One Week Later....

Russia: investment uncertainty

In  Russia: the rules of engagement  we said that Russia was edging closer to passing a key law on foreign investment in 'strategic' industries.

• The second reading of the strategic sectors legislation has been delayed from March 19 to Friday.
• The government's continued failure to address uncertainties over specific details will make it much harder to assure foreign investors that a stable and clear regime is now in place, and many of the benefits of the new legislation could be lost.

Obrador: el comeback

In  Obrador's comeback,  we wrote that after a year in the political wilderness, the Mexican civil resistance leader returns.

• On Tuesday, Obrador criticised the government's plans to give the private sector a greater role in the country's oil industry, and vowed to defend Mexico's sovereignty.
• Obrador is using the oil issue not only to get at the government but also to obtain victories within his party

Sarkozy: reform support

In  Sarkozy: damage limitation, we wrote that French President Nicolas Sarkozy would try to limit the extent of defeat in the second round of municipal elections.

• Sarkozy announced a minor cabinet reshuffle on Tuesday but vowed to pursue reform plans after his centre-right UMP party suffered big losses at the weekend.
• While many voters remain supportive of reforms, their support will depend on Sarkozy's ability to change his controversial leadership style.

Political Masterstroke

The World Next Week Political Masterstroke award goes to the Tibetan monks for their impeccable timing. They have chosen the 49th anniversary of the uprising against China for their protest. They had good reason not to wait for the 50th: this summer's Olympic Games have turned the world's spotlight on China as never before. (Times)

Analytica™

Worthy of note, or news to us.

Tibet turmoil

China admits police opened fire on Tibetan demonstrators as unrest spread into neighbouring provinces. (BBC)

Pakistan PM?

Pakistanis will learn who their next prime minister will be on Monday, when the National Assembly reconvenes to elect the leader of the incoming coalition government. (Reuters)

And finally…

Belgium's new Prime Minister Yves Leterme has been sworn into office by King Albert II, filling a power vacuum that had left the country without a government for nine months. (The Telegraph)