Such a public defense by a German diplomat would have been scarcely thinkable here a few years ago.

German diplomats said it took two years of pressure to persuade the company to return to Bosnia.

"It shows the book is not closed and we are working on the next chapter," said a German diplomat.

German diplomats tried last week to put the best possible face on a problem that has embarrassed and irritated them.

The report's findings were to be incorporated into training for future German diplomats.

"Schröder had to show a little independence from the president," a German diplomat said.

German diplomats spoke as if their men in Spain were genuine volunteers.

After 1945 he became one of the most influential German professional diplomats.

German diplomats and relief workers have reached a different conclusion.

Those reported dead included a senior German diplomat and five Americans.