The visit to Damascus by U.S.envoy Mitchell is another step in what has been a cautious effort by the Obama administration to draw Syria into diplomatic engagement after years of strained relations.

VOA: standard.2009.06.09

All sides are expressing cautious optimism that after more than a year and a-half, the peace process may start moving again.

VOA: standard.2010.05.03

They also hailed Mr.Obama's vow to close the Guantanamo Bay detention camp within a year, although they are more cautious about possibly accepting ex-detainees.

VOA: standard.2009.03.29

David Stern, a man on the street here in Jerusalem, supports the prime minister's cautious approach.

VOA: standard.2009.07.03