French Prez`s companion visits orphanage

Children at an orphanage were left awestruck as Valerie Trierweiler took some of them on her lap for a cuddle while spending time with them.

New Delhi: Children at an orphanage here were left awestruck as Valerie Trierweiler, the companion of visiting French President Francois Hollande, took some of them on her lap for a cuddle while spending time with them.

As Hollande was busy holding talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and other top leaders on the first day of his visit, 47-year-old Trierweiler headed to a home for orphans which has been supported by the French embassy. "I studied but there are no studies for becoming a first lady. I am trying to do my best," Trierweiler said jokingly when a 10-year-old boy asked her how to become a first lady. Trierweiler said she wants to champion the cause of children`s welfare. The children at the home presented impromptu songs and dance and a visibly moved Trierweiler picked some of the children onto her lap. She also presented them gifts. The Government of India has extended all courtesies to Trierweiler, a twice-divorced mother of three, as per protocol given to a first lady. PTI