Updated on
Summary
In a meeting that reviewed bilateral relations between France and Pakistan in detail, President Asif Ali Zardari and his French counterpart Nicolas Sarkozy agreed to work towards closer bilateral cooperation between the two countries, with special focus on market access, the energy sector and efforts against terrorism. Kicking off President Zardaris European tour, the meeting at the picturesque Elysee Palace saw the leaders initiate a framework for strategic dialogue. The two sides also agreed to form a joint economic commission to boost their economic and trade ties. President Zardari said that Pakistan attaches great importance to relations with France and stressed comprehensive up-gradation of bilateral ties particularly on the economic front.President Zardari also stressed the need for expansion of defence and security ties and said that it would help the country in its ongoing military operation against terrorists. Besides reviewing bilateral relations, the two also discussed the role Pakistan was playing against terrorism as well as the efforts to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan, and the region. Sarkozy reaffirmed his support to democracy in Pakistan and appreciated the progress the country has made in this regard. The French president emphasized the need for Pakistan to continue its efforts against terrorist groups, underscoring Frances readiness to enhance cooperation in this effort. President Sarkozy noted the huge sacrifices that Pakistans security forces and its people have rendered to make the region and the world a safer place to live in. President Zardari apprised his French counterpart about the areas in which the two sides can cooperate pointing out that there was a vast scope for investment in renewable energy. Earlier, President Zardari was received by his counterpart at the Elysee Palace and presented a guard of honour. President Zardari also appreciated Frances positive role in the Friends of Democratic Pakistan forum. He said his country was eagerly looking forward to President Sarkozys visit to Pakistan and added it would help expand their multifaceted bilateral relationship. President Sarkozy also expressed grief over the recent plane crash and the deaths due to heavy flooding in parts of Pakistan. Later President Zardari in a brief chat with reporters said: President Sarkozy promised to visit Pakistan soon and we will welcome him there. Zardari was accompanied by Minister for Defence Ch. Ahmad Mukhtar and Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir.
