Chinese companies are told they need permission to fire more than 40 workers, in a sign of worry over rising unemployment.

North Korea says reclusive leader Kim Jong-il has made another public appearance, amid speculation that he has been ill.

The lives of China’s people have vastly improved in the last 30 years but the gap between rich and poor is growing, the UN says.

Thousands of people have paid their last respects to the sister of the King of Thailand, Galyani Vadhana.

Tibet issue shows China is keen to talk to the West