The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was created in South Africa in 1993 after the end of apartheid. One of the commission's tasks, part of the the Promotion of National Unity and Reconciliation Act of 1995, was to investigate the human rights violations during the period of apartheid, from 1960 to 1993. Desmond Tutu led the commission, and delivered the final report to South African President Nelson Mandela on October 29, 1999. The 3500-page report detailed almost 37,000 gross human rights violations with a total number of 28,750 named victims. Prominent political, military and civil leaders were implicated in the report, which also included recommendations for compensating vicitims of apartheid. On Topic: This topic is limited to the report released by the TRC. Any stories discussing the content of the report, reactions to its release (including efforts to block the release) in South Africa from leaders or citizens, international reaction, any direct outcome of the report's release (protests, calls to action, etc.), media coverage of the report's release in South Africa and abroad. NOTE: Stories about other activities of the TRC, including amnesty hearings and decisions, are not on topic unless they also directly discuss the report. General stories about South Africa and the effects of apartheid are similarly off-topic unless they discuss the report as well.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 2: Scandals/Hearings
Seed Story: VOA19981029.1600.0177
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Pope John Paul II made a state and pastoral visit to the Balkans in early October 1998. During his visit, he called for reconciliation throughout the former Yugoslavia and urged the world to do more for the victims of the Balkan War that had recently ended in Croatia and since erupted in Kosovo. On his visit, amid much controversy, the pontiff beatified Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac. On topic: Any stories relating to the Pope's trip, including places he visited, speeches, the beatification of Cardinal Stepinac; reactions to the Pope's visit and the controversy surrounding the beatification. NOTE: Stories about the Balkan War are not on topic unless they are specifically linked to the Papal visit.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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On July 24, 1998, Russell Eugene Weston Jr.,41, of Rimini, Montana walked into the East Wing of the US Capitol Building in Washington and opened fire, killing two federal officers and wounding a tourist during a shootout. In early October, Weston was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder and three counts of using a weapon during a violent crime. Weston's ability to stand trial is debated due to his history of mental illness, and eventually he is found unfit to stand trial. On topic: Any stories about Weston's case are on topic. The crime itself, charges filed against Weston, court hearings and grand jury decisions, psychiatric reports on Weston's competency, judges' decisions, lawyers' statements, and reactions from Weston's family would are all related to this topic.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
Seed Story: CNN19981009.1600.0371
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31004.
Colombian Air Force head resigns in drug scandal
Seminal Event
In November, US federal authorities found 1639 pounds (743 kilograms) of cocaine, worth nearly $13 million, on board a Colombian Air Force C-130 Hercules cargo plane in Fort Lauderdale. This raid led to the arrest of several Air Force members in Bogota, Colombia, and the head of the Air Force, General Jose Manuel Sandoval, resigns. Several days later, thirteen pounds of heroin are discovered on the same cargo plane. The drug scandal coincided with President Andres Pastrana state visit to Washington in an effort to reduce Columbia's drug tensions with the U.S. On topic: Any stories reporting the discovery and scandal, resignations of Sandoval and other Air Force members, reactions to the scandal from US or Colombian officials, arrests in the case or any other aspects of the negotiations, any direct outcome of the case for US-Colombia relations or drug policies. NOTE: General stories about US-Colombia tensions over drugs are not on topic unless they also specifically refer to this case.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 2: Scandals/Hearings
Seed Story:PRI19981110.2000.1953
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Seminal Event
The Zapatista National Liberation Army is a paramilitary rebel group with the goal of protecting the rights of Mexico's indigenous population. In late November, 32 Zapatista rebels met with mediators from the Mexican government to begin discussion about the conflict. Although the meetings made little progress in resolving the situation, they did represent the first time in over two years that the rebels took part in public dialogues. On topic: Any coverage of the meetings is on topic, from planning and negotiating the meetings, discussions that took place during the meetings, media coverage, reactions to the meetings, or any specific outcome.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Related Stories
Seminal Event
On November 20, 1998, US Attorney General Janet Reno announced at a news conference that INS officials had dismantled the largest known immigrant smuggling ring in US history. The INS had been investigating the ring for a year under the program "Operation Seek and Keep." 31 people were charged with bringing illegal aliens into the United States, transporting them within the United States, conspiracy and money laundering. The smuggling ring leaders solicited orders from families in the United States and employers who were prepared to pay for illegal aliens. The people they helped bring to the United States were mostly Indians, but some were from Pakistan, Syria or Afghanistan. INS officials reported that the ring brought as many as 12,000 into the United States over the three years prior to the raid, and collected about $220 million in that time. On topic: Stories about the INS investigation, Operation Seek and Keep, details of the raid itself, the announcement of the bust, arrests in the case, witness testimony, reactions from communities where stash houses (secret houses where the immigrants were held) were discovered, any direct impact of this case for US immigration policy.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
Seed Story:CNN19981120.2130.0225
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31007.
