French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin said Tuesday that France and Russia must show solidarity in the international arena, the Itar-Tass news agency reported.

"Today like never before, France and Russia must speak in the international arena with one voice," Villepin said at a French Embassy ceremony honoring the Russian 18th regiment for its role in the fight against Nazi Germany in World War II.

"In the face of the challenges that the contemporary world throws our way _ terrorism, the spread of weapons of mass destruction, regional crises including, in particular, in the Middle East _ our countries are capable of acting together, uniting their forces and carrying high our common ideals, bravery, tolerance and solidarity," he was quoted as saying.

Villepin arrived here on Monday for a two-day official visit. He was to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday for talks on international issues of common concern, such as Iran's nuclear issue and Hamas.

Villepin's meeting with his Russian counterpart Mikhail Fradkov would cover trade and economic cooperation and EU-Russia ties.

After his arrival Monday, Villepin visited Russia's NPO Lavochkin space design company that has cooperated with the European Space Agency on several projects.

Source: Xinhua