Munich, Germany - Meeting in Munich on February 11 & 12, 2016, as the International Syria Support Group (ISSG), the Arab League, China, Egypt, the EU, France, Germany, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Oman, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United Nations, and the United States decided that humanitarian access will commence this week to besieged areas, and an ISSG task force will within one week elaborate modalities for a nationwide cessation of hostilities.

Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I extend best wishes to the people of Serbia as you celebrate your National Day on February 15.

Munich, Germany - In a study published today, Transparency Germany demanded that the awarding of contracts to PMSCs and the imposition of international quality standards be made more transparent. What were until recently regarded as responsibilities of the government are now being delegated to private service providers. With this shift it is becoming increasingly difficult to attribute responsibility. A lack of transparency creates opportunities for corruption—the more so because most military interventions now occur in countries where corruption is rampant.

Stanford, California - The quality rather than the quantity of education is key to boosting a nation's economy, especially in the developing world, a Stanford scholar writes.

Washington, DC - Message to the Senate - The Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances:

Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I offer our warmest wishes to all of the peoples of the Himalayan region celebrating Losar for a joyful New Year.