Olympic Gymnast Dominique Moceanu Sues Parents
Seminal Event
17-year-old Olympic gold medalist gymnast Dominique Moceanu leveled accusations against her parents in mid-October 1998. Her lawsuit accused Dumitru and Camelia Moceanu of squandering most of the money she earned from the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. She also alleged they drove her relentlessly into sports from the age of three, depriving her of the opportunity to be a little girl. Moceanu also sought a restraining order against her father. Moceanu and her parents were in and out of court throughout the fall of 1998. A Texas court eventually granted Moceanu independence from her parents, and was pursuing a further investigation of allegations of a murder plot involving Moceanu's father and her former coach. On topic: Any stories covering Dominique Moceanu's allegations; court dates; lawyers' statements; testimony from her parents, coaches or other witnesses; further investigations of the murder-for-hire allegations against Moceanu's father. Stories about Moceanu's gymnastics comeback are not on topic unless they also refer to her legal battles with her parents.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
Seed Story: CNN19981209.1600.1340
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Seminal Event
Matthew Shepard, 22, a freshman at the University of Wyoming, was found brutally beaten and hanging from a fence in Laramie, WY. He had spent 18 hours in near-freezing weather before being found by a passing bicyclist; Shepard died several days later. Russell Anderson and Aaron James McKinney were charged with Shepard's murder, and were eventually found guilty on various counts; their girlfriends, Chastity Pasley and Kristen Price were charged and convicted of being accessories to the crime. Investigators argued that Shepard's was murdered because he was openly gay. The case sparked a national debate on Hate Crimes legislation, which would make federal offenses of crimes based on sex, disability and sexual orientation. On topic: Any stories about the crime, evidence-gathering, court cases, sentencing and the like; stories about protests and rallies sparked by Shepard's murder including protests by anti-gay activists; reactions to the murder (for instance, President Clinton's response was to call for the passage of Hate Crimes legislation); coverage of Shepard's funeral and memorial services. NOTE: This topic is likely to generate a lot of stories about gay rights and Hate Crimes legislation proposals. Any stories that directly link the Shepard case to a discussion of hate crimes legislation should be considered on topic. General stories about gay rights or discussions of Hate Crimes legislation that do not make reference to the Shepard case are not on topic.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
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31009.
Bulent Ecevit Appointed as Leader of New Turkish Government
Seminal Event
After the government headed by Mesut Yilmaz fell in a corruption scandal, President Suleyman Demirel appointed Turkish Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit to assemble a new government in Turkey. Ecevit's initial attempt to form a new government was unsuccessful after failing to receive sufficient parliamentary support. (Ecevit eventually wins a vote in confidence in parliament and successfully forms Turkey's new three-party coalition government.) On topic: Stories covering any aspect of the formation of the new Turkish government; from the collapse of Mesut Yilmaz's minority coalition to Bulent Ecevit's designation to form a government; his attempts (and initial failures) to gain parliamentary support for his coalition government; reactions to Ecevit's appointment from within Turkey and abroad.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 1: Elections
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31010.
European Cold Wave leaves dozens dead
Seminal Event
An Arctic cold wave hit Romania and spread to other parts of Europe. With the combination of below-zero temperatures and accompanying blizzards, sixty-two people died since it the cold wave began in mid-November. The weather also led to transportation problems and widespread utility outages. On topic: Any stories during this time period reporting the extreme weather conditions in the region; the effect on local populations; reports of deaths due to the cold or accidents caused by the storms accompanying the cold weather; responses of local governments to alleviate the effects of the severe weather; discussion of economic impact of the weather system.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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31011. Typhoon Babs
Seminal Event
Due to the effects of El Nino, Typhoon Babs, the second typhoon to hit the Philippines in a week, pounded the Philippines and dumped heavy rains in Taiwan. The devastating storm, killing at least 150 people and forcing more than 320,000 people to flee their homes, pounded the Philippines with heavy winds and rain and caused millions of dollars worth of damage. On topic: Any coverage of Babs, from its early status as a tropical storm through its heaviest typhoon stages. Reports of damage, relief efforts, economic impact and discussion of causes (such as El Nino) are all on-topic.. NOTE: Another major storm, Typhoon Zeb, struck the Philippines just a week before Babs. Do not confuse the two -- this topic is limited to discussion of Typhoon Babs and its effects.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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Seminal Event
Britain's Princess Diana died early Sunday, August 31, 1997, after suffering massive internal injuries in a high-speed car crash, reportedlyTopic Research
after being chased by photographers who were trying to snap photographs of the princess. Her companion and rumored lover, Dodi Fayed, and their chauffeur also died when the Mercedes crashed shortly after midnight in a tunnel along the Seine river at the Pont de l'Alma bridge, less than a half mile north of the Eiffel Tower. Following crash there was an investigation conducted by French judge, Herve Stephay. Stephay concluded the accident was due to drunkenness of chaffeur and dismissed all charges against paparazzi. On topic: Any stories about the crash, investigation, about paparazzi that mention Diana's death. NOTE: the seminal event of this story is the investigation and not Diana's death itself. So, for example, a story about Elton John's song commemorating Diana isn't on topic unless the accident itself or the investigation is mentioned.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 2: Scandals/Hearings
Related Stories
Seminal Event
Dr. Barnett "Bart" A. Slepian was killed at his home in Amherst, N.Y. on October 23, 1998. A practicing obstetrician-gynecologist, Slepian would perform abortions two days a week. For more than a decade, anti-abortion protesters had been demonstrating outside his home and his office. The shooter's bullet was fired through Slepian's kitchen window, and a rifle was later found outside the house. Eventually second-degree murder charges were filed agains James Charles Kopp. On topic: Any stories about the murder itself, the criminal investigation and search for a suspect, and any other legal proceedings surrounding this case (from evidence gathering through the courtroom activities). Also on-topic are any stories about reactions to the murder - protests by abortion activists (on either side of the issue), reactions from the community and the like. NOTE: General stories about the abortion controversy are not on topic unless they specifically refer to the Slepian case.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
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Seminal Event
On January 6, 1998, Hua Di, a Chinese missile expert and senior research associate at CISAC (Center for International Security and Cooperation) at Stanford University, was arrested when he went back to China to participate a family memorial service. Hua Di was charged with divulging state secrets and sentenced to 15 years prison in late November. However, his arrest was kept secret to the public until October, 1998. During this period, American officials and Stanford scholars tried to urge China to release Hua, but their efforts failed. (Hua's conviction is eventually overturned). On topic: Stories on Hua Di's arrest, reactions from Stanford and the US Government, commentaries on the impact of this case on Sino-American relations. NOTE: Stories that discuss China's human rights records are not on topic unless they specifically refer to the Hua Di case. In addition, another Chinese scholar (Song Yongyi) was arrested in China during this time -- don't confuse the two cases. Only stories about Hua Di's case are on topic.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
