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VOL. 03.12 NOVEMBER 5, 2003

A review of news and trends in Online at: www.ambafrance-us.org/publi/nff France, Germany and U.K. Achieve INSIDE 2 L’événement Breakthrough in Iran France votes for Teheran reiterates its commitment to the Non-proliferation Treaty Iraq resolution 3 France-Amérique HE FOREIGN MINISTERS OF FRANCE, Germany and the very positive and that the agreement represents an Yorktown United Kingdom paid a visit to Teheran on October 21 to urge Iran to important step in restoring confidence between Iran and commemorations meet the October 31 deadline set by the International Atomic Energy the international community. "This is a very important Agency (IAEA) to prove that the Iranian government does not have a day," French Foreign Minister 4 Profil nTuclear weapons program. After several hours of bargaining with top Iranian declared. "We were facing a major issue. Proliferation is a Cafés in France officials, an agreement was reached and Dominique de Villepin, Joschka major challenge to the world, and today we found a solu- Économie Fischer and Jack Straw obtained three commitments that "begin a process for tion to the pending issues," he added. 5 resolving the nuclear proliferation crisis with Iran," according to a French Iran pledged in the joint declaration to allow for "full Toward recovery Foreign Ministry spokesperson. transparency" vis-à-vis the IAEA, reiterated its commit- 6 Société The Presidency of the European Union warmly welcomed the mission's pos- ment to the nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) Local government itive outcome. Indeed, the Teheran agreement represents a major success for and vowed that atomic weapons had "no place" in its summit in European diplomacy. The defense doctrine. Iran also White House also wel- declared that it "has 7 Culture comed Iran's announce- decided to engage in full Chauvet Cave replica ment, describing it as a cooperation with the 8 Chez nous "positive step." Indeed, the IAEA," that it will sign The good life in intervention of Britain's and ratify the additional 18-century France Jack Straw, France's protocol to its safeguards Dominique de Villepin agreement with the IAEA, and Germany's Joschka and that it will voluntarily Fischer serves as an exam- suspend all uranium ple of how European enrichment and repro- diplomacy can be used to cessing activities. AMBASSADE DE FRANCE build on - not compete These last three com- AUX ETATS-UNIS with - Washington's mitments fulfill the demands that were formulat- efforts, and this diplomat- ed in the IAEA Board of Governors' resolution ic precedent can also serve on September 12, and Iran's compliance will be as a blueprint for future From left to right:the foreign ministers of Britain (Jack Straw), taken into account in the preparations for the European action. France (Dominique de Villepin), Iran (Kamal Kharrazi) and next IAEA board meeting on November 20. Two The three foreign Germany (Joschka Fischer) days after the visit, Iran delivered a report to the ministers agreed that the (Courtesy:French Ministry of Foreign Affairs) United Nations nuclear watchdog to allay inter- results of their trip were national concern over its nuclear program. l l French Caucus Created in U.S. Congress

HE NEWLY FORMED Congressional French Caucus, headed by French Prime Minister Edouard Balladur. The informal group will work close- Representative Amory Houghton of New York (R-N.Y.), aims to rebuild ly with members of its counterparts in the French National Assembly and Tthe ties between two old allies. According to Chairman Houghton, "it's Senate, the "Groupes d'Amitié Franco-Americain," on matters concerning the no secret that relations between the United States and France have been less renewal and strengthening of ties between the two countries. The caucus will than ideal lately. It's time to get on with life and start rebuilding our ties." also provide a forum for discourse aimed at a better understanding and appre- Representative Billy Tauzin (R-L.A.) agreed, noting that "hopefully this caucus ciation of differences between the two nations. will help to bridge some of the differences that have developed