The events committee will send him all binding documents including a Letter of Invitation and Contract Agreement as well.

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"We will work with all stakeholders to try to ensure that appropriate conditions of invitation are met, including the participation of Argentina's top players and the implementation of a sound and sustainable financial model, " he added.

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World Bank President James Wolfensohn also received an invitation, as did a host of other dignitaries, including the current governor of St Petersburg, Vladimir Yakovlev, and a possible rival for the post, Deputy Prime Minister Valentina Matvienko.

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The invitation list was a who's who of British political life, past and present, including former prime ministers Tony Blair and John Major.

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The invitation list is a who's who of British political life, past and present, including former prime ministers Tony Blair and John Major.

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Mr Sabri explained that the invitation to Mr Blix had been part of a proposal for a full review of issues, including sanctions.

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