RUSSIA-JAPAN MARITIME TALKS.

The third round of Russia-Japan negotiations on fishing rights in the Sea of Japan ended August 31 in Tokyo without results, Western agencies reported. The sides agreed to hold a fourth round but failed to set a date. Russia claims that Japanese fishermen poach in waters around the South Kurile islands and have in some cases fired on Japanese boats. The Russian side proposes an agreement under which it would grant Japan fishing rights in the area; but which Japan declines because it seeks the return of the South Kuriles. Japan fears that the granting and acceptance of fishing rights could be interpreted as recognition of Russian sovereignty over the islands.

Tatar-Taliban Talks On Release Of Airliner Crew Show Signs Of Hope.