in recent years The dangers and challenges presented by international terrorism confirm between our two countries." Indeed, recent differences in foreign policy have the importance of fortified relations between France and the United States. led to strains in what has otherwise always been a very close relationship. Representative Houghton's belief that "both the United States and France have Houghton announced the existence of the new bipartisan caucus, which too much at stake to permit our relationship to deteriorate further" demon- includes 35 members of Congress (25 Representatives and 10 Senators), during strates a renewed determination to strengthen the relationship between the a luncheon attended by French Ambassador Jean David Levitte and former U.S. and its oldest ally. l l

1 En bref current events L’ÉVÉNEMENT NIGER AND MALI WELCOME CHIRAC On October 23, tens of thousands of people welcomed President Jacques France Votes for Iraq Resolution Chirac, the first French leader to visit the poverty-stricken francophone HE FRENCH GOVERNMENT voted for the was able to garner widespread support for the resolution's African nation in over 20 years. revised version of the U.S.-sponsored resolution on revised version. "Reassuring the people of Niger of a Iraq on October 16, along with the 14 other members The U.N. resolution gives the world community, renewed solidarity, encouraging the of the U.N. Security Council. This unanimity marked through the U.N., an extended role in the reconstruction efforts of Niger, supporting the legiti- Tan important display of renewed international cohesion and of Iraq. In what is a crucial measure, the resolution states mate ambitions of progress: these are cooperation. Indeed, French that the American-appointed the messages I have in my heart to Foreign Minister Dominique de Iraqi Governing Council will send to the people of Niger during Villepin explained France's deci- embody the sovereignty of the this visit," stated Chirac. He pledged 10 million euros to aid the nine coun- sion to support the U.N. resolu- state of Iraq until the election of tries bordering the Niger River and tion, despite the fact that it "firmly a democratic government. A promised to give Mali a four-year believes that we should act faster December 15 deadline has been reprieve on its debt repayments. and more boldly," by stating that it set for the Iraqi Governing Chirac also hopes to increase E.U. aid "was essential for the spirit of Council to lay out a timetable for to Africa. responsibility and unity of the writing a constitution and set- international community to pre- ting up elections. Finally, resolu- FRENCH POLYNESIA GRANT- ED MORE AUTONOMY vail" in a context of rising violence The U.N. Security Council tion 1511 authorizes an The French cabinet approved, on and terrorism in Iraq. (Courtesy: Ministry of Foreign Affairs) American-led multinational October 22, the draft of a proposed In France’s view, the interna- peace-keeping force in Iraq. This law that would implement French tional community’s message must emphasize that Iraq U.N. mandate will expire in a year, but an elected Iraqi Polynesia's new autonomous status, should rapidly become self-governing and should soon government will be able to request its renewal. as made possible by the revision of reclaim its full sovereignty as a democratic state. Such a dec- Reacting to the U.N.'s decision on October 30 to reduce Article 74 of the Constitution in laration is necessary in order to quell nationalistic fervor the number of its staff in Iraq, Villepin declared, "we March 2003. The amended French among the Iraqi people and thereby helping to prevent believe that it is through a change in approach that it will constitution provides overseas territo- strikes against the occupying forces. be possible to reconcile both the necessary involvement of ries with the option of obtaining By taking into account some of the amendments jointly the international community and the full participation of more power over certain domains, such as regional diplomacy, transport submitted by France, Germany and Russia, the United States Iraqis through a provisional government." l l infrastructure, and education.

