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FRANCE
Strategic significance:
Veto power at the UN Security Council, leader of the war-wary Europeans
In the 1991 Gulf War they:
Fought alongside the U.S.
Now they:
Seek a diplomatic solution, and UN authorization for any attack. But their own interest in shaping the outcome may prompt them to join any invasion
Their interest in Iraq:
Investment in Iraqi oil fields, expanded geopolitical influence by mediating between the U.S. and the Arab world
Domestic concerns:
Strong anti-war sentiment across the political spectrum
Price for backing the U.S.:
Agreement to maintain the primacy of UN decision-making, respect for their commercial interests in Iraq
A French viewpoint: www.rfi.fr/fichiers/
Langues/rfi_anglais_main.asp
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