Italian president starts China tour

Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi (L, front) plays an ancient Chinese musical instrument during his visit to the Confucian temple in Beijing Dec.4, 2004. Ciampi arrived here Saturday, starting his six-day state visit to China.

New Iraq prisoner photos unveiled

Photos that appear to show commandos in Iraq sitting on hooded and handcuffed detainees are seen on a commercial photo-sharing Web site operated by a woman who said her husband brought the photos from Iraq after his tour of duty. The Navy SEALs have launched a criminal investigation into the photographs. Date stamps on some photos suggest they were made in May 2003, which could make them the earliest evidence of possible abuse of prisoners in Iraq.

Ukrainian election (1)

Supporters of Ukraine opposition leader Victor Yushchenko celebrate during a rally at Independence Square in central Kiev, capital of Ukraine on Dec. 3, 2004. The Ukraine's Supreme Court made a ruling on Friday that the results of the second round of the presidential elections was invalid and revote would be held on Dec. 26, 2004.

Miss Peru crowned Miss World 2004

Maria Julia (L) from Peru is crowned Miss World 2004 at the final of the 54th Miss World Competition held in Sanya, China¡¯s southernmost Province of Hainan Dec. 4, 2004. Contestants from 107 countries and regions, including three from Chinese mainland, Taiwan and Hong Kong took part in the competition.