Global View Shoves Regional Deals Aside

GLOBAL trade, not regional free trade, dominated the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation Forum agenda in Hanoi yesterday, with leaders committed to "moving beyond our current trade positions" to break the deadlock. On North Korea there was less consensus.

The Distant Shadow Of Past War

When John Howard and George Bush discuss Iraq, their hosts in Hanoi will relish the irony, writes John Button.

Setback For Hanoi As Us Trade Bill Blocked

IN AN EMBARRASSING setback for the economic ambitions of Vietnam, the US Congress has surprisingly refused to authorise a bill to permanently normalise trade relations with its old foe.

Stalled Trade Bill Blow For Hanoi

IN A setback for Vietnam's economic ambitions, the US Congress has refused to authorise a bill to permanently normalise trade relations with its old foe.

Australia To Push Energy Security At Apec

AUSTRALIA will urge Asia-Pacific leaders to fast-track a regional plan for cleaner and more secure energy when Prime Minister John Howard visits Hanoi this week.

Season In Red Serves Up A Rich Tapestry

Good Morning Hanoi: A Year On The Airwaves In The New Vietnam Iain Finlay and Trish Clark (Simon & Schuster, $29.95) A Season in Red: My Great Leap Forward Into The New China Kirsty Needham (Allen & Unwin, $24.95)