2010 Burmese Cultural Concert

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Psy8b4kluwY&feature=player_embedded

China Vice-President Xi Jinping given key military job

China's Vice-President Xi Jinping has been named vice-chair of the powerful Central Military Commission, in a move widely seen as a boost to his likely succession of President Hu Jintao.

It comes on the last day of the ruling Communist Party's annual meeting.
Hu Jintao must retire as head of the party in 2012 and as president in 2013.

Mr Xi is following in the footsteps of Mr Hu, who was also promoted to the commission - which controls China's army - before becoming president.

Thai army boosts security ahead of 7 Nov

 By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Thailand has increased border security because of fears of ethnic unrest in neighbouring Burma, where the junta is preparing for the first election in 20 years, the army said Monday.
“We have stepped up security checks along the border to prevent any forces or people fleeing from the other side, and also to prevent people and weapons crossing the border from our side,” said Colonel Padung Yingpaiboonsuk.

Deadly Typhoon Hits Northern Philippines

At least one person is dead in the far northern Philippines, where so-called "Super Typhoon" Megi crashed ashore with fierce winds and torrential rain around midday Monday.

Reports say roofs were torn off houses and electricity poles were toppled by the winds, which howled at sustained speeds of 225 kilometers per hour and gusted up to 260. One man was killed when he fell in a river.