Seed Story: VOM19981101.0900.0863
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Seminal Event
In an attempt to smooth over relations with the Korean people. Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi of Japan offered an apology to South Korea for Japanese war-time actions, specifically pertaining to Korean women who were forced to work as prostitutes in Japanese military brothels during World War II. The Japanese Statement came in a meeting with visiting South Korean president Kim Dae-jung. Although it is not the the first time that Japan has apologized to Korea for its war-time misconduct, this statment was given extra weight because it was included in a joint declaration issued by the two leaders called the ``new partnership''. On topic: Any stories that relate to the current statement by Japan - content of the statement itself. reactions within Korea, Japan and elsewhere. NOTE: This statement by Japan was issued as part of a meeting between Obuchi and Dae-jung. Other aspects of their meeting which do not relate to the war-time sex slavery issue are not on-topic.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: VOM19981008.0800.0261
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Seminal Event
The 1998 Shanghai Open, also known as the Heineken Open, took place October 5-11 at the newly-constructed Shanghai Xian Xia Tennis Center. American Michael Chang defeated Croatian Goran Ivanisevic in the final round of the tournament, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2. Chang was the tournament's number two seed, while Ivanisevic held the top seed. The upset victory was Chang's 12th Asian title, which set a new world record. On topic: Any stories pertaining to the matches that took place in this tournament; may include special hightlights on players' performance at the Open (especially Chang's new record), surprising upsets, and commentary on the Open being held in the new Shanghai Xian Xia Tennis Center.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 10: Sports News
Related Stories
Seminal Event
In Chretien's third offical visit to China, he addressed a number of issues. In a speech presented to students at Qinghua University in Beijing, Chretien addressed human rights issues for the first time and emphasized the importance of freedom of expression. During this visit, he met with Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji and discussed possible ways to bolster their nations' respective economies. He also signed an agreement to help China with environmental and governmental reform. While in China, Chretien also inaugurated a fast-food venture at a Beijing bus station, met with President Jiang Zemin and People's Congress Chairman Li Peng, and visited Lanzhou, one of the towns that Canada was planning to supply with clean drinking water. On topic: Stories covering any aspect of Chretien's visit to China are on topic - planning, arriving, meeting, touring. Most stories however, will likely cover the highlights of his speech at Qinghua, his meetings and agreements with Zhu Rongji and Jiang Zemin, and his visit to Lanzhou and Canada's plan to supply clean drinking water.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Related Stories
Seminal Event
Sanjaasuregiin Zorig was the leader of a successful democratic movement
in Mongolia in 1990. On October 2, 1998, at the age of thirty-six, he was
stabbed and axed to death in his apartment in Ulan Bator. At the time of
his death, the Mongolian government was in a deadlock. For the past four
months, the president and Parliament had been attempting to appoint a new
prime minister. Four potential candidates had been advanced but none had
garnered support from both the Parliament and the president. The Parliament
is controlled by the Democratic Union Coalition (DUC). The president
belonged to the Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party (MPRP), a group
of (former) communists. It seemed that Zorig,
despite his efforts to overthrow communism in 1990, was well-like by
members of both parties. Word surfaced at the beginning of October that
Zorig was going to be the next nominee for the prime minister opening.
These rumors surfaced on October 2. Later that night, Zorig was murdered.
Neither parties will address whether the crime was politically motivated.
Nobody has been arrested in the stabbing. On topic: as in
all criminal investigations, all stories pertaining to the crime, its investigation,
speculation on possible suspects and motives for the crime, evidence gathering,
and any eventual arrests and prosecution of suspects are on topic.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
Related Stories
Seminal Event
In June 1998, the Food and Drug Administration authorized full-scale testing of Aidsvax, a study financed by Vaxgen Incorporated of San Francisco. Aidsvax is the only vaccine that has gone into Phase-III testing. The primary objective of the study is to determine whether immunization with Aidsvax protects high-risk individuals from contracting HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). On topic: stories concerning the recruiting and testing for the Aidsvax vaccine only (No other AIDS vaccine testing. There are other vaccine trials in the works, although none have started testing on humans yet), the moral and social challenges facing these subjects, and the controversy surrounding its probable success or failure as an effective vaccine.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 7: Science and Discovery News
Related Stories
Seminal Event
302 people died in Ukrainian coal mine accidents as of October 1998. That is about 100 more than the same period in 1997, according to government statistics. Many of these deaths are attributed to unsafe working conditions. The abundance of mining accidents is certainly a reflection of the struggling economy of the now independent Ukraine, and the possibility of reforms anytime soon seems remote. On topic: any stories about mining accidents in the Ukraine. This topic is not limited to one particular accident, but to all the accidents, many occurring due to the lack of resources to fix or maintain the mines.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 5: Accidents
Related Stories
Seminal Event
For the first time, paleontologists have found fossilized embryos of dinosaurs so well preserved that their delicate skin has survived in mineralized form, providing a glimpse of reptilian scales in patterns bearing a family resemblance to the skin of modern-day lizards. The fossils are between 70 and 90 million years old. The discoveries were also remarkable because they were the first dinosaur embryos found in the Southern Hemisphere and the first known embryos of sauropods. Paleontologists look forward to finding and studying more southern specimens to broaden their understanding of dinosaur evolution, which until now has been based almost exclusively on fossils from the Northern Hemisphere. On topic: any stories about the discovery and announcement, and the implications for dinosaur and research.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 7: Science and Discovery News
Related Stories
Seminal Event
Fire erupted in a Swedish dance hall during a Halloween party where 400 young people were in attendance. The maximum capacity of the building was 150. Authorities blamed the explosive speed of the blaze and the overcrowding of the building for the 62 deaths and 162 injuries that occurred. Witnesses at the event blame the slow and unhelpful response of the fire trucks and rescue squads. On topic: stories discussing any aspect of this fire are on topic. For example, stories on casualities and injuries, response of the emergency teams, and interviews with authorities and witnesses.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 5: Accidents
Related Stories
Seminal Event
Topic Research
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is a legally non-binding, voluntary pledge from major industrialized/developed nations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2000. A series of conferences were held in the mid-1990s to develop the UNFCCC. At the third conference, which took place in Kyoto, Japan in December 1997, negotiations led to the establishment of the Kyoto Protocol.
