And it has done all this with the approval of North Korea's reclusive Communist leaders.

But now a great deal of that vision hinges on his ability to persuade a reclusive and ailing Syrian leader increasingly preoccupied with creating a family dynasty.

A "reclusive, pious and frugal" leader, Omar visited Kabul twice between 1996 to 2001.

He had seldom been seen in public; he was one of the world's most reclusive and enigmatic leaders.

Kim Jong Il, the North's reclusive and odd leader, understands this reality and is playing it skillfully.

Kim Jong-il was one of the world's most reclusive and enigmatic leaders, presiding over a secretive and internationally isolated country.

The group's reclusive leader is accused of sexually abusing scores of young boys.

It was the beginning of an unannounced four-day visit by the reclusive North Korean leader.

Many believe that U Ne Win, their reclusive, longtime leader, consults astrologers and numerologists before making important decisions.

But defectors abroad have expressed joy at the passing of the reclusive, despotic leader.