Why Qatar is emerging as Middle East peacemaker

May 23, 2008 The Christian Science Monitor

Nicholas Blanford, a correspondent for TIME and the Christian Science Monitor in Beirut since the beginning of hostilities between Israel and Hizballah, reports on Qatar’s unique role in bridging rival factions in Lebanon.  Qatar, as a mediator “trying to find accommodation between players previously considered as either good or evil,” has been able to broker a deal in Lebanon in which Hizballah’s General Suleiman will be inaugurated as president, while the opposition party retains veto power.  Read about Qatar’s efforts to create shared paths to peace in the Middle East.

As Tadic seeks coalition, new hope for Serbia

May 15, 2008 The Christian Science Monitor

Serbia’s May election, which brought to power a democratic, pro-Europe party, defies the country’s stereotype as “fatalistic victims unwilling to let go of ancient myths,” write Robert Marquand and Andrew Wander.  This watershed event not only prevents an ultranationalist victory in the “heart of the Balkans,” but also may create an atmosphere in which ethnic violence and military action against Kosovo are unacceptable.  Take a look at how Serbia’s surprising election is transforming the old, ethnic “policies of aggression.”

China and envoys of the Dalai Lama hold talks about Tibet

May 6, 2008 The Christian Science Monitor

In an attempt to ease tensions after anti-government riots in Tibet in March, Chinese officials and envoys of the Dalai Lama held talks on Sunday, May 5, 2008, in the city of Shenzhen, near Hong Kong. A day after the first talks in a year, both sides have reportedly agreed to hold further meetings. Please read more about this