1.   And Portuguese officials said the joint declaration governing the return of the colony did not provide for stationing troops there.

2.   China has sent troops to the colony, ignoring the objections of Portuguese officials, who said their agreement with China does not provide for a military garrison.

3.   For Joao Manuel Costa Antunes, the Portuguese official who is coordinating the hand-over, it was deeply welcome news.

4.   Portuguese officials recently disclosed that neutral Portugal acquired stolen gold by selling tungsten to the Germans, and later secretly sold the gold in Asia.

5.   Portuguese officials say they are making headway in the battle against the gangs.

6.   Portuguese officials are keenly aware of their checkered legacy.

7.   Portuguese officials could not be reached for comment.

8.   Portuguese officials have maintained close contact with the rebels since the war erupted and are keen to see a smooth transition of power.

9.   Portuguese officials said other EU nations had problems with canned fruit imports and access to South African waters for European fishing boats.

10.   Portuguese officials said the children ran onto the road without looking.