A curated selection of public diplomacy-relevant news from a global cross-section of English-language media outlets, including independent, corporate-owned, and state-sponsored sources. The stories featured don't necessarily represent CPD's views nor have they been verified by CPD.
Soft power games: Beijing vs Delhi
When the Economist recently concluded a debate on whether China was the right country for hosting the Olympics, it threw up some interesting pointers for Delhi too...For some years now, the world has been wearing different lenses and much now depends on what is called soft power: the ability to attract and influence people ideologically without coercion. It encompasses everything from human development and cultural expression to food, drink and street life.
Lost in Translation: Alhurra—America’s Troubled Effort to Win Hearts and Minds
An Arab-language television network and radio station, founded by the Bush administration to promote a positive image of the United States, has aired anti-American and anti-Israeli viewpoints, has showcased pro-Iranian policies and recently gave air time to a militant who called for the death of American soldiers in Iraq.
Tibetan woman carries torch for third time in 18 years
Dawa Yangzom, a 32-year-old teacher at Tibet University, joined the other 155 torchbearers in the Olympic torch relay in Lhasa Saturday. It was the third time in her life to carry torch for important sports events. "I couldn't be prouder, knowing I am showing the rest of China and the world the very best of Tibet," Dawa told Saturday's China Daily.
Chinese couples eager to wed on auspicious Olympics kickoff date
The Chinese capital is seeing a surge of couples registering to tie the knot on the auspicious Olympics opening date of Aug. 8, state media reported Saturday.
Beijing Olympics 2008: China creates anti-terror squad
China has created a special 100,000 anti-terrorist force for the Olympics, reinforcing the impression that the Games will be dominated by tough security measures. Restrictions on Chinese and foreigners in Beijing are mounting as the Olympic torch begins the second half of its trip round Chinato Beijing.
Chinese athletes pushed to the limit, and beyond, for Olympic gold
Pressured by the national athletic system and tempted by the commercial riches awaiting star performers in the 2008 Games, China's athletes are pushing themselves to their limits and beyond, causing some to risk their health in pursuit of nationalist glory.
Beijing Announces Traffic Plan for Olympics
Beijing officials on Friday announced temporary measures to unsnarl the city’s traffic and reduce its chronic and sometimes choking air pollution. It will restrict owners of private cars to driving on alternate days, depending on whether the last number of their license plate is even or odd, officials said at a news conference. Operating hours for public transportation will be extended during the two-month period, the officials said.
China to bar people with AIDS, other diseases from Olympics
China is putting out the welcome mat for foreign tourists during the Olympics -- as long as they're not sick. Kyodo News reports that Beijing plans to bar foreigners with certain medical conditions from entering the country during the games. The Japanese news organization says Beijing's list includes: yellow fever, cholera, venereal disease, leprosy, infectious pulmonary tuberculosis and AIDS.
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