In brief: SARS-like virus kills two more

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Two more people have died in Saudi Arabia from the SARS-like coronavirus, the Health Ministry said Saturday, bringing to 28 the number of deaths from the respiratory illness in the kingdom.

The two male victims were foreigners working in the oil-rich country, according to the ministry, which did not specify their nationalities.

Egypt cuts off ties to Syria

CAIRO – Egypt’s Islamist president says he is cutting off diplomatic relations with Syria and has ordered the Damascus Embassy in Cairo to be closed.

Mohammed Morsi told thousands of supporters in a rally held on Saturday that his government is also withdrawing the Egyptian charge d’affaires from Damascus.

North Korea wants U.S. talks

PYONGYANG, North Korea – North Korea’s top government body is proposing high-level nuclear and security talks with the United States days after a planned meeting with rival South Korea collapsed.

The National Defense Commission said Sunday that the talks should ease tensions and achieve peace and security on the Korean Peninsula.

North Korea has issued a series of angry statements since U.N. sanctions were imposed after a December rocket launch and a February nuclear test.