Hollande vows to protect jobs as he meets Alstom bidders

French President Francois Hollande vowed today to safeguard jobs in takeover target Alstom, whose energy business is being eyed by US giant General Electric and rival bidder Siemens.
Germany meanwhile sought to boost Siemens' case, saying a tie-up between the French and German giants offered a "big opportunity" for Europe's two biggest economies.
"The state will inevitably have a say" in the sale, Hollande declared, underscoring that the government placed several orders with Alstom "in strategic sectors especially energy."
He said the "sole criteria" in choosing the successful bidder would be which one "would be the best in creating more business and jobs."

The French leader first met GE chief Jeffrey Immelt for an hour and pressed his case for jobs and for Alstom's decision-making centre to be protected in France.
"There were legitimate issues (evoked by the government) which GE is working on," said a GE source.
Immelt himself described the talks as "open, friendly and productive".
"It was important to hear in person President Hollande's perspective and to discuss our plans," Immelt said. "We understand and value his perspective, and we are committed to work together.