Thousands of workers from UPM-Kymmene and Stora Enso, two leading Finnish companies in the paper industry go on strike over pay and working hours. Finland provides two thirds of the paper supply for the European magazine market. Industry analysts believe that the strike may have serious repercussions on the magazine market of Europe. (BBC)
In Romania, orthodox priest Daniel Corogeanu was arrested for 24 hours and faces charges for death of nun Maricica Irina Cornici. He allegedly crucified her for exorcism and claims that her death was the "Will of God". Four nuns who helped him were arrested as well. Church has closed the convent. (Scotsman)(Reuters)
In Israel, Mordechai Vanunu appeals to the supreme court to order Shin Bet to release letters he wrote during his time in prison. Security service claims that the letters contain sensitive information (Haaretz(Reuters)
In Lebanon, victorious anti-Syria coalition demands resignation of pro-Syrian president Émile Lahoud. They hold him responsible for assassinations of opposition figures (Reuters AlertNet)
The investment bank Morgan Stanley agrees to an out-of-court settlement with Italian dairy group Parmalat. The new management of the reorganized Italian company sued Morgan Stanley for work it did that may have assisted the old management in looting the company. (BBC)