French President Nicolas Sarkozy met Pope Benedict XVI in the Vatican on Thursday for discussions that centred on Europe, the Middle East and hostages.
The German pontiff and the French leader talked in private for about 25 minutes in the papal library. They spoke in French and Sarkozy complimented Benedict on his command of the language.
A Vatican statement said the talks had been ''cordial'' and had confirmed the ''good'' relations between the Holy See and the French Republic.
Observers say the Vatican looks favourably on many of Sarkozy's views, while at the same time disapproving of his marital status - he is currently divorcing his second wife.
The French president is a Catholic and is considered a supporter of the Church's positions on many international questions, bioethical issues and Europe's Christian roots.
He and the pope discussed ''the future of Europe, conflicts in the Middle East, social and political problems in some African countries and the drama of hostages,'' the Vatican statement said.
Sarkozy recently made a direct appeal to a Colombian rebel group to release a French citizen held hostage for the last five years. Video footage of Ingrid Betancourt which emerged in late November showed her looking emaciated and exhausted.
Before leaving the Vatican, the French president visited the crypt under St Peter's basilica and stood for a few moments in front of the tomb of Benedict's predecessor, John Paul II.
Speaking to journalists later about his talks with Benedict, Sarkozy said: ''We talked about the international situation and about the pontiff's vocation as a promoter of peace and reconciliation''.
He also said that he enjoyed discussing the meaning of life with ''men of great faith''.
Sarkozy was in Rome to be officially inducted as 'Canon' of the Basilica of St John Lateran. This is an honour that has been bestowed in French leaders since the early 17th century.
Sarkozy appeared to have come to Rome alone, causing disappointment in the Italian media. There had been speculation that he might bring Carla Bruni, the Italian singer and former model to whom he is now reportedly linked.
Because of the president's family status the ceremony in St John's Basilica was changed from a mass to another form of liturgy not involving communion.
Catholic doctrine does not allow divorcees to take communion.
Sarkozy was scheduled to meet Italian Premier Romano Prodi and Spanish Premier Jose' Luis Rodriguez Zapatero later to discuss plans for a 'union' of countries on the northern and southern rims of the Mediterranean Sea.
