A Russian Navy spokesman says bad weather could complicate the work to recover bodies from the sunken nuclear submarine `` Kursk . ''

A <org>Russian Navy</org> spokesman says bad weather could complicate the work to recover bodies from the sunken nuclear submarine `` <product>Kursk</product> . ''


Russian and Norwegian divers successfully removed a rubber coating between the inner and outer hulls of sub yesterday .

<norp>Russian</norp> and <norp>Norwegian</norp> divers successfully removed a rubber coating between the inner and outer hulls of sub <date>yesterday</date> .


Thick fog , rain and high winds are limiting visibility at the site .


All 118 people on board the `` Kursk '' died when the submarine exploded and sank to the bottom of the Barents Sea .

All <cardinal>118</cardinal> people on board the `` <product>Kursk</product> '' died when the submarine exploded and sank to the bottom of <loc>the Barents Sea</loc> .


Hello from Atlanta .


Our top story this half hour , the man responsible for U.S. forces in the Persian Gulf says there was no specific threat of an imminent attack in the Yemeni port of Aden before a bomb ripped into the `` USS Cole '' there this month .

Our top story <time>this half hour</time> , the man responsible for <gpe>U.S.</gpe> forces in <loc>the Persian Gulf</loc> says there was no specific threat of an imminent attack in the <norp>Yemeni</norp> port of <gpe>Aden</gpe> before a bomb ripped into <product>the `` USS Cole ''</product> there <date>this month</date> .


Army General Tommy Franks , head of the U.S. Central Command , today testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee to answer questions about the attack .

<org>Army</org> General <person>Tommy Franks</person> , head of <org>the U.S. Central Command</org> , <date>today</date> testified before <org>the Senate Armed Services Committee</org> to answer questions about the attack .


He told lawmakers it would not trigger a U.S. retreat from the Persian Gulf , even though troops remain at risk to terrorism .

He told lawmakers it would not trigger a <gpe>U.S.</gpe> retreat from <loc>the Persian Gulf</loc> , even though troops remain at risk to terrorism .


17 sailors were killed and dozens were injured when the explosion blew a huge hole into the hull of the Navy destroyer as it was refueling in Aden .

<cardinal>17</cardinal> sailors were killed and <cardinal>dozens</cardinal> were injured when the explosion blew a huge hole into the hull of the <org>Navy</org> destroyer as it was refueling in <gpe>Aden</gpe> .


Franks said U.S. war ships have made almost 30 safe visits to Aden since January of last year .

<person>Franks</person> said <gpe>U.S.</gpe> war ships have made <cardinal>almost 30</cardinal> safe visits to <gpe>Aden</gpe> since <date>January of last year</date> .


He added the attack is already the subject of an intense investigation by many agencies .


We 're determined to get to the bottom of this .


We 'll put the events that led up to `` Cole '' under a microscope , and , in fact , we 've begun that process .

We 'll put the events that led up to `` <product>Cole</product> '' under a microscope , and , in fact , we 've begun that process .


We will find the facts we need to find , and we 'll use the lessons that we learn from `` Cole '' to provide the best possible force protection for our troops in one of the most dangerous regions of the world .

We will find the facts we need to find , and we 'll use the lessons that we learn from `` <product>Cole</product> '' to provide the best possible force protection for our troops in one of the most dangerous regions of the world .


A special heavy - lift ship is due to arrive in Yemen tomorrow .

A special heavy - lift ship is due to arrive in <gpe>Yemen</gpe> <date>tomorrow</date> .


It will carry the damaged `` USS Cole '' back to the United States .

It will carry the damaged `` <product>USS Cole</product> '' back to <gpe>the United States</gpe> .


The October attack on the `` Cole '' killed 17 sailors .

The <date>October</date> attack on the `` <product>Cole</product> '' killed <cardinal>17</cardinal> sailors .


A toward U.S. Army general and U.S. Navy admiral have arrived in Aden .

A toward <org>U.S. Army</org> general and <org>U.S. Navy</org> admiral have arrived in <gpe>Aden</gpe> .


They 'll assist in the investigation of the bombing .


They will also review military procedures and intelligence operations in Yemen .

They will also review military procedures and intelligence operations in <gpe>Yemen</gpe> .


The Dixie Chicks are the big winners at the Country Music Awards in Nashville .

<org>The Dixie Chicks</org> are the big winners at <event>the Country Music Awards</event> in <gpe>Nashville</gpe> .


The group won four awards -- Entertainer of the Year , Best Vocal Group , Best Album for `` Fly , '' and Music Video of the Year for `` Goodbye , Earl . ''

The group won four awards -- <work_of_art>Entertainer of the Year</work_of_art> , <work_of_art>Best Vocal Group</work_of_art> , <work_of_art>Best Album</work_of_art> for `` <work_of_art>Fly</work_of_art> , '' and <work_of_art>Music Video of the Year</work_of_art> for `` <work_of_art>Goodbye , Earl</work_of_art> . ''


Faith Hill received the Female Vocalist award .

<person>Faith Hill</person> received the <work_of_art>Female Vocalist</work_of_art> award .


Husband Tim M Graw got the Male Vocalist honor .

Husband <person>Tim M Graw</person> got the <work_of_art>Male Vocalist</work_of_art> honor .


They are the first married couple to win both honors in the same year .

They are the first married couple to win both honors in <date>the same year</date> .


`` I Hope You Dance , '' by Lee Ann Womack , was awarded Single of the Year and Song of the Year .

`` <work_of_art>I Hope You Dance</work_of_art> , '' by <person>Lee Ann Womack</person> , was awarded <work_of_art>Single of the Year</work_of_art> and <work_of_art>Song of the Year</work_of_art> .


A runway mix - up apparently caused Tuesday 's plane crash in Taiwan .

A runway mix - up apparently caused <date>Tuesday</date> 's plane crash in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


Investigators say the Singapore Airlines jet should have been on runway Five - Left , but instead , it was on Five - Right , a parallel runway .

Investigators say the <org>Singapore Airlines</org> jet should have been on runway <fac>Five - Left</fac> , but instead , it was on <fac>Five - Right</fac> , a parallel runway .


The plane hit construction equipment .


That 's part of it right there .


Investigators say they do n't know why it was on the wrong runway .


It was raining at the time .


They hope the plane 's flight recorder will help solve the mystery .


The pilot is being kept in Taiwan for questioning .

The pilot is being kept in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> for questioning .


81 people were killed in the accident , which took place amid poor visibility and driving rain .

<cardinal>81</cardinal> people were killed in the accident , which took place amid poor visibility and driving rain .


The airport has no ground radar , so air traffic controllers could not have known the pilot took a wrong turn .


Nine people were injured in Gaza when gunmen opened fire on an Israeli bus .

<cardinal>Nine</cardinal> people were injured in <gpe>Gaza</gpe> when gunmen opened fire on an <norp>Israeli</norp> bus .


The passengers were off - duty Israeli security workers .

The passengers were off - duty <norp>Israeli</norp> security workers .


Witnesses say the shots came from the Palestinian international airport .

Witnesses say the shots came from the <norp>Palestinian</norp> international airport .


Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak closed down the two - year - old airport in response to the incident .

<norp>Israeli</norp> Prime Minister <person>Ehud Barak</person> closed down the <date>two - year - old</date> airport in response to the incident .


Palestinians criticized the move .

<norp>Palestinians</norp> criticized the move .


They regard the airport as a symbol of emerging statehood .


It looks like an annual tradition is building .

It looks like an <date>annual</date> tradition is building .


80,000 people with a shared love of music converge on a Tennessee pasture for three days of good vibes and who knows what else .

<cardinal>80,000</cardinal> people with a shared love of music converge on a <gpe>Tennessee</gpe> pasture for <date>three days</date> of good vibes and who knows what else .


It 's called Bonnaroo .


Check it out .


Bonnaroo is kind of this going example of what the whole jam band community is turned in .

<event>Bonnaroo</event> is kind of this going example of what the whole jam band community is turned in .


That 's what I really like about the jam community , its acceptance of improvizational music , despite whatever region or genre .


It 's about the freedom of the music and the freedom of expression .


Well , we sold all 80,000 tickets through our web site .

Well , we sold all <cardinal>80,000</cardinal> tickets through our web site .


We sold out in 16 days .


I mean , the amazing thing is , we used no traditional advertising .


We put all these bands together .


It draws a huge audience , so the record companies and the music business has to take all of these forms of music more seriously .


It 's like strength in numbers .


I hope this kind of thing can happen in America , instead of it just being these isolated festivals like Bonnaroo , it really can happen in 100 cities every summer , like the festivals do in Europe .

I hope this kind of thing can happen in <gpe>America</gpe> , instead of it just being these isolated festivals like <event>Bonnaroo</event> , it really can happen in <cardinal>100</cardinal> cities every summer , like the festivals do in <loc>Europe</loc> .


My only complaint is the overlapping .


You know , as a music lover that I am , there 's five acts all playing at the same time on five different stages that I want to see .

You know , as a music lover that I am , there 's <cardinal>five</cardinal> acts all playing at the same time on <cardinal>five</cardinal> different stages that I want to see .


It really comes from the actual bands and the fact that there 's this grassroots following that 's been there , you know , for a long time , primarily started by the Grateful Dead , at least the future by the Grateful Dead .

It really comes from the actual bands and the fact that there 's this grassroots following that 's been there , you know , for a long time , primarily started by <org>the Grateful Dead</org> , at least the future by <org>the Grateful Dead</org> .


We will get by we will survive .


We 're carrying on a tradition that started a long time .


In American music , improvization is what it 's always been about .

In <norp>American</norp> music , improvization is what it 's always been about .


It 's not just clapping and having a good time .


It makes you feel a certain kind of love , and hopefully , that translates in the community .


You go out .


You hug someone .


You do something good .


You make a better world .


For me , that 's music .


We love you .


We --


Another story out of Belgrade , violence at the highest form .

Another story out of <gpe>Belgrade</gpe> , violence at the highest form .


The Serbian Prime Minister , Zoran Djindjic has died of his wounds after being shot , an assassination attempt .

The <norp>Serbian</norp> Prime Minister , <person>Zoran Djindjic</person> has died of his wounds after being shot , an assassination attempt .


Apparently , he was on his way to greet reporters at the time outside the main government office there in Belgrade .

Apparently , he was on his way to greet reporters at the time outside the main government office there in <gpe>Belgrade</gpe> .


All this happening about 90 minutes ago based on the wire reports we 're getting here .

All this happening <time>about 90 minutes ago</time> based on the wire reports we 're getting here .


The word from Serbia , Zoran Djindjic , the Prime Minister , is dead .

The word from <gpe>Serbia</gpe> , <person>Zoran Djindjic</person> , the Prime Minister , is dead .


Earlier reports said he was shot in the back , as well as the stomach .


USAirways is flying its way out of bankruptcy .

