Chirac warning over Corsican reforms

President Chirac of France has warned that the French government's plans to allow limited self-rule in Corsica must not infringe the unity of the French republic.

In his first detailed comment on an agreement reached last month between the Prime Minister, Lionel Jospin and Corsican nationalists, President Chirac said that reforms -- desirable and necessary as they may be -- must respect the unity of France. He said that while reforms were essential because Corsica was suffering economic disadvantages, Corsicans must recognise the principles of the Republic. Under the government's plan, the island would be given limited legislative powers within four years.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service