Nicolas Sarkozy takes over France today

Today, Nicolas Sarkozy took over the reigns of the French presidency from Jacques Chirac in a handover ceremony at the Elysee Palace in Paris. Following strict protocol, the inauguration ceremony which was watched by family, friends and leading politicians included the official election result, announced by the head of the constitutional council after which Sarkozy received the insignia of office.

His speech as new head of state began, “My thoughts are first with the French people,” he said. “This is a great population, with a great history, who have risen up to say that they believe in democracy.”

Sarkozy’s hard won appointment is expected to be a positive step forward for France, it’s economy, people and in particular the French property sector.