<org>USAirways</org> is flying its way out of bankruptcy .


The company which lost nearly $ 4 billion over the past two years has cut its annual costs by nearly $ 2 billion .

The company which lost <money>nearly $ 4 billion</money> over <date>the past two years</date> has cut its <date>annual</date> costs by <money>nearly $ 2 billion</money> .


Most of that was saved by cutting employee wages and benefits .


The Dow is down , you see there , just about almost 140 points .

The Dow is down , you see there , just about <cardinal>almost 140</cardinal> points .


Nasdaq down 20 and the S&P is down , as well .

Nasdaq down <cardinal>20</cardinal> and the S&P is down , as well .


So the markets are continuing their negative trend from last week .


We 'll keep our eye on that .


Coming up right here , next hour on Live From , terror tactics on the battlefield .

Coming up right here , next hour on <work_of_art>Live From</work_of_art> , terror tactics on the battlefield .


Is it a taste of more to come in Iraq ?

Is it a taste of more to come in <gpe>Iraq</gpe> ?


We 'll talk with a terror expert about that , and Iraqi deserters on the northern front , Ben Wedeman has their story why they 're no longer fighting for Saddam Hussein and Don Shepperd is going to answer some of your questions as he looks at the battle hot spots .

We 'll talk with a terror expert about that , and <norp>Iraqi</norp> deserters on the northern front , <person>Ben Wedeman</person> has their story why they 're no longer fighting for <person>Saddam Hussein</person> and <person>Don Shepperd</person> is going to answer some of your questions as he looks at the battle hot spots .


Now let 's go back to Wolf Blitzer in Kuwait City for more special coverage of the war in Iraq .

Now let 's go back to <person>Wolf Blitzer</person> in <gpe>Kuwait City</gpe> for more special coverage of the war in <gpe>Iraq</gpe> .


Central Command has determined that Baghdad Airport is unusable for normal air operations .

<org>Central Command</org> has determined that <fac>Baghdad Airport</fac> is unusable for normal air operations .


The airport , for the most part , is now under U.S. control .

The airport , for the most part , is now under <gpe>U.S.</gpe> control .


Military officials will not say whether damage to the runways is going to limit operation there , but they know there are underground bunkers there and some other areas that may be of use .


Centcom also says 2500 Republican Guard troops have surrendered to U.S. Marines between Kut and Baghdad .

<org>Centcom</org> also says <cardinal>2500</cardinal> <org>Republican Guard</org> troops have surrendered to <norp>U.S. Marines</norp> between <gpe>Kut</gpe> and <gpe>Baghdad</gpe> .


Military officials say the Baghdad Republican Guard division is no longer an effective fighting force .

Military officials say the <org>Baghdad Republican Guard</org> division is no longer an effective fighting force .


A federal appeals court will decide how long dirty bomb suspect Jose Padilla can be retained and whether he can meet with attorneys .

A federal appeals court will decide how long dirty bomb suspect <person>Jose Padilla</person> can be retained and whether he can meet with attorneys .


The U.S. attorney says Padilla is an enemy combattant and not entitled to counsel .

The <gpe>U.S.</gpe> attorney says <person>Padilla</person> is an enemy combattant and not entitled to counsel .


He is accused of attempting to ignite a dirty bomb in this country .


A Palestinian terrorist leader wanted for a deadly 1985 cruise ship hijacking is in U.S. custody in Iraq .

A <norp>Palestinian</norp> terrorist leader wanted for a deadly <date>1985</date> cruise ship hijacking is in <gpe>U.S.</gpe> custody in <gpe>Iraq</gpe> .


U.S. sources tell CNN Mohammed `` Abu '' Abbas was captured about 50 miles west of Baghdad .

<gpe>U.S.</gpe> sources tell <org>CNN</org> <person>Mohammed `` Abu '' Abbas</person> was captured <quantity>about 50 miles</quantity> west of <gpe>Baghdad</gpe> .


Palestinian sources say he had tried to flee into Syria , but was turned away at the border .

<norp>Palestinian</norp> sources say he had tried to flee into <gpe>Syria</gpe> , but was turned away at the border .


In October of 1985 , four hijackers under his command took over the Italian cruise ship `` Achille Lauro '' and killed a wheelchair - bound American tourist , Leo Klinghoffer .

In <date>October of 1985</date> , <cardinal>four</cardinal> hijackers under his command took over the <norp>Italian</norp> cruise ship <product>`` Achille Lauro ''</product> and killed a wheelchair - bound <norp>American</norp> tourist , <person>Leo Klinghoffer</person> .


Abbas was convicted in absentia by an Italian court and sentenced to five life terms in prison .

<person>Abbas</person> was convicted in absentia by an <norp>Italian</norp> court and sentenced to <cardinal>five</cardinal> life terms in prison .


All one of the many young faces that bear the heavy mark of war .

All <cardinal>one</cardinal> of the many young faces that bear the heavy mark of war .


The story of one boy who 's lucky enough to be alive .

The story of <cardinal>one</cardinal> boy who 's lucky enough to be alive .


I 'm Mary Snow with this check of headlines .

I 'm <person>Mary Snow</person> with this check of headlines .


American Airlines ' fate is hanging on its flight attendant 's union , its narrowly rejected union today .

<org>American Airlines '</org> fate is hanging on its flight attendant 's union , its narrowly rejected union <date>today</date> .


If the workers do n't approve the steep cutbacks American says it will file for bankruptcy .

If the workers do n't approve the steep cutbacks <org>American</org> says it will file for bankruptcy .


Yesterday American pilots mechanics approved their share $ 1.8 billion in labor concession .

<date>Yesterday</date> <org>American</org> pilots mechanics approved their share <money>$ 1.8 billion</money> in labor concession .


American warns it will seek more layoffs if it does file for Chapter 11 .

<org>American</org> warns it will seek more layoffs if it does file for <law>Chapter 11</law> .


Number of companies are planning to cut their payrolls .


Motorola saying it will eliminate another 3,000 jobs , 3 % of its work force .

<org>Motorola</org> saying it will eliminate another <cardinal>3,000</cardinal> jobs , <percent>3 %</percent> of its work force .


Let 's look at the latest numbers on the Dow .


Wall Street stocks are mixed .

<org>Wall Street</org> stocks are mixed .


The Dow industrials down 64 points .

The Dow industrials down <quantity>64 points</quantity> .


Nasdaq up about 13 points .

Nasdaq up about <quantity>13 points</quantity> .


That 's the latest from Wall Street .

That 's the latest from <fac>Wall Street</fac> .


CNN Live Today continues after this .

<work_of_art>CNN Live Today</work_of_art> continues after this .


And the Dixie Chicks open their U.S. tour tomorrow night in Greenville , South Carolina .

And <org>the Dixie Chicks</org> open their <gpe>U.S.</gpe> tour <time>tomorrow night</time> in <gpe>Greenville</gpe> , <gpe>South Carolina</gpe> .


The popular band has been criticized within country music circles for comments by lead singer Natalie Maines .

The popular band has been criticized within country music circles for comments by lead singer <person>Natalie Maines</person> .


She said she was embarrassed to be from the same state as President Bush .

She said she was embarrassed to be from the same state as President <person>Bush</person> .


She has since apologized for her remarks .


Hmm , those Dixie Chicks .


Speaking of chicks -- call it puppy love , call it maternal instinct , but , mostly it 's just out of the ordinary .


Andrea Ash from Kezi in Portland has this story of chicken that decided to take a new day job .

<person>Andrea Ash</person> from <org>Kezi</org> in <gpe>Portland</gpe> has this story of chicken that decided to take a new day job .


Reporter :


People have long struggled with the question , Why did the chicken cross the road ? - but all the Scott family wants to know is , Why did a chicken adopt their ten new puppies ?

People have long struggled with the question , Why did the chicken cross the road ? - but all the <person>Scott</person> family wants to know is , Why did a chicken adopt their <cardinal>ten</cardinal> new puppies ?


Every time we looked out our window it was like , What is she doing in there ?


It looks so out of place .


It 's just funny .


The puppies were born Easter Sunday .

The puppies were born <date>Easter Sunday</date> .


Soon after , one of the family 's three chickens flew the coop and took up residence in the crate built especially for the puppies .

Soon after , <cardinal>one</cardinal> of the family 's <cardinal>three</cardinal> chickens flew the coop and took up residence in the crate built especially for the puppies .


They goes in there and nuzzles with the puppies , or lays her eggs and sits there with the mother .


They 're just all happy , a little family in there .


At first the sight shocked the Scott family .

At first the sight shocked the <person>Scott</person> family .


They tried to shoo the hen away but she kept coming back , even putting up baby gates to try to keep the chicken out .


No match for her .


She simply flew over .


It also got past the puppies ' protective father .


I am going to sit with these punies .


The Scotts ran it past their vet and the vet assured them , as long as the hen left her crate to do business , she was no harm to the pup .

The <person>Scotts</person> ran it past their vet and the vet assured them , as long as the hen left her crate to do business , she was no harm to the pup .


The family says the chicken keeps the place clean , so she 's free to stay .


A pretty good relationship with that chicken .


She does n't mind them crawling around underneath her .


Reporter :


When the mom comes in , the puppies know exactly where to go for milk -- sort of a little confusion .


The pups do n't exactly know the difference between fur and feathers yet .


After all , they 're only a week old .

After all , they 're only <date>a week old</date> .


Eventually they all find the real mom .


No one knows what will happen as the pups grow older and are able to open their eyes .


Chances are , they 'll always have a fondness from one hen .


Those puppies are in for a heck of a surprise when they do open their eyes , are n't they ?


The puppies come home to roost !


That 's a good one .


That was a great story .


We 'll try to follow that in our next half hour .


We 'll tell you what the FTC is doing to crack down on internet auction fraud .

We 'll tell you what the <org>FTC</org> is doing to crack down on internet auction fraud .


That and the top stories in just two minutes .

That and the top stories in <time>just two minutes</time> .


I 'm Mike Galanos .


And I 'm Rudi Bakhtiar .

And I 'm <person>Rudi Bakhtiar</person> .


We leave you with sounds from Willie Nelson , the country legend is celebrating his 70th birthday .

We leave you with sounds from <person>Willie Nelson</person> , the country legend is celebrating his <ordinal>70th</ordinal> birthday .


This is CNN `` Headline News Tonight . ''

This is <org>CNN</org> `` Headline News Tonight . ''


Breaking news out of Long Beach , a situation with a standoff involving a 2 - year - old and a man with a gun , this one having a peaceful ending .

Breaking news out of <gpe>Long Beach</gpe> , a situation with a standoff involving a <date>2 - year - old</date> and a man with a gun , this one having a peaceful ending .


This is near the Long Beach Airport and involved a city bus .

This is near <fac>the Long Beach Airport</fac> and involved a city bus .


A man who had assault , he actually had assault with a deadly weapon , this is pictures .


Look at that .


Man spread - eagle with a two - year - old child .

