11.  And that, some Japanese officials suggest, is why Washington settled.

12.  Apparently worried that the statement might have sent a wrong signal about possible concessions, Japanese officials said Sunday and Monday that they had made no policy changes.

13.  Any such action by the U.S. would lead to immediate counter-sanctions on U.S. airlines, the Japanese official said.

14.  As a result, Japanese officials argue there is no need to renew the accord.

15.  As delays mounted, Japanese officials were growing increasingly impatient, and usually taciturn politicians were talking of possible damage to the US-Japan security alliance.

16.  At a symposium attended by monetary officials from nine countries and Hong Kong, Japanese officials said they were considering signing securities repurchase agreements with other Asian nations.

17.  As U.S. investment bankers streamed out of discussions with Japanese officials, Patrick said that foreign debt liquidators would be less vulnerable to political pressure.

18.  At a Tokyo war crimes court after World War II, some Japanese officials were convicted of failing to prevent rape.

19.  At that point, the spokesman said, Japanese officials decide whether they wish to exercise original jurisdiction and prosecute the defendants.

20.  Bad memories may be making Japanese officials move slowly, as well.