08/03/2013 BBC World News

Hello you're watching BBC world Hello you're watching BBC world

Hello you're watching BBC world news. Our top stories: Fury in North

news. Our top stories: Fury in North news. Our top stories: Fury in North

Korea over another round of UN Korea over another round of UN

sanctions. Kim Jong-un's regime sanctions. Kim Jong-un's regime

sanctions. Kim Jong-un's regime tears up its non-aggression pact

tears up its non-aggression pact tears up its non-aggression pact

with the South. MOURPers gather for with the South. MOURPers gather for

with the South. MOURPers gather for the funeral of the Venezualan

the funeral of the Venezualan the funeral of the Venezualan

president, Hugo Chavez which begins president, Hugo Chavez which begins

president, Hugo Chavez which begins in just over three hours time.

in just over three hours time. in just over three hours time.

Activists in Kenya have launched a Activists in Kenya have launched a

Activists in Kenya have launched a legal challenge which could halt

legal challenge which could halt legal challenge which could halt

counting in the country's General counting in the country's General

counting in the country's General Election. And Shakespeare with no

Election. And Shakespeare with no Election. And Shakespeare with no

springs. The team behind War Horse springs. The team behind War Horse

springs. The team behind War Horse Tensions on the Korean peninsula

Tensions on the Korean peninsula have escalated after the North

have escalated after the North have escalated after the North

responded to new UN sanctions with responded to new UN sanctions with

responded to new UN sanctions with responded to new UN sanctions with

threats of nuclear war. It said it threats of nuclear war. It said it

threats of nuclear war. It said it is scrapping all none aggression

is scrapping all none aggression is scrapping all none aggression

pacts with South Korea. China voted pacts with South Korea. China voted

pacts with South Korea. China voted pacts with South Korea. China voted

in favour of a fresh round of in favour of a fresh round of

in favour of a fresh round of sanctions after North Korea's third

sanctions after North Korea's third sanctions after North Korea's third

nuclear test last month. Beijing is nuclear test last month. Beijing is

nuclear test last month. Beijing is now urging calm. North Korea's

now urging calm. North Korea's now urging calm. North Korea's

military is in training. Large scale military is in training. Large scale

military is in training. Large scale military is in training. Large scale

exercises on land, on sea and in the exercises on land, on sea and in the

exercises on land, on sea and in the exercises on land, on sea and in the

air. A show of force perhaps to air. A show of force perhaps to

air. A show of force perhaps to match their leader's threats. They

match their leader's threats. They match their leader's threats. They

match their leader's threats. They said on Friday they were ending all

said on Friday they were ending all said on Friday they were ending all

nonaggression pacts with the south nonaggression pacts with the south

nonaggression pacts with the south and shutting down the main hotline

and shutting down the main hotline and shutting down the main hotline

between the countries and has between the countries and has

between the countries and has threatened to carry out a

threatened to carry out a pre-emptive nuclear strike.

pre-emptive nuclear strike. pre-emptive nuclear strike.

TRANSLATION: We don't make empty TRANSLATION: We don't make empty

TRANSLATION: We don't make empty TRANSLATION: We don't make empty

threats. If we say we 'll strike, we threats. If we say we 'll strike, we

threats. If we say we 'll strike, we threats. If we say we 'll strike, we

'll strike. If we say we 'll fight, 'll strike. If we say we 'll fight,

'll strike. If we say we 'll fight, 'll strike. If we say we 'll fight,

we will fight. Those who try to we will fight. Those who try to

we will fight. Those who try to infringe our sovereignty won't be

infringe our sovereignty won't be infringe our sovereignty won't be

able to escape our grasp. Those able to escape our grasp. Those

able to escape our grasp. Those threats have done nothing to deter

threats have done nothing to deter threats have done nothing to deter

its critics. The UN Security Council its critics. The UN Security Council

its critics. The UN Security Council voted in tough new sanctions. Even

voted in tough new sanctions. Even voted in tough new sanctions. Even

China, North Korea's only major China, North Korea's only major

China, North Korea's only major China, North Korea's only major

ally, said yes. But that is not the ally, said yes. But that is not the

ally, said yes. But that is not the only reason North Korea is anxious.

only reason North Korea is anxious. Massive joint military exercises

Massive joint military exercises Massive joint military exercises

Massive joint military exercises between the US and South Korea are

between the US and South Korea are between the US and South Korea are

taking place across the border. A taking place across the border. A

taking place across the border. A taking place across the border. A

second round of drills will begin on second round of drills will begin on

second round of drills will begin on Monday when Pyongyang is due to

Monday when Pyongyang is due to Monday when Pyongyang is due to

withdraw from the current truce. The withdraw from the current truce. The

withdraw from the current truce. The new Government in Seoul said if

new Government in Seoul said if new Government in Seoul said if

provoked it could turn the exercises provoked it could turn the exercises

provoked it could turn the exercises provoked it could turn the exercises

into a counter attack. In the days into a counter attack. In the days

into a counter attack. In the days into a counter attack. In the days

leading up to the dead LIEP, North leading up to the dead LIEP, North

leading up to the dead LIEP, North Korea's news has been showing their

Korea's news has been showing their Korea's news has been showing their

new leader tour ing troops and new leader tour ing troops and

new leader tour ing troops and new leader tour ing troops and

talking about enemy tar GEFTs to the talking about enemy tar GEFTs to the

talking about enemy tar GEFTs to the south. Inside the cap pal, public

south. Inside the cap pal, public south. Inside the cap pal, public

TRT has been Reportedly being TRT has been Reportedly being

TRT has been Reportedly being camouflaged. It may sound like the

camouflaged. It may sound like the camouflaged. It may sound like the

path to war, but the Armistice path to war, but the Armistice

path to war, but the Armistice agreement and the hotline have been

agreement and the hotline have been agreement and the hotline have been

broken many times. The situation may broken many times. The situation may

broken many times. The situation may be less predictable and less stable

be less predictable and less stable be less predictable and less stable

be less predictable and less stable as a result of the threats, but the

as a result of the threats, but the as a result of the threats, but the

risks of escalation are just as risks of escalation are just as

risks of escalation are just as great for North Korea itself.

great for North Korea itself. great for North Korea itself.

