Curt Weldon, June 13, 2003

Comedian, actor and director Woody Allen has recently hit the airwaves trying to reignite the stumbling French tourism industry. In a new promotional video Allen urges all of us to "build on what has been a great, great friendship," adding "let’s pull together now."

Having reportedly lost up to $500 million in tourist revenue, I found it interesting that the French decided to "pull together" once their wallets are no longer stuffed with dollars. What’s more, I find it troubling to see Mr. Allen putting so much energy into promoting France’s economy while our economic situation at home continues to suffer.

Like I have said in the past, I have no problem with the French people; however I do find their government’s policies to be hypocritical and, in this case shameless. If France wants to improve their image in America’s eyes, perhaps they should adopt a more consistent foreign policy, work with their long-time allies and not rely on Hollywood to bail them out of bad times.

Congressman Curt Weldon represents the Seventh Congressional District of Pennsylvania in the U.S. House of Representatives. in the U.S. House of Representatives.