And I think he realizes that the only way to resolve this really is through diplomatic channels.

NPR: Iran, Britain at Impasse over Captives

So far Iran has said nothing publicly and apparently given no clear response through diplomatic channels either.

BBC: Analysis: British yacht crew detained by Iran

"We continue to explore all avenues privately and through diplomatic channels to convince the Syrian government to release Jim so that he can return to his family, " Balboni said.

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Annan, however, warned against militarization, insisting that the issue has to be resolved through diplomatic channels and calling on governments in the region and beyond to work with Syrians.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

But even if that were so, the Turks think the Americans should have dealt with the matter through diplomatic channels rather than treat the Turkish soldiers as if they were enemies.

ECONOMIST: Turkey and the United States

Federico Lombardi, a Vatican spokesman, said last week that the Holy See did not formally invite diplomatic missions to attend the Mass, instead simply informing countries through diplomatic channels that the event is taking place.

CNN: Zimbabwe's Mugabe arrives for pope's inaugural

Italy said it was open to resolving the diplomatic dispute through international channels.

WSJ: India Court Orders Italian Envoy to Stay Put

Italy said it was open to resolve the diplomatic dispute through international channels.

WSJ: India Court Orders Italian Envoy to Stay Put

Unlike Mr Foccart, they want to handle Africa through usual diplomatic and commercial channels instead of personal favours and discreet phone calls.

ECONOMIST: Jacques Foccart

Italy asked India to reach a diplomatic solution to the dispute through international channels.

WSJ: Italy, India Escalate War of Words