Moscow, NU Online
Thousands of demonstrators and notable peace activists, convened by 250 organizations, are readying to protest US President George W. Bush' presence in Stalsund, Germany for the G-8 Summit on Wednesday.

They will join marches organized by local activists to protest the visit of Bush, who will be welcomed by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and meet privately with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

<>

It is expected they will attempt to mend fences damaged by the March 2003 invasion of Iraq and discuss Russia´s admission to the World Trade Organization; the US being the only hold out on those negotiations.

The Russian Communist Party has also convened thousands for the anti-neoliberal globalization protests during the July 15-17 G-8 Summit (the seven most industrialized countries plus Russia) in St. Petersburg, with working sessions July 16-17.

Parallel to the Summit, Moscow will host the Russian Social Forum in Kirov Stadium, involving nearly 30 organizations. (pl/dar)