Pakistan seeks German defence equipment to enhance counter-terrorism capacity

Islamabad, Jan 9 (ANI): Pakistan has asked Germany to allow the export of its defence equipment so that Islamabad can increase its capacity to fight terrorists.

"Pakistan urges Germany to liberalise its export control policy towards it so that we could get export licences for defence equipment ... to enhance our capacity to counter terrorism," the Dawn quoted Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, as saying.

Qureshi made these comments at a joint press conference with German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle following their bilateral talks, which focused on a Pakistani proposal for initiating strategic dialogue, enhancing investments, strengthening economic ties and boosting defence cooperation.

Westerwelle reiterated Berlin's desire to extend full support to Islamabad in its war on terror, and spoke about the need for cooperation between both nations for fighting terrorism.

"Our common engagement is necessary to fight against every terrorist attack. And we very much appreciate the efforts Pakistan is making in the fight against terrorism," Westerwelle said.

"We encourage Pakistan and Afghanistan to cooperate closely in the interest of security and stability. And in Germany you have friends who will support in this way," he added.

Pakistan has been uneasy over European nations' reluctance to meet its defence and security needs while asking it to intensify its counter-terrorism efforts.

According to sources, Westerwelle informed Qureshi during the meeting that the European Union's restrictions on arms export were stopping Germany from considering Pakistan's request for defence equipment. (ANI)