French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s blitz-visit to Turkey lead to Ankara’s decision to cease cooperation with France’s Alcatel, Sabah Turkish newspaper said.

According to the newspaper, 4 satellites sent into space by Turkey were manufactured by the French company. However, because of the firm position of France on Turkey’s EU bid and Armenian Genocide recognition, the cooperation was stopped. “Turkey has abandoned Alcatel after 18-years of partnership and has selected Japan's Mitsubishi to be their new partners in satellite production,” Sabah reported.