VIENNA -- French President Nicolas Sarkozy pressed his agenda for France's upcoming presidency of the European Union, including an immigration and a climate package, during a brief visit to Austria Friday.

"We need immigration but we don't want illegal immigration," he told journalists during a joint press conference with Austrian Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer in Vienna.

Europe needs a common policy to ensure that all member states follow the same rules in accepting or rejecting asylum seekers, he said.

"Is it normal that a political refugee can apply for asylum in 27 different countries? Is it normal that Austria can say no and France say yes, or vice versa?" he asked.

The two leaders also emphasized their agreement on other key priorities of France's six-month presidency, which starts on July 1, including climate change.

The two countries traditionally disagree over nuclear power, which France favors but Austria is staunchly opposed to.

But Sarkozy assured: "At the same time, we're both for cutting down greenhouse gas emissions."

"Austria is following its path, France is following another path: we complement each other, we're not in opposition."

Gusenbauer said he was confident the French presidency would pass an EU climate package and move forward on immigration and transportation policies.

"After years of looking inwards, it's important to address real burning questions" during France's term as head of the bloc, he said.

He added that a recent proposal by Sarkozy to suspend value-added (VAT) or sales tax on oil in response to rising oil prices would be discussed at a European level.

Austria's Finance Minister Wilhelm Molterer dismissed Sarkozy's proposal Wednesday saying he did "not think much of the idea" while the European Commission in Brussels has said it would send the wrong signal to oil-producing countries.

Relations between the two countries have been tense in the past: in 2000, France led sanctions against Austria when Joerg Haider's far-right Freedom Party entered the government.

But the two leaders were at pains to show their friendship Friday.

"We're of the same opinion on most issues," said Gusenbauer.

"There have been misunderstandings and difficulties between the two countries. Well, we have decided to definitely turn that page," added Sarkozy.

Austrian media reported that the two leaders could discuss possible candidates for the new post of European Council president, including former Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel, but Sarkozy refused to reveal any names.

"There are informal discussions between heads of state and of government, but there will be no announcement that might offend all the other countries," said Sarkozy.