Man spread - eagle with a <date>two - year - old</date> child .


The officer is going to go in and swoop her away .


As we understand it , the man had the child .


It was inside of the city bus .


Police surrounded this bus near the airport with guns drawn .


The man came out and did the spread - eagle like that .


Just as he did that , that 's when you saw the child just walking just a few feet away from him but the officers were able to get the child away .

Just as he did that , that 's when you saw the child just walking <quantity>just a few feet</quantity> away from him but the officers were able to get the child away .


They handcuffed the man and they took him into custody .


That was after he had actually barricaded himself inside that bus with the child .


So that one coming to a peaceful ending , what could have been a very gruesome situation involving that two - year - old child in Southern California .

So that one coming to a peaceful ending , what could have been a very gruesome situation involving that <date>two - year - old</date> child in Southern <gpe>California</gpe> .


That one is over in Long Beach .

That one is over in <gpe>Long Beach</gpe> .


Welcome and good evening , everyone .

Welcome and good <time>evening</time> , everyone .


Mike is off tonight .


To our top story of the evening -- Martha Stewart is stepping down as head of her media empire .

To our top story of the <time>evening</time> -- <person>Martha Stewart</person> is stepping down as head of her media empire .


She announced her decision to vacate her post as chief executive of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia , following word of a federal indictment .

She announced her decision to vacate her post as chief executive of <org>Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia</org> , following word of a federal indictment .


In a statement , she says she 's stepping aside in the best interest of the company , but she will stay on the board of directors .


Stewart pleaded not guilty to a nine - count indictment .

<person>Stewart</person> pleaded not guilty to a <cardinal>nine</cardinal> - count indictment .


The charges include conspiracy to obstruct justice and perjury connected to an insider trading scandal .


The government also filed civil charges against her .


She is charged with using insider information to bail out of a biotech stock the day before its price tanked , and then trying to cover it up .

She is charged with using insider information to bail out of a biotech stock <date>the day before</date> its price tanked , and then trying to cover it up .


Her stockbroker was also charged .


If convicted on all counts , Stewart faces up to 30 years in prison and $ 2 million in fines .

If convicted on all counts , <person>Stewart</person> faces <date>up to 30 years</date> in prison and <money>$ 2 million</money> in fines .


Canada is on the path to becoming the third country to allow gay marriage .

<gpe>Canada</gpe> is on the path to becoming the <ordinal>third</ordinal> country to allow gay marriage .


The federal government will not appeal the court ruling that cleared the way for same - sex unions .


Prime Minister Jean Chretien says the government will now draft legislation legalizing gay marriages .

Prime Minister <person>Jean Chretien</person> says the government will now draft legislation legalizing gay marriages .


And the U.S. government , can withhold the names of people detained as part of the 9 / 11 investigation .

And the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> government , can withhold the names of people detained as part of the <event>9 / 11</event> investigation .


That 's the decision from a federal appeals court reversing a lower court ruling .


The Justice Department argued that releasing the names could hamper ongoing investigations .

<org>The Justice Department</org> argued that releasing the names could hamper ongoing investigations .


As we 've been reporting , only within the past hour or so , there 's been a shooting incident in central Israel , not far from the West Bank .

As we 've been reporting , only within <time>the past hour or so</time> , there 's been a shooting incident in central <gpe>Israel</gpe> , not far from <gpe>the West Bank</gpe> .


A 7 - year - old Israeli girl has died .

A <date>7 - year - old</date> <norp>Israeli</norp> girl has died .


Two others , her father apparently and another sister , have been wounded in this incident .

<cardinal>Two</cardinal> others , her father apparently and another sister , have been wounded in this incident .


We 're going to continue to get more details on this late - breaking development and bring you those details when we have them .


Convicted rapist and Max Factor heir Andrew Luster is back in California .

Convicted rapist and <org>Max Factor</org> heir <person>Andrew Luster</person> is back in <gpe>California</gpe> .


Luster returned to Los Angeles yesterday from Mexico following his capture Tuesday by American bounty hunters .

<person>Luster</person> returned to <gpe>Los Angeles</gpe> <date>yesterday</date> from <gpe>Mexico</gpe> following his capture <date>Tuesday</date> by <norp>American</norp> bounty hunters .


Luster skipped bail during his trial in January for raping and drugging three women .

<person>Luster</person> skipped bail during his trial in <date>January</date> for raping and drugging <cardinal>three</cardinal> women .


He was sentenced in abstentia to 124 years in prison .

He was sentenced in abstentia to <date>124 years</date> in prison .


An occasion that marked the formal establishment between our two countries .

An occasion that marked the formal establishment between our <cardinal>two</cardinal> countries .


Since then this relationship has grown in importance to us both through good times and bad .


Both of my generation and Britain have special pause to remember the unacceptable sacrifice the Russian people made to defeat fascism in the Second World War .

Both of my generation and <gpe>Britain</gpe> have special pause to remember the unacceptable sacrifice the <norp>Russian</norp> people made to defeat fascism in <event>the Second World War</event> .


Nothing , not even the fact that our countries became estranged in the war 's aftermath , has ever dimmed our memory of the scale of your loss .


That experience should continue to inspire us , as we seek to build a more peaceful and secure world .


When I visited your country in 1994 , I recall saying to President Yeltsin that he and I spent most of our lives believing such a visit would never happen , and that I hoped he was as delighted as I was to be proved wrong .

When I visited your country in <date>1994</date> , I recall saying to President <person>Yeltsin</person> that he and I spent most of our lives believing such a visit would never happen , and that I hoped he was as delighted as I was to be proved wrong .


I 'm just as delighted now , nine years later , to be able to welcome you here and to learn about the great changes which have occurred in your country since I was there .

I 'm just as delighted now , <date>nine years later</date> , to be able to welcome you here and to learn about the great changes which have occurred in your country since I was there .


Russia has established itself as our partner and our friend .

<gpe>Russia</gpe> has established itself as our partner and our friend .


We work together bilatarily and on the international stage , and we are developing new links all the time in fields of commerce , culture , counterterrorism , energy , education environment .


I know you will be seeing evidence of some of this during your visit .


Mr. President , it is , I believe , a sign of genuine friendship that we are able to have disagreements , but remain firm partners .


It is no secret that the significant differences between our two countries earlier this year on how best to handle Iraq , but we are now able to look forward together firmly in agreement on the route we have decided in the United Nations , although , the tragic loss of British lives today reminds us all of the difficulties to be faced .

It is no secret that the significant differences between our <cardinal>two</cardinal> countries <date>earlier this year</date> on how best to handle <gpe>Iraq</gpe> , but we are now able to look forward together firmly in agreement on the route we have decided in <org>the United Nations</org> , although , the tragic loss of <norp>British</norp> lives <date>today</date> reminds us all of the difficulties to be faced .


But as we look ahead , we know that our long - term partnership is of profound importance to both of us .


This is clearly evident , if we look beyond the challenges of international politics .


In the last few months alone , we have heard the announcements of major investments in Russia by British companies .

In <date>the last few months</date> alone , we have heard the announcements of major investments in <gpe>Russia</gpe> by <norp>British</norp> companies .


We have also heard a different sign of Sir Paul McCartney playing to enthusiastic crowds in Red Square , and we , in turn , have been enthralled by the celebrations of your own city in Petersburg .

We have also heard a different sign of Sir <person>Paul McCartney</person> playing to enthusiastic crowds in <fac>Red Square</fac> , and we , in turn , have been enthralled by the celebrations of your own city in <gpe>Petersburg</gpe> .


At the same time , work continues to bring the young people of our countries closer together through language , teaching , school exchanges and university programs .


We have a vibrant and exciting relationship from which we both derive mass benefit .


Mr. President , your country is rich --


The Indonesian billionaire James Riady has agreed to pay $ 8.5 million and plead guilty to illegally donating money for Bill Clinton 's 1992 presidential campaign .

The <norp>Indonesian</norp> billionaire <person>James Riady</person> has agreed to pay <money>$ 8.5 million</money> and plead guilty to illegally donating money for <person>Bill Clinton 's</person> <date>1992</date> presidential campaign .


He admits he was trying to influence American policy on China .

He admits he was trying to influence <norp>American</norp> policy on <gpe>China</gpe> .


Good evening , everyone .


We begin tonight with a couple of urgent questions for the government .

We begin <time>tonight</time> with <cardinal>a couple</cardinal> of urgent questions for the government .


There 's a man on trial in New York for bombing the American embassy in Kenya two years ago .

There 's a man on trial in <gpe>New York</gpe> for bombing the <norp>American</norp> embassy in <gpe>Kenya</gpe> <date>two years ago</date> .


The FBI says when they questioned him , he told them of another plot to bomb an American ship in Yemen , where the `` USS Cole '' was ultimately attacked .

The <org>FBI</org> says when they questioned him , he told them of another plot to bomb an <norp>American</norp> ship in <gpe>Yemen</gpe> , where <product>the `` USS Cole ''</product> was ultimately attacked .


Question one , did the FBI make it clear what the man had told them ?

Question <cardinal>one</cardinal> , did the <org>FBI</org> make it clear what the man had told them ?


Question two , did the Pentagon and the CIA get the message and do nothing about it ?

Question <cardinal>two</cardinal> , did the <org>Pentagon</org> and the <org>CIA</org> get the message and do nothing about it ?


Here 's your national correspondent , John M Wethy .

Here 's your national correspondent , <person>John M Wethy</person> .


In the days after the bombing of the American embassy in Nairobi , Mohammed Al - owhali was arrested by Kenyan authorities and interrogated by the FBI .

In the days after the bombing of the <norp>American</norp> embassy in <gpe>Nairobi</gpe> , <person>Mohammed Al - owhali</person> was arrested by <norp>Kenyan</norp> authorities and interrogated by the <org>FBI</org> .


He told the FBI he participated in the attack under direction of terrorist leader Osama Bin Laden .

He told the <org>FBI</org> he participated in the attack under direction of terrorist leader <person>Osama Bin Laden</person> .


ABC News has learned he also provided details of a plan to attack an American warship in Yemen .

<org>ABC News</org> has learned he also provided details of a plan to attack an <norp>American</norp> warship in <gpe>Yemen</gpe> .


Al - owhali said it would be a rocket attack , conducted by a Bin Laden terrorist cell , and it would come in the next few months .

<person>Al - owhali</person> said it would be a rocket attack , conducted by a <person>Bin Laden</person> terrorist cell , and it would come in the next few months .


The next morning , August 1998 , the FBI sent out a classified message , under Director Louis Freeh 's name , warning of a plot to attack a U.S. Navy ship in Yemen .

<time>The next morning</time> , <date>August 1998</date> , the <org>FBI</org> sent out a classified message , under Director <person>Louis Freeh</person> 's name , warning of a plot to attack a <org>U.S. Navy</org> ship in <gpe>Yemen</gpe> .


