Sarkozy, chief challenger to meet at Jewish gala

[February 08, 2012]  PARIS (AP) -- French President Nicolas Sarkozy and the man leading the race to unseat him in upcoming elections are attending an annual dinner honoring France's Jewish community, in a rare joint appearance.

The dinner has become a can't-miss date on the French political calendar. It is generally attended by prominent Catholic and Muslim figures as well as leading members of France's large Jewish community.

Sarkozy hasn't announced his candidacy for elections in April and May but is widely expected to seek a second term. He is giving a speech at the dinner Wednesday expected to be attended by Socialist candidate Francois Hollande.

Hollande tops opinion polls ahead of the vote amid worries about France's dragging economy and disillusionment with Sarkozy's presidency.

[Associated Press]

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