PARIS, April 14 (UPI) -- A "no" vote to the European Constitution would weaken the EU and benefit the United States, warned French President Jacques Chirac, Thursday.
Appearing on a live televised debate with a group of 83 young French citizens aged 18-30, Chirac replied during two full hours to questions from the public, trying to promote a "yes" vote.
Chirac said a European constitution is important to help build a stronger Europe in the face of other powers.
"Europe must be strong, it must have the power to survive in tomorrow's world," said the French president.
Chirac said that France and Europe would in the future face other super powers such as the United States, China, Russia and even Brazil and the rest of Latin America.
The French will vote May 29 in a national referendum if they should support the European constiturion. For the moment, the "no" appears to have a slight edge.
Copyright 2005 by United Press International.
All rights reserved.
