Paris  - French President Nicolas Sarkozy late Thursday came to the defence of Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner, who has been accused of conflict of interest.

"Bernard Kouchner has my total trust," Sarkozy said during an appearance on national television to discuss the economic crisis.

A book published Wednesday accused Kouchner of using his position as head of a public health organization to carry out high-paying consulting activities in Africa for private companies.

The book, The World According to K, by journalist Pierre Pean, alleges that from 2002 to 2007 Kouchner represented two private health consulting firms in Africa while at the same time heading the association Esther, the aim of which was to increase international hospital cooperation.

"Mr Kouchner has problems with the police? Mr Kouchner has legal problems? No," Sarkozy said. "He told me there was no conflict of interest. I believe him and I continue to trust him."

The charges in the book stirred speculation in France that Kouchner may eventually be forced to step down. (dpa)