France targets Saudi defence deals

Posted on: Mar. 7th, 2006 || Source: news.bbc.co.uk | E-mail Article | Print Article

Dispite an agreement with Britain to supply it's air force with at least 24 Eurofighters, Saudi Arabia could still consider buying French.

As Jacques Chirac cuts a swathe on his tour of Saudi Arabia, there will be those among the French president's entourage hoping that his three-day charm offensive will lead to big orders for French business.

Not least, the bosses of two of France's leading defence companies, Thales and Dassault Aviation.

"We discussed (these deals) in an excellent climate, as is usual with Saudi Arabia," President Chirac told reporters. "Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a detailed study on different options."

"France gives great importance to the ongoing study and to the decision the Saudis will take," he added.

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