The Kyoto Protocol essentially spells out the committments of the members to reduce gases to below 1990 levels for three of the greenhouse gases and below 1995 levels for the three man-made gases, averaged over the commitment period 2008-2012. This topic appears in the news in late 1998 because the United States signed the Kyoto Protocol on Nov. 11, 1998, nearly a year after it was established, at a U.N. meeting about the accord in Buenos Aires, Argentina. On Topic: Any stories about the establishment of theKyoto Protocol, the US signing the protocol, negotiations and meetings among UN member nations to discuss implementation of the protocol, reactions to the protocol.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Related Stories
Seminal Event
South Africa announced that it would spend about $5 billion to buy warships, submarines, helicopters and jets from Britain, Germany, Sweden and Italy over seven years beginning in 2002. Officials assert that 65,000 jobs will be created and $17 billion in ``industrial benefits" would be generated. Opponents of the deal argue that the nation does not need expensive new weapons when the country is suffering from 33% unemployment, unsafe drinking water, and lack of electricity and indoor plumbing. The government, however, desperate for foreign investments and jobs, is interested in the offsets offered by European armaments to stimulate the market. The hope is that South Africans would buy military equipment and Europeans will supposedly make massive investments in the country, and save its stagnant economy. They also want a portion of the weapons to be produced in South Africa. On topic: stories about the announcement, opposition and protests to the deal, discussions about the possible success or failure of the venture, and what military equipment is under agreement.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Related Stories
Seminal Event
Teachers in Kenya go on strike after the Kenyan government goes back on an agreement to increase teacher salaries. After paying only the first increment of the five-part pay hike, in July the government said it had no money to pay the rest. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced last July that it was suspending a loan of 205 million dollars to the Kenyan government because of suspicion of corruption. The present strike is a culmination of events which started in October last year, when teachers went on strike for the first time over the government's refusal to implement the second phase of salary awards. On topic: Stories concerning the current strike, protests that ensue, police reactions, union negotiations, IMF pressure, and school closings due to the strike.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: VOA19981006.1700.3100
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Seminal Event
The Yankees swept the Padres in the World Series, four games to none. There was a ticker-tape parade in NYC to celebrate the Yankees' victory. On topic: Any stories about the World Series games, particular players' performaces, announcements of World Series MVPs, team strategies, Yankee celebrations. NOTE: Stories about playoff games leading up to the World Series are not on topic. Also, beware of stories reporting MVPs for games other than the World Series -- only World Series performances are on topic.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 10: Sports News
Seed Story: VOA19981020.1700.1066
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Seminal Event
The Council of the Guardians, a 12-member group that supervises elections, examined 396 potential candidates, eliminating most supporters of President Mohammad Khatami, a moderate clergyman with wide popular support. The Assembly of Experts is an 86 member supra-governmental body which has the power to appoint and dismiss the country's supreme religious and political leader. Many Iranians said they did not plan to vote because many allies of moderate President Mohamad Khatami were disqualified from running by the conservative screening board, the Council of the Guardians. 16 moderate and 70 conservative candidates were elected. On topic: examination and selection of candidates, stories about the candidates and their "campaigns", reactions and protests from the Iranian public to the selection process and voting results, voting results, and discussion of the Iranian election system and its effects on Iran as it pertains to the current election.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 1: Elections
Seed Story: VOA19981023.0600.0111
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Seminal Event
On September 20 and 21, 1998, Hurricane George, a Category 3 storm, struck 17 islands in the northeast Carribbean. At least 500 people were killed and more than 100,000 people were left homeless in the Dominican Republic alone. Property damages were
estimated at more than 5 billion dollars. On topic: stories about the storms development and progression through the 17 islands, including damages, evacuations, deaths, injuries and all that good stuff.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Related Stories
Seminal Event
On October 11, 1998, Azerbaijan held its presidential elections, following months of protest by opposition forces. Opponents of Azeri President Heydar Aliyev insisted that the election was going to be rigged, and they organized demonstrations in hopes that the election would be postponed. However, the elections took place and the incumbent President Heydar Aliyev was re-elected. Key issues in the election included Azerbaijan's economy, and the ongoing struggle with neighboring Armenia. On topic: stories about the candidates' campaigns, debates among the candidates, protests and demonstrations from the opposition including voting boycotts, accusations of election fraud, election results, inaugurations, and reactions to the election.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 1: Elections
Related Stories
Seminal Event
On November 3, 1998, the state of Minnesota elected former professional wrestler Jesse "The Body" Ventura governor, and he quickly became Jesse "The Mind" Ventura . This victory made him the Reform Party's highest elected official. Ventura's running mate was Mae Schunk, a teacher of 36 years. He defeated Republican Norm Coleman, mayor of St. Paul, and Democrat Hubert ("Skip") Humphrey III, the state attorney general. On topic: stories about "The Body"'s campaign platform, debates with other candidates, voter support, and reactions to his victory. Due to the rules of interpretation, all stories concerning the Minnesota gubernatorial race are also on topic.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 1: Elections
Seed Story: NBC19981106.1830.0849