The FBI message went to three Pentagon agencies , and as a result , the visit of one American warship to Yemen was canceled .

The <org>FBI</org> message went to <cardinal>three</cardinal> <org>Pentagon</org> agencies , and as a result , the visit of one <norp>American</norp> warship to <gpe>Yemen</gpe> was canceled .


The warning came as General Anthony Zinni was finalizing an agreement for refueling ships in the Yemeni port of Aden .

The warning came as General <person>Anthony Zinni</person> was finalizing an agreement for refueling ships in the <norp>Yemeni</norp> port of <gpe>Aden</gpe> .


It apparently left no lasting impression .


Zinni testifying after the attack on the `` USS Cole '' -- Aden never had a specific terrorist threat .

<person>Zinni</person> testifying after the attack on <product>the `` USS Cole ''</product> -- <gpe>Aden</gpe> never had a specific terrorist threat .


All the other ports that have been mentioned here that we should have considered as options have had specific threats .


So what happened to the FBI warning ?

So what happened to the <org>FBI</org> warning ?


CIA officials say they never received it .

<org>CIA</org> officials say they never received it .


FBI officials say they did copy the CIA .

<org>FBI</org> officials say they did copy the <org>CIA</org> .


Pentagon officials say they got the warning , but had no idea the source was such a well - connected insider within Bin Laden 's organization .

<org>Pentagon</org> officials say they got the warning , but had no idea the source was such a well - connected insider within <person>Bin Laden 's</person> organization .


This raises a fundamental question -- if the message had been more clearly communicated and understood , would American lives have been saved ?

This raises a fundamental question -- if the message had been more clearly communicated and understood , would <norp>American</norp> lives have been saved ?


John M Wethy , ABC News , the Pentagon , still looking for answers .

<person>John M Wethy</person> , <org>ABC News</org> , the <fac>Pentagon</fac> , still looking for answers .


Tomorrow 's summit meeting will bring Ehud Barak and Yasser Arafat to the resort city of Sharm El - eikh .

<date>Tomorrow</date> 's summit meeting will bring <person>Ehud Barak</person> and <person>Yasser Arafat</person> to the resort city of <gpe>Sharm El - eikh</gpe> .


Getting both to attend was not an easy task .


The last thing President Clinton did today before heading to the Mideast is go to church -- appropriate , perhaps , given the enormity of the task he and his national security team face in the days ahead .

The last thing President <person>Clinton</person> did <date>today</date> before heading to the <loc>Mideast</loc> is go to church -- appropriate , perhaps , given the enormity of the task he and his national security team face in <date>the days ahead</date> .


We do have to try to reduce the violee and take a turn back for a period of calmness so that we can move back to a peace process , but even if the violence subsides , Israelis and Palestinians will still have to deal with an open wound -- a scar so long and so deep from these last two weeks , it may be years before there is a real effort at talking peace again .

We do have to try to reduce the violee and take a turn back for a period of calmness so that we can move back to a peace process , but even if the violence subsides , <norp>Israelis</norp> and <norp>Palestinians</norp> will still have to deal with an open wound -- a scar so long and so deep from <date>these last two weeks</date> , it may be <date>years</date> before there is a real effort at talking peace again .


Both sides have almost stepped back six years in terms of their statements and attitudes , six years or more -- before the Oslo accords , when the Israelis promised land and the Palestinians promised security .

Both sides have almost stepped back <date>six years</date> in terms of their statements and attitudes , <date>six years or more</date> -- before <law>the Oslo accords</law> , when the <norp>Israelis</norp> promised land and the <norp>Palestinians</norp> promised security .


Today there is only finger pointing .

<date>Today</date> there is only finger pointing .


Arafat deliberately launched it in order to attract the attention of the world by paying with the blood of his own people .

<person>Arafat</person> deliberately launched it in order to attract the attention of the world by paying with the blood of his own people .


I urge Mr. Barak to lift the siege of Palestinians , to speak to the Palestinians as its neighbors because they are his neighbors .

I urge Mr. <person>Barak</person> to lift the siege of <norp>Palestinians</norp> , to speak to the <norp>Palestinians</norp> as its neighbors because they are his neighbors .


The Palestinians clearly face the greatest pressure in this summit , since the Israelis are not the only ones blaming them for the outbreak of violence .

The <norp>Palestinians</norp> clearly face the greatest pressure in this summit , since the <norp>Israelis</norp> are not the only ones blaming them for the outbreak of violence .


I think we all know that Arafat is in charge of the Palestinian Authority .

I think we all know that <person>Arafat</person> is in charge of <org>the Palestinian Authority</org> .


He has the responsibility for controlling the violence .


But it may not be so easy for Arafat .

But it may not be so easy for <person>Arafat</person> .


Today , thousands of Palestinians are calling for continued fighting .

<date>Today</date> , <cardinal>thousands</cardinal> of <norp>Palestinians</norp> are calling for continued fighting .


Half of the Palestinian population is under the age of 14 and many have been influenced by military factions like Hamas and Hezbollah -- not by Arafat .

<cardinal>Half</cardinal> of the <norp>Palestinian</norp> population is under <date>the age of 14</date> and many have been influenced by military factions like <org>Hamas</org> and <org>Hezbollah</org> -- not by <person>Arafat</person> .


When you talk about Arafat and the people around him , you have to understand how young this population really is -- how volatile , how close to exploding it really is .

When you talk about <person>Arafat</person> and the people around him , you have to understand how young this population really is -- how volatile , how close to exploding it really is .


Almost no one seems optimistic about the future of the Mideast .

Almost no one seems optimistic about the future of the <loc>Mideast</loc> .


That 's the heartbreak of this region says one State Department official .

That 's the heartbreak of this region says one <org>State Department</org> official .


Whenever you take a step forward , you are bound to be pushed way back .


Martha Raddatz , ABC News , the State Department .

<person>Martha Raddatz</person> , <org>ABC News</org> , <fac>the State Department</fac> .


Back to the Middle East tonight .

Back to <loc>the Middle East</loc> <time>tonight</time> .


the truce brokered by President Clinton between Israelis and Palestinians allegedly is in tatters .

the truce brokered by President <person>Clinton</person> between <norp>Israelis</norp> and <norp>Palestinians</norp> allegedly is in tatters .


Palestinians now talking about a battle for independence .

<norp>Palestinians</norp> now talking about a battle for independence .


Israel says it may abandon the peace negotiations altogether .

<gpe>Israel</gpe> says it may abandon the peace negotiations altogether .


Nine Palestinians were killed today .

<cardinal>Nine</cardinal> <norp>Palestinians</norp> were killed <date>today</date> .


More than 70 people have been wounded , mostly Palestinians , but also several Israeli soldiers .

<cardinal>More than 70</cardinal> people have been wounded , mostly <norp>Palestinians</norp> , but also several <norp>Israeli</norp> soldiers .


ABC 's Bob Woodruff is in the Palestinian territories tonight .

<org>ABC</org> 's <person>Bob Woodruff</person> is in the <norp>Palestinian</norp> territories <time>tonight</time> .


Violence ripped through almost every major Palestinian town today .

Violence ripped through almost every major <norp>Palestinian</norp> town <date>today</date> .


The worst was in Nablus .


Four Palestinians were shot and killed .

<cardinal>Four</cardinal> <norp>Palestinians</norp> were shot and killed .


In Ramallah , thousands of Palestinians rushed the Israeli checkpoint , then faced down Israeli guns .

In <gpe>Ramallah</gpe> , <cardinal>thousands</cardinal> of <norp>Palestinians</norp> rushed the <norp>Israeli</norp> checkpoint , then faced down <norp>Israeli</norp> guns .


From Hebron to Gaza , the wounded were carried off so fast it was difficult to count them .

From <gpe>Hebron</gpe> to <gpe>Gaza</gpe> , the wounded were carried off so fast it was difficult to count them .


As is so often the case , much of the trouble started with funerals that escalated into fury .


Most significant , demonstrators who had been throwing stones this week , today turned to gasoline bombs .

Most significant , demonstrators who had been throwing stones <date>this week</date> , <date>today</date> turned to gasoline bombs .


Israelis who had been firing rubber bullets stepped up their use of real ones .

<norp>Israelis</norp> who had been firing rubber bullets stepped up their use of real ones .


This was supposed to be the day the truce went into effect , when both sides would call off the violence , but that clearly has not happened , and here in the streets , peace seems very unlikely .

This was supposed to be <date>the day</date> the truce went into effect , when both sides would call off the violence , but that clearly has not happened , and here in the streets , peace seems very unlikely .


Tonight on Israeli television , Prime Minister Barak said we can not go on as if nothing happened , and if the demonstrations do n't stop , Barak 's spokesman said Israel will continue to use live ammunition .

<time>Tonight</time> on <norp>Israeli</norp> television , Prime Minister <person>Barak</person> said we can not go on as if nothing happened , and if the demonstrations do n't stop , <person>Barak</person> 's spokesman said <gpe>Israel</gpe> will continue to use live ammunition .


They leave no other way for us but to respond with fire , we 'll have to do this .


Palestinian leaders said their people no longer want a cease - fire , they want their own country .

<norp>Palestinian</norp> leaders said their people no longer want a cease - fire , they want their own country .


We are under occupation and subjugation .


The question should be what the Hosni Mubarak are they still doing there eight years after the peace process began .

The question should be what the Hosni Mubarak are they still doing there <date>eight years after</date> the peace process began .


It is one of the major questions that was supposed to be addressed after the stoning and shooting had stopped .

It is <cardinal>one</cardinal> of the major questions that was supposed to be addressed after the stoning and shooting had stopped .


It certainly has not stopped .


Not yet .


Bob Woodruff , ABC News , Ramallah .

<person>Bob Woodruff</person> , <org>ABC News</org> , <gpe>Ramallah</gpe> .


We are going to take `` a closer look '' at the great Wind Cave in South Dakota .

We are going to take `` a closer look '' at the great <loc>Wind Cave</loc> in <gpe>South Dakota</gpe> .


No easy matter .


We know caving is a popular pasttime for some Americans , a horrifying thought for others , especially anyone prone to claustrophobia .

We know caving is a popular pasttime for some <norp>Americans</norp> , a horrifying thought for others , especially anyone prone to claustrophobia .


We asked Judy Muller if she would like to do the story of a fascinating man .

We asked <person>Judy Muller</person> if she would like to do the story of a fascinating man .


She took a deep breath and said , okay .


This wild landscape in South Dakota may evoke images of the frontier West , but the real frontier is far beneath .

This wild landscape in <gpe>South Dakota</gpe> may evoke images of the frontier <loc>West</loc> , but the real frontier is far beneath .


Elevation plus 11 .

Elevation plus <cardinal>11</cardinal> .


The real pioneers are men like John Sheltons who explore underground caves .

The real pioneers are men like <person>John Sheltons</person> who explore underground caves .


The most fascinating is the maze known as Wind Cave .

