French minister expresses strong support for Sudanese peace, stability

KHARTOUM, Jan 16, 2004 (SUNA) — France Foreign Trade Minister Francois Loos, said France will fully support Sudan to arrive at comprehensive peace and stability.

The visiting minister said he had conveyed a message from French President Jacques Chirac to President of the Republic Gen-Umar al- Bashir, dealing with this connection. Speaking to a press conference at the residence of the French ambassador Thursday, the minister said France is participating in Khartoum International Fair with 46 companies.

Pointing to the distinguished African-French ties, the minister said France will also help Sudan join the World Trade Organization (WTO) and back it politically to achieve durable peace. Due to France’s concern with Sudan, President Chirac has named peace envoy for Sudan. Moreover, France is planning to schedule debts to Sudan through Paris Club, he said. France is the fifth investor in Sudan, he said.

On the situations in Darfur, the minister said France is confident in Chad-sponsored mediation, hoping urgent settlement of the crisis. Addressing the conference, minister of industry, Dr Jalal Yusuf al-Duqayr , has commended the Sudanese-French cooperation. France is a pioneer in establishing economic partnerships with Sudan, he said.

France is working on upgrading railways, electricity and sugar industry in the White Nile. The minister said Sudan is keen to enhance ties with France in the various domains. The minister has appreciated performance of the French companies operating in Sudan, calling for extra French investments.