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Seminal Event
A deal is supposed to be made by the 1st of October but, due to the first budget surplus in nearly three decades, negotiations are extended. Temporary bills keep the government working until the Federal Budget finally passes on October 21st. The bill that is agreed upon and passed is a $520 billion omnibus spending package. It is 4000 pages long,so very few had the opportunity to read it. On topic: All articles on the passing of the bill, the content of the bill, the negotiations that led up to the bill, and the budget surplus. NOTE: Beware of stories about the Russian and Japanese federal budgets - those are not on-topic.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: NBC19981021.1830.0070
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Seminal Event
Russian President Boris Yeltsin faced repeated bouts of illness in the Fall of 1998, which led to the cancellation of several trips (including a trip to Central Asia in mid-October and a EU-Russian summit in late October). Foreign Minister Yevgeny Primakov attends several political functions in Yeltsin's place. In late November, Yeltsin spends two weeks in the hospital with pneumonia. His illness led to instability in the Russian government and deep concern among its citizens. On topic: Any stories that discuss the details of Yeltsin's illness; the effect of his illness on the Russian government and its citizens (including any direct effect of the illness on the worsening economic crisis); reactions to Yeltsin's illness from foreign governments. NOTE: General stories about Russia's political and/or economic problems that don't link these problems directly to Yeltsin's illness are not on topic.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: MNB19981028.2100.3170
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Seminal Event
The United States Department of justice along with 20 state attorneys general charged the Microsoft Corporation with anti-competitive practices including illegal "tying" of the Internet Explorer Web browser with the Windows operating system. The Justice Department has charged Microsoft is in violation of a 1995 consent decree that was aimed at opening the way for more competition in the software industry. Microsoft defended its actions by saying that integrating Internet Explorer into Windows is in line with its history of enhancing it's operating system. The Department of Justice argues that Microsoft sees the Internet as a threat and seeks to eliminate their internet competition by freely distributing their browser, integrating it into their popular operating system. On topic: Stories about evidence gathering efforts by the Justice Department and other agencies that led to the charges, the charges themselves, reactions, testimony, and discussions of the impact of the trial on the technology sector and anti-trust litigation.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
Related Stories
Seminal Event
On October 30, 1998, New Orleans filed a suit against 15 handgun manufacturers, becoming the first public entity to sue gun makers. The suit was also directed against five New Orleans pawn shops and three firearm trade associations. The lawsuit was filed in state district court, in a joint effort between the City of New Orleans and the Center to Prevent Hangun Violence. It centered around the Louisiana Products Liability Act, claiming that gun manufacturers purposely avoided new technologies that could have made their products safer. Until the lawsuit, gun manufacturers had enjoyed exemption from product liability laws. On topic: stories pertaining to the filing of the suit, the companies involved, the purposeful avoidance of new safety technologies, and the deaths of those persons that are said to be a consequence of that avoidance. In legal and criminal cases, the topic is the entire issue: the alleged crime(s), investigation, searches, victims, witnesses, trial, counsel, sentencing, punishment and other similarly related things. In this instance, it is how these things relate to the City of New Orleans and its suit against handgun manufacturers with respect to product liability laws.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
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31035.
G-7 World Finance Meeting
Seminal Event
Financial ministers from the world's seven richest countries, known as the Group of Seven (G7), gathered in Washington for annual meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) on October 3, 1998. Russian Finance Minister Mikhail Zadornov and Central Bank Chairman Viktor Gerashchenko joined the G7 for part of the meeting. The G7 group focused on dealing with the global financial crisis by generating growth in the industrial nations, especially Japan, and on ideals for remodeling the architecture of the international financial system to deal more effectively with crises that arise in the future. The G7 did issue a statement after the meeting although no new initiatives were agreed upon. On topic: stories about the ministers planning, traveling, and arriving for the meeting, issues discussed at the meeting, anything that happened at the meeting, and any responses or discussion of the meeting. NOTE: Because the G7 meeting took place at the same time as the IMF and World Bank meetings, many stories will report on all the meetings. The topic is only the G7 meeting that took place on October 3. Stories that discuss the IMF and/or World Bank meetings without also discussing the G& meetings are not on topic.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 8: Finance
Related Stories
Seminal Event
Legendary baseball player Joe DiMaggio, also known as the 'Yankee Clipper', spends 99 days at Memorial Regional Hospital for treatment of lung cancer and pneumonia. On topic: Any stories covering DiMaggio's illness and hospital stay are on topic. On-topic stories include those that mistakenly announced his death and his reaction to the announcement.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: CNN19981208.1600.0373
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Seminal Event
This summit meeting focused on the territorial dispute between Japan
and Russia
concerning the Kurile Islands, which were held by Russia but claimed by
Japan. The two premiers signed the Moscow declaration on November 12, 1998,
in which they pledged to sign a formal Japan-Russia peace treaty before
2000. They also signed four other documents to expand capital investment,
increase tourism and environmental protection, and expand cooperation in
mail delivery and telecommunications. During his visit, Obuchi announced
Tokyo's plans to give Russia $10 million worth of medicine and provide
