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French president Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni met Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela during a trip to South Africa yesterday - encounters that the new first lady described as deeply moving.
Photographs showed the couple smiling and joking with Mandela on their first joint overseas trip since controversially marrying in secret four weeks ago.
"I have really enjoyed this trip. It was a unique and very moving experience to meet Mr Mandela and also to visit South Africa," model-turned-singer Bruni told French reporters later.
Asked how she saw her role, Bruni said: "I expect to accompany my husband. I hope to be able to get involved in humanitarian issues. He will help me a lot with that."
Sarkozy's popularity has been hit by his whirlwind romance and marriage to Bruni, which came just four months after he divorced his second wife. Some have accused him of being too impulsive and lowering the dignity of his office.
Sarkozy went out of his way to praise his wife. "She has been great because I have the impression that there has been a certain amount of attention fixed on her.
"I was truly proud to have you with me. Thanks," Sarkozy added, addressing her directly.
