Following a meeting with US Airways management on December 6, the leadership of the US Airways and
America West pilot groups have expressed significant concerns about the proposed merger with Delta Air Lines. The leaders point out that, by failing to integrate two pilot groups under one contract, US Airways management has not yet properly merged US Airways and America West, demonstrating little chance of completing the merger of a third airline.

The U.S. Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), announced that it will provide $100,000 to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, in support of the Vietnam Red Cross, for emergency relief supplies to the areas most affected by Typhoon Durian (also known as Typhoon Reming).

Acting just before adjournment, the U.S. Congress approved legislation Saturday required to implement the U.S. - India civilian nuclear cooperation deal. The measure, which marks a major shift in U.S. nuclear policy, goes to the White House for President Bush's signature.

A tragic fire that injured three people in North Dallas this morning may have been caused by improper use of a space heater.

The following is a transcript of remarks by President Bush and President Mbeki of South Africa in Photo
Opportunity:

A tragic fire that injured three people in North Dallas this morning may have been caused by improper use of a space heater.

With more than 3,000 parolees reentering Detroit each year, Pastor Ronald Griffin of Rose of Sharon
Church of God in Christ wanted to do his part to help those former prisoners who want to help themselves.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, announced today that the Australian Government will introduce enhanced security measures to limit the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels that can be taken through the screening point at airports for international flights.

Tony Blair insisted that the Iraq Study Group's (ISG) report offered a "strong way forward'' for the US and Britain, following talks with President Bush in Washington.

Tony Blair has outlined how he believes the right balance can be struck between integration and diversity in British Society.

U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan has welcomed President Bush's willingness to consider new strategies in Iraq. But as VOA's Peter Heinlein reports from the U.N., Mr. Annan acknowledged that there are no easy answers to Iraq's troubles.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai says his country is "losing patience" with the continuing attacks from insurgents allegedly based in neighboring Pakistan. Mr. Karzai released his comments after a critical meeting with Pakistan's foreign minister in Kabul to discuss border security and the resurgence of Taleban-led violence.