Even if little comes of this, it is telling that the joint statement issued at Sharm El-Sheikh takes note of Pakistan's concern over threats it faces in its south-western province.

BBC: India and Pakistan: Breaking the ice?

But when the NHS tries to do that it faces problems as the furore over the reorganisation of hospitals in south London showed last week when thousands took to the streets to oppose changes.

BBC: Where next for the NHS?

At best, Uruguay faces a long, hard slog before it recovers its reputation as South America's Switzerland.

ECONOMIST: Uruguay's economy

But while the Government of South Sudan is beginning to attract donor funds from various quarters, it faces a major challenge in the area of fiscal policy.

FORBES: World Bank Sets Up $75 Million Fund For South Sudan

But he still faces calls to boost public spending in northern England, which feels it is under-funded compared with both the south and Scotland.

ECONOMIST: Straddling the great divide | The