The French government has bitten back at the increasingly loud criticism that Paris is losing influence in the EU.
French foreign minister Michel Barnier told Le Figaro that France is "very well represented in the European institutions - often with eminent jobs".
"A decline of France? A loss in influence? Let's stop denigrating ourselves", he said.
Mr Barnier, who himself was a European Commissioner until April this year, said that his country "participates in the conception...
Enjoy access to all articles and 25 years of archives, comment and gift articles. Become a member for as low as €1,75 per week.
Already a member? Login