News -- February 4, 2006

• Australia's exports reach record high
• China, Switzerland agree to enhance cooperation in various fields
• China's oil consumption, imports decreased in 2005
• Dutch parliament approves Afghan mission
• European Commission says Muslim cartoons "imprudent"

• Five U.S. soldiers killed in Iraq
• Giant Chinese retail chain gets investment of 150 mln USD from Warburg Pincus
• HK newspapers refute Chen Shui-bian's "Taiwan independence" remarks
• Identity of 14 HK victims in Egypt confirmed
• Indonesian newspaper under fire for displaying prophet cartoon

• Indian airport employees protest against privatization of airports
• Migrant workers gaining improved status
• Newcastle sacked manager Souness
• NBA All-Star voting totals
• Uranium enrichment is essence of nuclear energy: Iranian president

• U.S. scientists find evidence of ice on comet
• Venezuela expels U.S. military attache
• Vietnam imports more bird flu vaccines from China