Power passes from Chirac to Sarkozy

May 16, 2007

Nicolas Sarkozy took over as French president from Jacques Chirac Wednesday, vowing to usher in a period of deep reforms to help his country adapt to a fast-changing world. In a symbolic handover of powers, Chirac passed on the launch codes to France's nuclear arsenal and briefed Sarkozy on current agenda items before being driven from the Elysee palace for the last time. Images and soundbites.