French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner who is currently on an official visit to Yemen. President Saleh discussed with the French Minister aspects of the mutual cooperation between Yemen and France, especially in fields of energy, gas and combating terror and piracy. They also reviewed current developments in the Middle East particularly the Palestinian issue as well as efforts of setting up an independent Palestinian state. International efforts of combating piracy and Iranian nuclear file were discussed. President Saleh said that the only way to combat piracy is a support of the new Somali government and rebuilding state corporations in the African country. He also pointed to the efforts of Yemen in facing acts of piracy including an initiative of setting up a regional center for combating piracy, affirming the importance of issuing an international resolution for combating such act. President Saleh also highlighted the role of France in pushing the peace process in the region forwards. The French Minister expressed France's appreciation of Yemen's efforts to support the Somali government and combating piracy. He confirmed concern of his country to enhance its ties with Yemen and support the development and democracy in the country.