Bangalore, Dec 4 (IANS): French President Nicolas Sarkozy today backed India's bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council and its fight against terrorism.
"India deserves a permanent seat in the Security Council," Sarkozy said addressing over 500 scientists, captains of industry and students at the Indian Space Research Organisation here soon after landing on a four-day visit to the country.
The French President and his celebrity wife Carla Bruni arrived here on a four-day official visit to India aimed at expanding cooperation in defence, nuclear power, sustainable development and culture.
Accompanied by a large official-cum-business delegation, 55-year-old Sarkozy and Bruni landed at the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) airport in the city at 10.05 am amid tight security. While the President was in a black suit, the first lady wore a light peach dress.
Sarkozy and Bruni leave for Agra later afternoon by a charted aircraft. The Sarkozys spend Saturday night in Agra and will also go to Fatehpur Sikri before flying to Delhi Sunday evening for dinner with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at his official residence.