Extraordinary scenes in Venuzuela as Extraordinary scenes in Venuzuela as

Extraordinary scenes in Venuzuela as millions of people have been lining

millions of people have been lining millions of people have been lining

millions of people have been lining up to pay their last respects to

up to pay their last respects to up to pay their last respects to

up to pay their last respects to Hugo Chavez, who died on Tuesday. We

Hugo Chavez, who died on Tuesday. We Hugo Chavez, who died on Tuesday. We

Hugo Chavez, who died on Tuesday. We can show you the scene live in ska

can show you the scene live in ska can show you the scene live in ska

can show you the scene live in ska rack KAS there as people -- Caracas

rack KAS there as people -- Caracas rack KAS there as people -- Caracas

there as people queue outside the there as people queue outside the

there as people queue outside the military academy where Hugo Chavez's

military academy where Hugo Chavez's military academy where Hugo Chavez's

military academy where Hugo Chavez's coffin is on display. His funeral is

coffin is on display. His funeral is coffin is on display. His funeral is

taking place later. Leaders from taking place later. Leaders from

taking place later. Leaders from Latin America and beyond are also

Latin America and beyond are also Latin America and beyond are also

gathering. We have been hearing that gathering. We have been hearing that

gathering. We have been hearing that the Chilean leader has arrived and

the Chilean leader has arrived and the Chilean leader has arrived and

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran flew in Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran flew in

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran flew in last night. Let's go over to

last night. Let's go over to last night. Let's go over to

correspondent in Caracas. Tell us correspondent in Caracas. Tell us

correspondent in Caracas. Tell us correspondent in Caracas. Tell us

what is in store today there. what is in store today there.

what is in store today there. what is in store today there.

the big story today of course is the the big story today of course is the

the big story today of course is the funeral. Plans for it were changed

funeral. Plans for it were changed funeral. Plans for it were changed

funeral. Plans for it were changed at the last minute. We were expect

at the last minute. We were expect at the last minute. We were expect

at the last minute. We were expect ing a burial today, but the vice

ing a burial today, but the vice ing a burial today, but the vice

president announced that the body of president announced that the body of

president announced that the body of Hugo Chavez would be embalmed, so

Hugo Chavez would be embalmed, so Hugo Chavez would be embalmed, so

today we are still expecting a today we are still expecting a

today we are still expecting a ceremony, but no official burial.

ceremony, but no official burial. ceremony, but no official burial.

ceremony, but no official burial. And loads of foreign heads of state

And loads of foreign heads of state And loads of foreign heads of state

from different countries have been from different countries have been

from different countries have been from different countries have been

pouring in and there is still huge pouring in and there is still huge

pouring in and there is still huge queues outside the military academy

queues outside the military academy queues outside the military academy

queues outside the military academy where he is lying in state. We have

where he is lying in state. We have where he is lying in state. We have

where he is lying in state. We have been seeing the long queues ore the

been seeing the long queues ore the been seeing the long queues ore the

been seeing the long queues ore the past few days. -- over the past few

past few days. -- over the past few past few days. -- over the past few

days. What is the atmosphere like. days. What is the atmosphere like.

days. What is the atmosphere like. days. What is the atmosphere like.

People are not dressed in black, but People are not dressed in black, but

People are not dressed in black, but many dressed in blight red?

many dressed in blight red? many dressed in blight red?

