France is trying to compensate for its military inadequacy by playing a key diplomatic role in the f
![France seeks to play a leading role in the international diplomatic arena, writes Makarian [EPA]](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/201491683314210734_20.jpeg?resize=270%2C180&quality=80)

Christian Makarian is deputy editor of the French weekly magazine L'Express. He is a columnist on Middle East and European affairs.
France is trying to compensate for its military inadequacy by playing a key diplomatic role in the f
![France seeks to play a leading role in the international diplomatic arena, writes Makarian [EPA]](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/201491683314210734_20.jpeg?resize=270%2C180&quality=80)