21.   The government offensive also comes amid renewed attacks by fundamentalist hardliners.

22.   The government offensive comes a week after a breakdown in peace talks between President Liamine Zeroual and the leaders of the outlawed Islamic Salvation Front.

23.   The Kabul government offensive came as Taliban officials said the Islamic militia entered into neighbouring Kunar province to the east of Laghman.

24.   The new diplomatic offensive comes at a time when Taiwan has infuriated China with other attempts to get international recognition.

25.   The offensive came after a wave of rebel attacks on villages and civilians earlier in the week.