many dressed in blight red? bright red. Yes, there are loads of

bright red. Yes, there are loads of bright red. Yes, there are loads of

bright red. Yes, there are loads of flags around and there are images of

flags around and there are images of flags around and there are images of

this all over the television and this all over the television and

this all over the television and newspapers. There have been seas of

newspapers. There have been seas of newspapers. There have been seas of

red flags and people holding red flags and people holding

red flags and people holding pictures of Hugo Chavez, chanting

pictures of Hugo Chavez, chanting pictures of Hugo Chavez, chanting

typical chants that the late typical chants that the late

typical chants that the late president would also use. And over

president would also use. And over president would also use. And over

all even is gathered, mourning, but all even is gathered, mourning, but

all even is gathered, mourning, but also remembering the figure of the

also remembering the figure of the also remembering the figure of the

also remembering the figure of the character that even says was one of

character that even says was one of character that even says was one of

a kind. Of course, the vice a kind. Of course, the vice

a kind. Of course, the vice a kind. Of course, the vice

president is also going to be sworn president is also going to be sworn

president is also going to be sworn president is also going to be sworn

in as acting president today. So a in as acting president today. So a

in as acting president today. So a huge day for Venuzuela. We are

huge day for Venuzuela. We are huge day for Venuzuela. We are

expecting elections soon? Yes, after expecting elections soon? Yes, after

expecting elections soon? Yes, after the constitution says that elections

the constitution says that elections the constitution says that elections

the constitution says that elections have to be held, or announced within

have to be held, or announced within have to be held, or announced within

30 days. There is some 30 days. There is some

30 days. There is some interpretation that can be done

interpretation that can be done interpretation that can be done

interpretation that can be done there. We are not yet clear when

there. We are not yet clear when there. We are not yet clear when

there. We are not yet clear when elections will be held. We know that

elections will be held. We know that elections will be held. We know that

elections will be held. We know that it will happen soon. We also know

it will happen soon. We also know it will happen soon. We also know

that the opposition has been in that the opposition has been in

that the opposition has been in talks to pick their official

talks to pick their official talks to pick their official

candidate. The most likely thing candidate. The most likely thing

candidate. The most likely thing candidate. The most likely thing

however is that the man who lost to however is that the man who lost to

however is that the man who lost to Hugo Chavez in the October elections

Hugo Chavez in the October elections Hugo Chavez in the October elections

will be running again for the will be running again for the

will be running again for the opposition. Thank you very much. The

opposition. Thank you very much. The opposition. Thank you very much. The

funeral will take place in just funeral will take place in just

funeral will take place in just funeral will take place in just

under three hours there. You can see under three hours there. You can see

under three hours there. You can see the scene. There has been no

the scene. There has been no the scene. There has been no

diminishing in the number of people diminishing in the number of people

diminishing in the number of people queueing to see Hugo Chavez's body

queueing to see Hugo Chavez's body queueing to see Hugo Chavez's body

queueing to see Hugo Chavez's body lying there in state before he is

lying there in state before he is lying there in state before he is

embalmed and put on permanent embalmed and put on permanent

embalmed and put on permanent display in a military museum. We

display in a military museum. We display in a military museum. We

will back of course to Caracas will back of course to Caracas

will back of course to Caracas will back of course to Caracas

later. Back to our top story about later. Back to our top story about

North Korea scrapping all North Korea scrapping all

nonaggression pacts with South nonaggression pacts with South

nonaggression pacts with South Korea. Aidan Foster Carter is a

Korea. Aidan Foster Carter is a Korea. Aidan Foster Carter is a

long-time Korea analyst and Honorary long-time Korea analyst and Honorary

long-time Korea analyst and Honorary Senior Research Fellow at the

Senior Research Fellow at the Senior Research Fellow at the

University of Leeds. He joins me University of Leeds. He joins me

University of Leeds. He joins me from our Exeter studios. How Sigg

from our Exeter studios. How Sigg from our Exeter studios. How Sigg

from our Exeter studios. How Sigg captain is what we are hearing --

captain is what we are hearing -- captain is what we are hearing --

significant what is we are hearing significant what is we are hearing

significant what is we are hearing from North Korea about scrapping

from North Korea about scrapping from North Korea about scrapping

these agreements with the South? these agreements with the South?

these agreements with the South? never wants to be too complacent,

never wants to be too complacent, never wants to be too complacent,

never wants to be too complacent, given the fire power that exists on

given the fire power that exists on given the fire power that exists on

the Korean border and the extreme the Korean border and the extreme

the Korean border and the extreme North Koreian rhetoric. But there is

North Koreian rhetoric. But there is North Koreian rhetoric. But there is

North Koreian rhetoric. But there is a certain amount of heard it all

a certain amount of heard it all a certain amount of heard it all

a certain amount of heard it all before. There isn't a lot to scrap.

before. There isn't a lot to scrap. before. There isn't a lot to scrap.

before. There isn't a lot to scrap. In terms of the, there is the 1953

In terms of the, there is the 1953 In terms of the, there is the 1953

Armistice, which South Korea never Armistice, which South Korea never

Armistice, which South Korea never Armistice, which South Korea never

signed. I think the main one they signed. I think the main one they

signed. I think the main one they signed. I think the main one they

mean was they had a big pact in mean was they had a big pact in

mean was they had a big pact in 1991. But it was never implemented.

1991. But it was never implemented. 1991. But it was never implemented.

1991. But it was never implemented. In the sunshine era, there were two

In the sunshine era, there were two In the sunshine era, there were two

agreements they were not called agreements they were not called

agreements they were not called nonaggression pacts. But the North

nonaggression pacts. But the North nonaggression pacts. But the North

co- Rhians talk like this before. co- Rhians talk like this before.

co- Rhians talk like this before. co- Rhians talk like this before.

How hope -- helpful it is for North How hope -- helpful it is for North

How hope -- helpful it is for North How hope -- helpful it is for North

Korea to have its ally China be so Korea to have its ally China be so

instrumental in bringing about instrumental in bringing about

instrumental in bringing about further sanctions. How much more

further sanctions. How much more further sanctions. How much more

isolated could they get? You would isolated could they get? You would

isolated could they get? You would isolated could they get? You would

think so. But you have to read think so. But you have to read

think so. But you have to read think so. But you have to read

between the lines. I do worry about between the lines. I do worry about

between the lines. I do worry about the young leader, Kim Jong-un's

the young leader, Kim Jong-un's the young leader, Kim Jong-un's

judgment, but they have very judgment, but they have very

experienced diplomats who know experienced diplomats who know

experienced diplomats who know experienced diplomats who know

perfectly well, if you set off a perfectly well, if you set off a

perfectly well, if you set off a nuclear bomb, you're going to have

nuclear bomb, you're going to have condemnation from the Security

condemnation from the Security condemnation from the Security

Council, including China. You read Council, including China. You read

the resolution carefully, what the resolution carefully, what

the resolution carefully, what looked like hard line things about

looked like hard line things about looked like hard line things about

inspecting all cargoes always have a inspecting all cargoes always have a

inspecting all cargoes always have a clause, if there is ground for

clause, if there is ground for clause, if there is ground for

suspicion. So I don't think it suspicion. So I don't think it

suspicion. So I don't think it changes much. If they're being more

changes much. If they're being more changes much. If they're being more

subtle than their propaganda, it subtle than their propaganda, it

subtle than their propaganda, it subtle than their propaganda, it

isn't such a big change. We have isn't such a big change. We have

isn't such a big change. We have been wondering what sort of

been wondering what sort of leadership Kim Jong-un would

leadership Kim Jong-un would leadership Kim Jong-un would

represent. Are we seeing a clearer represent. Are we seeing a clearer

represent. Are we seeing a clearer represent. Are we seeing a clearer

picture of his character? That is my picture of his character? That is my

picture of his character? That is my fear. Because I have been following

fear. Because I have been following fear. Because I have been following

fear. Because I have been following North Korea for a long time. One is

North Korea for a long time. One is North Korea for a long time. One is

used to them shouting. But it used to them shouting. But it

used to them shouting. But it usually calculated and clear what

usually calculated and clear what usually calculated and clear what

usually calculated and clear what they want. This time the rhetoric is

they want. This time the rhetoric is they want. This time the rhetoric is

wild and threatening all with wild and threatening all with

pre-emptive nuclear strikes. pre-emptive nuclear strikes.

pre-emptive nuclear strikes. pre-emptive nuclear strikes.