The most fascinating is the maze known as <loc>Wind Cave</loc> .


When you find one where no one has been there , you are the first person , the adrenaline is phenomenal .

When you find one where no one has been there , you are the <ordinal>first</ordinal> person , the adrenaline is phenomenal .


He first came here as a tourist 30 years ago .

He first came here as a tourist <date>30 years ago</date> .


He offered to map it for the Park Service .

He offered to map it for <org>the Park Service</org> .


I thought would take a week or two .

I thought would take a <date>week</date> or <cardinal>two</cardinal> .


It 's now 30 years down the road .

It 's now <date>30 years</date> down the road .


I 'm no closer to completing the agreement .


The cave is seemingly endless .


3 miles of the cave have been surveyed , every inch logged by hand , then fed into a computer which plots every nook and cranny .

<quantity>3 miles</quantity> of the cave have been surveyed , every inch logged by hand , then fed into a computer which plots every nook and cranny .


We 're only representing about 5 % of the known volume that could possibly be here .

We 're only representing about <percent>5 %</percent> of the known volume that could possibly be here .


95 % of the cave is unmapped ?

<percent>95 %</percent> of the cave is unmapped ?


Yes .


The first recorded discovery of the cave was in 1881 .

The <ordinal>first</ordinal> recorded discovery of the cave was in <date>1881</date> .


A cowboy hunting in the area heard the sound of rushing wind .


He followed it to this narrow opening .


The wind was so strong , or so the story goes , that it blew his hat off his head .


Since then , many visitors have been drawn into this world of crystals , fossils and calcite formations known as forecast work and popcorn and rarest of all , fox work .


Each new discovery means heading down another tight , dark hall .


Your stomach is against the floor and your back is against the wall .


As we crawled along , we found an item left by earlier explorers .


A 103 - year - old newspaper .

A <date>103 - year - old</date> newspaper .


The ultimate payoff is when they find a new chamber .


The knowledge that our lights are the first to light it up , our footprints were the first , our eyes were first to see it .

The knowledge that our lights are the <ordinal>first</ordinal> to light it up , our footprints were the <ordinal>first</ordinal> , our eyes were <ordinal>first</ordinal> to see it .


He calls it addictive .


You get withdrawal .


I want to find more , something bigger or deeper .


He no longer expects to see the end of the cave in his lifetime .

He no longer expects to see the end of the cave in his <date>lifetime</date> .


That , he says , is just fine with him .


Judy Muller , ABC News , Wind Cave National Park .

<person>Judy Muller</person> , <org>ABC News</org> , <fac>Wind Cave National Park</fac> .


Some camera team as well .


Some overseas news .


Barak , who has been forced to call national elections , offered to recognize a Palestinian state .

<person>Barak</person> , who has been forced to call national elections , offered to recognize a <norp>Palestinian</norp> state .


There 's one very difficult condition .

There 's <cardinal>one</cardinal> very difficult condition .


There could be no discussion for now about who will have what status in Jerusalem .

There could be no discussion for now about who will have what status in <gpe>Jerusalem</gpe> .


Palestinians do n't like it .

<norp>Palestinians</norp> do n't like it .


In Bethlehem , where Christians believe Jesus was born , Christmas plans have been scaled back because of the violence .

In <gpe>Bethlehem</gpe> , where <norp>Christians</norp> believe <person>Jesus</person> was born , <date>Christmas</date> plans have been scaled back because of the violence .


There is other news tonight overseas and at home .

There is other news <time>tonight</time> overseas and at home .


While all this is going on , Mr. Clinton is overseas .

While all this is going on , Mr. <person>Clinton</person> is overseas .


President Clinton was in Northern Ireland when he heard the Supreme Court decision .

President <person>Clinton</person> was in <gpe>Northern Ireland</gpe> when he heard the <org>Supreme Court</org> decision .


He talked to Al Gore on the phone from Belfast .

He talked to <person>Al Gore</person> on the phone from <gpe>Belfast</gpe> .


This is Mr. Clinton 's third visit to Northern Ireland , and the Irish Republic to do what he can to generate a lasting peace .

This is Mr. <person>Clinton</person> 's <ordinal>third</ordinal> visit to <gpe>Northern Ireland</gpe> , and <gpe>the Irish Republic</gpe> to do what he can to generate a lasting peace .


Thank you very much , Tony .

Thank you very much , <person>Tony</person> .


Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat is expected to return to the White House late Tuesday for more talks with President Clinton .

<norp>Palestinian</norp> leader <person>Yasser Arafat</person> is expected to return to <fac>the White House</fac> <time>late Tuesday</time> for more talks with President <person>Clinton</person> .


Mr. Arafat made no comment after Tuesday 's first round of White House talks moving quickly past journalists to a waiting limousine .

Mr. <person>Arafat</person> made no comment after <date>Tuesday</date> 's first round of <fac>White House</fac> talks moving quickly past journalists to a waiting limousine .


A White House spokesman said the talks are aimed at establishing the parameters for resuming Israeli - Palestinian negotiations .

A <org>White House</org> spokesman said the talks are aimed at establishing the parameters for resuming <norp>Israeli</norp> - Palestinian negotiations .


Palestinians have demanded clarification of US proposals for achieving a final peace accord .

<norp>Palestinians</norp> have demanded clarification of <gpe>US</gpe> proposals for achieving a final peace accord .


The United States has issued a worldwide caution to Americans warning of possible terrorist threats .

<gpe>The United States</gpe> has issued a worldwide caution to <norp>Americans</norp> warning of possible terrorist threats .


No threats are specified but the US embassy in Rome was closed Friday for what officials called security reasons .

No threats are specified but the <gpe>US</gpe> embassy in <gpe>Rome</gpe> was closed <date>Friday</date> for what officials called security reasons .


The embassy could reopen as early as Monday .

The embassy could reopen as early as <date>Monday</date> .


The State Department periodically issues worldwide cautions .

<org>The State Department</org> periodically issues worldwide cautions .


One was issued last October following the deadly terrorist bombing of the USS Cole Navy destroyer in Yemen .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> was issued <date>last October</date> following the deadly terrorist bombing of the <product>USS Cole</product> <org>Navy</org> destroyer in <gpe>Yemen</gpe> .


I am David Coler , VOA News .

I am <person>David Coler</person> , <org>VOA News</org> .


Israel and the Palestinians have resumed high level peace talks .

<gpe>Israel</gpe> and the <norp>Palestinians</norp> have resumed high level peace talks .


The two sides met into the early hours Friday at the crossing between the Gaza Strip and Israel .

The <cardinal>two</cardinal> sides met into <time>the early hours</time> <date>Friday</date> at the crossing between <gpe>the Gaza Strip</gpe> and <gpe>Israel</gpe> .


Israeli officials say Israel is still hopeful that a framework peace agreement can be reached before the unofficial deadline , the end of President Clinton 's term in office on January 20th .

<norp>Israeli</norp> officials say <gpe>Israel</gpe> is still hopeful that a framework peace agreement can be reached before the unofficial deadline , the end of President <person>Clinton</person> 's term in office on <date>January 20th</date> .


The head of official Palestinian television has been assassinated .

The head of official <norp>Palestinian</norp> television has been assassinated .


Hooded men gunned down Hisha Mickey at a hotel in Gaza City .

Hooded men gunned down <person>Hisha Mickey</person> at a hotel in <gpe>Gaza City</gpe> .


The Palestinian leadership accused the collaborators with Israel for killing Mr. Mickey .

The <norp>Palestinian</norp> leadership accused the collaborators with <gpe>Israel</gpe> for killing Mr. <person>Mickey</person> .


Israel says its security forces were not involved .

<gpe>Israel</gpe> says its security forces were not involved .


Mr. Mickey was in charge of Palestinian television and the Palestinian satellite channel .

Mr. <person>Mickey</person> was in charge of <norp>Palestinian</norp> television and the <norp>Palestinian</norp> satellite channel .


Reports from China say North Korean President Kim Jong Il is planning to announce economic reforms for his country .

Reports from <gpe>China</gpe> say <norp>North Korean</norp> President <person>Kim Jong Il</person> is planning to announce economic reforms for his country .


Mr. Kim visited a center for high technology business in Shanghai on Friday .

Mr. <person>Kim</person> visited a center for high technology business in <gpe>Shanghai</gpe> on <date>Friday</date> .


Egypt 's President Hosni Mubarak has called on Israeli leaders to stop talking about war and to make peace with the Palestinians and Syria .

<gpe>Egypt</gpe> 's President <person>Hosni Mubarak</person> has called on <norp>Israeli</norp> leaders to stop talking about war and to make peace with the <norp>Palestinians</norp> and <gpe>Syria</gpe> .


In an interview with Israeli Television Monday Mr. Mubarak said Israel knows what is necessary for peace , the return of lands captured in the 1967 Middle East war .

In an interview with <norp>Israeli</norp> Television <date>Monday</date> Mr. <person>Mubarak</person> said <gpe>Israel</gpe> knows what is necessary for peace , the return of lands captured in <event>the 1967 Middle East war</event> .


He also acknowledged the Palestinian refugees ' right of return .

He also acknowledged the <norp>Palestinian</norp> refugees ' right of return .


In another interview Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat said the Israelis and Palestinians had made real progress Red Sea resort of Taba , but Prime Minister Ehud Barak has suspended contacts with the Palestinians until after the February 6th election .

In another interview <norp>Palestinian</norp> leader <person>Yasser Arafat</person> said the <norp>Israelis</norp> and <norp>Palestinians</norp> had made real progress <loc>Red Sea</loc> resort of <gpe>Taba</gpe> , but Prime Minister <person>Ehud Barak</person> has suspended contacts with the <norp>Palestinians</norp> until after the <date>February 6th</date> election .


Correspondent Laurie Cassman has a report .

Correspondent <person>Laurie Cassman</person> has a report .


Prime Minister Barak 's decision not to meet Yasser Arafat this week comes after the Palestinian leader 's angry speech on Sunday at an economic forum in Switzerland .

Prime Minister <person>Barak</person> 's decision not to meet <person>Yasser Arafat</person> <date>this week</date> comes after the <norp>Palestinian</norp> leader 's angry speech on <date>Sunday</date> at an economic forum in <gpe>Switzerland</gpe> .


Mr. Arafat accused Israel of waging a savage and barbaric war against his people .

Mr. <person>Arafat</person> accused <gpe>Israel</gpe> of waging a savage and barbaric war against his people .


One day earlier Israeli and Palestinian negotiators had announced that a week of marathon talks have brought them closer than ever to a final agreement .

<date>One day earlier</date> <norp>Israeli</norp> and <norp>Palestinian</norp> negotiators had announced that <date>a week</date> of marathon talks have brought them closer than ever to a final agreement .


After the angry outburst Mr. Arafat reaffirmed his commitment to peace and his willingness to meet Mr. Barak .

