Celebration of Franco-German Day in Georgia
By Gvantsa Turmanidze
Wednesday, January 23
On January 22, 2019, the Ambassador of the Republic of France to Georgia HE Pascal Meunier and the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Georgia HE Hubert Knirsch celebrated Franco-German Day by visiting French School of Caucasus and German International School in Tbilisi. The aim of the visit is to address young generation and remind them of the day of reconciliation between France and Germany in relations of the two countries and of its role in the history of European construction and in favor of world peace. The visit aimed at introducing close cooperation between the diplomatic and cultural representations of the two countries in all spheres and joint projects implemented in Georgia as the member state of Eastern Partnership.
Franco-German Day is celebrated annually and represents the commemoration of the Elysee Treaty between France and Germany signed by the president Charles de Gaulle and Chancellor Konrad Adenauer on January 22, 1963. The treaty contained a number of agreements for joint cooperation in foreign policy, economic and military integration and exchange of student education between the two countries. With the signing of this treaty, Germany and France established a new foundation for relations.
On the same date (22.01.2019), the leaders of France and Germany have signed the extension to the Elysee Treaty in the German border city of Aachen, a historical symbol of European concord. “Both states will deepen their cooperation in foreign affairs, defense, external and internal security and development and at the same time work on strengthening the ability of Europe to act independently,” states the treaty text. The Treaty will help to reshape German-French relations and to join forces for the challenges in the European Parliament.
During the visit at French School of Caucasus in Tbilisi, the Ambassador of the Republic of France to Georgia HE Pascal Meunier addressed the media representatives and noted that this day provides an opportunity to highlight what has been achieved in tandem by France and Germany at the political level, and it also serves to heighten public awareness of the partner country’s culture and language, especially in schools. Therefore, several weeks ago French Government decided to help Georgian citizens to receive the employment opportunities in France, particularly those who are getting higher education in France and want to get professional experience in Europe at the beginning of their carrier. As the Ambassador mentioned, this will be a one-year professional qualification in specific areas and professions.
At the end of their visit, the Ambassador of the Republic of France to Georgia HE Pascal Meunier and the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Georgia HE Hubert Knirsch greeted the management and students of French School of Caucasus.
