Sunday, November 14, 1999

In Tel Aviv, Arafat, Barak meet to discuss differences over next FRD, but fail to reach an understanding. Israel says the transfer does not require Palestinian agmt.; it may go ahead with the 2d stage as planned and take PA concerns into account in planning the 3d stage, set for 1/00. PA says it will not take control of territory if there is a unilateral pullout. U.S. special envoy Ross heads to the region to meet with both sides. (NYT, WP, WT 11/15; WJW 11/18; MEI 11/26)

PA, Israeli final status teams continue mtgs. on the agenda for talks on a framework agmt. (NYT 11/15)

White House reaches tentative deal with House Republicans that would free $1 b. to pay the U.S. debt to the UN in return for a ban on U.S. money going to international organizations that promote abortion rights. The U.S. will lose its voting right in the UNGA unless it pays before 12/31. (WP 11/15; NYT 11/16)