After the angry outburst Mr. <person>Arafat</person> reaffirmed his commitment to peace and his willingness to meet Mr. <person>Barak</person> .


The meeting was expected later this week in Stockholm , but Mr. Barak 's security advisor told Israeli Radio Monday such a meeting now is out of the question .

The meeting was expected <date>later this week</date> in <gpe>Stockholm</gpe> , but Mr. <person>Barak</person> 's security advisor told <norp>Israeli</norp> Radio <date>Monday</date> such a meeting now is out of the question .


He described the Arafat speech as inflammatory .

He described the <person>Arafat</person> speech as inflammatory .


Mr. Barak can not risk the controversial meeting ahead of next week 's election .

Mr. <person>Barak</person> can not risk the controversial meeting ahead of <date>next week 's</date> election .


He still trails far behind the hard line Likud Party leader Ariel Sharon in the opinion polls .

He still trails far behind the hard line <org>Likud Party</org> leader <person>Ariel Sharon</person> in the opinion polls .


Laurie Cassman , VOA News , Jerusalem .

<person>Laurie Cassman</person> , <org>VOA News</org> , <gpe>Jerusalem</gpe> .


RUSSIAN officials say Cuba has no interest in completing construction of a Soviet era nuclear power plant on the island .

<norp>RUSSIAN</norp> officials say <gpe>Cuba</gpe> has no interest in completing construction of a <norp>Soviet</norp> era nuclear power plant on the island .


Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday , Moscow has no plans to press Havana to finish construction of the Juragua nuclear facility .

<norp>Russian</norp> President <person>Vladimir Putin</person> said <date>Friday</date> , <gpe>Moscow</gpe> has no plans to press <gpe>Havana</gpe> to finish construction of the <fac>Juragua</fac> nuclear facility .


He made his comments on the last day of his official visit to the Communist ruled island .

He made his comments on <date>the last day</date> of his official visit to the <norp>Communist</norp> ruled island .


Construction halted on the Juragua plant in 1992 , following the collapse of the Soviet Union , which provided funding and technology for the project .

Construction halted on the <fac>Juragua</fac> plant in <date>1992</date> , following the collapse of <gpe>the Soviet Union</gpe> , which provided funding and technology for the project .


Friday 's announcement coincided with the permanent closing of the Chernobyl nuclear facility , which was the scene of the world 's worst nuclear accident in 1986 .

<date>Friday</date> 's announcement coincided with the permanent closing of the <fac>Chernobyl</fac> nuclear facility , which was the scene of the world 's worst nuclear accident in <date>1986</date> .


US Energy Secretary Bill Richardson has extended an emergency order to keep electricity flowing to California .

<gpe>US</gpe> <org>Energy</org> Secretary <person>Bill Richardson</person> has extended an emergency order to keep electricity flowing to <gpe>California</gpe> .


The measure will require western suppliers to sell power to the state for at least another week .

The measure will require western suppliers to sell power to the state for <date>at least another week</date> .


As we hear from Michael Sullivan , the official also proposed an energy price cap for the West , but the suggestion had a mixed response from western governors .

As we hear from <person>Michael Sullivan</person> , the official also proposed an energy price cap for the <loc>West</loc> , but the suggestion had a mixed response from western governors .


The extension of the federal order will require power suppliers in the West to keep sending their surplus electricity to California .

The extension of the federal order will require power suppliers in the <loc>West</loc> to keep sending their surplus electricity to <gpe>California</gpe> .


Electrical resources in the West Coast state are stretched to their limit with a looming threat of rolling blackouts .

Electrical resources in the <loc>West Coast</loc> state are stretched to their limit with a looming threat of rolling blackouts .


California 's utility companies are not able to generate all the power their customers need , so they have turned to outside suppliers and in the face of rising prices the state 's two largest utility firms have sunk more than eight billion dollars in debt .

<gpe>California</gpe> 's utility companies are not able to generate all the power their customers need , so they have turned to outside suppliers and in the face of rising prices the state 's <cardinal>two</cardinal> largest utility firms have sunk <money>more than eight billion dollars</money> in debt .


Suppliers outside California had threatened to cut off the power , afraid that the cash - strapped utilities were not able to pay for it .

Suppliers outside <gpe>California</gpe> had threatened to cut off the power , afraid that the cash - strapped utilities were not able to pay for it .


The emergency order last week and the extension announced in Denver at a meeting of western governors will keep electricity flowing to California through the middle of next week .

The emergency order <date>last week</date> and the extension announced in <gpe>Denver</gpe> at a meeting of western governors will keep electricity flowing to <gpe>California</gpe> through <date>the middle of next week</date> .


The crisis began three years ago when California imposed a price freeze on its private utility firms to protect consumers while the state deregulates its energy sector , but the lifting of market controls led to wild price fluctuations on the wholesale market .

The crisis began <date>three years ago</date> when <gpe>California</gpe> imposed a price freeze on its private utility firms to protect consumers while the state deregulates its energy sector , but the lifting of market controls led to wild price fluctuations on the wholesale market .


This was made worse by several factors .


No new generating stations have been built in the state in recent years and some existing generators are offline for repairs .

No new generating stations have been built in the state in <date>recent years</date> and some existing generators are offline for repairs .


At the same time California has been growing .

At the same time <gpe>California</gpe> has been growing .


Energy Secretary Bill Richardson says it is a case of demand outpacing supplies .

<org>Energy</org> Secretary <person>Bill Richardson</person> says it is a case of demand outpacing supplies .


I know in California alone in the last year electricity demand has increased 13 % .

I know in <gpe>California</gpe> alone in <date>the last year</date> electricity demand has increased <percent>13 %</percent> .


California 's wholesale electricity prices , which had been capped at 250 dollars per megawatt hour in a regulated market , have peaked under deregulation at 1400 dollars per megawatt hour .

<gpe>California</gpe> 's wholesale electricity prices , which had been capped at <money>250 dollars</money> per megawatt hour in a regulated market , have peaked under deregulation at <money>1400 dollars</money> per megawatt hour .


With the current price freeze , utilities have been prevented from passing along the increase to consumers .


Wednesday , Energy Secretary Bill Richardson suggested a new price cap for electricity throughout the western states .

<date>Wednesday</date> , <org>Energy</org> Secretary <person>Bill Richardson</person> suggested a new price cap for electricity throughout the western states .


Oregon 's Governor supports the idea .

<gpe>Oregon</gpe> 's Governor supports the idea .


Some other western leaders are not convinced that a price cap will solve the problem .


Energy suppliers oppose a cap , saying instead they need incentives to build more generating stations .


Last week federal regulators imposed a so - called soft cap on California , which requires power firms to justify prices above 150 dollars per megawatt hour .

<date>Last week</date> federal regulators imposed a so - called soft cap on <gpe>California</gpe> , which requires power firms to justify prices above <money>150 dollars</money> per megawatt hour .


The measure does not however prevent them from charging above that level .


One large utility company , Southern California Edison says it may have to file for bankruptcy unless government officials can offer some relief .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> large utility company , <org>Southern California Edison</org> says it may have to file for bankruptcy unless government officials can offer some relief .


The privately owned company is now three and a half billion dollars in debt .

The privately owned company is now <money>three and a half billion dollars</money> in debt .


Consumer activists are skeptical .


They know the utility recently declared a dividend for its stockholders , but Edison 's Tom Higgins says the firm can not continue to pay high prices for electricity while keeping prices low for its customers .

They know the utility recently declared a dividend for its stockholders , but <org>Edison</org> 's <person>Tom Higgins</person> says the firm can not continue to pay high prices for electricity while keeping prices low for its customers .


Our books are an open matter .


It 's not hard for anybody to see .


They can talk to the banks themselves and see that you know , clearly we do n't have the ability to do this .


We do n't print money in the basement .


California 's Governor this week warned that intermittent cutoffs of power around the state may begin as early as next week if nothing more is done to alleviate the crisis .

<gpe>California</gpe> 's Governor <date>this week</date> warned that intermittent cutoffs of power around the state may begin as early as <date>next week</date> if nothing more is done to alleviate the crisis .


Mike O'Sullivan , VOA News , Los Angeles .

<person>Mike O'Sullivan</person> , <org>VOA News</org> , <gpe>Los Angeles</gpe> .


And if you are in South Asia , perhaps you heard the Radio Canada International test transmissions to your part of the world back on the 8th , 9th , and 10th of November .

And if you are in <loc>South Asia</loc> , perhaps you heard the <org>Radio Canada International</org> test transmissions to your part of the world back on the <ordinal>8th</ordinal> , <ordinal>9th</ordinal> , and <date>10th of November</date> .


They were via Radio Netherlands at Flavo , the Netherlands 15:00 - 16:00 UTC on 15360 and 17820 , that according to Andy Senet , via Glenhouser .

They were via <org>Radio Netherlands</org> at <gpe>Flavo</gpe> , the <gpe>Netherlands</gpe> <time>15:00 - 16:00 UTC</time> on <cardinal>15360</cardinal> and <cardinal>17820</cardinal> , that according to <person>Andy Senet</person> , via <person>Glenhouser</person> .


RCI tells me that it is not yet decided whether it will start a permanent service to South Asia .

<org>RCI</org> tells me that it is not yet decided whether it will start a permanent service to <loc>South Asia</loc> .


Violence between Israelis and Palestinians continued in its third month , though at a slightly reduced level overall .

Violence between <norp>Israelis</norp> and <norp>Palestinians</norp> continued in its <date>third month</date> , though at a slightly reduced level overall .


Israeli and Palestinian negotiators met separately at the White House with President Bill Clinton in hopes of restarting direct negotiations between them for a final settlement .

<norp>Israeli</norp> and <norp>Palestinian</norp> negotiators met separately at <fac>the White House</fac> with President <person>Bill Clinton</person> in hopes of restarting direct negotiations between them for a final settlement .


Two more bombs have exploded near Haiti 's capital killing a 7 - year - old girl and wounding two people in the latest pre-election violence .

<cardinal>Two</cardinal> more bombs have exploded near <gpe>Haiti</gpe> 's capital killing a <date>7 - year - old</date> girl and wounding <cardinal>two</cardinal> people in the latest pre-election violence .


On Wednesday , seven bombs exploded around Port - au - Prince .

On <date>Wednesday</date> , <cardinal>seven</cardinal> bombs exploded around <gpe>Port - au - Prince</gpe> .


No group has claimed responsibility for today 's blasts .

No group has claimed responsibility for <date>today</date> 's blasts .


The government and opposition are exchanging accusations over who is to blame for a wave of violence ahead of Sunday 's presidential election .

The government and opposition are exchanging accusations over who is to blame for a wave of violence ahead of <date>Sunday</date> 's presidential election .


I 'm Dave Deforest , VOA News .

I 'm <person>Dave Deforest</person> , <org>VOA News</org> .


Colombian authorities say the country 's largest Marxist rebel group has shot and killed a leading opposition congressman and five others in a roadside ambush in a rebel held area of southern Colombia .

