51.   The decline occurred despite an improvement in economic and social policies in many African countries.

52.   The demonstration occurred despite heightened security in the city by Saudi Arabia, which repeatedly warned Iran against political activity during the annual pilgrimage, or hajj.

53.   The downturn on the Nasdaq extended a selloff that began Tuesday, which occurred despite encouraging news on inflation.

54.   The expulsions occurred despite growing violence in Rwanda and Burundi.

55.   The expulsions occurred despite the fact that there is growing violence in Rwanda and Burundi.

56.   The government declined to provide any more details of the investigation, including when the alleged events occurred, despite calls from opposition parties for a full public inquiry.

57.   The killings occurred despite a government order to Karachi security force to shoot on sigh anyone carrying a weapon or disturbing the peace.

58.   The fourth quarter growth occurred despite rising interest rates intended to slow the economy.

59.   The growth occurred despite a formal cease-fire between the government and the MNLF and an informal cease-fire arrangement with the MILF banning recruitment of more members.

60.   The massacres occurred despite a major security sweep by government forces that began Friday in the southeastern suburbs of Algiers.