U.S., Russia pact on plutonium disposal
The United States and Russia agreed to destroy plutonium that could be used to make nuclear weapons and to cooperate on ``early warning'' missile-detecting technology, U.S. officials said.

Draft accord reached in Fiji?
As the stalemate in the negotiations for the release of Fiji's elected Prime Minister, Mr. Mahendra Chaudhry, and other captives dragged on today in the tiny state's capital of Suva, the focus shifted to the talks on a ``draft accord'' between the military rulers and the hostage-taker, Mr. George Speight, concerning an interim set-up ``acceptable politically and culturally'' to the majority indigenous population.

Chandrika rules out 'talks' with LTTE
In an indication that Sri Lanka is fast regaining its military confidence, the President, Ms. Chandrika Kumaratunga, has said there was now no possibility of holding ``unconditional'' talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam.

U.S. panel for aggressive steps against terrorism
A bipartisan commission on terrorism has called on the United States Government to take more ``aggressive'' steps to combat the menace. The National Commission on Terrorism has suggested a number of steps including removing restrictions on the Central Intelligence Agency, monitoring foreign students and slapping sanctions on ``friendly countries'' such as Pakistan and Greece.

Scramble to leave Saudi Arabia
Hundreds of foreigners staying in Saudi Arabia illegally have been scrambling to leave the kingdom before next month's expiry of an amnesty which spares them punishment, diplomats said today.

Link ceasefire to immediate talks: Kadirgamar
The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister, Mr. Lakshman Kadirgamar, has said the Government is willing to declare a ceasefire in the ongoing fighting with the LTTE in northern Jaffna, provided it is linked to immediate commencement of peace talks.