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`No one will be allowed access to our military bases'

By Our Staff Reporter

Jammu June 9. The Defence Minister, George Fernandes, today said that Indian military bases would never be allowed to be used by any other country. He was reacting to reports that the United States, which has lined up several joint military exercises with India's armed forces, is interested in establishing access to military bases in the country.

Denying any possibility of Americans being allowed use of Indian military bases, Mr. Fernandes said: "The reports which have emanated from various American circles are totally wrong. They (Americans) have the right to believe whatever they want. As far as India is concerned, it is the firm view of its leadership that its military bases would never be allowed to be used by any other country. Only Indian forces have the exclusive right to use them."

Turning to China, which he described as India's new ally in various fields, he said on issues of development the two had a lot in common. Denying having ever described China as a possible threat to India, Mr. Fernandes said New Delhi sought a long-term relationship with Beijing.

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