There was a time when American power was viewed as decisive in the Middle East. If Washington sneezed there was a sense that the region would catch a cold. Times have changed. Many factors brought us to this point. Perhaps most important is the fact that though the region has changed, U.S. policies have not adapted.

Chinese views on US-China relations have declined sharply in the last two years, a new study has found. Only 39% of people said they would call the relationship co-operative, down from 68% in 2010, a Pew report said. Many Chinese people, especially the young, urban and well-educated, said they admired elements of US soft power, such as science and technology.

Knock-offs aside, a bigger reason for China’s lack of a “Gangnam style” hit is the pervasive censorship apparatus that keep tight control on print, radio, TV and live music performances. Censorship is even tighter than usual this month, ahead of China’s leadership transition in early November. As Chinese pundits study for lessons about soft power, that’s one theme that they dare not write about.

The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) brought together a diverse group of thinkers, policymakers and practitioners for an October 15 conference that examined the positive impact of online or “virtual” exchanges for students and others around the world and the need to expand their use in an era of tight constraints on spending.

According to the public relations office of the Cultural Department of the Ministry, Ali Esmaeili said that the secretariat is necessary for proper planning and efficient presence of Iran in international exhibitions.

From 19 October to 12 November, different exhibitions and concerts dedicated to the Azerbaijani culture and art are planned to be held in different regions of France with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation... Exhibitions will showcase Azerbaijani miniatures, ancient carpets, archeological cultural findings, folk musical instruments...

French Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault will make his first historic three-day visit to the Philippines to meet with President Benigno Aquino III and discuss ways to enhance the two countries' political, economic and cultural relations...He will be accompanied by a 130-member delegation composed of ministers, parliamentarians and businessmen...

NEW DELHI: Cultural ties between India and Russia have got a boost with the signing of a protocol between both the countries for a festival to be held Oct 24- Nov 4 in New Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai.