Will retaliate mercilessly against IS: French envoy

France will be merciless in its response to the IS and it has declared a war against the terror outfit that took responsibility for the Paris attack in which 129 people were killed and over 350 injured, the French envoy to India said on Monday.

French ambassador Francois Richier, while briefing the media here said, "We have qualified this terrorist attack as an act of war. We have decided to respond, to resist. Our response will be merciless."

He said operations against the Islamic State (IS) have been launched in Syria, Iraq and Libya by the French army and so far it has been able to destroy one training camp in Syria.

Asked about the Muslim population in France, he said, "People in France are able to make difference between barbaric and idealist Muslims."

"French ethos are not going to change. We have very strong spirit and keep our values very high," he said.

Adding that the world should stand together to fight terrorism, he said, "Unity of international community against terrorism is essential".

He added that an action plan will be chalked out to find a political solution in Syria to fight IS.

On Uttar Pradesh minister Azam Khan saying the attack could be in retaliation to the bombing in Syria, the French ambassador said he was very "saddened" by the reported statement.

Adding that France was in a state of maximum vigil, he said, "The threat continues so there is maximum mobilisation of army".

Talking about the G20 Summit to be held in France on climate change, in which various leaders from across the globe including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will be a part, Richier ruled out any possibility of cancellation of the event.

"Climate change is another threat to humanity and discussion over it cannot be cancelled," the envoy added.

Thanking the Indian leadership and public for the mourning and support over the Paris attack, he said, "We are very moved by the solidarity we received through Indian leaders and people."

He stated that the borders of France will be open for public travel through the Schengen visa; however, tight security will be in place to check the entry and exit of people involved in terrorism or potential terrorists.

He added, "Democracy is not going to back off in front of terrorism."