NYON, Switzerland (AP) _ UEFA president Michel Platini will write to all 53 European soccer associations to urge them to combat violence.

Platini, who was elected president of European soccer's governing body in January, has been trying to clamp down on violence on the field and in the stands since he took office. Last week, he met with government and police experts from around the continent, reiterating his plea for help from all European states to resolve the problem.

The UEFA executive committee approved his policy of ``zero tolerance'' Monday at an extraordinary meeting.

``The executive committee fully supports his stance of zero tolerance against violence and violent people,'' UEFA spokesman William Gaillard said. ``UEFA, the associations and the clubs can do quite a lot when it comes to violence on the pitch and in stadiums. However, we can do less away from the stadiums _ there we need the help of the various public order authorities.''

Platini also recently wrote to the presidents of the clubs taking part in the second round of the Champions League, asking for their support and help, Gaillard said.

UEFA plans to work with the European Law Enforcement Organization and Transparency International _ a global coalition against corruption _ in an effort to combat money laundering, illegal betting and other forms of corruption that can lead to violence in and out of the stadiums.

``We have seen violence that is linked with extra-sporting phenomena, political extremism and corruption,'' Gaillard said.

UEFA also discussed statute changes, and proposed the creation of a strategic committee made up of clubs, players and leagues which would have an advisory role on the executive committee.

Although the idea did not get unanimous support from the executive committee, it will still be proposed for approval by Europe's soccer associations at an extraordinary UEFA Congress in Zurich on May 28.

Under the proposal, the 16-member strategic council would comprise of UEFA's four vice-presidents, four club representatives, four league representatives and four players:_ two from FIFPro, the professional players' union, and another two active plays.