"You, the Russians, are living here and cannot even imagine how great is your prestige and how your image has changed on the global stage. Russia has again become a powerful nation, Russia knows its place on the international arena and knows its fate. Finally, I would like to say that I have always been Vladimir Putin's friend, because he is a person with whom you can talk even despite disagreements," Sarkozy said at a Pre-New Year reception of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF).
Kirill Dmitriev, next year, I hope, you will invite me as well," Sarkozy stated.
Sarkozy held the French presidential office in 2007-2012. After the termination of his presidential term he continued his political activities and even run in the 2017 presidential election in the country, but was defeated in primaries.
READ MORE: Sarkozy's Downfall: Gaddafi's and Libya's Revenge