The World - News from March 21, 1988

French President Francois Mitterrand said he will announce this week whether he intends to seek another term. The 71-year-old Mitterrand, considered a virtual shoo-in for reelection if he runs, made the remark in a videotaped message to a Socialist conference near Paris. Aides have dropped strong hints that Mitterrand will seek another 7-year mandate. The first round of voting will be held April 24, with a runoff between the two leading candidates May 8. According to a weekend opinion poll, Mitterrand is leading the field of presidential aspirants with 38.5%, against 23.5% for Premier Jacques Chirac and 20% for former Premier Raymond Barre.