Russia and Ethiopia

Owen Bennett Jones presents stories from James Coomerasamy in Russia and Will Ross in Ethiopia.

RUSSIA'S POLITICAL HUMOUR
Vladimir Putin's return to his old job as President of Russia after the election on 4 March seems extremely likely, even if there are a growing number of sceptics. But James Coomarasamy, recently back from a trip outside of Moscow, suggests that Putin will have to get used to being the butt of more political jokes.

AFRICA LOOKS EAST
With economic power comes global influence, and China is finding a welcome reception from businesses and political leaders in Africa.

Will Ross has found some striking examples of China's soft power in Ethiopia.