France Celebrates National Day in Karachi: CG Alexis Chahtahtinsky Highlights Bilateral Ties

By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: In a vibrant display of friendship and shared values, the Consul General of France in Karachi, H.E. Mr. Alexis Chahtahtinsky, hosted a grand reception to commemorate Bastille Day, France’s National Day. This celebration honors the historic revolution of 1789, epitomized by the principles of Liberté, Égalité, and Fraternité.

The reception brought together a diverse audience, including the Governor of Sindh, Mohammed Kamran Khan Tessori, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani, along with diplomats, business leaders, students, and members from both French and Pakistani communities. In his remarks, Mr. Chahtahtinsky emphasized the significance of Bastille Day, saying, “Today we celebrate the unity of the French people and their enduring commitment to liberty, equality, and fraternity – values born out of the French Revolution, 236 years ago.” He reflected on the storming of the Bastille prison, which marked a pivotal moment in the fight against tyranny and the affirmation of democracy. Highlighting the historical ties between the two nations, Chahtahtinsky noted that France was the first non-Muslim country to recognize Pakistan’s independence in 1947. He asserted that this relationship has been steadfast, touching on military collaborations and cultural partnerships, including the development of Mirage jets, Alouette helicopters, and Agosta submarines in Karachi. Moreover, he pointed to the collaborative efforts at the UN Security Council, where France, as a permanent member, and Pakistan, set to serve as an elected member for 2025–2026, work together toward global peace and security. Touching upon contemporary matters, the Consul General spoke of France's recent hosting of the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, where significant discussions surrounding the preservation of coastal zones and mangrove ecosystems took place—issues that resonate deeply with the regions of Sindh and Balochistan. Mr. Chahtahtinsky acknowledged the improving economic conditions in Pakistan, recognized by the IMF, and remarked on the rising interest of French companies in the local market, which includes major names such as CMA/CGM, Schneider Electric, Thales, L’Oréal, and Peugeot, in partnership with Lucky Motors in Karachi. He also underscored the strong presence of Pakistani exporters and investors active in France, highlighting companies like Gul Ahmed, Chottani Industries, and Martin Dow. The Consul General expressed gratitude to the Pakistan-France Business Alliance, particularly thanking Mr. Humayun Akhlaq, CEO of Schneider Electric, for his vital role in revitalizing economic ties. Cultural and educational partnerships were also a focal point of Chahtahtinsky’s address. He remarked on the over 60 years of collaboration with French archaeologists working in Sindh and Balochistan, enhancing the region's cultural heritage. He acknowledged partnerships with institutions such as the IBA, Aga Khan Foundation, and the Alliance Française Karachi, the oldest foreign cultural center in Pakistan established in 1954. He was pleased to announce that the Campus France office is now permanently established at Alliance Française Karachi to bolster academic exchange. Concluding his speech, Mr. Chahtahtinsky declared with enthusiasm, "Vive la République, Vive la France – Pakistan Zindabad!" showcasing the spirit of camaraderie that continues to flourish between France and Pakistan.