France criticizes Iraq hostage mediators

PARIS, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- France has criticized unofficial negotiators for complicating release efforts for two French hostages held in Iraq, the BBC reported Saturday.

French parliamentarian Didier Julia has been leading unofficial attempts to free the two journalists, kidnapped in August with their Syrian driver.

Foreign Minister Michel Barnier said he had indirect contact with the hostage-takers before Julia's efforts. However, he said his efforts were ruined when the private mediation began.

"All the progress we have made was interrupted on 28 September by the parallel steps taken by Mr. Julia's group," he said.