FRANCE HOSTS MAJOR MILITARY EXERCISE UNESCO to Protect Cultural Diversity France activated all its military airbases HE 32ND CONFERENCE of the United Nations' Jean-Jacques Aillagon declared that "this text, long sought October 6-22 for a multilateral exer- Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization by France, will make it possible to seal in international law cise involving troops and aircraft from 17 different countries, including 9 T(UNESCO), which took place in Paris, saw the unani- rules designed to protect cultural goods and contents." NATO members. "Opera 2003" mous adoption, on October 13, of a resolution launching France would also like to enlarge the debate and invite other brought together 850 servicemen and negotiations on a cultural diversity convention. Such a con- international organizations, as well as artists and cultural women and 140 aircraft and was car- vention would erect cultural diversity as a principle of inter- professionals, to think about what can be done to protect ried out primarily in northwestern national law, and declare it the common heritage of humani- cultural diversity. France. The exercise helped ty. In doing so, it would establish a new framework that would The consensus around this resolution was seen as espe- improve coordination in the support the dignity of all cultures and the ability of nations to cially auspicious at a time when the United States has just fields of logistics, communi- introduce public policies on cultural issues. returned to UNESCO after an absence of 19 years. According cations, and intelligence This initiative was particularly welcomed by France, to Aillagon, the unanimous vote showed "the commitment by while training units to oper- with President himself speaking out strong- all of UNESCO's member states in favor of cultural diversity ate multilaterally in a com- plex environment. ly in its favor during the conference. Minister for Culture and of a dialogue between all cultures." l l

DALAI LAMA VIS- ITS PARIS The Dalai Lama was in Paris Raffarin Speaks on French Defense from October 11 to 17 to RIME MINISTER Jean-Pierre Raffarin opened, on ty." But he also called for a renewed defense effort on Europe's spread his message of October 16, the 56th annual session of the Institute of part, "because a stronger Europe also means a stronger transat- peace and respect for diversity and to convey his PHigh Studies on National Defense (IHEDN) with a lantic alliance." France will lead the way by increasing its military Tibetan Buddhist teachings. speech on France's defense priorities and policies. budget by 4.1 percent in 2004, thereby continuing its exception- Speaking at the Hôtel de Raffarin reaffirmed France's attachment to the concept of al budgetary effort in favor of the armed forces. Ville, he was warmly wel- collective responsibility in international affairs, as embodied Raffarin praised the 15,000 French soldiers who are comed by Mayor Bertrand by the U.N. The French government believes the U.N. must be deployed throughout the world, in over 27 overseas opera- Delanoë, who declared reformed to bolster its preeminent role: the Security Council tions. "From Afghanistan to the Horn of Africa, our participa- that the Dalai Lama greatly must be enlarged to be more representative, its authority must tion in the fight against terrorism leads us to deploy our per- contributes to the universal be reinforced and the resources at its disposal increased. sonnel every day at the sides of our American friends and allies values of Paris. During his He reminded his audience that "NATO is and will remain and our other NATO partners." visit, the Dalai Lama called the foundation of our mutual security," as "our country consid- The IHEDN conference includes officers, senior officials, for the establishment of a group of "people of good- ers (…) the strategic partnership between Europe and the U.S., leading businessmen and "opinion-makers" as well as repre- will” to help promote our first ally, to be a fundamental element in the world's securi- sentatives from Italy, Germany, the UK and Belgium. l l 2 peace in Iraq. France & America

"AMERICANS IN PARIS" IN OKLAHOMA The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is running an exhibit entitled "Americans in Yorktown Battle Commemorated Paris: 1850-1910," through November 30. The exhibition does not only feature The 1781 battle marked the end of the War of Independence against Great Britain American artists who studied, worked and exhibited in France, but also some N OCTOBER 19, FRENCH AMBASSADOR Together they secured victory for the Americans by outstanding paintings by 14 French Jean-David Levitte addressed the citizens of the defeating British General Charles Cornwallis and his artists, including Jean-Léon Gérôme, United States, and more specifically the resi- army, thus securing American independence from Camille Corot and Jean-François Millet, who were among the American artists' dents of Yorktown, Britain's colonial rule. instructors. The exhibit is organized into OVirginia, in commemoration In his address, Ambassador