Iran and the US held “frank and serious” security talks chaired by Iraq as they inaugurated a joint security committee aimed at curbing the country’s rampant insurgency.

SEOUL, South Korea – North and South Korea announced Wednesday that their leaders will hold their second-ever summit this month, reprising the historic 2000 meeting that launched unprecedented reconciliation between the two longtime foes.

WASHINGTON (AFP) – Under pressure from close ally South Korea to help free 21 South Korean hostages being held by the Taliban in Afghanistan, Washington is treading delicately, seeing few viable choices to force an acceptable solution, analysts say.