From Reuters:  France supports a NATO-wide missile defense system and is willing to help fund it, a source in the French president’s office said on Friday, dispelling earlier talk that the country was skeptical.

NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen has said there was broad agreement among member states about the need for a missile defense system, which will be discussed at a summit in Lisbon on November 19 and 20.

France had previously expressed skepticism.

"France is not against. It is frankly for the system. It complements the nuclear deterrent, which is irreplaceable," said the source, who requested anonymity. "We are ready to provide financial help as well as technological help. …"

France, which had earlier questioned details of the plan, was in favor of U.S. proposals for the shield although it was still too early to discuss who would control it, he added.  (photo: Getty)

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