PARIS, Feb 18: France expressed worries on Wednesday that Pakistan’s decision to allow local leaders in the Swat valley enforce Sharia would mark a setback for girls and women’s rights.

Foreign ministry spokesman Eric Chevallier said France was concerned by the decision of the government of the North West Frontier Province to sign a deal authorising the imposition of Sharia in the Malakand division.

“While we understand the need to seek reconciliation in regions suffering from armed conflict, France calls for the respect of fundamental freedoms, notably the right to education, including the education of girls.

“This is an internationally recognised fundamental right and a precondition of social and economic development,” Chevallier told reporters.

Monday’s deal followed talks between ministers in the NWFP and a local religious leader Maulana Sufi Mohammad. —AFP