Sensible people do not do that. Only Sensible people do not do that. Only

Sensible people do not do that. Only terrorists even talk like that. It

terrorists even talk like that. It terrorists even talk like that. It

terrorists even talk like that. It is not clear what he wants. He is

is not clear what he wants. He is is not clear what he wants. He is

is not clear what he wants. He is supposed to be a hot head. I fear

supposed to be a hot head. I fear supposed to be a hot head. I fear

supposed to be a hot head. I fear that may be what we are seeing.

that may be what we are seeing. that may be what we are seeing.

that may be what we are seeing. is an empty threat. In the last

is an empty threat. In the last is an empty threat. In the last

seconds this nuclear strike idea is seconds this nuclear strike idea is

seconds this nuclear strike idea is seconds this nuclear strike idea is

all bluster? I believe that is all all bluster? I believe that is all

all bluster? I believe that is all all bluster? I believe that is all

bluster. But I'm far safely from the bluster. But I'm far safely from the

bluster. But I'm far safely from the bluster. But I'm far safely from the

area and we have to be vigilant. area and we have to be vigilant.

area and we have to be vigilant. area and we have to be vigilant.

Thank you. In Kenya, the High Court Thank you. In Kenya, the High Court

Thank you. In Kenya, the High Court is considering a legal challenge

is considering a legal challenge is considering a legal challenge

that could halt counting in the that could halt counting in the

country's presidential elections. country's presidential elections.

Activists want the electoral Activists want the electoral

commission to stop announcing commission to stop announcing

commission to stop announcing results until steps have been taken

results until steps have been taken results until steps have been taken

to address their concerns over the to address their concerns over the

to address their concerns over the process, including a software bug

process, including a software bug process, including a software bug

that multiplied the number of that multiplied the number of

that multiplied the number of rejected ballot papers by a factor

rejected ballot papers by a factor rejected ballot papers by a factor

of eight. With more than three of eight. With more than three

of eight. With more than three quarters of the results announced,

quarters of the results announced, quarters of the results announced,

Uhuru Kenyatta is leading, but it's Uhuru Kenyatta is leading, but it's

Uhuru Kenyatta is leading, but it's not yet clear whether he's won

not yet clear whether he's won not yet clear whether he's won

not yet clear whether he's won enough of the vote to avoid a run

enough of the vote to avoid a run enough of the vote to avoid a run

enough of the vote to avoid a run enough of the vote to avoid a run

off. We will be live to Nairobi in a off. We will be live to Nairobi in a

off. We will be live to Nairobi in a few minutes time. Human rights

few minutes time. Human rights few minutes time. Human rights

groups have urged the Bangladeshi groups have urged the Bangladeshi

groups have urged the Bangladeshi Government to provide protection to

Government to provide protection to minority Buddhist and Hindu

minority Buddhist and Hindu communities. The BBC's correspondent

communities. The BBC's correspondent communities. The BBC's correspondent

reports from a village in the reports from a village in the

reports from a village in the southern district. Not far from

southern district. Not far from southern district. Not far from

Chittagong City. I'm afraid we don't Chittagong City. I'm afraid we don't

Chittagong City. I'm afraid we don't Chittagong City. I'm afraid we don't

have that report at the moment from have that report at the moment from

have that report at the moment from Bangladesh. We will try and bring

Bangladesh. We will try and bring Bangladesh. We will try and bring

Bangladesh. We will try and bring that to you soon. We can now rejoin

that to you soon. We can now rejoin that to you soon. We can now rejoin

that to you soon. We can now rejoin our Kenya story and go live to our

our Kenya story and go live to our correspondent in Nairobi. Following

correspondent in Nairobi. Following correspondent in Nairobi. Following

events as the counting continues. events as the counting continues.

events as the counting continues. Bring us up-to-date. What is

Bring us up-to-date. What is Bring us up-to-date. What is

happening? Well counting is still happening? Well counting is still

happening? Well counting is still happening? Well counting is still

going on at the main centre. The going on at the main centre. The

presidential final results are presidential final results are

presidential final results are coming out. 233 constituencies have

coming out. 233 constituencies have coming out. 233 constituencies have

had their votes counted. Uhuru had their votes counted. Uhuru

had their votes counted. Uhuru had their votes counted. Uhuru

Kenyatta is leading with 49. 5% of Kenyatta is leading with 49. 5% of

Kenyatta is leading with 49. 5% of Kenyatta is leading with 49. 5% of

the votes that have been counted so the votes that have been counted so

the votes that have been counted so far. And Raila Odinga follows there

far. And Raila Odinga follows there far. And Raila Odinga follows there

far. And Raila Odinga follows there with 44. 1% of the votes that have

with 44. 1% of the votes that have with 44. 1% of the votes that have

with 44. 1% of the votes that have been counted. Now, all this is going

been counted. Now, all this is going been counted. Now, all this is going

been counted. Now, all this is going on, there is -- despite the fact

on, there is -- despite the fact on, there is -- despite the fact

that some groups came together and that some groups came together and

that some groups came together and that some groups came together and

filed a case at the High Court filed a case at the High Court

challenging the electoral process. challenging the electoral process.

challenging the electoral process. challenging the electoral process.

The V they are demanding that the The V they are demanding that the

independent electoral boundaries independent electoral boundaries

commission stops announcing results commission stops announcing results

commission stops announcing results until a fair process is instituted.

until a fair process is instituted. until a fair process is instituted.

They also want an explanation why They also want an explanation why

that electronic transmission system that electronic transmission system

that electronic transmission system that electronic transmission system

failed and they are saying they need failed and they are saying they need

failed and they are saying they need the public availability of some of

the public availability of some of the public availability of some of

the public availability of some of the forms that were signed by agents

the forms that were signed by agents the forms that were signed by agents

of the different parties. In the of the different parties. In the

of the different parties. In the of the different parties. In the

last few MOURs -- hours a judge has last few MOURs -- hours a judge has

last few MOURs -- hours a judge has last few MOURs -- hours a judge has

last few MOURs -- hours a judge has said he will rule on that case in an

said he will rule on that case in an said he will rule on that case in an

said he will rule on that case in an hour's time. That is where we are in

hour's time. That is where we are in hour's time. That is where we are in

this election. I suppose that is this election. I suppose that is

this election. I suppose that is this election. I suppose that is

clear at this stage, until we know clear at this stage, until we know

clear at this stage, until we know clear at this stage, until we know

what they say, how much of a delay what they say, how much of a delay

what they say, how much of a delay what they say, how much of a delay

this could be to the result? Yes, we this could be to the result? Yes, we

this could be to the result? Yes, we probably will not know, but the

probably will not know, but the independent electoral boundaries

independent electoral boundaries commission chairman promised that

commission chairman promised that commission chairman promised that

the final results will be released the final results will be released

the final results will be released the final results will be released

today. So it is just a few hours today. So it is just a few hours

today. So it is just a few hours today. So it is just a few hours

before the end of the day, so before the end of the day, so

before the end of the day, so Kenyans have been waiting and the

Kenyans have been waiting and the Kenyans have been waiting and the

thinking could be we have waited thinking could be we have waited

thinking could be we have waited thinking could be we have waited

three days, we can wait a few more three days, we can wait a few more

three days, we can wait a few more three days, we can wait a few more

hours. That is the situation at this hours. That is the situation at this

hours. That is the situation at this moment. Thank you. Stay with us.

