Fears grow over possible Greek default

The IMF has told Greece it needs better tax collection and further reforms to deal with its massive debt. This warning comes as Athens continues talks with the IMF, EU and ECB over the next 8-billion-euro slice of its bailout money - which it needs by next month to avoid defaulting on its debt. Some analysts say a default is now inevitable - not something that European leaders want to hear.

FOCUS

PHILIPPINES

Tropical Storm Ketsana leaves Manila in chaos

France 24 looks at the chaotic situation in Manila after tropical storm Ketsana hit the Philippine capital bringing with it the heaviest rain in more than four decades. At least 140 people have been reported dead, officials say.

GERMANY

Mission accomplished for Angela Merkel

Angela Merkel has swept to a second mandate as German Chancellor, this time securing a majority with her favoured coalition partner, the pro-business FDP, as the Social Democrats paid the price of an uncomfortable partnership with the CDU.

ISRAEL

Former PM Ehud Olmert in the dock

The former Prime Minister of the Jewish state is in court accused of corruption during his time as the mayor of Jerusalem. Ehud Olmert is the first Israeli PM to stand trial and his case is expected to go on for several months.

G20

Fulfilling pledges on reform and regulation

The leaders of the world's biggest economies have gathered in the US city of Pittsburgh. As many of the major economies are beginning to climb out of recession, the focus will be on reform and regulation.

24/09/2009 - UN

Gaddafi hijacks spotlight at General Assembly

Several world leaders delivered significant addresses at the 64th UN General Assembly on Wednesday but one controversial figure in particular hogged the UN limelight: Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.