'Germany's Merkel to push Eurofighter at India talks'

Published: Apr 19, 2006
Source: www.dailyindia.com



Berlin, April 19 (DPA) German Chancellor Angela Merkel is expected to press Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to consider buying the Eurofighter combat aircraft at talks next week, said a report to be published Thursday.

The Berliner Zeitung newspaper quoted Germany's ambassador to India, Bernd Muetzelburg as saying: 'We hope the Eurofighter will be able to compete directly with other (aircraft).'

Merkel plans to make a pitch for the Eurofighter during Manmohan Singh's three-day visit to Berlin and the Hanover trade fair from April 22 to 25, the paper said.

Wolfdietrich Hoeveler, Eurofighter's vice-president for communications in Germany, confirmed his company was eager to compete for a planned Indian purchase of 120 new fighter jets announced earlier this month.

'I would be very happy if Frau Merkel is supporting our efforts,' said Hoeveler, adding: 'But I cannot confirm it.'

Hoeveler said Eurofighter had contacted the Indian government and was still waiting for details of the tender.continue..