The official would not allow his name to be used because a preliminary investigation into the matter is ongoing and no conclusions have been reached.

CNN: U.S. military: Taliban killings prompted airstrikes

The CBI began a preliminary investigation of the matter late last month at the request of the Indian government after the Feb. 12 arrest in Italy of Mr. Orsi, Finmeccanica's then-CEO, on bribery allegations.

WSJ: India Registers Case in Finmeccanica Probe

But the official emphasized the matter is in the preliminary stages.

CNN: U.S. eyes future bases in Iraq

But he thinks, since it will take years to design and construct such a facility, it won't matter if all but the most preliminary of work is delayed still further.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Hobson's choices (cont.)

The Bloomberg administration cautioned that the plan is preliminary and has been under discussion for only a matter of weeks.

WSJ: City Could Extend No. 7 to New Jersey

But the details of the progress of the investigation, assessments about -- preliminary assessments about who may be responsible I will not make, and I think that as a matter of upholding the integrity of the investigation, others will not as well.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

The discussions appear to be at a preliminary stage, and it remains unclear when the authorities will make a decision on or release details about the matter, the people said.

WSJ: China May Give Foreign Pension Funds New Investment Opportunities

Two years after Michael Dell said he had considered taking his personal-computer company private, Dell is reportedly in preliminary talks with two firms about going private, Bloomberg News reported yesterday, citing two people familiar with the matter.

FORBES: While 'Math' On Dell Private-Equity Buyout Works, Odds of a Deal 'Probably Low'