French Yemeni relations are strong and good, they are relations depending on friendship and cooperation; my relationship with the president Chiraq are old and real.

In this quote, Ali Abdullah Saleh highlights the strong and positive nature of French-Yemeni relations, emphasizing that their foundation lies in friendship and cooperation. He suggests that the relationship between France and Yemen is not just political but also built on mutual trust and shared goals. This implies that the two nations work closely together, supporting each other’s interests and fostering a diplomatic connection that goes beyond formal agreements.

Saleh also refers to his relationship with President Chirac, calling it old and real, which further underscores the depth and authenticity of the bond between the two leaders. By describing their relationship in these terms, Saleh highlights the longstanding nature of the connection, suggesting that it is based on genuine respect and collaboration rather than just political necessity or convenience. This personal connection adds weight to the idea of the two nations’ relationship being based on more than just surface-level diplomacy.

The origin of this sentiment likely comes from Saleh's experiences as the President of Yemen, during which he worked closely with international leaders, including French officials. His mention of the relationship with President Chirac specifically points to the longstanding diplomatic ties that have existed between Yemen and France, with Saleh's personal relationship with Chirac serving as a symbol of that enduring connection.

Ultimately, Saleh’s quote reflects the importance of trust and genuine relationships in international diplomacy. It emphasizes that strong national ties are often built not just on official agreements but on deep personal connections between leaders who share a history of cooperation and mutual respect.