moment. Thank you. Stay with us. moment. Thank you. Stay with us.

Coming up: Tackling one of last Coming up: Tackling one of last

Coming up: Tackling one of last Coming up: Tackling one of last

great that boos. An India version of great that boos. An India version of

great that boos. An India version of great that boos. An India version of

Moster Moscow correspondent asked Moster Moscow correspondent asked

Moster Moscow correspondent asked Moster Moscow correspondent asked

if there was any common ground on if there was any common ground on

if there was any common ground on if there was any common ground on

Syria. We both want Syria to be Syria. We both want Syria to be

Syria. We both want Syria to be united, to be democratic, we both

united, to be democratic, we both united, to be democratic, we both

united, to be democratic, we both want the Syrian people to be able

want the Syrian people to be able want the Syrian people to be able

want the Syrian people to be able to choose P all we -- freely who

to choose P all we -- freely who to choose P all we -- freely who

can run their country. And of can run their country. And of

can run their country. And of course, that has been the Russian

course, that has been the Russian course, that has been the Russian

position for two years, since the position for two years, since the

position for two years, since the crisis started. The language is

crisis started. The language is crisis started. The language is

very often in sync, everybody very often in sync, everybody

very often in sync, everybody very often in sync, everybody

agrees that there needs to be a agrees that there needs to be a

agrees that there needs to be a negotiated solution, but when you

negotiated solution, but when you negotiated solution, but when you

negotiated solution, but when you look at it, the situation with the

look at it, the situation with the look at it, the situation with the

British now talking about providing British now talking about providing

British now talking about providing armed vehicles and body armour, the

armed vehicles and body armour, the Americans talking about providing

Americans talking about providing Americans talking about providing

military rations and the Russian military rations and the Russian

Government still keeping its Government still keeping its

Government still keeping its contracts in terms of arms supplied

contracts in terms of arms supplied contracts in terms of arms supplied

to the Syrian government, it does to the Syrian government, it does

to the Syrian government, it does to the Syrian government, it does

seem as if Russia and Britain are seem as if Russia and Britain are

seem as if Russia and Britain are on very different sides of the

on very different sides of the on very different sides of the

Syrian conflict. The air defence Syrian conflict. The air defence

Syrian conflict. The air defence weapons which we have been

weapons which we have been weapons which we have been

supplying to Syria under the supplying to Syria under the

supplying to Syria under the existing contract cannot be used in

existing contract cannot be used in existing contract cannot be used in

this war. They are needed this war. They are needed

this war. They are needed legitimately by any country which

legitimately by any country which legitimately by any country which

is under threat of being attacked. is under threat of being attacked.

is under threat of being attacked. And the helicopters, the helicopter

And the helicopters, the helicopter And the helicopters, the helicopter

And the helicopters, the helicopter repairs and so on that we keep

repairs and so on that we keep repairs and so on that we keep

hearing about? There was a dispatch hearing about? There was a dispatch

hearing about? There was a dispatch of helicopters, but this does not

of helicopters, but this does not of helicopters, but this does not

make any difference, they have been make any difference, they have been

make any difference, they have been shipped there for assembly on the

shipped there for assembly on the shipped there for assembly on the

shipped there for assembly on the ground, and this would not make any

ground, and this would not make any ground, and this would not make any

change. The other thing which both change. The other thing which both

change. The other thing which both change. The other thing which both

sides seem to agree on is that a sides seem to agree on is that a

sides seem to agree on is that a sides seem to agree on is that a

united Syria is the answer - but united Syria is the answer - but

united Syria is the answer - but the big disagreement is about

the big disagreement is about the big disagreement is about

the big disagreement is about whether or not it is possible for

whether or not it is possible for whether or not it is possible for

there to be any kind of there to be any kind of

there to be any kind of negotiations over a united Syria,

negotiations over a united Syria, negotiations over a united Syria,

when President Asad has still said when President Asad has still said

when President Asad has still said when President Asad has still said

when President Asad has still said he has to be part of the talks, so

he has to be part of the talks, so he has to be part of the talks, so

he has to be part of the talks, so is it still possible for him to in

is it still possible for him to in is it still possible for him to in

is it still possible for him to in any way lead a united Syria? It is

any way lead a united Syria? It is any way lead a united Syria? It is

any way lead a united Syria? It is not for me or anybody else to

not for me or anybody else to not for me or anybody else to

decide, except the Syrian people. decide, except the Syrian people.

decide, except the Syrian people. We have been against any

We have been against any We have been against any

preconditions to stop the violence preconditions to stop the violence

preconditions to stop the violence preconditions to stop the violence

and to start a dialogue, because we and to start a dialogue, because we

and to start a dialogue, because we believe that the first priority is

Our main headlines... North Korea Our main headlines... North Korea

Our main headlines... North Korea says it is scrapping its non-

says it is scrapping its non- says it is scrapping its non-

aggression pact with the south aggression pact with the south

aggression pact with the south after the UN imposed more sanctions

after the UN imposed more sanctions after the UN imposed more sanctions

over its nuclear test programme. over its nuclear test programme.

over its nuclear test programme. Millions are filing past the coffin

Millions are filing past the coffin Millions are filing past the coffin

of Venezuela's present, Hugo Chavez, of Venezuela's present, Hugo Chavez,

of Venezuela's present, Hugo Chavez, of Venezuela's present, Hugo Chavez,

whose funeral is due to start in whose funeral is due to start in

whose funeral is due to start in about three hours' time. Let's go

about three hours' time. Let's go about three hours' time. Let's go

back to that report from Bangladesh, back to that report from Bangladesh,

back to that report from Bangladesh, where human rights groups have

where human rights groups have where human rights groups have

urged the government to provide urged the government to provide

urged the government to provide better protection to minority Hindu

better protection to minority Hindu better protection to minority Hindu

and Buddhist communities, who have and Buddhist communities, who have

and Buddhist communities, who have come under attack during protests

come under attack during protests come under attack during protests

against war crime trials. This against war crime trials. This

report from Anbarasan Ethirajan. report from Anbarasan Ethirajan.

report from Anbarasan Ethirajan. report from Anbarasan Ethirajan.

