61.   The country hopes to see its first economic growth this year, he said.

62.   The country is hoping to join the EU, a goal that remains distant because of its lagging economy and insufficient legal reforms.

63.   The former communist country hopes to join the alliance next year.

64.   The country hopes to receive an invitation to join the military alliance at a summit in the fall.

65.   The country hopes to join NATO, and must prove it is committed to Western norms of democracy, human rights and tolerance.

66.   The Group of Seven major industrial countries had hoped their statement of concern Tuesday night would persuade global currency markets to stop driving the dollar lower.

67.   The Group of Seven major industrial countries had hoped that their statement of concern issued Tuesday night would convince global currency markets to stop driving the dollar lower.

68.   The two countries hope to reach concrete agreements in such areas as telecommunications, pharmaceuticals and construction by the end of March.

69.   The UNHCR and host countries hope to empty the camps this year.

70.   The three Asean countries hope that the landbridge will act as a catalyst for improved economic development in that region and drive the flow of businesses between their borders.