Nicolas Sarkozy, wife Carla Bruni pay 26/11 homage

Mumbai : French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Tuesday said Pakistan should show firmness in combating terrorism, as he paid tribute in Mumbai to the 26/11 victims.

“I count on Pakistan authorities to show that they are resolute in combating terrorism,” he said, praising the patience of India to continue talks with Pakistan despite the attacks.

He said France will stand by the side of India in countering terrorism.

Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni on Tuesday paid their homage to victims of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks at the Police Memorial on Marine Drive here.

They observed a minute’s silence at the memorial.

The French President and his wife arrived here on Tuesday on the last leg of his India visit.

After the Police Memorial, Sarkozy tool part in a special memorial service at the Trident-Oberoi Hotel, a scene of the 26/11 attack that claimed 166 lives in the 60-hour killing spree.

Sarkozy also honoured Karambir Kang of Taj Hotel and Devendra Bharma of Trident-Oberoi for their heroism in saving the lives of people during the attacks.

He presented them with “Insignia of Officer of Ordre National Du Merite’ for distinguished service.

Sarkozy will address a business gathering organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and FICCI at the Taj Mahal Palace hotel.