Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and his wife Svetlana Medvedeva arrive to attend a state dinner in their honour, hosted by French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy at the Elysee Palace

Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy hold hands as they wait for the arrival of their guests Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and his wife Svetlana Medvedeva.

Hailing a new period of friendship between the former Cold War foes, Sarkozy said it was time for a new start.

Sarkozy STATED WITH QUOTE, "I tell you Mr President, we want to turn the page of the Cold War, which brought only unhappines, broken destinies and bereaved families. Your presence here tonight Mr President and Madame is the proof that all this is behind us,".

Medvedev replied in a similar vein WITH QUOTE, "I would like to say that I see this invitation as an invitation from the head of a friendly state and from a man whom I sincerely respect, whom I consider to be my friend. And as has just been said by the President it´s a reciprocal feeling. I am convinced that sincerity and openness are the best help to develop our cooperation,".