In a long-running diplomatic standoff, Pakistan insists that Kashmir be the focus of any negotiations between the two countries.

He commented only briefly on the diplomatic standoff, saying he trusted in "the ability of both countries to resolve the issue."

A negative vote, it says, could lead to a diplomatic standoff with Beijing and instability in Asia.

But few have any desire for a long period of squatting inside tents in the desert, killing time during a prolonged diplomatic standoff.

If Italy grants him asylum, the move would inflame an already tense diplomatic standoff.

It is this last point that has led to a diplomatic standoff between Iran and the West.

Instead, the superpowers fought each other through their involvement in proxy wars, military buildups, and diplomatic standoffs.

However the diplomatic standoff is resolved, Asher said that he believes North Korea won't continue to counterfeit much longer.

A drawn-out diplomatic standoff could leave the economy and markets suspended between fear and hope.

"I don't know anything about that," said one dark-lipped woman in a sheer maroon sheath, when asked about the diplomatic standoff.