US banking giant, Citigroup, says it is to cut 4,500 jobs around the world in an effort to reduce its costs.

Tougher budget rules for the eurozone do not require changing current EU treaties, European Council President Herman Van Rompuy says.

The US announces it will fight for the rights of homosexuals abroad by using foreign aid and diplomacy, declaring gay rights an inalienable human right.

China's navy should speed up its development and prepare for warfare, President Hu Jintao says, amid widespread tension in the region.

Japanese milk powder maker Meiji recalls its baby formula after finding radioactive caesium in the product.

Disgraced former Israeli President Moshe Katsav begins a seven-year sentence for rape, following a case which led him to resign from the post.

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari is being treated in Dubai for a heart condition, his spokesman says, dismissing reports that he may resign.

The Brazilian Senate approves changes to the country's forest code, which environmentalists say will spur Amazon deforestation.