We examined the influence of seven systemic determinants on the news selection process. Findings indicate that ranking in world trade and cultural affinity are important predictors of the amount of coverage dedicated to a country. The impact of colonial ties depends on the specific historical context of each country. The study concludes that the determinants of international news have changed. While ideological antagonism was a central factor in news selection during the Cold War era, the findings suggest that economic interests and religio-political identities determine foreign news in the 21st century.