German economic growth picked up pace in the first three months of 2014, while France's economy failed to grow, the latest figures show.
German gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.8%, driven by stronger domestic demand, the country's statistics office said.
In contrast, the French GDP rate was 0% because of weak consumer spending and business investment.
Public spending helped to stop the French economy from contracting.
Germany's statistics agency, Destatis, said the mild weather also helped the stronger growth.
"Private households and the government increased spending at the start of the year," the statement said.
"The trend in investment was also positive, with a sharp increase in investment in both construction and equipment," it added.
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