World recession fears shake markets Investors fear bids to save financial institutions may not be enough for world economy. EU leaders seek global bank reform US to buy stakes in major banks Wall Street gripped by uncertainty Developing nations assured of help

US set for final election debate McCain and Obama prepare to face each other in the final debate before the elections.

Defections hit Afghan forces Police and soldiers join Taliban, blaming "anti-Muslim behaviour" of foreign troops.

US 'to stay in Iraq until 2011'	Fighting on Thai-Cambodia border	Azeri ruling party claims poll win
Canada PM wins elections	Hijack drama on Turkish plane	Bush officials 'endorsed torture'

AROUND THE WORLD NOW Africa Mbeki in Harare for crisis talks More vessels seized near Somalia Americas California declares fires emergency McCain unveils US economy plan Asia-Pacific Markets edgy amid recession fears Pakistan president visits China CENTRAL/S. ASIA Azerbaijan holds presidential vote Pakistan president visits China Europe EU leaders seek global bank reform Ukraine PM blocks election funding Middle East US claims Iraqi Qaeda leader death Syria and Lebanon formalise ties

Sport Australia sweep aside Qatar 4-0  Programmes We the People - Insourcing Soweto Beach Party