France says no plans for setting up nuke plant in Pakistan

Islamabad, July 24 (ANI): France has said that it would not be setting up any nuclear plant in Pakistan.

French Secretary of State for Foreign Trade Anne Marie Idrac told a press conference here that her government would only help Islamabad ensure the safety and security of existing nuclear establishments.

Idrac said France needed permission from the international community before commissioning a nuclear plant in Pakistan or any other country.

It maybe recalled that during his visit to France earlier this year, Pakistan President Zardari had hastily claimed that Paris and Islamabad have agreed to enter a deal for the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

France then neither denied nor put a stamp on Zardari's claims.

Pakistani officials also announced that French President Nicolas Sarkozy would be visiting the country in December 2009, and is most likely to ink the nuclear pact.

Idrac said France is looking for an extended relationship with Pakistan.

"The new chapter that France wants to open with Pakistan has two pillars, including defence as well as internal security and economic development," The Nation quoted her, as saying.

"France wants Pakistani democracy to succeed. This requires security, fight against terrorism and economic development," Idrac added. (ANI)