France, formerly a bastion of the few and brave, is quickly gaining mainstream investment attention with the election of President Nicolas Sarkozy in May.

FORBES: Vive la Difference

The chancellor openly supported the re-election bid of her political ally, President Nicolas Sarkozy, and refused to make any face time in her calendar for Mr. Hollande while he was campaigning.

WSJ: France, Germany Face Relationship Test

Earlier, President Nicolas Sarkozy of Senegal's former colonial ruler, France, said the peaceful election was "good news for Africa in general and for Senegal in particular".

BBC: Macky Sall Senegal election win 'example for Africa'