Sarkozy calls for EU 'Buy European Act'

(PARIS) - French President Nicolas Sarkozy said Sunday he wanted the EU to introduce a "Buy European Act" based on a US law that obliges the state to use domestically-produced products in public contracts.

"I solemnly ask the question why should Europe deny itself that which the United States, the most (economically) liberal country in the world, allows itself," he said at an election rally.

Sarkozy warned that if the European Union did not do this within a year he would, if reelected, implement a "Buy French" law.

The right-winger is trailing in the polls behind Socialist Francois Hollande in the race for the vote to be held in late April and early May.