11.   But the administration argues that the United States should take a leadership role by approving the treaty soon.

12.   China, which has not ratified the pact and is taking its lead from the United States, on Tuesday urged the Senate to approve the treaty.

13.   Congress has not yet approved the treaty, which President Clinton strongly backs.

14.   However, there was still disagreement Thursday night over how many countries would have to approve the treaty before it went into effect.

15.   If Senate approves treaty.

16.   In half an hour he would learn that the Players Association executive committee had approved the treaty, but that the rank and file still had to approve it.

17.   In the Senate, the body empowered to approve international treaties, several leading Republicans led by Sen. Jesse Helms, R-N.C., have voiced serious misgivings.

18.   Indeed, the treaties were approved, with one vote to spare, and the rejection speech was never needed.

19.   In this country, only the Senate can approve a treaty, but both chambers must approve legislation spelling out how it will be implemented.

20.   It would be better if the two countries approved the treaty, but if they decline, other nations should proceed without them.