Hollande Puts Booze Before Diplomacy in State Dinner with Rouhani

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani refused a state dinner with French President Francois Hollande because the French side refused to offer a menu without alcohol, i24news reported.

Rouhani's visit to Italy and France is a pretty big deal in international politics, as it's the first time the Iranian president has travelled to Europe in the last decade, IRNA said.

The Islamic Republic's visit to Europe comes before the country's official talk in Italy which is part of the July 14 nuclear accord between Iran and P5+1 group.

According to IRNA, Rouhani would also meet with Pope Francis while in Italy.

And prior to such an important diplomatic event that could potentially shape global politics, Rouhani's dinner with Hollande was cancelled because the two sides couldn't agree on whether alcohol could be served during the meal.

Iranian representatives requested a halal menu without alcohol, but the French declined the offer stating that they didn't want to forgo their traditions, French radio RTL said.

One wonders how the French president would have treated his allies from the Persian Gulf countries if they requested a menu without pork at an official state dinner with the French government.