Obama turns down dinner with the Sarkozys
The Obamas turn up in Paris this evening, but have declined a dinner invitation from the couple next door: the Sarkozys.This is certainly disturbing, and signals how US relations with Europe, just like with Israel, may be on the verge of a serious stumbling.
President Obama’s reluctance to spend more than minimum time with the French leader on his visit for the D-Day anniversary has come as an embarrassment to the Elysée Palace.
America’s First Family will not be dining with President Sarkozy and his wife, Carla Bruni, even though they are staying at the residence of the US Ambassador, yards from the Elysée apartments where the Sarkozys spend their weekends.
Mr Sarkozy’s staff were trying yesterday to arrange another private moment between the couples. Mr Obama is due to fly back to Washington tomorrow night or on Sunday.
Update: more from Michael Van Der Galien.
Labels: Europe, France, United States