Around the World

China
The Chinese government executed nine people who had been convicted over deadly ethnic riots in Xinjiang region. Read more about China in Freedom in the World 2009: China

Venezuela and Russia
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's says Russia has agreed to lend his country $2 billion to buy weapons. Learn more about Venezuela and Russia

Serbia
The Hague tribunal rejected the argument by former Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic that he should not be prosecuted because of a immunity deal. Read more about Serbia in Nations in Transit 2009: Serbia

Philippines
Philippine President Arroyo will meet U.S. President Obama in Washington Thursday. Read more about the Philippines in Freedom in the World 2009: Philippines