In Gaza, Arafat, EU delegation, World Bank VP Yenne Obolensky sign agmt. extending $300 m. in EU soft loans to the PA. Despite official Israeli protests, the delegation then meets U.S. Consul Gen. Abington, Arafat adviser Faisal Husseini at Orient House. (VOP 10/27, JP 10/31 in FBIS 10/31)
In Jerusalem, FM Peres receives EU delegation, discusses peace process, aid to the PA, EU assistance with Palestinian elections, Syrian-Israeli talks. (QY 10/27 in FBIS 11/2)
Russian Dep. FM Posuvalyuk arrives in Damascus for 2-day visit, discusses peace process with FM Shara`, criticizes U.S. embassy legislation. (SANA 10/27, SATN 10/28 in FBIS 10/31)
Nr. Sidon, Lebanon, a bomb goes off in the car of UNRWA employee, causing material damage but no injury. (VOL 10/27 in FBIS 10/27)