expanded cooperation in a variety of technical areas. On topic: stories
about the preparation for the meeting (Komura's visit to Russia on 10/16/98),
any of the discussions that took place during the meetings, the analysis
of this meeting's impact on bilateral relations, and its direct results.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: VOM19981114.0700.2044
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Seminal Event
Twin bombings occurred on August 27, 1998 at American Embassies in Nairobi, Kenya and Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania killing 260 people, mostly Kenyans. It is believed that the bombings were part of an international effort headed by Osama bin Laden. On topic: Any stories that directly discuss the bombings, investigations and/or the trial itself. NOTE:This topic overlaps greatly with the Osama bin Laden indictment topic from TDT3. The seminal event for this topic is the investigations of those suspected of the bombings. Following the rules of interpretation, on topic stories are stories that mention the bombing itself and the investigations and trial of the suspects. Articles that make reference only to the suspects but don't connect them either to the bombings or the investigations are not on topic. An example for further clarification: a story about Osama bin Laden and his terrorist organization is on-topic only if bin Laden or the organization is linked to the bombings or the investigations.Topic Research
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Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
Seed Story: VOM19981009.0800.0462
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The first US discovery of the Asian long-horned beetle was in the New York City area in 1996. The Chicago discovery occurred in 1998 in three separate areas. The beetle found in Chicago is thought to have entered this country in wooden packing boxes or packing material via import of Chinese goods. Such an importer is within Chicago's infested area. The beetle is also native to Japan and Korea.The beetles are impervious to pesticides simply because they burrow so deep into the trees that chemicals cannot reach them. The treatment usually applied to eradicate the beetle is to cut down the trees, then chip and burn them. Since December 1998, the United States began requiring that all wood crates and pallets shipped from China be heat-treated and certified. On topic: all stories pertaining to the discovery of the Asian long-horned beetle in Chicago, methods to eradicate the beetle, and prevention methods such as the legislative attempts to keep the beetle from entering the country illegally.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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In October 1998, two Islamic extremists were sentenced to death in Pakistan for their participation in the murder of two Iranian engineers in Karachi in February. The two sentenced were among the seven suspects who killed the Iranian engineers while they were working on a bridge construction project in Karachi. The other five suspects have not been captured yet. It is believed that these suspects are members of a Sunni Muslim extremist group. The group was linked to several violent acts aimed at Shi'ite Muslims who are minority in Pakistan. Sunni Muslim groups accused Shi'ite-dominant Iran of supporting Pakistan Shi'ite groups. On topic: As this topic is the culmination of a crime, all stories pertaining to the crime, investigation, trial and final sentencing are on topic.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
Seed Story: VOM19981004.0800.2678
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At midnight on September 23, 1998 Philippine Airlines (PAL) shut down operations, ending 52 years of uninterrupted service. The closing resulted from management's inability to reach a deal with the pilots' union. The airline's 600 pilots had been on strike since June 5. The ground staff also went on strike for a short period of a time, from July 22 through July 26. The Philippine tourism industry was also hit hard by the strike and temporary closure of PAL. Fewer tourists entered the country; moreover, movement between the Philippines' many islands was more difficult without the service of Philippine Airlines. PAL reopened on October 7, after the pilots and management finally agreed on a contract. On topic: stories reporting the closing, the strike and negotiations leading up to the closing (of both the pilots and ground staff), the effect on tourism of the strikes and closing, and the final re-opening after the contract agreement.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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The new high-speed line connects the Tolbiac-Massena area on the Left Bank with the Madeleine, the bustling Right Bank business district, shortening the commute from up to 45 minutes to less than 10 minutes. The new line is the city's 14th. Funding for the $1 billion, 7.5-kilometer (4.66-mile) line, which cost about $250 million per mile, was shared among the national government, the Paris region, the Paris transit authority (RATP), and local government jurisdictions in the metropolitan area. The first phase of the extension is under construction and is expected to open in 2003. On topic: stories on the announcement of the new line, its new technological features, public reaction, and discussion of its impact on commuters.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
English Summary of Seed StoryRelated Stories
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On Novermber 24, Emile Lahoud became Labanon's 11th president since the nation gained independence in 1933. Syria, who has 35,000 troops stationed in Lebanon, strongly supported Lahoud for president. Syria's backing nearly guaranteed his election. On topic: As in all election topics, all stories covering the campaign, public and political reaction, elections results, and reactions to the results are on topic.
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Rule of Interpretation 1: Elections
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In November of 1998 Daimler-Benz AG of Germany, maker of Mercedes-Benz cars, acquired America's Chrysler for more than $38 billion in stock. The new company DaimlerChrysler AG became one of the world's largest automobile manufacturer, third behind General Motors and Ford Motor Company. The deal marked the end of the "Big Three" of U.S. carmaking. Many projected that the merger would benefit both companies. It would allow both companies to broaden their global reach. On topic: stories discussing the potential merger prior to its conclusion, reasons for merging, the actual merger announcement and its expected results.
