Some politicians say the talks could produce a new accord with the Government.

The new accord gives the effort a higher visibility and broader base.

President Bush is right to say he will continue to look for new accords but won't be in a hurry to make them.

Officials estimate the new accord will result in annual rate increases of about 4.5 percent.

Officials said they were almost certain that the new accord would be completed and signed within the next two weeks.

Under the new accord, the increases are expected to drop to about 4.5 percent a year.

The new accord promises "administrative and financial help" to those countries.

These rules would survive even if the new accord were defeated.

He said the new accord should be ready by March.

The new accord is based on negotiations that began about a year ago.