The French insisted on serving local food and wine but the Iranians demanded a halal menu in keeping with their Muslim faith.

Hollande’s officials said preparing the meal to be ‘Iran friendly’ went against France’s republican values.

The Elysee Palace suggested a breakfast with Rouhani instead, but this was said to be snubbed by the Iranian leader for being ‘too cheap’.

A diplomatic source told the RTL radio station: ‘The leaders have missed out on a great opportunity to meet in the relaxed environment of a meal.’