Germany set to keep seven nuclear plants shut

New Delhi, May 28: Discussion on regional situation with a focus on security situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan, UN reforms, boost to bilateral ties in key areas of defence, security and trade will be highlights of first Indo-German inter-governmental consultations to be held next week during the German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit next week.

A number of agreements are also likely to be signed in the field of science and technology and vocational training among other areas after the meeting, headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Merkel who is arriving here on May 31.

With an exception of Israel, Germany for the first time is engaging in a cabinet-level meeting with any non-European country, indicating 'a political signal' to enhance the ties, German Ambassador Thomas Matussek told the reporters while briefing them about Merkel's two-day visit.

In a bid to promote economic relations between the two countries, Merkel, apart from her senior cabinet members, including Defence Minister, will be accomapnied by a delegation of CEOs of prominent German companies.

PTI