<norp>Colombian</norp> authorities say the country 's largest <norp>Marxist</norp> rebel group has shot and killed a leading opposition congressman and <cardinal>five</cardinal> others in a roadside ambush in a rebel held area of southern <gpe>Colombia</gpe> .


Police say the gunmen attacked lawmaker Diego Turbai and his entourage Friday .

Police say the gunmen attacked lawmaker <person>Diego Turbai</person> and his entourage <date>Friday</date> .


In the Gaza Strip , Wednesday , Israeli soldiers fired on armed Palestinians trying to cut through a border fence .

In <gpe>the Gaza Strip</gpe> , <date>Wednesday</date> , <norp>Israeli</norp> soldiers fired on armed <norp>Palestinians</norp> trying to cut through a border fence .


The Army says it may have killed two of them .

The <org>Army</org> says it may have killed <cardinal>two</cardinal> of them .


ISRAELI radio said four Palestinians were killed , but Palestinian security officials deny there were any casualties and they say no such incident took place .

<norp>ISRAELI</norp> radio said <cardinal>four</cardinal> <norp>Palestinians</norp> were killed , but <norp>Palestinian</norp> security officials deny there were any casualties and they say no such incident took place .


Israeli soldiers have killed another Palestinian in the West Bank as clashes continue between the two sides .

<norp>Israeli</norp> soldiers have killed another <norp>Palestinian</norp> in <gpe>the West Bank</gpe> as clashes continue between the <cardinal>two</cardinal> sides .


Meanwhile , Israel has confiscated the VIP card of a senior Palestinian official .

Meanwhile , <gpe>Israel</gpe> has confiscated the VIP card of a senior <norp>Palestinian</norp> official .


Colonel Taffiq Terrawi , a director of Palestinian intelligence , was briefly detained by Israeli soldiers at a West Bank road block , where they confiscated an Israeli permit that grants him free movement in and out of the area .

Colonel <person>Taffiq Terrawi</person> , a director of <norp>Palestinian</norp> intelligence , was briefly detained by <norp>Israeli</norp> soldiers at a <gpe>West Bank</gpe> road block , where they confiscated an <norp>Israeli</norp> permit that grants him free movement in and out of the area .


International aid agencies have warned that proposed United Nations sanctions against Afghanistan 's Taliban authorities could paralyze efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to the victims of drought and conflict .

International aid agencies have warned that proposed <org>United Nations</org> sanctions against <gpe>Afghanistan</gpe> 's <org>Taliban</org> authorities could paralyze efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to the victims of drought and conflict .


The new sanctions proposed by the United States and Russia would impose an arms embargo on the Taliban .

The new sanctions proposed by <gpe>the United States</gpe> and <gpe>Russia</gpe> would impose an arms embargo on the <org>Taliban</org> .


Among other things , they would also freeze Taliban assets abroad and restrict foreign travel by Taliban officials .

Among other things , they would also freeze <org>Taliban</org> assets abroad and restrict foreign travel by <org>Taliban</org> officials .


The UN Co-ordinator for Afghanistan said in Geneva , the proposed UN measure could block badly - needed aid shipments .

The <org>UN</org> Co-ordinator for <gpe>Afghanistan</gpe> said in <gpe>Geneva</gpe> , the proposed <org>UN</org> measure could block badly - needed aid shipments .


I 'm Connie Lawn , VOA News .

I 'm <person>Connie Lawn</person> , <org>VOA News</org> .


Meanwhile , four Palestinian policemen were killed Wednesday during a nine - hour battle with Israeli troops near a refugee camp in the Gaza Strip .

Meanwhile , <cardinal>four</cardinal> <norp>Palestinian</norp> policemen were killed <date>Wednesday</date> during a <time>nine - hour</time> battle with <norp>Israeli</norp> troops near a refugee camp in <gpe>the Gaza Strip</gpe> .


Meredith Bewl reports from Jerusalem .

<person>Meredith Bewl</person> reports from <gpe>Jerusalem</gpe> .


The Israeli military says Palestinian gunmen at the Khan Younus refugee camp in the southern part of the Gaza Strip opened fire on Israeli forces and the soldiers responded .

The <norp>Israeli</norp> military says <norp>Palestinian</norp> gunmen at the <fac>Khan Younus</fac> refugee camp in the southern part of <gpe>the Gaza Strip</gpe> opened fire on <norp>Israeli</norp> forces and the soldiers responded .


Palestinians say Israeli rocket fire hit a police post and killed at least one Palestinian security officer .

<norp>Palestinians</norp> say <norp>Israeli</norp> rocket fire hit a police post and killed <cardinal>at least one</cardinal> <norp>Palestinian</norp> security officer .


At least three other Palestinian policemen were killed in the fierce clashes , which went on for hours .

<cardinal>At least three</cardinal> other <norp>Palestinian</norp> policemen were killed in the fierce clashes , which went on for <time>hours</time> .


In the West Bank town of Hebron , Israeli soldiers gunned down a Palestinian member of the militant Hamas group as he was standing outside his shop .

In the <gpe>West Bank</gpe> town of <gpe>Hebron</gpe> , <norp>Israeli</norp> soldiers gunned down a <norp>Palestinian</norp> member of the militant <org>Hamas</org> group as he was standing outside his shop .


Palestinians called the shooting an assassination .

<norp>Palestinians</norp> called the shooting an assassination .


The Israeli Army said it was checking the reports .

<ordinal>The Israeli Army</ordinal> said it was checking the reports .


The shooting appeared to be the latest in a series of targeted attacks against anti-Israeli militants .

The shooting appeared to be the latest in a series of targeted attacks against <norp>anti-Israeli</norp> militants .


Deputy Defense Minister Irfan Sneh said this week Israel now has a policy of tracking down Palestinians who attack Israelis .

Deputy <org>Defense</org> Minister <person>Irfan Sneh</person> said <date>this week</date> <gpe>Israel</gpe> now has a policy of tracking down <norp>Palestinians</norp> who attack <norp>Israelis</norp> .


Meredith Bewl , VOA News Jerusalem .

<person>Meredith Bewl</person> , <org>VOA News</org> <gpe>Jerusalem</gpe> .


The US Navy destroyer damaged apparently by a terrorist bomb while refueling at the Red Sea port , Aden has begun its journey back to the States for repair .

The <org>US Navy</org> destroyer damaged apparently by a terrorist bomb while refueling at the <loc>Red Sea</loc> port , <gpe>Aden</gpe> has begun its journey back to the <gpe>States</gpe> for repair .


As Dave Gavlak reports , the US Cole was towed out of the Aden Harbor to a waiting Norwegian transport ship , that will actually carry the damaged destroyer home .

As <person>Dave Gavlak</person> reports , <product>the US Cole</product> was towed out of <fac>the Aden Harbor</fac> to a waiting <norp>Norwegian</norp> transport ship , that will actually carry the damaged destroyer home .


The American national anthem played as four tug boats pulled the USS Cole slowly out of Yemen 's southern port of Aden .

The <norp>American</norp> national anthem played as <cardinal>four</cardinal> tug boats pulled <product>the USS Cole</product> slowly out of <gpe>Yemen</gpe> 's southern port of <gpe>Aden</gpe> .


The Cole was badly damaged two weeks ago in an apparent suicide bombing that killed 17 US sailors .

The <product>Cole</product> was badly damaged <date>two weeks ago</date> in an apparent suicide bombing that killed <cardinal>17</cardinal> <gpe>US</gpe> sailors .


Security was tight as the ship was towed out .


American and Yemeni patrol boats mounted with machine guns escorted the Cole out to open waters while American helicopters flew overhead .

<norp>American</norp> and <norp>Yemeni</norp> patrol boats mounted with machine guns escorted the <product>Cole</product> out to open waters while <norp>American</norp> helicopters flew overhead .


Some Yemenis expressed relief to see the ship leave .

Some <norp>Yemenis</norp> expressed relief to see the ship leave .


Many locals said they feared the bombing of the ship would serve as an excuse for continued US military presence in the Gulf country .

Many locals said they feared the bombing of the ship would serve as an excuse for continued <gpe>US</gpe> military presence in the <loc>Gulf</loc> country .


Diplomats and analysts have commented that a joint investigation into the attack may in fact strengthen ties between the world super power and the poor , but strategic Arab state .

Diplomats and analysts have commented that a joint investigation into the attack may in fact strengthen ties between the world super power and the poor , but strategic <norp>Arab</norp> state .


US and Yemeni officials say they believe Islamic militants may have carried out the bombing .

<gpe>US</gpe> and <norp>Yemeni</norp> officials say they believe <norp>Islamic</norp> militants may have carried out the bombing .


So far two little known Islamic groups have claimed responsibility for the attack .

So far <cardinal>two</cardinal> little known <norp>Islamic</norp> groups have claimed responsibility for the attack .


Yemeni authorities claimed they have detained over 70 people for questioning .

<norp>Yemeni</norp> authorities claimed they have detained <cardinal>over 70</cardinal> people for questioning .


These include some Afghan - Arab volunteers who came to Yemen after fighting against Soviet forces in Afghanistan in the 1980s .

These include some <norp>Afghan - Arab</norp> volunteers who came to <gpe>Yemen</gpe> after fighting against <norp>Soviet</norp> forces in <gpe>Afghanistan</gpe> in <date>the 1980s</date> .


Dave Gavlak for VOA News , Cairo .

<person>Dave Gavlak</person> for <org>VOA News</org> , <gpe>Cairo</gpe> .


UN Secretary General Kofi Annan said Wednesday , it is important to help spread democracy around the world .

<org>UN</org> Secretary General <person>Kofi Annan</person> said <date>Wednesday</date> , it is important to help spread democracy around the world .


VOA 's Breck Ardery reports from the United Nations .

<org>VOA</org> 's <person>Breck Ardery</person> reports from <fac>the United Nations</fac> .


In a new report , the Secretary General says democratization has now taken root as a universal norm and that the United Nations should strengthen its commitment to assisting nations that are moving toward democracy .

In a new report , the Secretary General says democratization has now taken root as a universal norm and that <org>the United Nations</org> should strengthen its commitment to assisting nations that are moving toward democracy .


Commenting on the report , UN Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs Danilo Turk told reporters the principle of national sovereignty does not preclude support for democracy .

Commenting on the report , <org>UN</org> Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs <person>Danilo Turk</person> told reporters the principle of national sovereignty does not preclude support for democracy .


We are usually not sufficiently clear , we meaning the Secretariat , in explaining that sovereignty and final analysis belongs to the people and sovereignty should be seen in a democratic context .

We are usually not sufficiently clear , we meaning the <org>Secretariat</org> , in explaining that sovereignty and final analysis belongs to the people and sovereignty should be seen in a democratic context .


Sovereignty is not simply a quality of statehood , but it has to do with the power of the people and democratic structures which make sovereignty an important human value .


