China's measured response seemed to confirm growing expectations that 1998 could see some improvement in cross-strait ties.

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In response, Xstrata said it would confirm whether or not it would be putting Glencore's offer to its shareholders by the morning of 24 September.

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In fact, your response to medication is one way your doctor can confirm the diagnosis.

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Mahmoud Komati, one of Mr Nasrallah's deputies, seemed to confirm that by saying this week that Hizbullah did not expect Israel's massive response.

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