Talking points
Our editors will be looking ahead today to these developing stories ...
With Scotland's referendum on independence from the UK set for September 18, nationalist First Minister Alex Salmond and "Better Together" campaign leader Alastair Darling will hold a televised two-hour debate that analysts say could significantly influence the Yes or No vote. With the Yes side continuing to trail in the polls, its supporters are confident that Salmond's ability to make a compelling case for independence to a mass audience could sway undecided voters and close the gap.
The US-Africa leaders summit being hosted by US President Barack Obama holds a business conference today, bringing together African leaders and American CEOs. Trade ministers will spend one day discussing ways to improve the US trade programme with Africa, known as the African Growth Opportunity Act, which gives African nations duty-free access to US markets.
Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev is expected to present a caretaker government today in a move to end the country's political deadlock. Plevneliev met representatives of the Bulgaria Without Censorship party to set out priorities for the interim government. Among its main tasks will be to hold fair elections to accelerate European Union funds allocation. The government will be made up of "non-partisan, pro-European experts".
Hong Kong's common Wi-fi brand, Wi-Fi.HK, will be launched today at a special ceremony by Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah and Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Greg So Kam-leung. The brand will make it easier for locals and tourists to identify free Wi-fi hotspots and enhance Hong Kong's position as a highly connected city.
The Correctional Services Department will today present results of a series of anti-gambling measures implemented at prisons during the recent soccer World Cup finals in Brazil, and put on display some items seized during the operation. The briefing will be held at Stanley Prison where a second class has started to help inmates quit the gambling habit. One prisoner will describe his positive experience after attending a gambling cessation class.
The trial resumes in Nairobi of four men accused of helping the gunmen behind Kenya's Westgate mall massacre last September in which 67 people were killed. So far 35 prosecution witnesses have testified in the case against the men, who now face an addition charge of conspiracy to commit a terrorist attack.
