1.   A core group of developing countries in the World Trade Organization hardened its stand Tuesday against Western demands to link trade with human rights at workplaces.

2.   At first the Taliban appeared ready to negotiate but has since hardened its stand, saying it expects to win the entire country by force.

3.   Developing countries harden stand against linking trade with human rights.

4.   The efforts of a special UN peace mission led by Norbert Holl have also been unfruitful, with both sides hardening their stands.