PROGRAM NOTES 05/02/08- This weeks show features stories from China Radio International, Radio Netherlands, Radio Havana Cuba, and the Voice of Russia.

From CHINA- Syria condemned the US CIA, claiming that photos allegedly showing a nuclear reactor were fabricated. Israeli military shelling of the Gaza strip continues to kill civilians while placing the blame on Hamas. The UN is establishing a task force on the global food crisis, asking the developed nations to fund farming assistance. Leaders from Central America met in Nicaragua to tackle the local food crisis, saying that free trade models have escalated the shortages. Afghan President Karzai survived the third assassination attempt on his life, while the Taliban claimed that the attack proved their strength.

From NETHERLANDS- As the Olympic games in China approach, a number of nations say that they will boycott some of the opening ceremonies- an analysis of the effect this might have on global relations. As agreements were reached on a gas pipeline from Iran, through Pakistan to India, the US government is displeased with India's refusal to isolate Iran.

From CUBA- A US Senator revealed that 12,000 US troops attempt suicide each year after serving in Iraq or Afghanistan. A Los Angeles-based investment firm is working on developing a zoo and amusement park adjacent to the Green Zone in Iraq.

From RUSSIA- Israeli war jets did reconnoissance flights around Lebanon on Monday. At a conference in Egypt, Arab leaders are working to try and unify Palestinian factions. Jimmy Carter's attempts to ease tensions in Palestine were criticized by the Bush Administration, but seem to have helped understanding between Hamas and Fatah.

--"The world is dangerous not because of those who do harm, but because of those who look at it without doing anything. Nothing that I can do will change the structure of the universe. But maybe by raising my voice I can help the greatest of all causes ... goodwill among men and peace on earth."
--Albert Einstein