France's Chirac Warns Countrymen on EU Constitution

French President Jacques Chirac says his country will interrupt 50 years of European integration if it rejects the proposed European Union Constitution in next month's referendum.

Mr. Chirac spoke at a joint news conference with visiting German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder Tuesday in Paris.

Earlier, the two leaders issued a statement saying the proposed constitution would reinforce Europe's ability to bolster peace and security in the world.

Supporters say the constitution will simplify EU decision-making. The document requires approval by all 25 EU countries before it can go into effect.

But for the past several weeks, polls have shown French voters rejecting the proposed charter in the May 29th referendum. Some critics argue the constitution would promote business interests at workers' expense.

Some information for this report provided by AFP and Reuters.