Sarkozy condemns Pune blast, assures India of solidarity

French President Nicolas Sarkozy today strongly condemned the "abominable" and "cowardly" bomb blast at an eatery in Pune on Saturday in which nine people were killed and 57 others injured.

In a statement in Paris, Mr Sarkozy expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and the people and the Government of India.

He also, on behalf of France, assured Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of France's full and entire solidarity.

Mr Sarkozy reaffirmed his determination to fight terrorism relentlessly and expressed his support to India in its efforts to bring the perpetrators of "these unspeakable criminal acts" to justice.

French Minister for External and European Affairs Bernard Kouchner also strongly condemned the the "inexcusale" terrorist and criminal act. "France is at India's side in her fight against this scourge," he added.

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