Contrary to popular belief, Angela Merkel does not hold all the aces in her game of high stakes poker with Enda Kenny and the Irish taxpayer. For unless she plays her cards most carefully, Ms Merkel in the longer term could back herself into a corner, and her options might suddenly become very limited indeed.

The history bears testimony to the fact that legitimate aspirations for freedom may be suppressed for some time but cannot be denied for-ever. Kashmiris are destined to exercise their inalienable right to self-determination, however difficult this proposition may seem at present, says a press release received from Berlin on Friday. This was stated by Pakistan's Ambassador to Germany, Abdul Basit at a seminar organised by the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) in Berlin to mark the 27 October as the Kashmir Black Day.

The Seychelles agreement with Mauritius to share the ownership of the Mascareigne bank was cited by the Seychelles founding President, Sir James Mancham, as being a prime example of solving a “contention” through the policy of cultural diplomacy.

Japanese Foreign Minister Genba Koichiro set off to visit Britain, France and Germany on Oct. 15, 2012. It is said that he will elaborate on Japan's attitude and stance and seek "understanding" from the international community on the Diaoyu Islands issue during the visit since he believes that the three countries exert great influence on world opinions. This is merely a part of Japan's moves to launch public opinions against China on the Diaoyu Islands issue.

Armenian students, post-graduate students and researchers may apply for German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) scholarship program. The number of Armenians to have been granted DAAD scholarships in 2012 exceeded 80.

It is one of the most sought-after addresses in New York: 1014 Fifth Avenue... According to information obtained by SPIEGEL, the Foreign Ministry is keen to see it house what it calls a German American Forum, an institution aimed at revitalizing trans-Atlantic ties.

Germany and China have been cultivating a brisk exchange, and since last year, have held joint government consultations. The current meeting takes place in the midst of major personnel changes in Beijing.

Relations between Germany and China have progressed well beyond the phase of 'panda diplomacy.'...The most visible expression of this close relationship is the Sino-German government consultations. Germany only maintains such close exchanges with six other countries – all of them European Union members.