Echenique's 36-hole total, 10-under 132, leads first-round front-runner, Martin Kaymer (72), Charl Schwartzel (66) and Steve Webster (65), who are tied for third at 134.
"I've had a good three weeks and you have to enjoy the moment," said Echenique, who was the runner-up at last week's BMW International in Munich after missing three straight cuts. "If my putting is as good as it has been for the first two rounds, then I have a great chance to win this tournament."
A birdie at the par-5 ninth hole helped him overtake Kaymer on the way to a solid back nine at Le Golf National.
Richard Green (67) and Peter Hanson (70) share fifth place at 7-under 135.
The cut was 1-over 143. Among those missing it were Masters champion Angel Cabrera (145) and last year's British Open winner and PGA Champion Padraig Harrington (147).
Copyright 2009 by United Press International.
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