French & German Ambassadors Visit Eurocampus for Élysée Treaty

On 22 January 2026, in celebration of the Élysée Treaty's 63rd anniversary, the German European School Manila (GESM) and the Lycée Français de Manille (LFM) hosted a special visit from two distinguished guests: German Ambassador Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke and French Ambassador H.E. Marie Fontanel, the official representative of France to the Philippines.

The ambassadors were welcomed at the Eurocampus and given a guided tour of the day’s activities by GESM Academic Director Mr. Julien Ferrandon and LFM Head of School Mr. Nicolas Bois. The tour included stops at several student-led events, such as the Franco-German Sports Day, art activities, and other student engagements.

Following the tour, the ambassadors met with senior students in GESM’s Berlin Auditorium. The gathering began with a short musical performance by Eurocampus students and teachers, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the day. Afterward, both ambassadors gave opening statements, sharing their perspectives on the significance of the Élysée Treaty and the value of international cooperation.

In an interactive segment that followed, students had the opportunity to ask questions. Guided by their teachers, they engaged with the ambassadors on a range of topics including current events, the geopolitical situation, and the role of Franco-German cooperation in the Philippines and beyond. Discussion points included global diplomatic priorities and programs that France and Germany support in the Philippines, such as human rights initiatives.

Grade 12 GESM student Pascal Birle reflected on the experience, saying, “It was very interesting to get the ambassadors’ perspective on what’s happening in the Philippines and in the world.” Meanwhile, Mila Krstovic, who presented a token of gratitude to both ambassadors on behalf of the Eurocampus community, shared, “They represent our countries here and it was good to have been able to have such close, direct access to their opinions.”

The visit underscored the ongoing importance of cross-cultural exchange and dialogue at all levels of education, mirroring the cooperative spirit that the Élysée Treaty has embodied for decades.