France determined to combat terrorism - Chirac

IN a message sent to President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, French Jacques Chirac has condemned the assassination of Foreign Minister lakshman kadirgamar and assured his country's determination to combat terrorism.

The message: "I came to know with great alarm the assassination of Lakshman Kadirgamar, the Foreign Minister. France condemns this revolting act with the greatest firmness.

In these painful circumstances, I would be grateful if you could convey my condolences to the relatives of Kadirgamar. I also express my solidarity to the people of Sri Lanka and its leaders.

You can be assured of the support and determination of France to combat terrorism wherever it occurs. I sincerely hope that this heinous act does not put the ceasefire agreement and the prospects of a political settlement in Sri Lanka in peril."