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 8: Finances
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The Chinese Army had been encouraged by the government to supplement official defense budgets with profits from army-owned businesses for the past 20 years. The army thus formed into a sprawling organization that controls or owns parts of a vast array of businesses , from arms dealers to airlines, pharmaceutical makers to vegetable growers. As a result of those business activities, corruption and army-dominating smuggling had been arising in the military system as a big headache to China's top leaders. The PLA, the Armed Police , and law-enforcement offices are no longer to be allowed any involvement in these business activities. This order was issued by President Jiang Zemin, after the decision was reached with the CPC Central Military Commission. Vice-President Hu Jintao announced this decision at a two-day meeting ending Octomber 7th, 1998. All the military-run and military-related enterprises must be transferred to the local government completely by the deadline of December 25, 1998. On topic: any stories relating to the order to transfer business activities from the military to the local governments, decisions and events from the two day meeting, responses from the police, military, political figures, and local government. Stories pertaining to corruption and army-dominating smuggling alone, are not necessarily on topic.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: VOM19981103.0700.0319
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In July 1998, Agya Rinpoc came to the U.S. on official business and failed to return to Tibet. He sought political asylum in the United States, disagreeing with the religious policies of the Chinese authorities, including the patriotic education campaign and the installation of the Chinese choice of Panchen Lama. On March 16, 2000, after months of silence following his escape, he made his first public statement at a hearing in Los Angeles, stating his reasons for leaving. On topic: stories about Agya Rinpoch's departure from Tibet, Chinese and US reactions, and discussion of his reasons for leaving. NOTE: Stories pertaining to the oppressive policies of Chinese authorities alone, especially in relation to religious freedoms, are not necessarily on topic.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
English Summary of Seed StoryRelated Stories
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Julia "Butterfly" Hill, a redwood activist with the Circle of Life Foundation, took
her stand 180 feet off the ground in a 1,000-year-old redwood in the Headwaters Forest in Humboldt County, Calif to protest the logging of old-growth forests. From Dec. 10, 1997, to Dec. 18, 1998, she lived on an 8-by-8-foot plywood platform, protected only by a tarp from the wind and rain. She communicated by solar-powered cell phone with supporters and media during her tree occupation, the longest on record in American history. Ms. Hill came down only after reaching a settlement with the Pacific Lumber Company and owner Charles Hurwitz' Maxxam Corporation, which owns the land on which the redwood lives. By the terms of the agreement she must pay $50,000 to Pacific Lumber to compensate them for lost revenues as a result of her protest. But, they have agreed to spare her 200-foot-tall tree, which she calls "Luna," and a 200-foot zone around it. On topic: any stories about Ms. Hill's stay in the redwood, negotiations with the Maxxam Corporation and the terms of their agreement, and public response to her actions.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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Kim Dae-jung met with President Jiang Zemin on December 12 as part of his visit to China, and both noted the potential for the further development of China-ROK relations. The two leaders exchanged views and reached a broad consensus on bilateral relations and other issues of common concern. Kim reaffirmed that
Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and stressed that the ROK would strictly observe the "one China" policy. Jiang expressed appreciation for the ROK's adherence to this policy. This was Kim's first visit to China since he became ROK president in February. He brought a 250-member delegation with him for the five-day state visit in China. Kim and his party visited Shanghai, China's largest economic center, in addition to Beijing where Kim spoke with President Jiang. On topic: as with all visit topics, any stories pertaining to this visit are on topic.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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Australian Prime Minister John Howard has been receiving pressure to apologize to the Aborigines for the assimilation policies that led to many aboriginal children being taken from their homes and families ("the Stolen Generation"). In late September, Howard apologized for comments he made during a speech on the issue. In late November, he promises to apologize for the treatment of "the Stolen Generation" but does not promise a formal national apology or treaty. In early December, Howard admits that Australia has not secured the rights of its indigineous peoples. The government has set a goal of reconciliation between whites and the country's impoverished indigenous peoples by Jan. 1, 2001, the centenary of the Australian federation. On topic: Any stories relating to Howard's (non-)apologies to the aboriginal community, calls for him to apologize, reactions to his limited statements of apology. Any of the apology statements made by Howard (in September, November or December) or the reactions/responses to them are on topic.Topic Research
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
English Summary of Seed StoryRelated Stories
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In late November 1998, China's former Premier Li Peng renewed a pledge that China will not allow opposition parties. President Jiang Zemin also
stated in December that China would never adopt a Western-style multi-party system. In the wake of Li Peng's announcement, opposition party
organizers Xu Wenli and Qin Yongmin were arrested and sentenced, along with Wang Yongcai. On topic: Stories covereing Li Peng or Zemin's annoucements concerning opposition parties, reaction within China and elsewhere, any direct consequences of the announcement (such as the arrest of opposition party leaders Xu, Qin and Wang).
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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In November 1998, Beijing officially submitted its application to the Chinese Olympic COmmittee to host the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. If Beijing's bid is successful, it will be the first time China hosts the games. 10 other cities made bids for the 2008 Olympics. The decision will be made in Moscow in September 2001. On topic: Any stories pertaining to Beijing's application to host the games, or the selection process for the 2008 Summer Olympics. NOTE: Stories about other Olympic games, or details of the 2008 Olympics that do not pertain to the selection of the host city,are NOT on topic.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 10: Sports News
Seed Story: VOM19981202.0700.2051
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The state of Florida passed a new "Marriage Preparation and Maintenance Law" in December 1998. The law gives couples a 37% discount on the purchase of a marriage license if they take a 4-hour pre-marital preparation course. The sponsors of the law argue that this will help to reduce the number of divorces in the state. On topic: Any stories about the passage of the law, reactions to the law in Florida, any similar legislation being introduced in other places as a direct result of Florida's actions.
