1.   An Aventis spokeswoman declined to comment on when a deal might be announced, but said the negotiations were progressing.

2.   A spokesman for the British embassy in Kabul, Paul Sykes, said no agreement had been reached, but that negotiations were progressing well.

3.   Companies generally are not required to disclose unsolicited takeover offers if negotiations do not progress, lawyers say.

4.   He endorsed a compromise timetable for paramilitary groups to turn in their weapons as negotiations progressed.

5.   He declined to say how far the negotiations have progressed, however.

6.   It was unclear how the negotiations had progressed so far without Italy being consulted.

7.   Moore said the company had thought negotiations were progressing on Saturday.

8.   More rounds of talks could be scheduled for the following week if the negotiations are progressing.

9.   Negotiations are progressing, and a deal between the parties is expected.

10.   Negotiations did not progress smoothly, however.