three parts: artists who studied at the of the American victory in the Levitte recognized America's Ecole des Beaux-Arts; those associated crucial Battle of Yorktown. "unfailing support to France in with the Barbizon School; and the artists The battle, which occurred the most tragic circumstances," linked with Impressionism and post- from September 28, 1781, to referring to the two world wars Impressionism. October 19, 1781, was the last in which the United States came major clash of the American to the aid of France. Levitte also "QUEEN CALIFIA'S MAGICAL CIRCLE" Revolutionary War. It was this addressed the recent diplomatic A new sculpture garden, "Queen battle that forged America's differences over Iraq, calling Califia's Magical Circle," created by alliance with France: in addi- them a "diplomatic hurricane, a renowned French-American artist Niki de tion to the many supplies sent political Isabel," and declared Saint Phalle, opened its gates to the pub- to the Americans by King Louis that "the storm is abating … our lic on October 26 in the City of XVI, French troops, led by alliance has survived, and the Escondido, California. The garden Count Jean-Baptiste de tight bound of friendship which promises to be a cultural landmark for Rochambeau and Admiral has united us for 222 years is the San Diego region, a place where visi- François de Grasse, were dis- truly indestructible." tors can walk, play, touch and dream. Susan Pollack, manager of Escondido's patched to augment General Finally, Levitte called for Public Art Program, said that people can George Washington's weak- Ambassador Jean-David Levitte speaking in America and France to "fight "find inspiration in Saint Phalle's extraor- ened Continental Army. front of the Yorktown memorial together, as they did at dinary homage to California's mythic and Indeed, French soldiers formed Yorktown … to maintain their historic origins and its cultural diversity." the bulk of General Washington's forces at Yorktown. freedoms and their values." l l WHITTIERFRENCH WEEK 2003: CELEBRATION OF MOLIERE During its National French Week 2003, Houston Consulate Celebrates 50th Anniversary Whittier College, located in Southern N OCTOBER 25, the General Consulate of France in 60th anniversary of the D-Day landings in 2004. California, will present a show on November 11 that highlights some of the Houston, Texas, celebrated its 50th anniversary. For Over 600 people attended the gathering, which provid- more popular works and texts of Molière. Othe occasion, the French and American communities ed an opportunity to celebrate, in a relaxed and good- The play Molière Amoureux will be per- of Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma were invited to participate natured atmosphere, the long-standing French-American formed by the Paris-based the- in the festivities which took friendship through contests, ater company Continent II. place in the gardens of the games and meals promoting Director André Nerman explains French Legation of Austin, the each state's culinary culture that Molière's characters repre- historical location of the first (the Texan barbecue was very sent a "universal panel of human embassy of the Kingdom of well-received). Ambassador emotions, at the same time France to the state of Texas Levitte was particularly showing us the wounds of the (1836-1845). pleased with his gift, a heart and the inner conflicts of the author." Those present included Stetson, which he promised to the ambassador of France, wear at the White House. FRENCH BATHTUBS Jean-David Levitte, Luis Saenz, After five decades of pres- BUBBLINGHIGH the assistant secretary of state ence in the south of the The latest item being sold to an of Texas who was representing United States, the General upscale American clientele look- Governor Rick Perry, Charlie Consulate of Houston has ing for the perfect finishing Daniels, the secretary of state been able to create close ties of touch to their deluxe bathrooms From left to right, Consul General Denis Simonneau, are bathtubs from Lille, France. of Arkansas, Jay Guerrero, the cooperation with many repre- Arkansas Secretary of State Charlie Daniels, With a style reminiscent of tubs southeast Texas regional direc- Ambassador Jean-David Levitte (showing his Texas sentatives from the various sold in the early twentieth centu- tor and Ross Milloy, president spirit), Texas Assistant Secretary of State Luis Saenz local communities. The con- ry, their popularity has enabled of the Austin-San Antonio and Honorary Consul Arlette Douffiagues-Galland stant growth of the French Herbeau Creations of America, a Corridor. All warmly spoke of community, the development subsidiary of Maison Lilloise the strong ties uniting the French and American nations, and of the area’s French-American schools and the increasing Herbeau (est. 1857), to post a Saenz announced Governor Perry's desire to open a French- presence of French businesses in the region clearly illustrate phenomenal growth rate of 514 American center in Normandy, perhaps in time to mark the the dynamism of this part of the United States. l l percent between 1997 and 2001, placing it among the 500 fastest growing firms in the U.S during that period. 3 In Depth Review PROFIL

