51.   But he has softened his position since being elected last year and has made several goodwill gestures to China.

52.   But Israeli government leaders appeared to soften their position further Monday to enable the agreement.

53.   But the government has softened its positions in recent months.

54.   By giving Pinheiro free access, the junta is apparently softening its position toward Suu Kyi amid reports that she and the top generals recently started reconciliation talks.

55.   Cathay executives were meeting with Hong Kong government labor officials later in the day, but the carrier gave no indications it was softening its position.

56.   Chen has recently softened his position on the issue, saying Taiwan should only seek independence if China invades.

57.   Chen was a vocal supporter of Taiwanese independence, but softened his position in the tight campaign.

58.   Cathay executives were meeting with Hong Kong government labor officials later in the day, but the carrier gave no indication that it was softening its position.

59.   Diplomats said the talks were in jeopardy unless the Burundian government softened its position.

60.   Harding noted that U.S. presidents traditionally adopt a hard line against China when they take office but later soften their position.