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'Dr Chirac' answers emergency
Eight years ago Yasser Arafat revealed that whenever he had a problem, he would go to see "Doctor Chirac" - because the French president was someone he felt he could call on in times of trouble. It was a nickname which at the time referred only to the political support Mr Chirac offered the Palestinian leader. But yesterday, "Doctor Chirac" was providing emergency medical assistance. The plea for help which Mr Arafat's aides made to France reflects the close ties between Paris and the Palestinian leadership. The French government sent a jet to collect Mr Arafat from Amman. The state is believed to be paying for his medical bills at the military hospital outside Paris. On Thursday Mr Chirac sent Mr Arafat a letter wishing him "sincere best wishes for his recovery". Before being confined to his compound in Ramallah, Mr Arafat had spent much time in Paris, and was reported to have had a favourite suite at the Crillon, the capital's most prestigious hotel. Since they were advised to leave Ramallah, Mr Arafat's wife, Suha, and their nine-year-old daughter, Zahwa, have lived for a while in Paris. Mr Arafat was hoping to be reunited with his daughter for the first time in three years during his stay. Posted by: Ol_Dirty_American 2004-10-31 |
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