Here is one reason France is a middling power and will remain so for the foreseeable future.

CNSNews.com (via Crosswalk.com): France Praises Iran's 'Stabilizing Role'
The French foreign minister, whose government is positioning itself to play a leading part in Mideast peace efforts, has described Iran as a respected country that plays a stabilizing role in the region.

So, France thinks goat raping is respectable? Brigitte Bardot, call your office.