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Hollande vows action "over coming months or coming years" to protect France

Xinhua, September 8, 2016 Adjust font size:

French President Francois Hollande on Thursday pledged more acts to further promote France's influence, in a clear indication that he would seek for a second mandate.

"I won't let the image of France, the influence of France deteriorate over the coming months or coming years," Hollande said in a speech on "democracy and terrorism."

"Presidential elections are an opportunity to address the people. When the time comes, the French will have to decide their future. They will judge the results and the projects as well," he added.

Haunted by record low popularity, Hollande said he would announce by the end of 2016 if he will seek a second term. However, his fresh promise to work for France's interests for a longer period means that he contemplates to extend his stay at the Elysee Palace by five years.

"...In a democracy, there is the election and it's not easy, It must be deserved. it must be prepared, and we must respect citizens," the French president said.

Months ahead presidential race, an Elabe poll for the news channel BFMTV showed 88 percent of voters disapproved the Socialist leader with 72 percent of left parties said they were against Hollande's candidacy for 2017 election.

Shortly after his election in 2012, the Socialist leader saw his popularity tumbling sharply as unemployment continued to grow. Endit