Franco-British relations crucial for EU, says Sarkozy

El País reports that French president Nicolas Sarkozy has hailed Franco-British relations as central for Europe.

The paper says Sarkozy surprised his hosts, on his first official state visit to the UK on Wednesday, by committing himself to a reinforced presence in Afghanistan and agreeing to negotiate the reform of the common agricultural policy.

Le Monde says Sarkozy told British parliamentarians that Europe needs to be built upon nations that are not afraid of their identity, and added that Europe needs Britain now more than ever.

The Telegraph, meanwhile, says that Sarkozy and Brown are to seal a deal on nuclear cooperation today, and will also discuss the global economic situation and defence cooperation.

Meanwhile, Le Figaro reports that Gordon Brown has become a Europhile "by necessity" as he aims to get the Lisbon treaty ratified.

It adds that Sarkozy has agreed not to press the Brown on the EU during their meeting, fearing it would embarrass the formerly Eurosceptic British premier.

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