The Daily Telegraph reported Saturday Sarkozy also will be traveling with his new wife, model Carla Bruni-Sarkozy.

Andree Sarkozy's participation in the diplomatic visit marks the close relationship she has with her son, one of her three children, the British newspaper said.

With Sarkozy's father leaving his family when the president was four years old, Andree Sarkozy became a major confidant for the French leader and has traveled with him during previous diplomatic trips.

The mother-son pair were together when Sarkozy visited China last November and her appearance reportedly was well-received by their Chinese hosts.

The Telegraph said Andree Sarkozy's advanced age may also benefit her son when meeting with Britain's Queen Elizabeth II' title='Queen Elizabeth II' class='tpstyle'>Queen Elizabeth II, who is one year older than Sarkozy's mother.