Sarkozy ready for more civilian nuclear accords with Arab nations

French President Nicolas Sarkozy is seeking more partnerships with Arab countries regarding civilian nuclear power, a Tunisian newspaper quoted him as saying. The Ach-Chourouk paper reports that Sarkozy says he is convinced that nuclear energy is a key to sustainable development. Sarkozy will make a state visit to Tunisia on Monday. The newspaper quoted him Sunday as him as saying he will sign an agreement on civilian nuclear development there. In the past year, Sarkozy has signed such accords with Algeria, Libya, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. The French leader says he is ready for such deals with Arab nations that want them, if they abide by international agreements on civilian nuclear use.