The week ahead

tauringhuang.

Aug 31st 2008
From Economist.com

Europe meets to discuss how to handle Russia, and other news

AFP/Shutterstock

• EUROPEAN UNION leaders are set for an emergency meeting on Monday September 1st to review the block’s relations with Russia in light of the war in Georgia. EU leaders are also likely to discuss new aid for the war-torn regions of Georgia. More strong words of criticism for Russia’s behaviour are expected, but little else, as Europe worries about energy supplies from its vast neighbour. Russia’s government has scored a victory on the home front with its new aggressive foreign policy.

For background, see article

• THE Republican Party holds its four-day national convention in St Paul, Minnesota, beginning on Monday September 1st. As well as the Obama-bashing that most pundits expect, the convention will give John McCain, the Republican presidential nominee, the opportunity to gauge party reaction to his surprising announcement that Sarah Palin will run beside him to become vice-president. Mr McCain wants to distance himself from the current Republican administration, so will be pleased that both George Bush and Dick Cheney are expected to skip the convention because of the probable arrival of hurricane Gustav in New Orleans.

For background, see article

• THE European Central Bank meets on Thursday September 4th to consider its response to deteriorating economic conditions in the euro area. Recession looms and inflation has been creeping up. The ECB may reckon that less growth will lessen the prospects of price rises; falling oil prices may ease inflation pressures too. But most think that the bank will wait until the beginning of 2009 before cutting rates to boost the economy.

For background, see article

• PAKISTAN is set to elect a new president on Saturday September 6th. Members of Pakistan's parliament and regional assemblies will vote for a replacement for Pervez Musharaff, who stepped down in August to avoid impeachment charges. Pakistan’s coalition government has already split over the candidacy of Asif Zardari, leader of the coalition’s main member, the Pakistan People’s Party, and favourite to become president. The coalition’s second-biggest constituent, the Pakistan Muslim League (N), walked out, in objection to Mr Zardari’s standing for a presidency with dictatorial powers. This is all an unwelcome distraction in a country facing an ever-worsening Taliban insurgency and a troubled economy.

For background, see article

To listen to a discussion of the news in the coming week click here