At the same time, rebels announced an alliance for interim government.

The group's proclamation announced a new alliance with a group that had access to real explosives.

Later this year, the four airlines are expected to announce a broader international alliance called Wings.

But in recent months, newspaper companies have announced alliances with local phone companies to put various services on line for computer users.

Companies Several big companies announced an alliance to stimulate the market for recycled paper.

Three major Japanese banks today announced an alliance that will create the world's largest financial institution, with $1.3 trillion in assets.

The Olympics were used during this time to announce alliances and offer sacrifices to the gods for victory.

The countries also announced an alliance against drug cartels and a collective drug-fighting-certification process.

Two years ago, it announced a $465 million alliance with Bayer of Germany.

In Microsoft's case, industry observers say the company could announce a high-profile, short-term alliance as a way of raising its visibility.