This is what is left of a village This is what is left of a village

This is what is left of a village in southern Bangladesh. None of the

in southern Bangladesh. None of the in southern Bangladesh. None of the

household items were spared after a household items were spared after a

household items were spared after a rampaging Muslim mob vented its

rampaging Muslim mob vented its rampaging Muslim mob vented its

rampaging Muslim mob vented its fury. It came hours after a senior

fury. It came hours after a senior fury. It came hours after a senior

Islamist party leader was sentenced Islamist party leader was sentenced

Islamist party leader was sentenced to death for murder and torture

to death for murder and torture to death for murder and torture

committed during the war of committed during the war of

committed during the war of independence from Pakistan in 1971.

independence from Pakistan in 1971. independence from Pakistan in 1971.

Evens coolbox and homework notes of Evens coolbox and homework notes of

Evens coolbox and homework notes of children were not spared. The

children were not spared. The children were not spared. The

beleaguered community is in shock. beleaguered community is in shock.

beleaguered community is in shock. -- even school books. This young

-- even school books. This young -- even school books. This young

mother of two lost everything in the attack.

the attack. the attack.

TRANSLATION: When we heard they TRANSLATION: When we heard they

TRANSLATION: When we heard they were coming, we ran away. They

were coming, we ran away. They were coming, we ran away. They

destroyed everything and set fire destroyed everything and set fire

destroyed everything and set fire destroyed everything and set fire

to our house. We ran for our lives, to our house. We ran for our lives,

to our house. We ran for our lives, to our house. We ran for our lives,

and my children were too scared to and my children were too scared to

and my children were too scared to return. We built this small house

return. We built this small house return. We built this small house

return. We built this small house with lots of difficulty, but now we

with lots of difficulty, but now we with lots of difficulty, but now we

have lost everything. Even Hindu have lost everything. Even Hindu

have lost everything. Even Hindu have lost everything. Even Hindu

gods did not escape from the angry gods did not escape from the angry

gods did not escape from the angry mob. Hindus constitute around 10%

mob. Hindus constitute around 10% mob. Hindus constitute around 10%

of the population in this Muslim of the population in this Muslim

majority nation. The two majority nation. The two

majority nation. The two communities live side by side in

communities live side by side in communities live side by side in

villages like these. Hundreds of villages like these. Hundreds of

villages like these. Hundreds of people came and ransacked this

people came and ransacked this village, burning down houses,

village, burning down houses, village, burning down houses,

breaking the utensils and beating breaking the utensils and beating

breaking the utensils and beating up elderly men and women and

up elderly men and women and up elderly men and women and

up elderly men and women and children. It is not only here in

children. It is not only here in children. It is not only here in

this village. Houses and temples of this village. Houses and temples of

this village. Houses and temples of Hindus and Buddhists came under

Hindus and Buddhists came under Hindus and Buddhists came under

Hindus and Buddhists came under attack in many parts of the country.

attack in many parts of the country. attack in many parts of the country.

attack in many parts of the country. The people here are living in fear.

The people here are living in fear. The people here are living in fear.

Some say the minorities are being Some say the minorities are being

attacked because they mostly attacked because they mostly

attacked because they mostly support the ruling party, and they

support the ruling party, and they support the ruling party, and they

are a soft target as well. are a soft target as well.

are a soft target as well. TRANSLATION: This should not have

TRANSLATION: This should not have TRANSLATION: This should not have

happened. We feel sorry about it. happened. We feel sorry about it.

happened. We feel sorry about it. happened. We feel sorry about it.

It is not in the Holy Koran. It is not in the Holy Koran.

It is not in the Holy Koran. Almighty Allah said that nobody

Almighty Allah said that nobody Almighty Allah said that nobody

should do anything with religion. should do anything with religion.

should do anything with religion. People praying here agree with the

People praying here agree with the People praying here agree with the

correct. They want to maintain the correct. They want to maintain the

correct. They want to maintain the communal harmony. The violence is

communal harmony. The violence is communal harmony. The violence is

blamed on the opposition parties, mostly Jamaat-e-Islami.

mostly Jamaat-e-Islami. TRANSLATION: Jamaat-e-Islami in

TRANSLATION: Jamaat-e-Islami in TRANSLATION: Jamaat-e-Islami in

Bangladesh is a peaceful party, and Bangladesh is a peaceful party, and

Bangladesh is a peaceful party, and they do not encourage any violent

they do not encourage any violent they do not encourage any violent

activities. But people who are activities. But people who are

activities. But people who are responsible for these incidents do

responsible for these incidents do responsible for these incidents do

not belong to Jamaat-e-Islami. They not belong to Jamaat-e-Islami. They

not belong to Jamaat-e-Islami. They are members of other political

are members of other political parties. As Islamists continue

parties. As Islamists continue their protests, Hindus and

their protests, Hindus and their protests, Hindus and

Buddhists feel insecure, and what Buddhists feel insecure, and what

Buddhists feel insecure, and what protection. They say they cannot

protection. They say they cannot protection. They say they cannot

rebuild their lives unless their rebuild their lives unless their

rebuild their lives unless their Muslim neighbours reach out to them.

Muslim neighbours reach out to them. Muslim neighbours reach out to them.

