11.   But a Crossair spokesman said the company agreed with the decision to relax the ban, and confirmed that Swiss authorities had consulted the airline industry.

12.   Failure to relax the ban could sharply intensify a crisis that has gripped the EU since it imposed the export ban seven weeks ago to protect beef markets.

13.   Foreign Minister Ali Alatas said a methodical approach to relaxing the ban should be used.

14.   France partially relaxed its ban on Coca-Cola sales Thursday, but Switzerland joined a move by other nations to block sales of Coca-Cola drinks produced in Belgium.

15.   Germany, Austria and other firm opponents of relaxing the ban face strong consumer and farm lobbies worried by any resumption of imports from Britain.

16.   However, with presidential and legislative elections scheduled in the next few months, it was unlikely the French government would risk public criticism by relaxing the ban.

17.   In return, the others pledged to relax the ban on British beef exports if London met new health standards, including the elimination of cattle judged at risk.

18.   In return, the others pledged to relax a ban on British beef exports if Britain implemented new health and safety measures, including the slaughter of threatened cattle.

19.   Last month, the U.S. House rejected a move to relax the ban.

20.   Nevertheless, the Russians and others are urging the international community to relax the ban on aid to Yugoslavia because of its central position within the Balkans.