Mr Sarkozy wants a clear timetable for foreign troops to quit Iraq

Mr Sarkozy said he remained opposed to Turkey's EU membership bid, but said he would not block further negotiations.

The emergence of a "strong Europe as a major player" internationally would help "rebuild a more efficient, fair and harmonious world order," he said.

He said the EU needed strong defence, immigration and environment policies.

Each Iraqi must be guaranteed equal access to the institutions and resources of their country - this also implies setting a clear timetable concerning the withdrawal of foreign troops President Sarkozy

A committee of 10 experts should be set up to think about what the EU's mission should be in future and where its geographical borders should end, he said, addressing French ambassadors.

"The wise men should submit their conclusions and suggestions ahead of the European elections of June 2009."

Referring to Turkey's EU membership bid, he said: "I'm not going to be hypocritical. Everyone knows I'm only in favour of association".

Turning to Iraq, he called for "a clear timetable concerning the withdrawal of foreign troops" and said a political solution required a "sincere national reconciliation process" engaging all Iraqis.

Mr Sarkozy said he was determined to prevent Iran from building a nuclear bomb.

France would "spare no effort to convince Iran that it has much to gain by engaging in serious negotiations with the Europeans, the Americans, the Chinese and the Russians," he said.

He also said the G8 grouping of industrialised powers should "become the G13" - expanding to include China, India, Brazil, Mexico and South Africa.

There should be more permanent members of the UN Security Council, Mr Sarkozy said.

"France demands new permanent members - Germany, Japan, India, Brazil - and fair representation for Africa."