Staying in that region, India is Staying in that region, India is

still an extremely conservative still an extremely conservative

still an extremely conservative country, where women are often

country, where women are often country, where women are often

afraid to discuss their sexuality afraid to discuss their sexuality

afraid to discuss their sexuality afraid to discuss their sexuality

in the open. But for the past 10 in the open. But for the past 10

in the open. But for the past 10 years, one player has been trying

years, one player has been trying years, one player has been trying

to challenge those taboos. The to challenge those taboos. The

to challenge those taboos. The Indian version of the worldwide

Indian version of the worldwide show The Vagina Monologues

show The Vagina Monologues discusses issues like women's

discusses issues like women's discusses issues like women's

discusses issues like women's sexuality and rape, but it is still

sexuality and rape, but it is still sexuality and rape, but it is still

banned in some cities. This report banned in some cities. This report

banned in some cities. This report from Rajini Vaidyanathan in Mumbai.

from Rajini Vaidyanathan in Mumbai. from Rajini Vaidyanathan in Mumbai.

from Rajini Vaidyanathan in Mumbai. This show is all about one thing.

This show is all about one thing. This show is all about one thing.

This show is all about one thing. They are preparing to go on stage.

They are preparing to go on stage. They are preparing to go on stage.

How many of you are comfortable How many of you are comfortable

How many of you are comfortable with saying the word vagina? The

with saying the word vagina? The with saying the word vagina? The

play looks at women's sexuality, it play looks at women's sexuality, it

play looks at women's sexuality, it contains different sketches, and it

contains different sketches, and it contains different sketches, and it

first ran in America. Bringing the first ran in America. Bringing the

first ran in America. Bringing the first ran in America. Bringing the

show to India was not easy. Kissing show to India was not easy. Kissing

show to India was not easy. Kissing show to India was not easy. Kissing

is rarely seen in films here, and is rarely seen in films here, and

is rarely seen in films here, and sex is rarely talked about. The

sex is rarely talked about. The sex is rarely talked about. The

problem did not come from the problem did not come from the

problem did not come from the government, it came from within the

government, it came from within the government, it came from within the

community. Actors refused to act community. Actors refused to act

community. Actors refused to act community. Actors refused to act

with me, I had no producers, no with me, I had no producers, no

with me, I had no producers, no sponsors and several theatres, like

sponsors and several theatres, like sponsors and several theatres, like

even the National Centre for even the National Centre for

even the National Centre for Performing Arts, and several other

Performing Arts, and several other Catholic auditoria, refused to

Catholic auditoria, refused to Catholic auditoria, refused to

allow us to perform, and still allow us to perform, and still

allow us to perform, and still refused to allow us to perform.

refused to allow us to perform. refused to allow us to perform.

Women were shocked, but once they Women were shocked, but once they

Women were shocked, but once they Women were shocked, but once they

got going, you could not stop them, got going, you could not stop them,

got going, you could not stop them, because women love to talk about

because women love to talk about because women love to talk about

the vagina! The show discusses the vagina! The show discusses

the vagina! The show discusses issues such as rape, domestic

issues such as rape, domestic violence and genital mutilation,

violence and genital mutilation, violence and genital mutilation,

topics which many Indians feel topics which many Indians feel

uncomfortable about bringing into uncomfortable about bringing into

uncomfortable about bringing into the open. It is fitting perhaps

the open. It is fitting perhaps the open. It is fitting perhaps

that the ten-year anniversary of that the ten-year anniversary of

that the ten-year anniversary of The Vagina Monologues in India

The Vagina Monologues in India The Vagina Monologues in India

The Vagina Monologues in India comes at a time when the country is

comes at a time when the country is debating attitudes towards women.

debating attitudes towards women. debating attitudes towards women.

debating attitudes towards women. But why does it have to take the

But why does it have to take the But why does it have to take the

brutal gang rape of a paramedic...? brutal gang rape of a paramedic...?

brutal gang rape of a paramedic...? And other short monologue has been

And other short monologue has been And other short monologue has been

And other short monologue has been added to the show, dedicated to the

added to the show, dedicated to the added to the show, dedicated to the

victim of the Delhi gang grape. victim of the Delhi gang grape.

victim of the Delhi gang grape. When we performed this show in

When we performed this show in When we performed this show in

January in Delhi, the experience January in Delhi, the experience

January in Delhi, the experience was absolutely surreal for me,

was absolutely surreal for me, was absolutely surreal for me,

was absolutely surreal for me, because I really sensed a kind of

because I really sensed a kind of because I really sensed a kind of

energy from the audience. And there energy from the audience. And there

energy from the audience. And there energy from the audience. And there

was anger which was so palpable, it was anger which was so palpable, it

was anger which was so palpable, it was almost scary. It plays to

was almost scary. It plays to was almost scary. It plays to

packed audiences of both women and packed audiences of both women and

packed audiences of both women and men across India. Excellent drama.

men across India. Excellent drama. men across India. Excellent drama.

men across India. Excellent drama. This is for all women. People know

This is for all women. People know This is for all women. People know

more about this, and they will more about this, and they will

more about this, and they will start respecting women. It makes

start respecting women. It makes start respecting women. It makes

you think about the current issues you think about the current issues

you think about the current issues and how you actually treat women.

and how you actually treat women. and how you actually treat women.

and how you actually treat women. In the decade it has been running

In the decade it has been running In the decade it has been running

in India, attitudes towards women in India, attitudes towards women

in India, attitudes towards women have barely changed. This show is

have barely changed. This show is have barely changed. This show is

playing its part in putting women playing its part in putting women

playing its part in putting women at the centre of the discussion.

at the centre of the discussion. at the centre of the discussion.

Another kind of performance now, Another kind of performance now,

Another kind of performance now, and the team behind War Horse

and the team behind War Horse and the team behind War Horse

and the team behind War Horse brought World War 1 to life, using

brought World War 1 to life, using brought World War 1 to life, using

puppetry. Now, it has turned its puppetry. Now, it has turned its

puppetry. Now, it has turned its talents to a more magical setting,

talents to a more magical setting, Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's

Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. John Maguire reports.

