The French President’s visit to Japan aims at

The French President Jacques Chirac is to discuss the efforts to stimulate the Japanese economy during a visit to Japan which begins today. The French President is no stranger to Japan. He’s visited the country forty times before and this will be his second visit as president. Mr. Chirac will hold summit talks with the Japanese Prime Minister next Monday. He’s expected to discuss efforts to boost the Japanese economy as well as investments by Japanese companies in France. He’ll also meet the Emperor and the Empress at Longshong Tuesday. But perhaps the event that will draw most attention is the launch of a year-long festival of French arts and culture in Japan. A replica of the Arch de Triomphe that usually stands in Paris has been transported to Tokyo Bay for the festival and Mr. Chirac will unveil it. The festival includes films, theatrical performances, dance and exhibitions as well as promotions for French food and wine, both of which are very popular in Japan.