France pledges support for stability in Asia

France has pledged support to Pakistan with a view to promoting stability in Asia, given the vital role envisaged for Islamabad in the struggle against terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD).
The backing was voiced by French Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin, who ended a 24-hour visit to Pakistan on Sunday, when he left for Japan.
De Villepin sought to encourage Pakistani leaders to pursue their efforts in the anti-terror campaign, in containing the spread of WMD and in promoting dialogue with India.
He praised President Pervez Musharraf, saying his actions had inaugurated a "new chapter in Pakistan's history."
In France's view, Musharraf has shown courage in engaging Pakistan in the anti-terror fight and in combating weapons proliferation.
"The French position is notable for three reasons: it's a nuclear weapons power, is determined to fight terrorism and is among the staunchest supporters of the current government in Afghanistan," a diplomatic source said.
Paris and Islamabad favour the increasing links between Europe and Pakistan, given its population of 150 million Muslims, powerful army and close links to the United States, the source said.
The process would also help Pakistan stabilise and consolidate itself and promote civilian institutions.
In this context, Paris also backed the resumption of dialogue between Islamabad and New Delhi, where de Villepin had been only a few weeks ago, the diplomatic source noted.
"Pakistan, which might feel isolated while India pursues rapprochement with the United States and China, can afford to take measures to assert itself," the source said.
"The region is heading in the right direction. We must encourage dialogue. I found the same willingness in New Delhi and Islamabad," de Villepin noted on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Musharraf told de Villepin that Pakistan, currently a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, would back a French resolution seeking to enforce action against the spread of materials, equipment and technology that could be used in the weapons industry.
France has insisted on transparency in Pakistan's nuclear activity.
Musharraf for his part categorically rejected the idea of giving up nuclear weapons as the population regards it as a matter of national pride.