Argentina’s farm protests

Farmers in Argentina say they will resume protests against tax increases on food exports, following the collapse of talks with the government.

Farm leaders say they plan to prevent shipments of grain from leaving. Argentina is one of the world's top exporters of corn, wheat, soya and beef. Correspondents say a prolonged dispute could have an impact on international markets at a time when food prices are already at record levels.

The farmers are particularly angry about an increase to the export tax on soya - a commodity which last year earned the country $13bn. In March protesting farmers blocked roads for three weeks, preventing trucks from delivering produce, leading to food shortages.

We are going to miss beef and rice for good!

Protests at Argentine torch rally

Protesters have gathered in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires, where the Olympic torch is being paraded.

Authorities are mounting a major security operation, keen to avoid the disruption that marred the flame's progress through the UK, US and France. Several thousand police and marshals have lined the 13km (8-mile) route the torch will follow through Buenos Aires.

But anti-China activists protesting against the Beijing Games have promised "entertaining surprises". Buenos Aires Mayor Mauricio Macri lit the torch and held it aloft on Friday as hundreds of sporting enthusiasts applauded. But activist Jorge Carcavallo unfurled a giant banner on the torch route reading "Free Tibet". And members of the Falun Gong spiritual movement, which is banned in China, lit their own "human rights torch" and marched along the route the flame was to take.

Every new city shows what the people of this world think about the embarrassment Olympics, so Mr. Rogge how do you feel now? It was your choice!

Argentine farmers halt tax strike

Farmers in Argentina have suspended a crippling strike called in protest at rises in export taxes on farm products.

A farmers' spokesman said the 16-day protest - which included roadblocks and caused food shortages - had been halted to allow talks with the government. Argentine President Cristina Fernandez had refused to negotiate with them until the action was stopped.

She says the taxes will redistribute wealth, but farmers say they and their communities will be hit hard. "What we've decided is to allow free transit on the roads while these talks go on,"

So the strike is over but …not exactly over!