In Paris, with a scent of frigates and warplanes

Loyal to his habits, Prime Minister Papandreou opened his 2011 calendar with a visit abroad..

Today, Thursday, when the country celebrates the day of Theophany, Papandreou will be giving a speech in an event in Paris organized by Eric Besson, the French minister of Industry, entitled «New World. New Capitalism». French PM François Fillon might take part, possibly because of Papandreou's presence.

At noon, Fillon will hold a working lunch in honor of Papandreou, at the French PM's office. There will be a general discussion on strengthening bilateral cooperation to address economic problems and possibly attracting French investment funds in Greece.

Even though the Greek financial situation does not allow planning to buy extremely expensive weapons systems, Paris has a plan to supply the Greek armed forces with Fremm Class frigates and Rafale fighter planes.

As it is known, Claude Guéant, director of the French presidency, presented the French proposal to Papandreou in the beginning of Dcember. Sarkozy's close colleague visited Athens and informed the Greek PM, expressing the French president's strong desire for a quick order.

If the subject arises again in today's meeting, Papandreou has already prepared an answer.

The Greek PM has been in Paris since Monday night. According to sources, he traveled privately on a commercial flight accompanied by his wife Anta and his personal security. After two days of rest and walks, Papandreou completes his journey today with the official part of his programm.

Greek minister of Foreign Affairs, Dimitris Droutsas, accompanied by 10 government members, arrived on Wednesday night. This evening the official team will fly to Erzurum in Turkey as on Friday morning, Papandreou is expected to meet with Turkish PM Erdogan, while he will also give a speech to an audience of highly trained members of the Turkish diplomacy.