81.   But in recent days the two leaders have spoken of improving ties.

82.   But it is improving ties with the South, which is a major investor in China.

83.   But Jordan managed to improve ties with the other Gulf Arabs.

84.   But Kharrazi and Cook sought to portray the gesture as something new and significant as a way to improve ties that have remained strained over the issue.

85.   But Jordan has managed to improve its ties with several Arab states since distancing itself from Iraq.

86.   But Moscow has improved ties with pro-Western Seoul in recent years as it sought South Korean investment to help revive its sputtering economy.

87.   But no significant projects have been undertaken because the North refuses to improve other ties with Seoul.

88.   But President Leonel Fernandez, who was elected last year, has sought to improve ties with Washington.

89.   But recent strides toward peace in the Mideast led South Korea to improve ties with Israel.

90.   But the Pyongyang government has not reciprocated by improving ties with Seoul, which it regards as a U.S. puppet.