Aug 25, 2000

TOKYO [MENL] -- Japan and North Korea appear to be making headway in theircurrent effort to establish diplomatic relations.

Oct 31, 2000

ATHENS [MENL] -- Despite military tension between the two countries,Greece does not intend to abandon efforts to improve ties with its longtimerival Turkey.

Nov 01, 2000

AMMAN [MENL] -- Jordan's King Abdullah abruptly cancelled plans to visitBritain and has returned home amid tension with his Palestinian majority.

Jul 17, 2001

ABU DHABI [MENL] -- Japan and Oman are discussing the prospect of navalexercises in the Gulf.