Yesterday the Secretary General received the French Minister responsible for European Affairs, Jean Leonetti. On that occasion the Minister confirmed France's undertaking to support the organisation in Strasbourg of an International Forum for Democracy to be held in October 2012. France will contribute to the event at the rate of 50 000 euros.

During the interview, particular topics were the role and action of the Council of Europe in the field of human rights, democracy and rule of law, in member countries and those on the southern shore of the Mediterranean.

The Minister reaffirmed the attachment of France to the Council of Europe, as well as to the European Court of Human Rights, both engaged in a major reform aimed at enhancing their effectiveness and the promotion of the values which they uphold.

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