AceShowbiz - After being photographed having lunch with French businessman Olivier Sarkozy, "The Real Housewives of New York City" star Countess Luann de Lesseps has clarified their relationship.

"We've known each other for a long time," the 58-year-old cabaret star told Life & Style exclusively. "He's French, and I love French boys."

De Lesseps emphasized that they are merely friends and that the lunch was not romantic in nature. She explained that they are comfortable being seen together because they have nothing to hide. However, she acknowledges that paparazzi can be present in certain restaurants.

"I mean, obviously we didn't care because we are friends," she said. "I don't really care what people think anymore. Let them speculate."

De Lesseps has known Sarkozy for some time and even met his ex-wife, fashion designer Mary-Kate Olsen. Despite their friendship, De Lesseps admits that she appreciates certain qualities in French men. "Like I said, I love French men," she shared.

In her upcoming cabaret tour, "Marry F Kill!", De Lesseps will explore her single relationship status. She revealed that being single allows her to embrace her freedom and focus on her own happiness.

"I'm just having fun. I'm single. I get to do what I want to do, and it's really freeing," she said. "I haven't found that person yet, so I'm just dating until I do."

Tickets for "Marry F Kill!" are available for purchase, and De Lesseps will continue her tour into April, making stops in San Francisco, Modesto, and Sacramento.