Germany and France near deal on auto industry, Klingbeil says

By Maria Martinez BANGKOK, Oct 16 (Reuters) — Germany and France are in the final stages of agreeing a joint proposal on how to protect the automotive industry, German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil said on Friday. "Germany and France were very far apart on this, but I would say we are now in the final stages of reaching an agreement," Klingbeil told reporters on the sidelines of IMF meetings in Bangkok, adding that "very intensive" talks were ongoing. He did not give details of when a proposal could be announced. The initiative would address protective measures for the European auto sector, the bloc's approach to China and requirements aimed at increasing European content in vehicles and supply chains, Klingbeil said. "If we improve the framework conditions for automotive companies, there must be clear commitments in return regarding locations, investment and employees," Klingbeil said. "That has to be part of the package." (Reporting by Maria Martinez; Editing by John Mair) ((mailto:maria.martinez@thomsonreuters.com;)