UN chief Ban Ki-moon calls on Security Council to take "decisive action" on the Libya crisis, warning of a growing crisis of refugees and food shortages.

The polls have closed in the Republic of Ireland's general election, with turnout believed to be close to 70%.

Italian car giant Fiat says it will make up to 300,000 vehicles a year in Russia, after a deal with local auto group Sollers falls through.

Brazil's two biggest companies, Petrobras and Vale, post record profits, in the latest sign of Brazil's growing economic might.

Police clear crowds of Tunisians demanding the resignation of interim PM Mohammed Ghannouchi, a long-time ally of the ousted leader.

The mayor of Christchurch praises the "incredible progress" made four days after a massive earthquake rocked the New Zealand city.

A fire in New York City that claimed the life of a retired teacher last weekend was sparked by candles lit for a voodoo ceremony, city officials say.

A Brazilian judge blocks construction of the huge Belo Monte hydro-electric dam in the Amazon because of environmental concerns.