VOA标准英语2009-France Honors Iraqi President Talabani With

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By Lisa Bryant
Paris
16 November 2009

 
Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, center, with French Industry Minister Christian¹ Estrosi, left, reviews troops upon his arrival at Paris Orly airport, 16 Nov.2009
Iraqi President Jalal Talibani marks his first official trip to France with a four-day visit that includes meetings with French political and business leaders.

Iraqi President Jalal Talibani is getting the red-carpet treatment in France, with the Iraqi flag flying on the Champs Elysees in Paris. French President Nicolas Sarkozy is hosting a dinner for Mr. Talibani who is also expected to meet with French business leaders.

The visit underscores the turnaround in French-Iraqi relations. In 2003, France led international opposition² to the U.S.-led war in Iraq. But in February, President Sarkozy paid his first visit to Baghdad.

French Ambassador to Iraq Boris Bouillon says today Paris is eager to capture a share of lucrative³ oil and reconstruction⁴ deals in Iraq.

Boillon told French radio that business potential in Iraq is enormous. He said the cost of reconstructing Iraq is estimated at $600-billion, and Iraq has massive oil reserves. And he said French business expertise⁵ in water, oil and infrastructure⁶ development is known worldwide, and France wants to be at the forefront of reconstructing Iraq.

France and Iraq are expected to sign several agreements dealing⁷ with aid, agricultural development, business and culture during Mr. Talibani's visit. French oil company Total also hopes to sign new deals to explore and drill in Iraq.