51.   Observers said however a reduction seemed unlikely because Beijing has special cooperation deals with companies from other alcoholic beverage-exporting countries.

52.   Perben referred to the prospect of an improvement in bilateral ties as he joined with New Zealand Foreign Minister Don McKinnon to sign a joint Antarctic cooperation deal.

53.   Siemens and Juniper have meanwhile entered into a cooperation deal in the field of Internet network infrastructure.

54.   Taiwan retaliated by suspending its cooperation deals with South Africa and recalling its ambassador for an indefinite period.

55.   The defence technology agreement will mark the second military cooperation deal between Turkey and Israel this year.