Chinese Currency to Appreciate by About 3 Percent

China's currency hit a 12-year high and the Asian Development Bank says that China's currency may appreciate by 3 percent this year.

Cao Honghui, a finance research fellow with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, says the RMB recent appreciation will be welcomed news as President Hu Jintao prepares to visit the United States. 

British Minister Calls for Geneva Convention Revamp for Terrorism

British Defense Minister John Reid says the Geneva Conventions should be updated and extended to cover the treatment of prisoners suspected of terrorism.

The United States contends that non-US prisoners captured in its war on terrorism are illegal enemy combatants who are not protected by the Geneva conventions. 

Mexico Welcomes U.S. Immigration Legislation Reform

The Mexican government welcomed U.S. immigration legislation intended to help millions of illegal Mexican immigrants in the United States obtain legal status and seek citizenship.

Illegal immigrants who have been in the United States more than five years would not be required to return home. Those in the country less than two years would be required to leave and then join others seeking entry papers. 

Hollywood to Sell Digital Films Online

Major American film studios began offering movie rental online several years ago as a way to combat illegal downloads.

Movies are now available through the Internet 30 to 45 days after hitting video stores. But access to view rentals on computer screens is usually limited to just 24 hours.  

Government Calls for Enriched After-school Activities

The General Offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee has issued a joint document proposing that students be provided with more constructive and enriching after-school activities that enhance their classroom studies.