21.   He said as the country moves towards a more competitive environment, consumer interest must continue to be protected.

22.   Interest continued to be big in China Telecom on expectations the company would soon buy assets from its parent, brokers said.

23.   Strong mutual interests continue to bind the two countries, making any sharp or immediate rupture unlikely.

24.   Fund interest in copper continued to benefit the rest of the complex, with most metals posting gains on the day.

25.   Dealers said sentiment remains upbeat and fund interest continues to be strong in the local market.