Minister seeks German Coop in combating terror

Hyderabad, July 14 (UNI) Union Minister of State for Defence M M Pallam Raju emphasised the need for cooperation between India and Germany in combating global terrorism.

On a five-day official visit to Germany, Mr Raju participated in the Indo-German Colloquium organized by Konrad Adenauer Foundation at Stuttgart. He dwelt on the relations between the two countries in the backdrop of the changing world, an official release here today said.

''The Minister mentioned the need for cooperation between India and Germany in combating global terrorism through exchanges in counter insurgency and counter terrorism.

''India believes that combating this menace should be on a comprehensive and long term basis and directed also at those supporting, harbouring or providing safe haven to terrorists.'' He emphasised on defence co-operation between the two countries.

''There is a need to move towards joint development ventures or technology transfer. India has strong research and technological skills which when combined with superior German manufacturing capabilities can be a winning combination'', he said.

The Minister also emphasised there was immense scope and potential in increased cooperation between the two countries in economic and developmental spheres. He mentioned areas like IT, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology as areas that had potential.

Mr Raju is in Germany to also participate in the Indian Film Festival at Stuttgart as the guest of honour. Germany has declared year 2006 as ''India Year'', it added.

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