London, Mar 01: The one billion pounds worth contract for the acquisition of 66 Hawk trainer jets by India would be finalised soon, Defence Minister George Fernandes has said.
Asked why the AJT Hawk Trainers deal with Britain has not been finalised till now and what was the problem, Fernandes said "it is not a question of trouble. There were some problems with the initial talks that took place for the contract. Both sides are now working to reach a solution and the decision would be taken soon." Fernandes was participating in a television debate last night.
After negotiating for over one-and-a-half decades, the Indian government has taken a decision to acquire the Hawk Trainer jets from BAE systems, the British defence giant.
Answering a question on the situation in Kashmir, the Defence Minister said: "I am happy to state that since the ceasefire was declared in November end, not even a single bullet has been exchanged by the armed forces from either side.
"There is complete peace on the borders. People have started travelling on both sides of the border. In March, you will see the Indian cricket team playing in Pakistan.
So major steps have been taken to normalise the situation." As regard the recent attack on the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, he said, "These are militant activities.
Our fight against militancy is on and is being fought without any let up."
Bureau Report
