The United States and France, whose relationship deteriorated during the Iraq war, emphasized their strong ties as US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice visited Paris for the first time since Nicolas Sarkozy became president. Sarkozy, a supporter of the US, hopes Rice's extended visit will improve relations strained by former French president Jacques Chirac's opposition to the 2003 Iraq war. Rice's visit coincided with a meeting convened by Sarkozy on Darfur, where the US felt the previous French government did not do enough to help. Rice held discussions with Sarkozy, as well as the French foreign and defence ministers, on various global issues such as Iran, Iraq, the Middle East, and Kosovo. French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner emphasized the importance of working together to strengthen their partnership during a joint news conference before hosting a dinner for Rice. "We had the opportunity to discuss various current events and realized that we have differing perspectives at times. It is important to have open and honest conversations among friends," he stated. Rice also extended warm congratulations to Sarkozy for his election win and commended Kouchner for his work with Medecins Sans Frontieres, which she regarded as a highly esteemed organization." Analysts noted that despite the cordial relationship between the two countries, there are still several areas of disagreement such as French concerns about NATO expansion, the U.S. missile defense shield in Europe, and U.S. support for Israel. Dominique Moisi, a senior counselor at the French Institute of International Relations, stated that there is a new atmosphere of confidence between the U.S. and France, but this is more in terms of style and tone rather than actual content. He also mentioned that while there is a perception in the U.S. of a new France as a strong ally, the French view of the Bush administration remains unchanged. "To ensure that the change in atmosphere is confirmed, it is suggested to wait for a new president in Washington, preferably one from the Democratic party." Despite this, US and French officials appeared cordial in their public interactions. Kouchner gave Rice a kiss on each cheek at the end of their news conference, creating a symbolic image of France and the United States reconciling after the Iraq war, even though this process began years ago. The French foreign minister appeared pleased when Rice acknowledged French support for the American revolution, acknowledging that without their help, the United States may not have come into existence.