31.   Layoffs are expected to increase dramatically in the near term, as China accelerates reforms to bring state enterprises into line with the market economy.

32.   South Korea on Monday announced a series of budget cuts and sweeping plans to accelerate reform of its financial markets and help its ailing economy.

33.   The Bratislava government has tried to accelerate reforms which will enable Slovakia to join the European Union, after preparations lagged behind under Meciar.