This week’s earthquake in the Sichuan region of China is still grabbing headlines worldwide. But while previous articles reported the destruction wracked by this natural disaster -- which cost at least 50,000 lives -- the latest ones are highlighting the positive sides to this event for Chinese authorities.

Seisme : La Chine redore son blason international

(‘Earthquake: China improves its international image’)

Le Figaro (France)

Today’s edition of France’s conservative daily ‘Le Figaro’ features an article explaining how China is trying to repair its tarnished international image in the wake of the quake.

Authorities have exhibited very public displays of compassion for its victims-- a far cry from the way supporters of the Tibetan cause were treated by the Chinese authorities.

Grandpa Wen comforts Nation

Independent (UK)

The undisputed winner from the Chinese disaster is Prime Minister Wen Jibao, or rather Grandpa Wen as he’s called in the British 'Independent.'  The paper pictured him surrounded by children, symbolizing how the nation has turned to him for comfort.

Ségolène Royal candidate à la Direction du PS

(‘Ségolène Royal candidate for the head of the Socialist Party’)

Le Figaro (France)

Ségolène Royal, the unsuccessful candidate in last year’s presidential elections has come back from political limbo to run for the head of the Socialist party -- a seat currently held by her ex-partner François Hollande.

‘On Va Savoir’

(We’re going to know)

L’Equipe (French)

Speaking of fights to the death: Lyon is going against Bordeaux tonight to cinch the French Premier League Title. The headline to today’s edition of French Sports daily ‘L’Equipe’ blares ‘Tonight’s the Night.’

Yes, indeed:  tonight’s the night when French girls turn into pathetic football widows.

 'Obesity as a cause of global warming?'

Los Angeles Times (US)

But all you potential couch potatoes out there should bear in mind an article in today’s Los Angeles Times. It reports that two British scientists have found that obese people are disproportionately responsible for high food prices and greenhouse gas emissions because they consume 18% more food energy due to their greater body mass -- and require increased quantities of fuel to transport themselves and the food they eat.

But, as the article remind us, what about those people who can eat what they want, lift not a finger, yet stay skinny as a rake?

Shouldn’t they be held accountable too?

 ‘Obama’s ‘sweetie’ is a pickle’

Chicago Tribune (US)

America is currently in the throes of 'Sweetie-gate' after presidential candidate Barack Obama dared to call a female television journalist the s-word.

US daily the Chicago Tribune reports that this hit a sour note with people who consider the term offensive and sexist.