Mr. Churk also has said that a lack of democracy is the root cause of many contemporary armed conflicts .

Mr. <person>Churk</person> also has said that a lack of democracy is the root cause of many contemporary armed conflicts .


The Secretary General 's report says democracy can develop anywhere and that it is a common misperception that democracy is a Western concept .

The Secretary General 's report says democracy can develop anywhere and that it is a common misperception that democracy is a <norp>Western</norp> concept .


The report was issued in advance of a UN - sponsored conference on new and restored democracies that will be held in the African nation of Benin in early December .

The report was issued in advance of a <org>UN</org> - sponsored conference on new and restored democracies that will be held in the <norp>African</norp> nation of <gpe>Benin</gpe> in <date>early December</date> .


Breck Ardery , VOA News , at the United Nations .

<person>Breck Ardery</person> , <org>VOA News</org> , at <fac>the United Nations</fac> .


Welcome to another hour of news and information here on the Voice of America .

Welcome to <time>another hour</time> of news and information here on <org>the Voice of America</org> .


I 'm Victor Moralis along with David Chadwick on VOA News Now .

I 'm <person>Victor Moralis</person> along with <person>David Chadwick</person> on <org>VOA News Now</org> .


India has signed a series of deals with Russia to acquire an aircraft carrier , fighter jets and tanks .

<gpe>India</gpe> has signed a series of deals with <gpe>Russia</gpe> to acquire an aircraft carrier , fighter jets and tanks .


The deals were signed as Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded his talks with Indian leaders in New Delhi .

The deals were signed as <norp>Russian</norp> President <person>Vladimir Putin</person> concluded his talks with <norp>Indian</norp> leaders in <gpe>New Delhi</gpe> .


The two countries also signed a strategic partnership agreement , obligating both countries to avoid joining political or military alliances against each other .

The <cardinal>two</cardinal> countries also signed a strategic partnership agreement , obligating both countries to avoid joining political or military alliances against each other .


They also agreed to form a joint working group for mutual concerns on terrorism .


News Now 's Susan Yakie spoke with our New Delhi correspondent Jim Teeple about the Russian leader 's visit and his comments about the situation in the disputed Kashmir region .

<org>News Now 's</org> <person>Susan Yakie</person> spoke with our <gpe>New Delhi</gpe> correspondent <person>Jim Teeple</person> about the <norp>Russian</norp> leader 's visit and his comments about the situation in the disputed <gpe>Kashmir</gpe> region .


He said exactly what the Indians wanted to hear , which is that the dispute over Kashmir between India and Pakistan should be solved bilaterally and that there should be no outside interference , as he put it in this question .

He said exactly what the <norp>Indians</norp> wanted to hear , which is that the dispute over <gpe>Kashmir</gpe> between <gpe>India</gpe> and <gpe>Pakistan</gpe> should be solved bilaterally and that there should be no outside interference , as he put it in this question .


Now this is something the Indians have been saying all along .


Of course , Pakistan wants international attention focussed on Kashmir , and Mr. Putin also said that he supports India 's tough approach to the external violence in Kashmir as he described it .

Of course , <gpe>Pakistan</gpe> wants international attention focussed on <gpe>Kashmir</gpe> , and Mr. <person>Putin</person> also said that he supports <gpe>India</gpe> 's tough approach to the external violence in <gpe>Kashmir</gpe> as he described it .


This is another thing that the Indians were glad to hear him say , and he also said that both India and Russia suffer from the same sort of terrorism , as he put it , referring of course to the separatist militancies in Chechnya and Russia and in Jammu and Kashmir .

This is another thing that the <norp>Indians</norp> were glad to hear him say , and he also said that both <gpe>India</gpe> and <gpe>Russia</gpe> suffer from the same sort of terrorism , as he put it , referring of course to the separatist militancies in <gpe>Chechnya</gpe> and <gpe>Russia</gpe> and in <gpe>Jammu</gpe> and <gpe>Kashmir</gpe> .


So on balance I do n't think that the Indians heard anything from Mr. Putin that they did not want to hear .

So on balance I do n't think that the <norp>Indians</norp> heard anything from Mr. <person>Putin</person> that they did not want to hear .


What sort of hold does Russia have on India and Pakistan ?

What sort of hold does <gpe>Russia</gpe> have on <gpe>India</gpe> and <gpe>Pakistan</gpe> ?


Russia has very little influence with Pakistan , but of course Russia supplies India with 70 % of its military hardware and that was of course the second pillar here of Mr. Putin 's visit , which was to finalize some very substantial arms deals .

<gpe>Russia</gpe> has very little influence with <gpe>Pakistan</gpe> , but of course <gpe>Russia</gpe> supplies <gpe>India</gpe> with <percent>70 %</percent> of its military hardware and that was of course the second pillar here of Mr. <person>Putin</person> 's visit , which was to finalize some very substantial arms deals .


In fact , we 're hearing that those deals have now been finalized , that Russia will sell India 300 tanks , T - 90 tanks , very advanced tanks , that Russia will also sell to India some Sukoi - 30 bombers , fighter - bombers .

In fact , we 're hearing that those deals have now been finalized , that <gpe>Russia</gpe> will sell <gpe>India</gpe> <cardinal>300</cardinal> tanks , <product>T - 90</product> tanks , very advanced tanks , that <gpe>Russia</gpe> will also sell to <gpe>India</gpe> some <product>Sukoi - 30</product> bombers , fighter - bombers .


They are going to allow India to assemble about 140 of these bombers here in India , and they are also going to finalize a deal whereby India will acquire the Admiral Gorshkov .

They are going to allow <gpe>India</gpe> to assemble <cardinal>about 140</cardinal> of these bombers here in <gpe>India</gpe> , and they are also going to finalize a deal whereby <gpe>India</gpe> will acquire the Admiral <person>Gorshkov</person> .


That 's an old Russian aircraft carrier that India has wanted to get for some time because India only has one other aircraft carrier , and this carrier in particular would allow the Indian Navy to extend its strategic strength much farther than it currently can now .

That 's an old <norp>Russian</norp> aircraft carrier that <gpe>India</gpe> has wanted to get for some time because <gpe>India</gpe> only has one other aircraft carrier , and this carrier in particular would allow <org>the Indian Navy</org> to extend its strategic strength much farther than it currently can now .


So indeed Russia does have quite a bit of influence here .

So indeed <gpe>Russia</gpe> does have quite a bit of influence here .


These ties have gone way back , nearly 40 years , and they were strengthened considerably by this visit .

These ties have gone way back , <date>nearly 40 years</date> , and they were strengthened considerably by this visit .


In fact both countries have now agreed to combat what they call terrorism with joint groups .


They have also set up a joint working group on Afghanistan , which is of course a cause of concern for both countries .

They have also set up a joint working group on <gpe>Afghanistan</gpe> , which is of course a cause of concern for both countries .


Mr. Putin 's visit is the first by a Russian leader in seven years .

Mr. <person>Putin</person> 's visit is the <ordinal>first</ordinal> by a <norp>Russian</norp> leader in <date>seven years</date> .


Why does the trip come now ?


Well , his trip has actually been delayed for a couple of years .

Well , his trip has actually been delayed for <date>a couple of years</date> .


Russian President was supposed to visit India as early as 97 - 1998 , but of course Boris Yeltsin 's health problems got in the way of that , and then of course , Mr. Yeltsin 's abrupt resignation last year another visit and then the subsequent election campaign and inauguration of Vladimir Putin took some time , so it 's been put off for a couple of years .

<norp>Russian</norp> President was supposed to visit <gpe>India</gpe> as early as <date>97</date> - <date>1998</date> , but of course <person>Boris Yeltsin 's</person> health problems got in the way of that , and then of course , Mr. <person>Yeltsin</person> 's abrupt resignation <date>last year</date> another visit and then the subsequent election campaign and inauguration of <person>Vladimir Putin</person> took some time , so it 's been put off for a couple of years .


But there have also been a lot of delays in other areas .


These arms agreements that we were just speaking about have taken quite some time to finalize .


How does this visit by Mr. Putin compare to President Clinton 's visit earlier this year ?

How does this visit by Mr. <person>Putin</person> compare to President <person>Clinton</person> 's visit <date>earlier this year</date> ?


That 's an interesting question because Vladimir Putin on Wednesday addressed the Indian Parliament just as Bill Clinton had done six months ago , and I think it 's safe to say that Mr. Putin actually probably accomplished more than Mr. Clinton did in the hard concrete terms of arms sales and that sort of thing , but it was Mr. Clinton that stole the Indian lawmakers ' hearts .

That 's an interesting question because <person>Vladimir Putin</person> on <date>Wednesday</date> addressed <org>the Indian Parliament</org> just as <person>Bill Clinton</person> had done <date>six months ago</date> , and I think it 's safe to say that Mr. <person>Putin</person> actually probably accomplished more than Mr. <person>Clinton</person> did in the hard concrete terms of arms sales and that sort of thing , but it was Mr. <person>Clinton</person> that stole the <norp>Indian</norp> lawmakers ' hearts .


Of course you will recall when he spoke to the parliament there was an ecstatic welcome for him .


The Indian lawmakers were sort of clambering over each other to shake his hand as he left the parliament building .

The <norp>Indian</norp> lawmakers were sort of clambering over each other to shake his hand as he left the parliament building .


There was none of that for Mr. Putin , but he did receive a very warm welcome , although most ordinary Indians who were actually rather captivated by Mr. Clinton 's visit did not really pay much attention to Mr. Putin 's visit .

There was none of that for Mr. <person>Putin</person> , but he did receive a very warm welcome , although most ordinary <norp>Indians</norp> who were actually rather captivated by Mr. <person>Clinton</person> 's visit did not really pay much attention to Mr. <person>Putin</person> 's visit .


In fact his visit has somewhat been ignored and in fact the main news story here in India has been sort of a local controversy over the roll - back of fuel prices rather than Mr. Putin 's visit , but he did do what he had to do and he certainly strengthened ties in a strategic sense between Russia and India .

In fact his visit has somewhat been ignored and in fact the main news story here in <gpe>India</gpe> has been sort of a local controversy over the roll - back of fuel prices rather than Mr. <person>Putin</person> 's visit , but he did do what he had to do and he certainly strengthened ties in a strategic sense between <gpe>Russia</gpe> and <gpe>India</gpe> .


That 's VOA correspondent Jim Teeple .

That 's <org>VOA</org> correspondent <person>Jim Teeple</person> .


In a joint statement Wednesday , India and Russia called for further measures against Afghanistan 's dominant Taliban faction .

In a joint statement <date>Wednesday</date> , <gpe>India</gpe> and <gpe>Russia</gpe> called for further measures against <gpe>Afghanistan</gpe> 's dominant <org>Taliban</org> faction .


The statement accuses the Taliban of supporting international terrorism .

The statement accuses the <org>Taliban</org> of supporting international terrorism .