France worried and attentive to what is going on in Tunisia, but will not interfere' (Laurent Fabius)

In a statement reported, on Sunday, by France Presse Agency (AFP), Mr. Fabius asserted that he reckons that Tunisia is the country where the revolution could lead to positive results in peace, as it is a country that has a high development rate, an important education level and where women enjoy their rights.

He added that "violence must be stopped and that the assassination of opposition leader Chokri Belaid should be condemned," and wished that the authorities and National Constituent Assembly members will reach a solution through dialogue.the French FM said that he is not aware of a possible postponement of French President François Hollande's visit to Tunisia, next May, TAP reported.

His statement follows that by Minister of the Interior Manuel Valls on 7 February where he remarked that there was a rising Islamic fascism everywhere and which negates the rule of law,and democracy for the people Libya, Tunisia, Egyptians. Manuel Valls also affirmed that" France does not cooperate when it comes to suppress a people. " He said that this was a major issue not only for Tunisia but for the entire Mediterranean area and also for France.

This statement was roundly condemned by Ennhada and others in Tunisia and Mr Fabius's more diplomatic statement can be seen as an attempt to reduce the tension between the two countries. France is the largest investor in Tunisia and there is a 600,000 Tunisian expatriate community living in France.