In this photo released by Korean Central News Agency via Korea News Service in Tokyo, North Korean leader Kim Jong Il, meets with former U.S. President Bill Clinton,unseen, in Pyonggyang, North Korea, on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009.Former US President Bill Clinton met Tuesday with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il on the first day of a surprise visit to Pyongyang, holding 'exhaustive' talks that covered a wide range of topics, state-run media said. (AP Photo/Korean Central News Agency via Korea News Service)Analysis: Kim's Choice After High-Profile Meeting -- Yahoo News/AP
SEOUL, South Korea – Kim Jong Il's smile said it all.
North Korea's ruler, his leadership clouded for nearly a year by health problems, didn't hide his satisfaction at receiving Bill Clinton in Pyongyang. For a man who wants his country to stand on an equal footing with the U.S., the visit by the former president — and husband of the current secretary of state — was a rare and lucky catch.
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MIDDLE EAST
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U.S. says Sunni insurgent leader was arrested during raids in Northern Iraq.
Turkey charges 52 more people in coup plot.
At Palestinian congress, Abbas urges nonviolent resistance.
ASIA
Afghanistan unveils stringent security for polls.
"U.S. drone" targets Pakistan Taliban chief. 'Drone attack' kills Taliban wife.
Labour unrest grips New Caledonia.
Chinese authorities break up 'terrorist plots,' step up pressure on exiled Uighur leader.
AFRICA
Clinton begins Africa trip with stop in Kenya. US says wants to be 'partner, not patron' of Africa.
Nigeria's amnesty program draws criticism.
Nigerian groups seek probe of killings by security forces.
Nigeria frees Ukraine arms plane.
Zuma surprises protest residents.
EUROPE
Russian FM lashes out at Georgian President.
K-G-Beefcake: Putin bares his chest in Siberia. Russia's in trouble. Time for Putin to take his shirt off.
Italy's president drawn into Berlusconi scandals.
New delay in Politkovskaya case.
AMERICAS
Leahy blocks positive report on Mexico's rights record.
Venezuela's Chavez: US troops plan in Colombia is for oil.
Chavez asks Obama not to raise troops in Colombia.
Ousted Honduran leader running out of options.
TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR
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Court in North Carolina hears tapes in terror case.
Al-Qaeda will pose a threat for 20 years, top spy official says.
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ECONOMIC/FINANCIAL CRISIS
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China jobless pose 'grave' crisis.