NATO should consult more countries on security: chief

MUNICH: NATO should develop closer ties with China, India, Pakistan and Russia and consult with them on the Afghan conflict and other security issues, the alliance's head said yesterday.

The four countries all had interests in stability in Afghanistan and could do more to help develop and assist the country, NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.

"What would be the harm if countries such as China, India, Pakistan and others were to develop closer ties with NATO? I think, in fact, there would only be a benefit, in terms of trust, confidence and cooperation," Rasmussen said.