New Delhi, Sept 10: Warning that the scourge of international terrorism has become the "enemy of freedom and democracy", Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon today said Israel and India should jointly combat the menace in a determined way to ensure a better future for their people. Sharon, who has cut short his four-day landmark visit following bomb attacks in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, said a relentless battle against the evil was needed to ensure peace and prosperity.

The Israeli leader, who held extensive parleys with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and other leaders, said the Indian leader too viewed terror as a serious threat which required an uncompromising fight by the entire international community. Addressing a business meet organised by FICCI and CII, Sharon said, "Due to the terror events in Israel, I have to go back today".

Observing that there was immense potential for greater cooperation in diversified areas, Sharon said, "We will continue to develop our relations" with India.

Bureau Report