(VOVworld) - France’s government has sought to open a new chapter in relations with the country’s Muslims following tensions caused by bans on burkinis and a series of attacks carried out by IS-linked militants.

Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve addresses a press conference in Paris on August, 29. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve met with senior Muslim representatives on Monday and agreed that the effort to revive relations will include the creation of a foundation for Islamic projects, solely funded by France. Cazeneuve said the aim of the discussions was to forge “an Islam anchored in the values of the French Republic”. Anouar Kbibech, leader of the French Council of the Muslim Faith (CFCM), said he hoped Monday’s talks were the start of a new chapter in relations.

4 million Muslims represent the second largest religion in France. A series of terror attacks since early last year has triggered anger among the French. A ban on burkinis worn by Muslim women on the beach and a refusal to serve women covering their heads at a French restaurant have raised concerns about increasing Islamophobia.