11.   Among subjects on the agenda were nuclear energy, science, health care, space, the environment, defense conversion and business development.

12.   Belarus officials said they hope the partnership program will give the country access to new technologies for defense conversion, as well as exchanges of information and military delegations.

13.   Defense analysts and weapons makers predict that Republicans will cut pet Democratic programs such as defense conversion and shuffle funds into weapons systems.

14.   Exchange of information and visits among civil and military specialists on defense expenditures, budgeting, defense conversion and related economic questions.

15.   The commission also has committees on defense conversion and business development.

16.   The joint commission discussed a wide range of issues, including U.S. investments and trade, democracy, and defense conversion.

17.   The Pentagon has targeted Istok as one of its highest priorities for defense conversion.