Today's Date:

The President of the Republic and Prime Minister are, as you know, personally monitoring hour by hour the efforts we are deploying everywhere to secure the release of Christian Chesnot and Georges Malbrunot.

On my return this morning, I reported to President Chirac on the first part of my mission, and this afternoon we shall be working on it with the Prime Minister.

As you know, this mission also consisted in explaining, particularly in the Middle East, what France and her republican identity are, and what France is doing throughout the world and especially in that region to promote the dignity, freedom and sovereignty of the peoples.

We have also been deeply touched by the response we have received in the region, particularly to this message.

Our absolute priority today remains, of course, to secure Christian Chesnot and Georges Malbrunot's release. Their safety remains our priority. As I speak to you, we have serious reasons for believing that they are both in good health and that a happy outcome is possible.

We are devoting all our energy to this task. We are working calmly, prudently and discreetly. This is one of the conditions on which their safety depends and I ask and thank you for your understanding.

Personally, I remain ready to go back to the region at any time, and confirm to you that the teams set up in Amman and, of course, in Baghdad, will remain there and mobilized as long as necessary.

Thank you./.