World in brief: Jan 27, 2010

NEW YORK CITY, U.S.

The BBC reports that on Jan. 22, a woman taking an art class at the Metropolitan Museum of Art damaged a Picasso painting by falling into it. The painting, which sustained a 15cm vertical tear, is in the process of being repaired.

TIWANAKU, BOLIVIA

The BBC reported that thousands of indigenous people celebrated the re-election of President Evo Morales. During his 2005 term, Morales gave the indigenous people improved rights and autonomy.

PARIS, FRANCE

The French government may soon ban burkas in public places. According to the BBC, a six-month parliamentary commission is underway to investigate the issue and reach a final ruling.

CHINA

According to the Globe and Mail, in the first two weeks of January Chinese banks loaned over 175 billion USD. As a result, Chinese banks have paused their monetary lending until February.

STIRLING, SCOTLAND

The BBC reports that primatologist Betsy Herrelko is behind the world’s first film made by chimpanzees. The primates learned how to operate a touch screen chimpcam as a part of Herrelko’s PhD studies at the University of Stirling, UK.

BUSHEHR, IRAN

According to the BBC, Iran, with the help of Russia, will open their first nuclear plant in 2011. Despite failed attempts in the 1990s, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran is certain the Bushehr nuclear plant will be a success.

BERLIN, GERMANY

The Toronto Star reports that British scientists may have discovered the remains of Princess Eadgyth at the Magdeburg Cathedral. This 10th century princess will be the oldest English royal to be unearthed.

INTERNATIONAL

According to the BBC, high pressure water cannons have been installed on cargo ships. It is hoped that the installation of cannons will discourage pirates from boarding ships and taking hostages.