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Insight, wit and analysis from ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ correspondents, journalists and writers from around the world. Introduced by Pascale Harter. In this edition:

"Foster carer of the Middle East"

Jordan doesn’t have the natural riches some of its neighbours do - no huge reserves of oil, and very little water - but it DOES have something much of the region doesn’t: peace ... with practically everyone. This is the Arab country that seems to get invited to everyone's party. It maintains good relations even with neighbours and allies who're on terrible terms with each other. It's all down to a mix of hospitality, aid, tradition - and self-interest. Jim Carey visits the Middle East’s Mr Nice Guy.

Let them eat confetti

Regular listeners to FOOC will know that our correspondent Dany Mitzman likes her food. She relishes trying different dishes all over her adopted nation of Italy. But even her appetite tends to waver in the face of an average Italian wedding feast. For they usually involve food that just keeps coming – course after course - until you’re fit to burst...

(Image: Amman, Jordan in 2003. Credit: Getty Images)