Date:22/02/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/02/22/stories/2006022211300300.htm

New Delhi

India to study French levy to support anti-AIDS campaign

Diplomatic Correspondent

New Delhi, Paris reaffirm commitment to work together in fighting terrorism

NEW DELHI: India on Monday told France that it "would study" the modalities of the levy Paris imposed on air tickets as part of an international effort to support developing countries in their campaign against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.

A joint statement here by India and France said New Delhi would participate in the Leading Group on Development Solidarity Levies to be established during a forthcoming conference in Paris.

Strongly condemning terrorism, India and France said it constituted one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

"There is a growing need to co-ordinate and intensify bilateral, regional and global cooperation to combat terrorism in a sustained and comprehensive manner."

"Linkages with illicit trafficking in drugs, small arms and narcotics and weapons of mass destruction have enhanced the destructive potential and lethal reach of terrorism. The Prime Minister of India and the President of France reaffirmed their commitment to work together in fighting terrorism and to make concerted efforts towards early conclusion of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism."

Mr. Chirac reiterated his country's firm support for India's candidature for permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council.

"India and France share common views on major international issues and call for the reform of the United Nations system to make it more representative and effective in meeting both traditional and non-traditional global challenges," the statement said.