged comments made to BBC journalist Andrew Gilligan which indicated that the government had 'sexed up' the dossier on Iraq, in particular its ability to attack within 45 minutes. On Tuesday he went before the foreign affairs committee to answer questions as to whether he had been the source of the BBC's information. On Thursday he was reported missing from his home and was later found dead in Oxfordshire woods after slashing his left wrist. In a statement his family said that, "Events over recent weeks have made David's life intolerable, and all of those involved should reflect long and hard on this fact."
Full Story - The Globe and Mail, Toronto newspaper, Canada

Germany offers Iraq humanitarian and economic aid but not military support

Following his four day visit to the US, German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer has offered Germany's humanitarian and economic support in the reconstruction of Iraq but they will not send soldiers. Fischer stated that the Security Council resolution 1483 gave the responsibility for creating stability in post-war Iraq to the Coalition forces to which Germany is not part of. However Germany would help with the humanitarian situation and in the reconstruction of Iraq's infrastructure if required.
Full Story - Deutsche Welle, German International Broadcaster
India and Pakistan to work out their own road map to peace

In an interview with a Japanese newspaper, Pakistani Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali confirmed that the issue of peace and Kashmir would be discussed bilaterally with India incorporating the Kashmiri people as a third party. He asserted that intervention from any other country as has been undertaken by the US in West Asia, would not be required. Prime Minister Jamali praised the progress that had been made already, including the appointment of high commissioners by each country and the re-opening of the bus route. He acknowledged that change has to be made slowly and carefully and praised the Indian Prime Minister for his commitments to peace. He explained that the next step in the process would be resuming air flights between the two countries.
Full Story - The Times of India, Indian national newspaper
Australia gives Japan its support for a peaceful approach to the North Korea conflict

In their recent meeting, Australian Prime Minister John Howard and Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi agreed that the most effective method for working with North Korea was through "dialogue and pressure". They created a seven point action plan to prevent the development of weapons of mass destruction including for Japanese and Australian intelligence agencies to work together closely.
Full Story - Mainichi Daily News, Japanese newspaper
Ituri, Democratic Republic of Congo to be investigated by the International Criminal Court (ICC)

Following six complaints, Ituri, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is to be investigated by the ICC for war crimes. If appropriate, individuals will be issued with international arrest warrants and will face trial in the Hague where the UN-backed ICC is permanently stationed. Jean-Pierre Bemba, leader of the Liberation Movement in the Congo (MLC) has been accused of cannibalism in Ituri by a human rights organization.
Full Story - Panapress, the African perspective
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