"I'm also surprised that the LSE's consent wasn't sought, although this wasn't a formal LSE visit, " he said.

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Mr Clinton is supposed to make a few formal remarks about his library on a visit to the state on April 27th.

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The visit follows this week's formal establishment of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG), responsible for staging the Games.

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Ms Rousseff's visit made clear that the countries' formal relations are catching up at last with the personal ties they have long enjoyed.

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"His visit to Saudi Arabia will also commemorate the 75th anniversary of the formal establishment of U.S.-Saudi relations, " the White House said.

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Kohl, who called Tudjman's presence an "informal working visit, " resisted making any statement that could be construed as a formal recognition of Croatian independence.

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The French government has offered Ms Jin a formal apology for the abuse she suffered in Paris, and invited her back for a more enjoyable visit.

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Though it is not an official visit, many in Pakistan believe, it may pave the way for some kind of formal contact between the two countries.

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