Milestone year for China's diplomacy

China's major diplomatic events in 2015, which started with the first ministerial meeting of the Forum of China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States in January and ended with the China-Africa Cooperation Forum in December, were milestones in its efforts to shoulder more international responsibilities as the world's second-largest economy and largest developing country.

Japan's apology for war crimes must not stop at ROK

The landmark deal Japan and the Republic of Korea signed on an "irreversible" resolution to the so-called comfort women issue on Dec 28 has taken a twist within days.

Security beefed up amid terror worries

Europe ushered in the New Year with heightened security fears on Friday as German police evacuated two train stations in Munich, citing a tip about a planned suicide bomb attack, and Belgium held three people over an alleged plot.

Fire engulfs Dubai skyscraper

In the megacity of Dubai, a fire broke out on New Year's Eve in The Address hotel, in the area where a massive fireworks display was being prepared.

Record number of migrants die at sea in 2015

More than 3,770 migrants and refugees died in 2015 trying to reach Europe by crossing the Mediterranean Sea, making the year the deadliest on record for those seeking sanctuary from conflict and poverty, an international migration group said on Thursday.

Female WWII pilots kept from national cemetery

A rule change is keeping a group of female US pilots who flew noncombat missions during World War II from having their ashes laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.

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World welcomes New Year despite terror fears

Global New Year's Eve festivities were held across the globe under tightened security, with Brussels scrapping celebrations as fears of jihadist threats cast a pall, just weeks after brutal attacks in Paris.

Woman beats rap with claim her body brews own alcohol

Drunken-driving charges against an upstate New York woman have been dismissed based on an unusual defense: Her body is a brewery.

Cosby charged with felony sexual assault

Bill Cosby was charged on Wednesday with sexually assaulting a woman after plying her with drugs and alcohol in 2004, the only criminal case against a once-beloved entertainer whose father-figure persona has been marred by dozens of similar misconduct accusations.

President defends 'comfort women' accord with Japan

South Korea defended an agreement with Japan on Thursday to settle the issue of "comfort women" following criticism it was inadequate, saying it was the best any government could do in the lifetimes of the elderly victims of abuse.

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President Nicolas Maduro celebrated on Wednesday the delivery of the final home in the current phase of the Venezuelan Grand Housing Mission, which aimed to build 1 million homes for the Venezuelan people.