It is hard to see how the government can continue to make that argument, an Asian diplomat said this week.

Asian diplomats say the outlines of a potential deal are clear.

Asian diplomats caution that little is known about many of the top leaders.

One Asian diplomat put the rate of increase at 40 percent.

"He does not want responsibility for military successes," an Asian diplomat said.

"It's a very difficult situation," an Asian diplomat said tonight.

An Asian diplomat with long experience here said the differences between the two men suggested deeper problems.

"After this, they're really going to be under pressure to deal with him," an Asian diplomat said.

One event reported by an Asian diplomat did seem intended to send a message.

"They're trying to shut down" her party, an Asian diplomat said today.