In recent statements (http://blog.beliefnet.com/news/2008/12/dalai-lama-talks-of-complete-r.php), the Dalai Lama has strongly implied that he might retire from politics completely. I'm not sure how seriously to take this sort of talk—I tend to think it's more likely that he's sort of testing the waters. However, if it turns out that he really does retire from politics, I … [Read more...] about (Letter from Otto Kerner, Opposing Viewpoint) Dalai Lama to retire from politics?
Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan Arrive in Taiwan!
Yesterday, the pair of Giant Pandas Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan finally arrived in Taiwan. More than just normal "diplomatic pandas," Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan's represents the culmination of much political wranglings between the Mainland and Taiwan that included formal rejections of the pandas in 2005 by ex-President Chen Shui Bian (now formally indicted for graver crimes, … [Read more...] about Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan Arrive in Taiwan!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I almost forgot: it's already Christmas Eve in much of Asia - so here is "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year" for everyone at Foolsmountain! … [Read more...] about Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Chinese Crew Fights Off Pirates
From the Times Online website with thanks to FOARP: Chinese Crew Used Beer Bottles To Fight Off Pirates The crew of a Chinese ship have described how they used beer bottles and water cannon to fend off a pirate attack off the Somali coast before they were rescued. Zhenua 4 was one of four vessels seized by pirates on Wednesday, shortly after the UN Security Council … [Read more...] about Chinese Crew Fights Off Pirates
China's 30-Year Journey of Reform and Opening Up
China's journey of reform and opening up over the last the last 30 years have definitely been, if nothing else, colorful and eventful. Last week, Chinese officials marked the 30 year anniversary of China's reforms and opening up with a series of meetings and speeches. … [Read more...] about China's 30-Year Journey of Reform and Opening Up