Four-day tour takes him to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Peace developments, Arab support to Syria, Lebanon, Palestinian Authority in negotiations with Israel high on agenda of talks. Gulf support to legitimate government in Sudan also to feature during discussions. US President Clinton looks forward to Syria, Israel reaching deal by June. US urges for Syrian pressure on Hizbullah. US committed to vitalizing Palestinian-Israeli peace talks.
Sudanese opposition says coordination with Egypt important.
Russia steps up air bombardment against Chechnya. Moscow sustains worst loss ever since beginning of campaign against Chechnya. Egypt plays significant role in securing international agreement on treaty on fighting terrorism. President to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain. Syria-Israel talks on right course.