We have commented in the past on the difference between countries that pass laws to rule (China) rather than creating a system of governance based on the rule of law.

The starting lines are different but the outcomes depressingly familiar.

The rule of law with impartial security and judicial arms is a vital building block for excellent futures. Why Texas works and Mexico doesn’t.

STRATFOR – Corruption: Why Texas is Not Mexico
As one studies Mexico’s cartel war, it is not uncommon to hear Mexican politicians — and some people in the United States — claim that Mexico’s problems of violence and corruption stem largely from the country’s proximity to the United States.

The train has left the station, a United Nations’ declaration recognising Palestine is coming. Is Washington ready? (ed’s note – and Ottawa?)

Financial Times – A Last Chance to Avert a Collision at US

President Barack Obama faces a dilemma as he prepares to deliver his long-awaited speech on the Middle East on Thursday.

Fining inflation. Well, that’s one way to deal with it.

Financial Times – Why Beijing Must End Inflation – Or Else
There’s one extreme method of dealing with inflation. That is to ban it

Thinking about the US dollar.

Washington Post – The Value of the US Dollar – 5 Factors for Investors
To most investors, the value of the dollar is an abstraction; its fluctuations are mostly ignored.

Getting out of Aghanistan.

Telegraph – US Alarmed by David Cameron’s Push for Early Afghanistan Withdrawal
Senior American military figures have warned Britain that a hasty exit from Afghanistan could strain relations between the two countries.