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French
President Francois Hollande (L) welcomes his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani
for a meeting during the 70th United Nations General Assembly in New York City,
United States September 27, 2015. © Alain Jocard / Reuters
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Iran’s President Rouhani
will visit France next week, but the historic visit will not feature a dinner
with President Hollande. Why? Because the French wouldn’t agree to serve halal meat
and wouldn't budge on serving alcohol.
The
formal lunch with the French leader was meant to take place at the Elysee
Palace, but reports indicate it is not to be, according to France’s RTL.
RT report continues:
According
to the news source, Rouhani refused on religious grounds. “A meal was
contemplated, but fell apart,” a source familiar with the issue said.
But
the request for halal food and the absence of wine should not have been
unexpected. It is what the Iranian delegation normally requests on official
state visits.
However,
the French made clear they wished to find common ground, and therefore offered
breakfast at the Elysee Palace instead. According to RTL, the Iranians found
the idea unfavorable and therefore, rejected it.
In
the end, a two-hour meeting was agreed upon, to take place on November 17 –
excluding food.
Apart
from Hollande, Rouhani is due to meet with those in the business sector,
including the Minister of Economy Emmanuel Macron.
The French administration
declined to comment on the matter of the meal.
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