  We discuss how exact conformal invariance in the strong coupling leads
naturally through AdS/CFT correspondence to a systematic expansion for the
Pomeron and Odderon intercepts in power of $\lambda^{-1/2}$, with
$\lambda=g^2N_c$ the 't Hooft coupling. We also point out the importance of
confinement for a realistic treatment of DIS in the HERA energy range.
