France stands shoulder to shoulder with PAKISTAN: Daniel Jouanneau

Dr Jassim Taqui Deputy Editor (IR)

Wednesday, July 20, 2011 - I HAVE enjoyed my 3 years tenure in Pakistan, ending 40 years in diplomatic service. Serving in Pakistan as a diplomat makes sense.

Pakistan is a great nation, great Asian and enjoys strategic location. France stands shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan. Ours is genuine partnership of two equals.

These were the highlights of an emotional and heart-felt speech of the outgoing Ambassador of France to Pakistan Mr. Daniel Jouanneau. He was speaking in a function hosted by the Dean of Diplomatic Corps Mr. Sapar Berdiniyazov to bid farewell to him and his spouse after completing his tenure in Pakistan.

Jouanneau disclosed that he wanted to be a diplomat when he was 15 years old. With his optimism, will power and self belief, he fulfilled his ambition and served in foreign service for 40 years in which “ I enjoyed every moment of it…I have to leave for retirement. I have no extension and no option.” He also thanked the French President Mr. Sarkozy for having faith in him and sending him to Pakistan with whom he fell in love.

His colleagues with whom he established strong and memorable ties applauded the him warmly. Visibly, he influenced everyone while speaking extempore and full conviction.

Speaking on French perception of Pakistan, Jouanneau noticed that it is facing tremendous challenges. He expressed full support and solidarity with Pakistan during this very critical phase of its contemporary history. He commended Pakistan for initiating dialogue with India and Afghanistan and wished them well in their pursuit of peace and economic development.

Outlining the areas of cooperation, Jouanneau said that France is engaged in constructing small dams for irrigation and electricity generation in Muzaffarabad, KPK and FATA. For Faisalabad, France is engaged in a project to provide drinking water for over 2 million of population.

In the field of education, 560 Pakistani students are presently undergoing postgraduate studies in various French universities and in different fields. Once they obtain their Ph.Ds, they would return to serve their community equipped with the most modern knowledge and expertise.

Earlier, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Mr. Sapar Berdiniyazov paid rich tribute to Jouanneau and his spouse for playing an active and constructive role in promoting the bilateral relations.

Berdiniyazov also read a resume on the diplomatic career of Jouanneau.

He described his long career as the most brilliant and outstanding. He wished him and his spouse good health and happiness.

Jouanneau has genuinely shined as a memorable friend of Pakistan.

Being a gifted and professional diplomat, his opinion really matters and valued for its fairness and sincerity. He has been courteous to all and at ease with everyone.

A single rose can be my garden… a sincere friend, my world!

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