US have responded carefully to the peace move, which Islamabad says will help bring peace to the restive valley. On Tuesday, the spokesman indicated some US understanding of the Pakistani position when commenting on the question of introduction of Shariah-based judicial system in Swat, he said Islamic laws are within the constitutional framework of Pakistan and wondered if it could be an issue for anyone in the outside world.
The spokesman said special envoy Richard Holbrooke has returned from his first South Asian visit - that took him to Pakistan, Afghanistan and India - and is preparing for his briefings to Secretary Hillary Clinton and President Barack Obama, both of whom are travelling at the moment.
AFP ADDS: France expressed worry on Wednesday that Pakistan's decision to allow local leaders in a strife-torn north-western region impose Sharia law would mark a setback for girls and womens' rights. "We are concerned by the decision of the government of North West Frontier Province to sign a deal authorising the imposition of Sharia in the Malakand district of the Swat valley," foreign ministry spokesman Eric Chevallier said.
"While we understand the need to seek reconciliation in regions suffering from armed conflict, France calls for the respect of fundamental freedoms, notably the right to education, including the education of girls. "This an internationally recognised fundamental right and a precondition of social and economic development," Chevallier told reporters.