The pact would have imposed more austerity on France and Germany at a time when the economic recoveries in both countries remain fragile.

ECONOMIST: If only they could all be like Luxembourg | The

"These heroes of the shadows who saved France's honor at a time when it seemed lost are disappearing one after the other, " he said.

CNN: Nazi era French Resistance leader dies

Her two sons, aged 11 and 13 at the time, were on a school skiing trip in France when they heard their mother had been murdered.

BBC: Rosemary Nelson

Trailing 10-9 at half-time, the Brumbies claimed a decisive lead when Joe Roff, who played in France last year, powered over eight minutes into the second half.

BBC: Andrew Mehrtens looks to pass for Canterbury

At the same time, France's "subjective" interests cannot be overlooked -- especially when the French "post-colonial paradox" comes into play.

CNN: France: We're not the pacifists you think we are

When Germany and the United States met at France 98, the three-time world champions looked dominant in a convincing 2-0 victory.

BBC: Germany and US renew rivalry

At a time when both France and America were pressing it to leave Lebanon, Mr Hariri refused to take the Syrian side.

ECONOMIST: Syria

In short, it is unclear what exactly France wants from Europe right now, at a time when it is supposed to begin steering the debate.

ECONOMIST: The Euro-confusion in France