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FRANCE/RUSSIA

Putin in Paris: no warship without savoir faire

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is in Paris for a series of economic talks with French political and business leaders. Lunching Friday with French President Nicholas Sarkozy and Prime Minister François Fillon at the Elysée Palace, Putin made it clear that Moscow is not interested in buying France's Mistral warship unless it is equipped with the latest technology.

Vladimir Putin (L) and François Fillon at the Hotel Matignon, 10 June 2010
Vladimir Putin (L) and François Fillon at the Hotel Matignon, 10 June 2010 AFP PHOTO / JOEL SAGET
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Putin also met with the head of French petrol giant Total and other potential partners for development projects.

The sale of the assault ship, already under negotiation for five months, is seen as France’s most ambitious bid yet to reach out to Russia. The massive Mistral can carry 16 helicopters and a 750-strong landing force.

The deal, which would be the first sale of advanced military hardware by a Nato member to Russia, has raised objections from Russian neighbors in the Baltics and Georgia, as well as the US.

France has countered that Russia should be treated as a partner, not a threat.

Nevertheless, France has said it will not deliver sophisticated radar systems and other sensitive technology with its warship. Sarkozy has so far avoided a definite answer by saying that the pending deal is "based on co-production."

At a press conference in Paris on Thursday, Putin rejected concerns that the vessel could be used against its neighbours.

“France has such helicopter-carrying ships. So who is France preparing to attack? Why do people automatically assume that Russia will of course have to use this to attack someone?” he asked.

Also on Friday, a jollier Putin inaugurated a five-day exhibition showcasing cultural and economic ties between France and Russia at the Grand Palais, off the Champs Elysées.

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