Britain and France are planning diplomatic cooperation in Africa -- where they were the major colonial powers for a century -- and might even share embassy buildings.

Moves proposed during discussions in the last two months include joint news conferences by ambassadors, joint tours by ministers and the sharing of information and analysis.

The two countries will also consider representing each other in places where only one has an embassy.

A spokesman for the Foreign Office in London said the plan was due to be endorsed at a meeting of the French and British leaders this week.