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Sarkozy: Jerusalem should be shared, separation barrier won't bring peace
Associated Press | 06.24.08

BETHLEHEM, West Bank - French President Nicolas Sarkozy says Jerusalem ought to be shared by Israelis and Palestinians.

Speaking Tuesday in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, he said Jerusalem had a history or plurality.

"It's a holy city for three faiths, Jews, Christians and Muslims," he said. "Can Jerusalem be for one side and not the other? I don't think so."

Sarkozy also said the separation barrier Israel is building to keep out suicide bombers will not bring it any closer to peace.

The visit to the West Bank is Sarkozy's only meeting with Palestinian leaders during his three-day visit to the region. The visit marks Israel's 60th anniversary and is aimed primarily at cementing the improved relations between France and Israel after years of frosty ties. .