Speaking a few moments ago (14.25h. GMT), at a live news conference from Kuwait City still in progress, US Secretary of State Colin Powell stated that the United States "accepts its obligations" in relation to damaged or looted antiquities, and particularly Iraq's outstanding national museum. Urgent effects will be made to seek to recover looted items and to restore damaged cultural material. Mr Powell also said has already today spoken to various individuals and organisations including Mr Papandreou, Prime Minister of Greece, which currently holds the European Union Presidency, and with UNESCO, seeking cooperation and expert assistance in this. Patrick Boylan - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Change ICOM-L subscription options, unsubscribe, and search the archives at: http://home.ease.lsoft.com/archives/icom-l.html