"I remind the North that the path to peace is still open. The door for dialogue is still open."

South Korean President Lee Myung Bak, delivering a message of openness to talks with North Korea in his New Year's speech. Meanwhile, Lee also indicated a more stern military position

"No confidence motion is their (opponents') right. It is their democratic right and they can exercise it."

Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, saying he is not worried about any no confidence vote against him on January 3. The Prime Minister is struggling to save his government after a key coalition partner joined the opposition

"History will be the final judge of my administration's record. But I leave office proud of what we have accomplished."

Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger, defending himself in his final weekly address on January 3 before leaving office

"We believe that serious negotiations must be at the heart of any strategy for dealing with North Korea and we look forward to being able to launch those at a reasonably early time."

U.S. envoy for North Korea policy Stephen Bosworth, addressing reporters on arrival in South Korea on January 4

"We will buy more (Spanish government bonds) depending on market conditions."

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang, expressing China's confidence in Spain's financial markets during his visit to Spain

"The representatives of some European Union countries, NAM [Non-Aligned Movement], and some representatives of the five-plus-one [world powers] have been invited to visit our nuclear sites."

Iran Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast, saying Iran has invited foreign diplomats to tour its nuclear facilities, ahead of fresh talks with key world powers over its controversial nuclear program