11.   Though still in the exploratory phase, the initiative suggested a fresh American effort to resolve the three-week impasse with Iraq without the use of force.

12.   With such diametrically opposed views, commentators say that once the talks move beyond an exploratory phase, they could drag on for years and perhaps go nowhere.

13.   The talks could open with an exploratory phase and then lead to more serious discussions with the rebel delegation being led by Gusmao himself, Santana said.