Chirac Pleas with High Tech Business to Stay in France

LA Times reports:

The president [Jacques Chirac] reserved a pointed message for France's blue-chip companies, which in many cases have substantial operations outside French territory.

"It's time for you to invest more and better in research on our soil," Chirac said. "I don't see any contradiction between the international nature of your business ... and the privileged link you must retain and strengthen with France."

"Everything favors the situating of high-technology operations in France and Europe," Chirac told business leaders. "I'm counting on you."