Its stated mission is to urge "pragmatic steps toward the ideal objectives of international peace and security."

But while he has urged steps to increase shareholder value in the past, he wrote, "these efforts have been summarily rebuffed."

Some in Washington are urging more forceful steps.

At a recent international forum in Washington, a parade of speakers urged immediate steps to limit emissions of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases.

The report urged steps to encourage a "vibrant 24-hour community with an exciting mix of activities."

The panel also urged other steps to monitor and reorganize services and financing arrangements.

At the 1910 meeting an executive report was adopted urging immediate steps to found a journal.

The United States and other nations have been urging such steps.

The possible return of weapons inspectors is also a sensitive issue, particularly to European nations, which have publicly urged diplomatic steps to avoid a confrontation.

That style was on full view Friday, when he appeared before Parliament to urge new steps toward peace.