It appeared as if the two parties were at a true stalemate, and the undertones from each side following the meeting were harsh.

FORBES: NBA Lockout: Significant Progress Made in Labor Talks, 82-Game Season Possible

The two teams ground out a 0-0 stalemate at Old Trafford in September and another draw would secure United's passage into the last 16.

BBC: Man Utd boss Ferguson hails Walter Smith's Rangers

Legislation to stimulate the economy was caught in a partisan stalemate in the Senate at the end of last year.

CNN: Lawmakers vow to cooperate on economic stimulus bill

Experts appointed by Italy's president have presented reform proposals aimed at unblocking the political stalemate and leading to a new government.

BBC: Italy experts present reforms in new coalition bid

This stalemate could scarcely have come at a worse time.

ECONOMIST: Enough is enough | The

Mr Gibson was asked if the Orange Order was prepared to exploit political stalemate and weakness in the system at a time when the government was seeking stability as it prepares to host the G8 summit.

BBC: Orange Order may not give police notice on parades

If we don't focus the minds of the Iraqi parties on the need for the kinds of constitutional compromises that I've talked about, this stalemate could go on at this level for a very long time.

NPR: Is Victory in Iraq Still Possible?

The world looks at a conflict that has grinded on and on and on, and sees nothing but stalemate.

WHITEHOUSE: Moment of Opportunity: American Diplomacy in the Middle East & North Africa | The White House