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Mark this date on your calendar: August 8, 2006. It was on this day that the rarest diplomatic event of modern times took place. France and America agreed on something, specifically, the wording of the resolution before the UN on the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.

Since the event is unlikely to be replicated in the foreseeable centuries, henceforth on this celebratory date Americans are once again permitted to enjoy French wine and brie, while the French may without guilt indulge in California wine and Hollywood entertainment.

Fireworks and lightshows are planned in both nations.

Commenting on the event, President Bush said, 'I like it. I feel good. One day I may even visit France. In fact, Laura bought me some CD's with French lessons on them, so I can listen and learn while I ride my bike.'

On the other side of the Atlantic, President Jacques Chirac showed up at a press conference, wearing a cowboy hat and cowboy boots, and announced, 'Today I am an American, but, please, only for today. Perhaps in years to come, when I become more used to the amity that will be marked on this highly unusual occasion, I will consent to wear spurs. But for now the cowboy hat and boots will have to suffice.'

With that, he hefted his hat and waved it to the cameras, looking for all the world as close as he ever will to George Bush, waving his own wide-brimmed chapeau in Crawford.

It seems that, while Washington had his Lafayette, Bush finally has his Chirac, at least, for a day.