1.
GV French Embassy, Cotonou
0.05

2.
SV Palm trees TILT DOWN To guests in garden
0.15

3.
SV Military officers
0.20

4.
SV PAN officials with M. and Madame
0.29

5.
CU Madame Ahomadegbe
0.32

6.
SCU M. Apithy
0.37

7.
SV Guests PAN TO French Ambassador and M. Ahomadegbe
0.51



Initials OS/023 OS/028



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: Members of the Dahomey Government and the country's diplomatic corps attended a reception at the residence of the French Ambassador recently to mark Bastille Day. Representing President Huber Maga, who was overseas, were Mr. Justine Ahomadegbe and mr. Sourou Migan Apithy, members of the Presidential Council. The reception, with people from all walks of life attending, was held in the gardens of the French Embassy.

SYNOPSIS: Members of the Dahomey Government and the country's diplomatic corps have attended a reception in Cotonou to mark Bastille Day. The French Ambassador, Mr. Delamare, was the host.

Members of the country's military forces, many of whom have served with the French during the Second World War were also present. M. Ahomadegbe and M. Apithy, two members of the Presidential Council, represented President Hubert Maga who was overseas.

During the reception, M. Delamare spoke of the strong ties between Dahomey and France. He recalled that members from both countries' armed forces fought side by side during World War Two and many Dahomians gained medals of valour.