U.S. President George Bush has urged European leaders to work even more closely with the United States in ensuring that terrorists can never gain a safe haven in Afghanistan.
In an address in Paris to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, Mr. Bush called for what he termed a new era in Trans-Atlantic relations. He urged leaders to stand behind what he called this "brave, young" Afghan democracy in its current struggle.
He also stressed the importance of U.S.-European cooperation in helping the ideals of democracy, liberty and justice flourish in the Middle East, and in efforts to deal with Iran's nuclear threat. The president also noted the importance of dealing with climate change, the world food crisis and terrorism. Earlier (Friday) Mr. Bush flew to Paris from Rome following talks with Italian leaders and Pope Benedict.