Secretary Henry M. Paulson has spearheaded American policy toward Beijing since 2006, which raises the question of who will pick up the baton upon his departure.

President Hu Jintao warned that China could lose its competitive edge as trade growth slows amid the global financial crisis.

The loan was initially resisted by the Pakistani government, which sought funds on more generous terms from bilateral donors.

The loan was initially resisted by the Pakistani government, which sought funds on more generous terms from bilateral donors.

A poor global economy and plunging prices for coal and oil are upending plans to curb the use of fossil fuels.

From Italy to China, a poor global economy and plunging prices of coal and oil are upending plans to wean businesses and consumers from fossil fuel.

Critics of the proposed security agreement say it can not, by itself, ensure that Iraq’s vast oil wealth and other assets would be protected against claims against the former government.

President Bush concluded his final meeting with Asia Pacific leaders with a collection of modest achievements.

President Bush concluded his final meeting with Asia Pacific leaders with a collection of modest achievements.

Critics of the proposed security agreement say it can not, by itself, ensure that Iraq’s vast oil wealth and other assets would be protected against claims against the former government.