Conservative Nicolas Sarkozy has won the hotly-contested French presidential election, according to early results.
EARLY RESULTS (73% OF VOTES COUNTED)
- Nicolas Sarkozy:
- 53.3% Segolene Royal: 46.7%
- Turnout: 84.8%
- Spoiled ballots: 3.75%
- Source: French Interior Ministry
Friendship for US
Mr Sarkozy's supporters have gathered for an open-air concert in the Place de la Concorde, which is expected to continue until the early hours.
....He said the US could count on France's friendship, but urged Washington to take a lead in the fight against climate change.
He also said he believed deeply in European integration, but appealed to France's partners to understand the importance of social protection.
"[Voters] have chosen to break with the habits and the ideals of the past so I will rehabilitate work, authority, morality, respect, merit!" he said. After he finished speaking at his party headquarters, jubilant supporters sang a rousing rendition of the French national anthem.
....Mr Sarkozy has promised to try to reform France to face the challenges of the 21st century, with putting the nation back to work at the top of his agenda. He has pledged to bring unemployment down from 8.3% to below 5% by 2012.
He is also expected to bring forward policies to cut taxes and keep trains running during strikes, in the first 100 days after he takes office on 17 May.
....French pundits greeted the strong turnout as a victory for French democracy....
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