German Ambassador, Angelika Storz-Chakarji (right), and French Ambassador, Jean Christophe Peaucelle, writing notes for schoolchildren during the event at the French school, Lycée Francais Bonaparte, yesterday. Kammutty VP
By Isabel Ovalle
DOHA: Students at the German and French schools in Doha have commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Elysée Treaty with an open discussion with Ambassadors Angelika Storz-Chakarji and Jean Christophe Peaucelle.
After the event, youngsters encouraged other countries to follow the example set by France and Germany 50 years ago.
Ten children from the German school and over 80 from the French school Lycée Francais Bonaparte, mostly teenagers, attended the event at the French school.
These youth vowed to learn from their ancestors and continue on the path of peace and understanding paved by French President General Charles de Gaulle and German Federal Chancellor Konrad Adenauer on January 22, 1963. During the event, both ambassadors answered questions from students about current relations between the two countries and Qatar. The diplomats explained to the attendees that this occasion is very meaningful and gives an example that historical differences can be overcome with courageous leaders.
In Qatar, both countries often compete in the business field but continue to collaborate daily and will hold a meeting of French and German entrepreneurs on Tuesday.
“France and Germany have a very good relationship with Qatar and, whenever you want to celebrate something happy, you want to share it with your friends,” said French Ambassador, Christophe Peaucelle.
“Today is a milestone, but not the end of the story,” he added, while reminding the students that “the future is in your hands; it will be what you make of it”.
German Ambassador, Angelika Storz-Chakarji, said that “apart from the political decision of revolutionary characters, there also needs to be an engagement of the whole society”. Robert Weilack, a ninth grade student of the German School of Doha, emphasised that “it’s very important to keep the connection between the two countries so that we can set an example for others who are at war”. To strengthen this commitment, the two countries have over 300 associations and 2,200 partnerships between French and German cities.
In addition, over eight million youngsters have participated in the Youth Exchange Programme for Young People from France and Germany through the DFJW (Deutsch-Franzosisches Jugendwerk or German-French Youth Works).
The Peninsula
