Italy’s government became the laughingstock of the world when it covered up nude statues in its bid to court Iran. France is still welcoming the head of the terrorist state, but it draws the line at no wine.

A formal lunch between the French president and his Iranian counterpart during this week’s historic meeting was scrapped after the Elysée Palace reportedly refused Iran’s request to serve up halal meat and no wine.

Rouhani, whose country has strict laws governing the consumption of alcohol, had requested a meal with a halal, alcohol-free menu. But this proved unacceptable for the Elysée, who politely declined citing France’s “republican traditions” surrounding Elysée dinners.

In an attempt to reach a compromise, the Elysée suggested a breakfast meeting instead, but this was reportedly rejected by the Iranians as being “too cheap”.

Rouhani’s visit comes after his trip to Italy, where not only was wine off the menu, but nude statues at a museum in Rome had to be covered up so as to spare the head of state’s blushes.

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