Since late 2001, NATO has emerged as a major institutional player in Central Asian security affairs. This development resulted from the increased Alliance interest and involvement in Central Asia following the September 11 terrorist attacks and NATO's takeover of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan in August 2003. However, the Uzbek government's May 2005 crackdown in Andijan revealed the fragility of the Alliance's relations with the countries of the region. Consequently, NATO needs a new initiative to enhance its position in Central Asia. READ MORE

As Japan struggles to come to terms with the consequences of the worst earthquake, experts say that keeping the country's nuclear power plants under control is of utmost importance. READ MORE

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden urged Moldova to fight corruption and implement pro-Western democratic reforms, saying Friday that Washington would offer support to Europe's poorest country as it seeks to move closer to the EU. READ MORE