71.   But China has refused, saying the timing is not right, said Western diplomats speaking on condition of anonymity.

72.   But early Saturday, they demanded to pay a lower percentage and to have their payments reviewed after three years, which would unravel the agreement, diplomats said.

73.   But from the Taliban foreign ministry there has been virtual silence, said the diplomats.

74.   But the council took no immediate action, primarily because of the rebels failure to sign the accord, Western diplomats said.

75.   China is ready to consider further actions to help East and Southeast Asian countries weather their recent economic turmoil, a senior Chinese diplomat said Thursday.

76.   Crown Prince Abdullah was due to arrive in Riyadh soon, said the diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity.

77.   Croatia had promised to withdraw its soldiers from the areas by Tuesday evening, but has not completed the pullback, diplomats said.

78.   Dini said Italian diplomats, along with Russians, Greeks and others, are prepared to press ahead for a negotiated solution but that Belgrade does not appear ready.

79.   Forces from Yemen and neighboring Saudi Arabia clashed over the weekend when Saudi troops tried to penetrate Yemeni territory, Western diplomats said Monday.

80.   France and China also raised objections to the U.S. draft, western diplomats said, speaking on condition of anonymity.