(msnbc) 
Creating a new generation of higher-skilled workers is both a means and an end for China’s ambitious development plan. With wages rising for low-skilled factory jobs, Chinese leaders say they need to expand the base of higher-paying jobs and create the highly trained work force needed to fill those jobs.
(Reuters) President Sebastian Pinera pledged on Monday to tighten up mine safety in Chile, even if it meant extra costs for owners, after the dramatic rescue of 33 trapped miners. Pinera, basking in the glow of the rescue while he tours European capitals, said Chile was tripling the budget of mining industry regulators and revising its regulations.
See also Mine Explosion in New Zealand
(AP) Iran gave its clearest nod of support to Iraq’s prime minister Monday as he seeks to line up backing from key neighbors in his bid to remain in office after a more than seven-month political limbo in Baghdad.
Iran plays a critical role in Iraqi affairs and the Shiite-led coalition of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who is making his first visit to Tehran since Iraq’s indecisive March elections.
(CNN) — Emergency crews in the Philippines were on standby Monday morning as the island nation braced for a “super typhoon” that could trigger flooding and landslides.
Super Typhoon Megi, also known as Juan, is expected to make landfall midday Monday at or near super-typhoon strength, with winds possibly in excess of 200 kph (124 mph), according to Mario Montejo, secretary of the Philippines’ science and technology.