Dream. John Maguire reports. Shakespearean actors have always

Shakespearean actors have always Shakespearean actors have always

come in various shapes and sizes, come in various shapes and sizes,

come in various shapes and sizes, but 2ft tall and wouldn't? Now,

but 2ft tall and wouldn't? Now, that's different. This performance

that's different. This performance that's different. This performance

in Bristol features actors and her in Bristol features actors and her

and made puppets performing and made puppets performing

and made puppets performing and made puppets performing

together. There is lady in the feet, together. There is lady in the feet,

together. There is lady in the feet, together. There is lady in the feet,

so they will swing. -- lead. Bosch so they will swing. -- lead. Bosch

so they will swing. -- lead. Bosch so they will swing. -- lead. Bosch

one giant step for man, one small one giant step for man, one small

one giant step for man, one small stagger for a puppet. For the

stagger for a puppet. For the audience, seeing is believing.

audience, seeing is believing. audience, seeing is believing.

Every body knows that puppets are Every body knows that puppets are

Every body knows that puppets are made of wood, cloth, metal or

made of wood, cloth, metal or made of wood, cloth, metal or

whatever. But if you're in a whatever. But if you're in a

whatever. But if you're in a whatever. But if you're in a

theatre, and you see a puppet show, theatre, and you see a puppet show,

theatre, and you see a puppet show, theatre, and you see a puppet show,

and it works, in the audience, you and it works, in the audience, you

and it works, in the audience, you imagine that the puppet is alive.

imagine that the puppet is alive. imagine that the puppet is alive.

imagine that the puppet is alive. It isn't, you know it isn't, but

It isn't, you know it isn't, but It isn't, you know it isn't, but

It isn't, you know it isn't, but you give it life. Much of that

you give it life. Much of that you give it life. Much of that

falls to the actors combining their falls to the actors combining their

falls to the actors combining their falls to the actors combining their

skills with that of a puppeteer, as skills with that of a puppeteer, as

skills with that of a puppeteer, as flesh and blood come face-to-face

flesh and blood come face-to-face flesh and blood come face-to-face

flesh and blood come face-to-face with wood and paint. It has been a

with wood and paint. It has been a with wood and paint. It has been a

with wood and paint. It has been a challenge and a half, but quite an

challenge and a half, but quite an challenge and a half, but quite an

challenge and a half, but quite an exciting one. As an actor, you are

exciting one. As an actor, you are exciting one. As an actor, you are

used to thinking internally and used to thinking internally and

used to thinking internally and thinking about your motivation and

thinking about your motivation and thinking about your motivation and

your lines and everything, and then your lines and everything, and then

your lines and everything, and then your lines and everything, and then

all of a sudden, you have got this all of a sudden, you have got this

all of a sudden, you have got this extra being, which you have to

extra being, which you have to extra being, which you have to

extra being, which you have to channel all of that through. So, it

channel all of that through. So, it channel all of that through. So, it

has been quite interesting. There has been quite interesting. There

has been quite interesting. There is a kind of prejudice about

is a kind of prejudice about is a kind of prejudice about

puppetry, which I kind of hurt puppetry, which I kind of hurt

puppetry, which I kind of hurt myself, but working with these

myself, but working with these myself, but working with these

myself, but working with these puppets has been amazing. It is not

puppets has been amazing. It is not puppets has been amazing. It is not

puppets has been amazing. It is not so much a separate thing, like a

so much a separate thing, like a so much a separate thing, like a

so much a separate thing, like a pure puppetry show, and it is all

pure puppetry show, and it is all pure puppetry show, and it is all

pure puppetry show, and it is all about the puppet - the public has

about the puppet - the public has about the puppet - the public has

about the puppet - the public has become an extension of us. The Old

become an extension of us. The Old become an extension of us. The Old

become an extension of us. The Old Vic Theatre is one of the oldest in

Vic Theatre is one of the oldest in Vic Theatre is one of the oldest in

Vic Theatre is one of the oldest in the UK, and the puppets in the play

the UK, and the puppets in the play are described as up-to-the-minute,

are described as up-to-the-minute, are described as up-to-the-minute,

17th century technology. This is 17th century technology. This is

17th century technology. This is 17th century technology. This is

not a puppet show, and it is not not a puppet show, and it is not

not a puppet show, and it is not apply with actors and props. The

apply with actors and props. The apply with actors and props. The

apply with actors and props. The key is that the actors and the

key is that the actors and the puppets worked together,

puppets worked together, puppets worked together,

interacting. There are also lots of interacting. There are also lots of

interacting. There are also lots of different types of... I think that

different types of... I think that different types of... I think that

different types of... I think that is might you to get off. The hand

is might you to get off. The hand is might you to get off. The hand

itself is based on the classic itself is based on the classic

itself is based on the classic puppets of Japan, operated with

puppets of Japan, operated with puppets of Japan, operated with

this ingenious set of leavers. This this ingenious set of leavers. This

this ingenious set of leavers. This this ingenious set of leavers. This

can be learned by an actor without can be learned by an actor without

can be learned by an actor without years and years of training.

years and years of training. years and years of training.

Preview audiences have given the Preview audiences have given the

Preview audiences have given the Preview audiences have given the

show a big hand. And after its show a big hand. And after its

show a big hand. And after its Bristol run, the actors and puppets

Bristol run, the actors and puppets Bristol run, the actors and puppets

Bristol run, the actors and puppets will be heading to America - no

will be heading to America - no will be heading to America - no

strings attached. Our main headline strings attached. Our main headline

strings attached. Our main headline strings attached. Our main headline

- North Korea has announced that it - North Korea has announced that it

- North Korea has announced that it is ending all non-aggression pacts

is ending all non-aggression pacts is ending all non-aggression pacts

with South Korea, in retaliation with South Korea, in retaliation

with South Korea, in retaliation with South Korea, in retaliation

for a new round of United Nations for a new round of United Nations

for a new round of United Nations sanctions which were imposed after

sanctions which were imposed after sanctions which were imposed after

the latest nuclear test. The the latest nuclear test. The

the latest nuclear test. The country also said it was closing

country also said it was closing country also said it was closing

the main border crossing between the main border crossing between

the main border crossing between the countries, and it said the

the countries, and it said the the countries, and it said the

north-south hot line would be cut north-south hot line would be cut