Czech Republic, Iraq mull further cooperation in fighting terrorism

PRAGUE, April 23 (Xinhua) -- The Czech Republic and Iraq on Monday vowed further cooperation in fighting terrorism.

Czech Defense Minister Karla Slechtova told a press conference after meeting visiting Iraqi counterpart Arfan al-Hayali that the latter has offered to provide cooperation of intelligence services and in fighting terrorism to the Czech Republic.

Slechtova said that Iraq has been fighting terrorism for years, and they could provide Czech their know-how.

The proposal is now to be discussed with Czech military intelligence chiefs. If they show interest in the cooperation, an advanced team would check the situation in Iraq. The decision on the possible cooperation would be made based on the team's information, according to Slechtova.

Slechtova said the Czech Republic could help Iraq with the treatment of wounded soldiers or civilians.

Iraq also asked for Czech assistance in logistics and technology and in training pilots. About 50 Czech soldiers are now based in Iraq where they train Iraqi air force personnel to maintain the Czech-made L-159 fighters, and train Iraqi specialists in the protection against weapons of mass destruction.

The number of the Czech soldiers in Iraq will be increased in the coming months to 110, if the proposal is approved by the Czech parliament.

Al-Hayali is on a three-day visit in the Czech Republic. He said he hopes to further strengthen mutual relations and believes in even greater Czech support for Iraq. During his stay in the country, he will visit Czech state-owned and private arm makers. Enditem