Queues form outside Spanish missions in Latin America on the last day that descendants of Spanish exiles can apply for citizenship.

Irish singer Sinead O'Connor announces the annulment of her marriage to therapist Barry Herridge, citing disapproval from his family and friends.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai say he would back the opening of a Taliban liaison office in Qatar if it would help towards peace.

Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner has cancer and will have an operation on 4 January, her government has announced.

Russian fishing boat Sparta makes its way to open water after being stuck in ice-filled seas off Antarctica for 12 days with a hole in its hull.

Shares of Tokyo Electric Power Company fall on the Tokyo Stock Exchange on fears the utility provider may be nationalised.

Japan's industrial production falls in November, pulled down by a strong yen, weak global demand, and flooding in Thailand.

Argentina investigates a suspected animal trafficking ring after a man tries to carry nearly 250 snakes and other animals onto a plane bound for Spain.