German troops may go abroad

Bonn (Reuter) - Germany's coalition parties agreed yesterday to try to sweep away constitutional barriers to let German soldiers join international military operations, officials said.

Klaus Kinkel, the Foreign Minister, said they should hold talks immediately with the more reluctant opposition Social Democrats, whose support is vital for constitutional changes.

Coalition officials said the ruling parties had agreed German soldiers should in future be able to take part in United Nations peace-keeping and peace- making operations, even if this means a direct combat role.