LAHORE Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said France is extending commendable help and cooperation in the development of various sectors in Pakistan, which is highly valued by Pakistanis. Pakistan is facing serious energy crisis, which is badly affecting agriculture, industries and other sectors. The hydel power, solar energy and biogas are the cheapest sources of energy and France should extend cooperation, and the Punjab government can launch joint ventures with the French companies, he said, while talking to French Ambassador in Pakistan Danial Jouanneau here on Friday. Senior officials of French Development Agency were also present on this occasion. The CM said France and Pakistan had deep-rooted economic and trade relations and France had always helped Pakistan, while their friendly ties were strengthening with the passage of time. France is also extending help to Punjab for the uplift of various sectors, including water treatment projects in Lahore and Faisalabad. Punjab is the green basket and it needs energy for agriculture, industries and development projects, he said.