The history of Anglo-French relations is littered with grand promises of fresh starts that quickly turn mouldy. Incoming political leaders on both sides of the Channel have habitually vowed to bury historic suspicions between the two countries – until a new cause of dissension erupts between the “best of enemies”. The Common Agricultural Policy, immigration controls, mad cow scares, Britain’s European Union budget rebate and the Iraq war have all contributed to some spectacular bilateral rows.

That said, the seemingly heartfelt appeal of Nicolas Sarkozy, France’s president, on his state visit to Britain to upgrade the entente cordiale to an entente amicale is both welcome and timely. Both countries could profit enormously from closer co-operation. Gordon Brown, Britain’s prime minister, should respond in kind when the two leaders meet today in the improbable setting of Arsenal’s football stadium.