French President Nicolas Sarkozy has called upon Pakistan to fight terrorism with determination, and appreciated India's efforts to 'stretch out its hand' towards its neighbour.
'We applaud India's effort to stretch out its hand. We call upon Pakistan to fight terrorism determinedly,' The Nation quoted Sarkozy, who is on a four-day visit to India that ends Tuesday, as saying.
He made these comments in response to a question on counter-terrorism cooperation at a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
He pointed out that France had stood 'shoulder-to-shoulder' with India in the aftermath of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, in which two French officials had also lost their lives.
'Our cooperation on counter-terrorism is without limits,' said Sarkozy.
The French President said that he appreciated Manmohan Singh's effort to reach out to Pakistan, despite the Indian public opinion being 'deeply shocked and traumatised' by the terror savagery.
In the 21st century, the only way to ensure peace and security is to 'develop together and not against another', said Sarkozy, making a reference to the European Union, where former foes now work together.
He also said that both France and India have the 'same reading on Afghanistan'
