Q: Gerry Kiely , a EU agriculture representative in Washington , said EU ministers were invited but canceled because the union is closing talks on agricultural reform .

The EU 's agriculture representative in Washington said EU ministers were invited but canceled because the union is wrapping up talks on agricultural reform .

Please tell me if the sentences above mean the same.
A: yes
Q: The civilian unemployment rate improved marginally last month - sliding down to 6.1 percent - as companies slashed payrolls by 93,000 .

The civilian unemployment rate improved marginally last month _ sliding down to 6.1 percent _ as companies slashed payrolls by 93,000 amid continuing mixed signals about the nation 's economic health .

Please tell me if the sentences above mean the same.
A: no
Q: The Pentagon , saying that Boykin requested it , is investigating his remarks .

The Pentagon has begun an official investigation into Boykin 's remarks .

Please tell me if the sentences above mean the same.
A:
no