Crossword No 1,099

[Khal6]

10) A City that is the official seat of Government in a country in South America (8)
12) City that is the official seat of Government in a country in the Middle East (6)
13) City that is the official seat of Government in a country in Africa (5)
17) A City that is the official seat of Government in a country in Central America (7)
19) Board used for supporting an artist's painting (5)
22) A City that is the official seat of Government in a country in Europe (6)
23) A City that is the official seat of Government in a country in Oceania (8)
24) A City that is the official seat of Government in a country in Europe (8)
25) Lacking quickness of intellect (6)
1) Paramour, mistress (9)
2) A City that is the official seat of Government in a country in Europe (6)
3) A City that is the official seat of Government in a country in South America (7)
7) Forcefulness (13)
14) A City that is the official seat of Government in a country in Europe (9)
18) Major energy source in metabolism (7)
20) Group of merchant ships with an escort of warships (6)

Thanks. =]

[Lie-in King]

No, but seriously...!?

19a Easel
25a Obtuse

1d Courtesan
7d Assertiveness
18d Glucose
20d Convoy

The capital cities should now be easier to get - if you're still stuck, by all means ask again on this thread & I or someone else will oblige... :-)