Syria's Assad Rebuffs Annan, Troops Attack Idlib -- Hindustan Times/Reuters
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad told UN/Arab League envoy Kofi Annan on Saturday that no political solution was possible in Syria while "terrorist" groups were destabilising the country.
"Syria is ready to make a success of any honest effort to find a solution for the events it is witnessing," state news agency SANA quoted Assad as telling his guest. "No political dialogue or political activity can succeed while there are armed terrorist groups operating and spreading chaos and instability," the Syrian leader said after about two hours of talks with the former UN secretary eneral.
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MIDDLE EAST
U.N. envoy Annan meets with Assad in Syria.
Syrian generals flee as dozens more killed. Syria forces in new assault amid diplomacy efforts.
Life and death under Syria's military onslaught.
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Bahrain says will hold dialogue to end crisis soon. Tens of thousands of Bahraini protesters occupy four-lane highway.
Iran expected to reject proposal for nuclear fuel swap.
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ASIA
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US gives up Afghan jail in deal to stay after 2014.
UN says 145 'presumed dead' in Afghan avalanche.
China reports rare trade deficit as imports jump.
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AFRICA
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UN panel urges nations to help stop Libyan abuses.
How Kony 2012 campaign went viral and focused rare attention on Africa.
First free Presidential race starts in Egypt.
EUROPE
Slovakia election: Fico's Smer party tipped to win.
German leader and I.M.F. chief split over debt.
Smaller crowds challenge Putin after Russia poll
Greek debt swap triggers massive payouts. Moody's declares Greece in default of debt.
Spain’s new government faces first strike.
In rebuilt Grozny, an awkward peace with Russia.
AMERICAS
U.S. tilt toward Asia could strain relations with Britain.
Mexico withers under worst drought in 71 years.
Killing of 4 youths horrifies central Mexico City.
Argentine protesters blockade British-flagged cargo ship.
Colombia: TransMilenio bus protests paralyse Bogota.
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TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR
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ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS
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