Sarkozy promises support for Afghanistan

PARIS, Aug. 19 (Xinhua) -- French President Nicolas Sarkozy promised that France will remain its support for Afghanistan "as long as necessary," ahead of the country's presidential election, according to a letter released by the president's office on Wednesday.

In a letter to Afghan President Hamid Karzai dated Aug. 17, Sarkozy said "The next Afghan government will naturally be able to count on the full support of the international community, and first and foremost of France."

Referring to the recent terrorism violence, Sarkozy said "France is more than ever at the side of Afghanistan to win this struggle for freedom, democracy, peace and security."

"It will remain so far as long as necessary," he said.

The French leader wished Afghanistan "stability and prosperity."

France now has about 3,000 troops in Afghanistan, serving in the international coalition.