Franco-American Relations

Ten years ago the relationship between the U.S. and France was so strained over the Iraq War that some restaurants in the U.S. began calling French fries "freedom fries".

Now, U.S. president Barack Obama is hosting the French president, Francois Hollande, at the White House for a lavish State Dinner.

In a joint press conference Obama pointed out the changed relationship between the countries.

"This level of partnership, across so many areas, would have been unimaginable even a decade ago. But it's a testament to how our two nations have worked to transform our alliance, and I want to salute President Hollande for carrying this work forward."

Text: Politics with a side of caviar: Obama welcomes Hollande at state dinner