Long-standing cross-cultural ties are strengthening, too, because of booming intra-Asian tourism and student exchange.

Although his ties to his wealthy father had strengthened, Mr. Levin clearly preferred a simpler life.

Now the ties between us are strengthening.

But many senior Pentagon officials contend that closer military ties to Indonesia would strengthen that nation's ability to track down terrorists.

During the administration of dictator Porfirio Díaz, commercial ties significantly strengthened.

Later, these ties strengthened as kings, grateful for monastic support, provided living quarters, tanks and produce to the monasteries.

As economic ties between Mexico and the United States strengthen, he predicts that interest will grow.

In the same period, ties have strengthened between African religious and political leaders and the American religious right.

"We have reason to believe their ties have strengthened in recent months," one of them said.

But the ties between the military and church have strengthened in recent years.