PARIS, Oct 18: French Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin flew to Tripoli on Friday in a symbolic gesture intended to let Libyan authorities know that France intends resuming diplomatic and economic ties.

The timing of the visit is not fortuitous as Monday (Oct 21) marks the first meeting in 20 years of the joint Franco-Libyan commission that sets the agenda for economic cooperation.

France is keen on obtaining some of the contracts that will be put out for bids by Libya.

Paris also wants better relations with Tripoli which it recognizes as a key player not only with regard to the Middle East, but also as concerns the future of France’s former colonies in Africa.