Nov. 7, 2007 – During a speech to the US Congress, French President Nicolas Sarkozy praised the friendship that binds France and the US at length and declared that his country was committed to fighting terrorism and playing a greater role on the world stage.
  
"America can count on France in its battle on terror," Sarkozy said in a speech that was filled with effusive praise for US values and underscored his desire for warmer ties with Washington.

 

In his speech to Congress, Sarkozy did not discuss Iraq but said he wanted France to "resume its full role" in NATO, raising the prospect of France rejoining the alliance's military command structure after several decades outside it. He also linked France's participation in NATO to a "strong and credible" European military force.
 
On the subject of Iran, Sarkozy said "Let me say it here before all of you: The prospect of an Iran armed with nuclear weapons is unacceptable for France." "Iran must be convinced to choose cooperation, dialogue and openness," he said. "No one must doubt our determination."

 

But he also urged the Americans to do more to shore up the dollar and called upon them to take the lead in the fight against global warming.
 
Applauded by Congress members, Sarkozy then headed to Mount Vernon, George Washington's historic residence located just outside the US capital, for talks with Bush. During a later press conference, President Bush said he was "comfortable" with French outreach to Syria over the political crisis in Lebanon but insisted Lebanon must control its own destiny.

 

Sarkozy is "somebody who has clear vision, basic values, who is willing to take tough positions to achieve peace. So you ask am I comfortable with the Sarkozy government sending messages? You bet I am comfortable," said Bush.

 

 
Maintaining troops in Afghanistan

During his speech to the US Congress Sarkozy said the Americans did not need to worry about France backing out of Afghanistan, despite his pledge during his campaign to pursue the withdrawal of French troops. France has about 1,100 troops in the country.

 

"France will remain engaged in Afghanistan for as long as it takes, because what's at stake in that country is the future of our values and that of the Atlantic alliance," he said to more applause. President Nicolas Sarkozy told the US Congress that French troops would stay in Afghanistan "as long as needed". 

 

 
'To reconquer the heart of America'
 
At a White House dinner on Tuesday night, Sarkozy hailed the reconciliation between France and the US after four years of tension over the Iraq war, when Chirac led opposition to the US-led invasion in 2003. "We can have disagreements, we can have differences, but we remain friends because we belong to the same family," Sarkozy told President George W. Bush and other guests. "I wish to reconquer the heart of America, and I wish to reconquer the heart of America in a lasting fashion."
 
Sarkozy also addressed other issues Tuesday. Speaking to French and American business leaders, he addressed the issue of the US dollar, which hit another record low Tuesday against the euro. "A strong economy should have a strong currency. You don't need a dollar too weak." Sarkozy also said he would personally urge China to allow its yuan currency to appreciate.
 

 

• Thursday, November 8, 2007

  reaction: Fantastique!!

  By  GF

  Its about time that France and America reconciled. Its refreshing to see a French president who has the courage to say what he believes as opposed to simply doing what is popular. Thank you Mr. Sarkozy.