Mr Simitis has also resisted American pressure to make it easier to prosecute suspected terrorists by enacting laws to help protect witnesses, to improve security for judges and to allow hearings in secret.

ECONOMIST: Greece

Some countries have indicated that they may be able to offer more help over the spring and summer to improve security ahead of the poll.

BBC: US faces fresh Afghan obstacles

The UK, he added, would assist Libya to take the necessary steps to improve its security, such as help with disbanding militia, training the army and supporting a singe police force.

BBC: We want to stand with you, David Cameron tells Libya

Mr Acero wants help from Mr Uribe to improve security in Soacha and Sumapaz.

ECONOMIST: Uribe faces a new front

At a conference in London, the new Palestinian leader, Mahmoud Abbas (aka Abu Mazen), was assured by Britain's Tony Blair, the American secretary of state, Condoleezza Rice, and other leaders that his Palestinian Authority would be given masses of help to improve the fledgling state's economy, institutions and security.

ECONOMIST: Stirrings of democracy