India's concern justified: France

PARIS, APRIL 14. France today said India's specific concerns at cross-border terrorism are justified and the growing threat to New Delhi has prompted Paris to reinforce its dialogue with Pakistan.

``We fully understand India's concerns on cross-border terrorism. I raised this subject during my discussions with General Pervez Musharraf in Paris on April 10,'' the Foreign Minister, Mr. Hubert Vedrine told PTI in an interview. Pakistan's chief executive, en route to Havana for the group of 77 nations conference, was given a ``frank'' briefing by the French authorities on the need for restoring democracy in Pakistan and they also expressed concern over its being a haven for terrorist outfits.

Talking on a wide range of bilateral issues, ahead of the Indian President, Mr. K.R. Narayanan's state visit next week, Mr. Vedrine said France itself had been a victim of terrorism and hence it opposed all forms of terrorist activities.

On Kashmir, the Minister emphatically said since the Shimla accord of 1972, the issue could be solved only through bilateral dialogue. ``Last year an initiative was established in Lahore and we wish that process is revived.''

Stating that France was eagerly looking forward to the first ever Indian Presidential visit, the Minister pointed out that the event would signify the dynamic partnership in many areas following the French President, Mr. Jacques Chirac's visit to India in January 1998.

Both countries also established a `strategic dialogue' during the Prime Minister, Mr. A.B. Vajpayee's visit to France in September 1998.

- PTI

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : International
Previous : Cook arrives in better climes
Next     : I will do more to address Indian concerns: Clinton