Japan PM vows new statement on WWII

2 February AFP

Hawkish Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he intends to release a new statement on Japan's attitude to World War II, just a day after unveiling plans to revamp the US-imposed pacifist constitution. The nationalist premier, who swept to power on promises of a more robust diplomacy that will stand up to China,

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Egypt protesters clash with police at presidential palace

2 February BBC

Egyptian protesters have clashed with police outside the presidential palace in Cairo, after a week of violence in which more than 60 people were killed.Riot police used tear gas and water cannon to try to drive back the crowds throwing rocks and petrol bombs.

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Jilia Gillard reshuffles Cabinet ahead of poll

2 February AFP

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard Saturday denied that her government was in chaos, after the resignation of two of her most senior ministers prompted a cabinet reshuffle ahead of a national election. Saturday's announcement that the two ministers had quit came only three days after the Labor leader said elections would be held in September,

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