Sarkozy: U.S. can count on France

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- America can "count on France" in its war on terror, French President Nicolas Sarkozy told a joint session of the U.S. Congress Wednesday.

Speaking before the members of House of Representatives and Senate, and other dignitaries in the House chambers in Washington, the French president said through a translator France will remain in Afghanistan "for as long as it takes" to preserve liberty and freedom.

"Terrorism will not prevail for democracies are not entitled to be weak," Sarkozy said. "We are not afraid of this new barbarism and because of that, America can count on France in its battle on terror."

An Iran with nuclear weapons "is unacceptable to France," he said, receiving one of 10 standing ovations. He called the Iranian people "a great people" who "deserve better" than the sanctions and isolation "to which their leaders condemn it."

Sarkozy also urged Israel and Palestine to "do whatever it takes" to reach a peaceful accord. He said France wants security for Israel, but it also "will demand a state for the Palestinians."