The German foreign minister, Klaus Kinkel, says he will raise disagreements over the American-based Church of Scientology when he visits the United States on Wednesday.

It follows reports that Congress in Washington is planning a resolution condemning Germany for religious persecution.

In a statement in Bonn, Mr Kinkel said the allegation was without foundation because Scientology in Germany is focussed on commercial and not religious activity.

The German authorities have placed Scientologists under surveillance for possible anti-state activity, after allegations that the Church is linked to Islamic extremism.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service
 

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