Hello TJT,
Provided that this is an International version, as you described, this unit should be able to cover French 2G networks, if 2G networks are still supported in France and by the provider you are looking at.
The frequencies that are supported are 800/850, 900, 1700, 1900, 2100 MHz.
Note too that this should work in 3G mode.
Please let us know if further questions.
Thanks,
Scott