Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Medgyessy and French President Jacques Chirac agreed that the Iraq crisis, if possible, should be settled peacefully.  

Chirac and Medgyessy held a consultation that lasted for more than an hour in the Elysee.  

Medgyessy told reporters that the meeting, just as his previous talks with the U.S. president, NATO leaders and others, was aimed at guaranteeing Hungary's security and peace. 

Medgyessy said, "the starting point is the same for Hungary and France: if possible, Iraq should be disarmed by peaceful means. From certain aspect, however, the two countries have adopted different positions. Hungary insists that beyond a certain point the international community should no longer tolerate Iraq ignoring the U.N. resolutions. So, as a last resort, it should not rule out the use of force either." 

Medgyessy added, "as far as I know, British Prime Minister Tony Blair is working on a compromise which Hungary hopes may help settle the crisis." The premier said that he would soon consult with Blair on the issue. According to MTI information, the two prime ministers may have a phone discussion later on today. 

In response to a question, Medgyessy said the issue of the letter of eight European leaders was only touched upon but not discussed in detail during the meeting. President Chirac confirmed his personal commitment to EU enlargement, which he said the French National Assembly would also support.