Segolene Royal wins strong backing from Socialist Party

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 11-17-2006 14:46

Segolene Royal's quest to become France's first woman head of state has received strong backing from her Socialist Party. She was crowned its presidential candidate in a primary election on Thursday,

Although counting was still continuing after the ballot, Royal was on course for a resounding victory. A spokesman for Royal said she was set to win between 55 and 60 percent of the vote. Her two male rivals, former finance minister Dominique Strauss-Kahn and former Prime Minister Laurent Fabius, were fighting it out for second place.

Segolene Royal said, “I would simply like to say how delighted I am. I am really happy and I intensely live this moment of happiness. It's a great privilege given to me by the members of Socialist Party who voted massively today. First of all, what I want to keep in mind is that the socialists came, they came to vote, they are giving me an impetus and I thank them with all my heart.”

Despite a long career in French politics, Royal has successfully positioned herself as a fresh face, strong on traditional values and ready to listen to people's concerns.

Conservative President Jacques Chirac has said he will only announce next year if he will seek an unprecedented third term in the election. The first round of presidential election is on April 22nd, 2007.

Editor:Sun Luying