31.   The ETA members said they fled Spain because Basque nationalists were being tortured there, and because of government-backed police hit squads that were assassinating Basque militants.

32.   The government has refused the demand, which has gained the support of moderate Basque nationalists in the region.

33.   The Popular Party supports a strong centralized state and has recently made gains in the three-province Basque region long dominated by Basque nationalists and the Socialists.

34.   The procession through downtown Bilbao was called by Elkarri, a peace movement that includes both Basque nationalists and supporters of the status quo for the region.

35.   The statement came as Basque nationalists were clamoring for the militant group to renounce bloodshed to help foster a political solution to Basque nationalist aspirations.

36.   The report comes days after Basque nationalists urged the militant group to renounce bloodshed to help foster a political solution to the conflict.

37.   These included six Basque nationalists who overturned a car.

38.   Three Basque nationalists favored it, while two members of mainstream Spanish parties were opposed.

39.   There were also scattered scuffles between Basque nationalists and police just outside the casino in Biarritz where EU leaders opened their summit.

40.   Aznar is also bidding to win support from moderate Canary Island and Basque nationalists, and is due to meet Basque Nationalist Party leader Xavier Arzalluz shortly.