Schmidt said that the two companies had a diplomatic relationship that reminded him of two countries.

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In addition to these economic ventures, Brazil and Iran enjoy a close diplomatic relationship.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The growing concern of Brazil & Iran

So it may be, as there are in some issues, that we in a mature diplomatic relationship have disagreements.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

This FT article gives a flavour of the diplomatic and military unknowns out of a closer Russian-Cypriot relationship.

BBC: Cypriot bank worker with placard

They've suggested that they are willing to give their nuclear weapons program if they get political and diplomatic recognition from the United States, a normalize relationship, and some kind of economic help.

NPR: Bush Conditionally Offers Talks to North Korea

It's time to forge a practical, productive relationship that will lead to normalization of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Venezuela.

CNN: Seize this moment to forge ties with Venezuela

For its part Syria is striving to obtain international recognition for Hamas in the hope that it would grant Damascus a position of influence in any future diplomatic process thanks to its close relationship with the Palestinian group.

BBC: Smugglers' alley key to Gaza conflict

NPR's Michele Kelemen reports on this latest diplomatic squabble in an already tense relationship between the U.S. and a key oil supplier.

NPR: U.S. Hopes to Block Venezuela from Security Council

His relationship with former Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin led Russia to pressure Yugoslavia to agree to a diplomatic end to NATO's air assault over Kosovo earlier this year.

CNN: By Chris Black/