In The News

Marginal or Mainstream?

Magda El-Ghitany September 3, 2004
Michael Moore’s controversial Fahrenheit 9/11 has suffered setbacks in the Arab world, banning largely due to its anti-Saudi content. To date, only Lebanon, Jordan, and, most recently, Egypt have released the full version of the film. In Cairo and Alexandria, the documentary has had a limited showing, as many theaters are earmarked exclusively for Arabic films. Despite these limitations,...

The Great Reverse - Part I

Clyde Prestowitz September 2, 2004
There are those who argue that history is cyclical, while others prefer to conceptualize it as an ebb and flow. As the economies of China and India continue their dizzying growth, it seems that history is preparing to repeat itself. Economist Clyde Prestowitz, in the first of a three-part series, coins the term "The Great Reverse" in reference to the projected Asian-leaning shift in...

Asean Body Steps in to Help Budget Airlines

Nande Khin September 1, 2004
Under the Asean Pioneer Project Scheme (APPS), which aims to establish an Asean Economic Community, the Asia-Pacific region will see more economic and social integration. Two projects in the pipeline for the Asean Business Advisory Council (BAC) will ensure that people, goods, and services will travel more quickly and cheaply. The organization is currently negotiating the landing rights for...

English Craze Hits Chinese Language Standards

Goh Sui Noi August 30, 2004
The Chinese school system is placing increasing emphasis on learning English, perhaps to the detriment of Chinese language curriculum. English is mandatory in China starting in the third year of primary school, and proficiency is integral for Chinese applying for jobs in foreign companies. However, many criticize the quality of English education and worry that it is detracting from studies in...

English Craze Hits Chinese Language Standards

Goh Sui Noi August 30, 2004
The Chinese school system is placing increasing emphasis on learning English, perhaps to the detriment of Chinese language curriculum. English is mandatory in China starting in the third year of primary school, and proficiency is integral for Chinese applying for jobs in foreign companies. However, many criticize the quality of English education and worry that it is detracting from studies in...

What Can We Expect from a Trade Deal with Japan?

Arjaree Sriratanaban August 26, 2004
The fourth round of negotiations for a bilateral free-trade agreement (FTA) between Thailand and Japan is set for early September. Amidst debate over similar agreements, Arjaree Sriratanaban, of the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership (JTEP), highlights the benefits Thailand can expect. Sriratanaban says the agreement should increase business opportunities for Thai companies and provide greater...

Skepticism Lingers over History Issue

Seo Hyun-jin August 24, 2004
Sometimes history does not fit neatly into a conceptualization of the nation-state. The ancient Goguryeo kingdom has been a source of contention for China and Korea. While both countries claim the region as part of their heritage, the Chinese Foreign Ministry renewed heated debates when it deleted Goguryeo references from its Korean history website. Recent diplomatic negotiations, however,...