The advantage for Iran is that it can keep on good terms with a worrying neighbour.

ECONOMIST: The Taliban��s useful neighbour

Since it regained independence in 1991, Ukraine has struggled to keep on good terms with Russia even while reducing its influence.

ECONOMIST: Ukraine��s two minds

Thailand knows it needs to keep on good terms with Myanmar if local businessmen are to prosper from deals made across the border.

CNN: TEST OF WILLS

They want to keep on good terms with a party which, even in its diminished state, could yet hold the balance of power in 2015.

ECONOMIST: The coalition��s performance

It is happy to keep on good terms with Somaliland, and give it enough goodies to gain access to Berbera, but that is about it.

ECONOMIST: Somaliland