Blair continues 'shuttle diplomacy' in France

British Prime Minister Mr Tony Blair has arrived in Paris on the second leg of his diplomacy mission to bolster international…

British Prime Minister Mr Tony Blair has arrived in Paris on the second leg of his diplomacy mission to bolster international support following terrorist attacks in the US.

He arrived in the city just after midnight from Berlin after winning support from German Chancellor Mr Gerhard Schroeder for military action if needed against those found responsible for the September 11th attacks.

Mr Blair will have a breakfast meeting with French President Mr Jacques Chirac.

Later, he will fly on to New York and Washington before flying back to Brussels for an EU summit on Friday.

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In Berlin, Mr Blair and Mr Schroeder stressed the need for "solidarity" in the wake of last Tuesday's atrocities.

After speculation the German government may be cautious in its approach, Mr Schroeder said: "We very much agree we want to provide unswerving and strong solidarity with the US".

He said that would be "in political, economic and also if needed in military terms too".

Mr Blair said the two leaders stood together and gave their "total support" to the people of America.

PA