France's Kouchner denies tougher stance on Iran

ANKARA, Oct 5 (Reuters) French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner denied today that Paris had hardened its policy towards Iran but urged Tehran to respect international law amid the row over its refusal to halt uranium enrichment.

After meeting his Turkish counterpart Ali Babacan, Kouchner told a news conference France would do all it can to achieve a peaceful resolution of the nuclear dispute.

Kouchner sparked controversy last month by saying the world should prepare for a war with Iran. The Islamic republic summoned France's charge d'affaires in Tehran on Wednesday to protest about his ''extreme'' remarks.

REUTERS JK RK1933