George jumps gun, denies troops

On sending troops to Iraq — on the agenda of Vajpayee and Bush bilateral talks tomorrow — Fernandes described the issue as very ‘‘complex’’. According to him ‘‘no decision could be taken’’ on the matter as the United Nations has virtually no role in Iraq as present.

The situation, he said, is not conducive to ‘‘send Indian troops there for security reasons.’’ He also cited the Army’s commitments in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in J-K as well as the north-east as another reason for not sending an Indian contingent. Unless these issues are resolved ‘‘India cannot think of sending its troops to Iraq,’’ he added.

However, Indo-Israeli ties are on a firm footing and according to the Defence Minister, Israel’s experience in counter-terrorism could be ‘‘invaluable for us’’. Fernandes even revealed a proposal to hold joint-exercises with Israel, a significant step for the Indian armed forces which have benefitted tremendously in their recent engagement with the US. The Indo-Israeli buyer-seller relationship on defence, the Minister said, would be expanded to include research and development.

Fernandes was also confident of the recent upswing in Sino-Indian relations and expressed confidence that the recent initiative would be fruitful. Admiring China’s economic progress, Fernandes expressed his confidence that India would achieve similar economic muscle soon. On cross-border terrorism, he pointed out that infiltration is continuing unabated and the Army’s decision to raise territorial units comprising of surrendered militants as well as the present Special Police Officers.