By IRNA,
Berlin : A French arms deal with Libya has sparked new tension in ties between Berlin and Paris, the weekly Der Spiegel news magazine reported Saturday.
French president wants to deliver 12 ‘Tiger’ combat helicopters to Libya which are produced jointly by France and Germany.
Berlin hopes to thwart the export of the helicopters and has informed the French side of its concerns during confidential talks, however French President is reportedly keen on pressing ahead with the signing of the controversial arms accord.
Although Germany has no real veto rights, there is a provision in the 1972 French-German military agreement in which there can be an exception whereby the delivery of spare parts can be refused, if it violates laws of either country.
However, invoking the clause may trigger a major row between Berlin and Paris, according to Der Spiegel.
Last July, the German government had already lambasted the planned French-Libyan nuclear deal, saying it was aimed against German interests.
Berlin argued that the export of nuclear technology concerned also European security interests.
The French-Libyan nuclear accord was signed only a day after Tripoli freed six Bulgarian HIV medics following Sarkozy’s mediation efforts.