French FM in Sudan to discuss boosting bilateral relations

KHARTOUM, Sudan, Feb 20, 2004 (AP) — French Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin arrived in Khartoum Friday on the first visit by a senior French official in 20 years.

De Villepin said the visit is meant to review and boost bilateral relations.

He was received at the Khartoum airport by his Sudanese counterpart, Mustafa Osman Ismail.

De Villepin told reporters that Sudan should be assisted to achieve peace and stability.

“Sudan’s stability reflects on the countries of the region as well,” he said.

During his two-day visit, de Villepin is scheduled to meet President Omar el-Bashir and senior government officials.