The New Nation - Internet Edition

AP, London

French President Nicolas Sarkozy ended his state visit Thursday by stressing he could boycott the Beijing Olympics' opening ceremony, striking a rare note of conflict with his hosts after two days of pomp, ceremony and promises of a new era of cooperation. Sarkozy and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown showcased their friendship during the French leader's 36-hour trip, sealing a multibillion-dollar defense deal, vowing to jointly press the United States on climate change and to curb the spread of nuclear weapons technology. Sarkozy said he and Brown had worked "hand in glove" since they both took office last year, but acknowledged they are divided over a possible Olympics boycott to punish China for its crackdown on Tibetans, an idea that the French leader first raised early in the week. "I reserve the right to say whether I will attend," Sarkozy said at a news conference at London's Emirates soccer stadium.