Yes, he is the French president, and yes, he is rich and powerful, attributes which rarely fail to boost a man's pulling power.

And a woman in love can perhaps overlook being four inches taller, 12 years younger and rather more aesthetically pleasing than the object of her affections.

It is when I think of the differences in personal principles and beliefs between the former model and the president that my jaw begins to drop.

Ms Bruni's beliefs are left-wing.

In the run-up to the French elections last year she supported the socialist presidential candidate Ségolène Royal.

Mr Sarkozy, however, is unashamedly right-wing.

He proudly announced plans for a new immigration law which would introduce DNA testing to verify family links in an effort to prevent immigrants bringing their extended families into France.

Last October, in the same month the president and his former wife Cecilia divorced, Ms Bruni signed a petition opposing the immigration proposals.

Add to this Ms Bruni's views on marriage itself: "monogamy bores me terribly... I am monogamous from time to time but I prefer polygamy and polyandry."

Mr Sarkozy, on the other hand, appears to be a serial fan of marriage.

So what prompted the delicious Ms Bruni to enter into a (presumably monogamous) marriage, with the president?

I had no idea until my radio turned itself on early last Wednesday morning, signalling it was time for me to get up, throw some muesli around the kitchen and shake off the old umbrella.

There in my room was Mr Sarkozy's voice rumbling in French under the accented English of the translator.

With a lulling rhythm of rhetorical questions and answers he praised Britain's strength, called us France's great friends, he thanked us for the liberation, said how much France needed us, gave a little giggle here and a dramatic pause there.

Before I knew it I was running late, seduced by a gravelly-voiced politician whose policies I regard with a healthy serving of suspicion.
And so the charm offensive continued during the presidential visit.

As Mr Sarkozy continued to rain compliments down upon all around, Ms Bruni added much appreciated glitz.

The media lapped up her demure outfits, her cute little beret, her perfect curtsy and, of course, her bag and shoes, carefully chosen to represent a French-English fusion, being designed by Englishman John Galliano and produced by the French label Dior.

Only time will tell the full extent of what Mr Sarkozy wants in return for such charm and high praise.

But if he and Ms Bruni can overcome their differences and enjoy a happy marriage, it is entirely conceivable that Mr Sarkozy's desire to crank the entente cordiale between France and England up a notch to friendliness could be realised.

-------------------------------------
Click here for more Personal Views.

Where are you? Add your pin to the Herald's international readers' map by clicking here.

Email the Herald: letters@worthingherald.co.uk