Six decades since the signing of the Élysée Treaty: The event, also marked in Chisinau
Six decades have passed since the signing of the Élysée Treaty, the document that laid the foundation for Franco-German reconciliation and ended a decades-long rivalry marked by bloody wars. The ambassadors of the two countries accredited in Chisinau marked the event, and during a press conference they recalled how in the meantime France and Germany have become friendly states in the European Community and partners in foreign policy, security and culture.
According to the ambassadors of the two countries, one of the major achievements was the establishment of the Franco-German youth office, which facilitated the exchange of students and young specialists. To date, more than 9.5 million young people have benefited from the opportunities offered through this program. A Franco-German university network was also created. Graham Paul, the French ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, stated that the establishment of the Franco-German university network allowed young people to return from studies with a double degree.
“This treaty is remarkable for being a concise and practical document, focused on foreign policy, defence, education and youth. This obligation is imposed on every minister, every high-ranking official and every French or German ambassador. The document made the two countries responsible for building Europe and maintaining peace," said Graham Paul, the French ambassador in Chisinau.
“The Treaty of Élysée ended the long enmity and wars between the two countries. Germany and France were enemies and it was believed that there would never be peace between them. This document was the basis of the European foundation", said Margret Maria Uebber, the German ambassador in Chisinau.
Drawing a parallel with Russia's war against Ukraine, the two diplomats said that Franco-German relations cannot be projected onto today's reality.
"It is very difficult now to discuss the fact that the two countries, which are now at war, reach a rapprochement of relations between them. After the war between Russia and Ukraine is over, it will take a while. First of all, peace must be reached," said the German ambassador to the Republic of Moldova.
"It will take political will and brave people. It will take a miracle to happen. This example of French-German negotiations is still too early to be applied", said the French ambassador to the Republic of Moldova.
The Treaty of Élysée was signed on 22 January 1963 between France and Germany. The agreement shaped the relationship between these countries and played an essential role in developing their cooperation in the service of European integration.
