CRI听力：Sarkozy Assures US Congress of Strong Friendship, Alliance

French President Nicolas Sarkozy has assured the US Congress that his country is the friend of the United States.
Sarkozy's visit is thought to open a new, cosier chapter in the bilateral relations.

"Since the United States first appeared on the world scene, our two people, the French and American people have always been friends. And the vicissitudes of history of both our countries reinforced this friendship."

Sarkozy told US lawmakers that such improved relations should lead to much closer cooperation on a host of international problems, including Iran's nuclear programme, Middle East peace and the stability of Lebanon.

He spoke through an interpreter to lawmakers gathered in the chamber of the House of Representatives for a Joint Meeting of Congress.

His message of friendship was met with warmth.

Sarkozy came to Washington seeking to restore the kind of relationship that existed between Paris and Washington before sharp differences arose over the US-led war in Iraq.