WASHINGTON, Jan. 8 (UPI) — The head of the U.S. Overseas Security Advisory Council says terrorist threats and the rise of violent piracy were among the top security concerns in 2008.

PRISTINA, Kosovo, Jan. 8 (UPI) — The NATO Multinational Task Force North recently concluded a security simulation in Kosovo testing emergency response to a major national disaster.

REYKJAVIK, Iceland, Jan. 8 (UPI) — NATO announced plans to hold a seminar in Iceland on the thawing of the arctic ice cap and the growing military presence in the region.

VIENNA, Jan. 8 (UPI) — Additional protocol for a nuclear non-proliferation pact entered into force Thursday after the completion of ratification procedures by the United States.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan. 8 (UPI) — A third session of peace talks is under way in Kenya aimed at bringing an end to rebel violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.