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Rule of Interpretation 9: New Law
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South Korea 's state intelligence agency announced in December that Kim Bok Ki, 67, and Park Dong Il, 71 , two South Korean prisoners of war (POW) captured during 1950-53 Korean war, recently returned home. The two former soldiers fled a labor camp after 45 years of forced slave labor, and exited via China. They were previously listed as dead by Defense Ministry after the war. This announcement followed the escape of another POW, Chang Mu-Hwan, in October. On topic: Any stories about the escape of the two POWs, reaction from South Korea or North Korea, interviews with the POWs detailing their experience in the labor camps. NOTE: Stories about the issue of POWs in North Korea in general are not on topic unless they mention these two individuals (Ki and Il). In addition, stories about the POW who escaped in October, Chang, are not on topic unless they also mention the escape of Il and Ki.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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The meeting in Hanoi was the sixth ASEAN summit. Leaders from 10 member nations attended, discussing regional financial and economic cooperation. The ASEAN members signed two documents discussing how to enhance economic integration among the nations. After the ASEAN summit meeting, leaders of member countries also met with Chinese Vice president Hu Jintao, Japan Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi and South Korea President Kim Dae-Jung. On topic: Any stories discussing plans for the meeting, content of the leaders' discussions, details of the documents produced at the meetings. The individual meetings that took place among leaders of member nations immediately following the summit are also on topic (check the dates!).Topic Research
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
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In the late 1980s, Pakistan agreed to purchase F-16 jets from the US. Later disputes between the US and Pakistan over a nuclear weapons treaty resulted in the US arms embargo on Pakistan, and the planes were never delivered. Pakistan had already paid the US $685 million, and inisisted on either having the planes delivered or getting its money back. In December 1998, the US agreed to compensate Pakistan for the $685 million, thus ending the 8-year dispute. On topic: Any stories about the agreement between the two nations; any details of the dispute. NOTE: Pakistan is in the news (along with India) during this time period due to its nuclear weapons testing. Only stories that pertain directly to the dispute over the fighter jets and the eventual agreement are on topic.Topic Research
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: VOM19981222.0700.0399
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Dissident monks of the Chogye Order occupied a five-story administrative building in the temple in protest of Monastic Leader Song Wol-ju's bid for his third four-year term. The monks then disregarded the deadline set by a Seoul civil court to move out of the building. In response, police tried repeatedly in December to evict the monks. The clash turned violent as monks threatened to set themselves on fire and police broke through barricades. On topic: Any stories referring to the dispute among the monks of this order that led to the occupation; details of any of the raids conducted by police; court activities surrounding the case.Topic Research
Mandarin Resources
Rule of Interpretation 3: Legal/Criminal Cases
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In December 1998, famous Chinese dissident Wei Jinsheng visited Taiwan. Wei was invited by anti-Communist League for Freedom and Democracy. During the visit, Wei said Taiwan should flex its muscles before Beijing, showing the Mainland's rulers its determination to protect the interests of the island's 21.4 million people. Wei met with Taiwan President Lee Teng-hui and Premier Vincent Siew. He urged Taiwanese people to support the Mainland's democracy movement. On topic: Any stories about Wei's visit, his meetings with Taiwanese officials, reactions from Mainland China are on topic. NOTE: General stories about China's policy toward dissidents or other stories about Wei's activities are not on topic, unless the stories also mention Wei's trip to Taiwan.Topic Research
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: VOM19981227.0700.1002
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Mr. Tang Jiaxuan (Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China) and His Royal Highness Prince 'Ulukalala-Lavaka-Ata (Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Defense of the Kingdom of Tonga) signed the Joint Communiqué on the establishment of the diplomatic relations at the ambassard level on October 26, 1998. Tonga recognized the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government representing the whole of China and Taiwan as an inalienable part of the Chinese territory. The opening of the full diplomatic ties between two countries took place on November 2, 1998. Tonga's switching diplomatic recognition to Beijing reduced the number of Taiwan's allies to 26. Taiwan ended its twenty-six year relationship with Tonga and all the aid agreements. On topic: This topic includes the stories on signing the Joint Communiqué; establishing full diplomatic ties between Tonga and China;Taiwan's (& other countries') reactions to Tonga's switching, and its direct results. NOTE: Coverage of other nations' diplomatic relations with China vs. Taiwan are not on topic unless they also directly refer to Tonga's switch.Topic Research
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: VOM19981102.0700.0545
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In early November, approximately 200 Chinese investors marched through Beijing demanding compensation for a multimillion-dollar futures scam. Thousands of workers invested their savings in Xin Guo Da Futures Co. LTD only to see their money vanish when the brokerage firm abruptly shut its doors in August. The investors also protested outside the Xinhua News Agency offices, angry at the way Xinhua reported the scandal. On topic: Any stories covering this protest, reactions to the protest, actions taken by government in response to protest. Because the scandal itself is the direct cause of the protests, any coverage of the futures scam is also on topic.Topic Research
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Rule of Interpretation 2: Scandals/Hearings
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On November 19, 1998, the Presidents of Japan's Liberal and Liberal Democratic Parties, Ichiro Ozawa and Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi respectively, put their names to an agreement which sets out a power-sharing arrangement between the two parties. The coalition was designed to give the parties a stronger hand in Parliament in order to pass promised economic stimulus measures. In an attempt to prove its commitment to goverment streamlining, two cabinet posts were elimated from the start, decreasing the members from 20 to 18. On topic: Stories that report on any aspect of the agreement - negotiations leading up to it, details of the power-sharing arrangement, effects of the agreement on the two parties, reaction to the arrangement - are on topic. In addition, any stories that discuss any direct outcome of the power-sharing arrangement (e.g., measures that are passed in Parliament because of the strength of the coalition) would also be on-topic.
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Rule of Interpretation 11: MISC. News
Seed Story: VOM19981220.0700.2079
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