Free Republic

Quoting a report from the Second International Naval Show (IMDS-2005) in St. Petersburg. Moreover, Kommersant found out that Rosoboronexport is negotiating with Iran about repair and modernization of Iranian submarines. Iran has three submarines of Project 877EKM that were supplied by Russia in 1992 (Russian name of the sub B-219, Iranian—901 Tareq), in June 1993 (B-224, 902 Noor) and in November 1996 (B-175, 903 Yunes). It was expected that all the major components that already exceeded their life expectancy will be replaced. Also, the new anti-ship missile complex Club-S with the target distance of 200 km will be installed on...

Peter Mandelson, the European Union trade commissioner, on Wednesday demanded greater curbs on Chinese exports of textiles and clothing following the removal of trade-restricting quotas earlier this year. Speaking before his first visit to China since taking office, Mr Mandelson said: “China must trade freely and fairly. If there is a perception that China is reaping the benefits of free trade without meeting the standards of fair trade, there will be a negative response in Europe and elsewhere.” He said the growth of Chinese textiles exports was a particular worry: “I want to discuss with the Chinese government curbs that...

The American people should consider President Bush's visit to Europe the same way we would view one to China -- a business trip to a rival whose interests and ours often differ. Until Europe show it once again wants to be a U.S. ally, rather than an ambitious competitor, it would be foolish to treat the Europeans otherwise. Bush understands the changing nature of the U.S. relationship with the continent from which most of our citizens trace their heritage. He is aware of the animus with which he is viewed there and that most of its leaders rooted for his...