Ambassador of France H E Arnaud Pescheux addressing the event.
Doha, Qatar: Ambassador of France H E Arnaud Pescheux has highlighted the vital role of graduates of French higher education institutions in strengthening bilateral relations between Qatar and France, describing them as essential bridges connecting the two countries across business, science, culture and academia.
Speaking at the inaugural France Alumni Gala held at Bin Jelmood House, Msheireb Museums, on Tuesday, the Ambassador reaffirmed France’s commitment to building a vibrant and sustainable alumni community in Qatar, capable of generating new opportunities for cooperation and professional development.
The event, organised by the French Embassy in Qatar, brought together around 200 alumni, representatives of educational institutions, government officials and business leaders to celebrate the achievements of graduates who studied in France or completed French academic programmes in Qatar.
The gala was attended by Assistant Undersecretary for Higher Education Affairs at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Dr. Hareb Al Jabri, alongside distinguished guests and members of the French educational community.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Pescheux outlined three fundamental principles underpinning the initiative, memory, community and commitment, emphasising that the relationship between France and its international graduates extends far beyond academic qualifications.
“Your connection with France goes far beyond a degree. It was forged through your studies, your experiences, and often through the friendships and encounters that marked those years,” he said.
He noted that France remains committed to maintaining these connections through international alumni networks, enabling graduates to exchange ideas, develop partnerships and collaborate long after completing their studies.
Highlighting the importance of the alumni community to bilateral relations, the Ambassador said graduates of French institutions represent the values of academic excellence, international openness and cultural dialogue associated with French higher education.
“And you are also an essential bridge between France and Qatar,” he said.
“Through your knowledge, experience and professional responsibilities, you strengthen exchanges between our two countries, in business, science, culture, academia and people-to-people ties.” Ambassador Pescheux stressed that alumni possess a unique understanding of both societies, placing them in a strong position to identify opportunities, encourage collaboration and contribute to the continued development of Qatar-France relations.
He announced the Embassy’s determination to expand engagement with graduates through professional networking programmes, conferences, cultural activities and mentoring initiatives aimed at supporting future generations of students. “We want this network to be much more than a list of names or an annual event. We want it to become a vibrant community that reflects who you are,” he said.
The Ambassador also encouraged alumni to take ownership of the initiative by proposing projects, sharing professional experiences and actively participating in developing the network.
“This gala is a first step. I hope it will mark the beginning of a lasting momentum, and open new perspectives for the relations between France and Qatar,” he added.
According to the French Embassy, the number of Qatari students pursuing higher education in France has increased by 131 percent over the past five years, making France the eighth most popular international study destination among Qatari students.