Cafés in France: Then and Now HEN MANY PEOPLE think of France, grand country's history. Many cafés have stood the test of time because images such as the , the Arc of of their fascinating historical guest lists. For instance, le Procope Triumph, and the often come in Paris, the oldest café in France (est. 1686), welcomed Voltaire, to mind. But what about all the little monuments Benjamin Franklin, and Napoleon Bonaparte! While the more Café Terrace at Night Won every corner in every city and town? These "monuments" are prominent cafés continue to serve customers, we live in a differ- Vincent Van Gogh none other than the many cafés that can be found all over ent, fast-paced world, and the traditional café is, unfortunately France, and which have played a pivotal role throughout the for those prone to nostalgia, evolving as a result. l l A Distinguished Tradition VEN THOUGH they originated elsewhere, cafés have a ing places not only for local aristocrats and merchants but also for long history in France, the first one having opened in Paris revolutionaries, philosophers, writers, painters, thinkers, and any Ein 1672. It was not long before cafés, known originally for others who wanted to have their ideas heard. One could even being less expensive places for locals to come and enjoy good argue that Paris's cafés were a testing ground for the ideology that food, drink, and company, spread to other cities. Each café had its led to the French Revolution. Great ideas of the Enlightenment own particular ambiance that reflected the neighborhood's qual- up through the Existentialist movement were also discussed in ities. Some were quite simple while others were more lavish, with many Parisian cafés. Les Deux Magots, perhaps the most famous high ceilings and fancy wall decorations. Because of their grow- café in Paris, counts Picasso, , and Jean-Paul ing popularity and active social environment, cafés became meet- Sartre among its esteemed guests. l l Jean-Paul Sartre, an avid patron of cafés, in 1952 (Courtesy: www.odysseetheater.com) A Changing Role LTHOUGH POSSESSING a rich history, the café to "brand-name" monopolization. In effect, the rise of sandwich and its traditional role as an intellectual and social shops and street vendors has deeply cut into a formerly loyal café Ahaven has begun to undergo a dramatic change. clientele. Lunch options are now numerous, ranging from Greek Indeed, the number of cafés has dropped significantly, from sandwich eateries and Chinese buffet counters to French crêperie 300,000 at the beginning of the 20th century to fewer than stands, with convenience often being the deciding factor in 43,000 today. The café, typical of the French lifestyle, is slowly choosing where to eat. becoming molded into the more American "eating-on-the-run" Certain French regulatory or structural obstacles also stand culture. No longer a calm eye within the storm, cafés are now in the way of preserving and modernizing cafés. While licenses part of the storm. The age of cell phones and fast-food chains has to sell food are free, permits to sell alcoholic beverages are not. ushered in efficiency, and put glamour and glitz ahead of gastro- As part of a decades-long campaign against alcoholism, the nomic pleasure. Essentially, cafés haven't kept up with the times. government will not issue new licenses to sell spirits, such as Les Deux Magots inParis With the French themselves less willing to "slow down and those found in traditional cafés. Thus, a prospective café owner (Courtesy: David H. Park) re-educate their senses," and with tourists following stripped- must buy an old liquor license or raise extravagant sums to down, guidebook suggestions, the smaller, less renowned cafés obtain one from the government. Ironically, it appears that the are suffering. Les Deux Magots, Le Café Flore, La Coupole, and Le time-honored notion of "the café" is a casualty of the times, Café du Commerce, all historically eminent Parisian cafés, con- with speed replacing la joie de vivre formerly enjoyed in tinue to garner business, while more intimate settings fall victim France's cafés. l l New Age of Coffee houses

ITH A RAPIDLY EXPANDING international faster pace of life. But by adapting more to the American-style coffee market, the conventional cozy French café is coffee concept, some French cafés are catching up with the times. Man and Dog, Café gradually being ousted by the more fast-paced, Columbus Café opened its first shop in Paris in 1994 and after Flore, Paris, 1953 W (Courtesy: Edouard Boubat) "grab-'n'-go" coffeehouse. Although initially reticent, even dis- almost ten years of successful business, it now has a chain of over missive, of this trend, France’s café-goers no longer deny its 30 coffee bars, with more planned in the near future. The cre- growing popularity. All-inclusive by nature, the ideal coffeehouse ators of Columbus Café attribute their success to the appeal that encompasses many retail genres, including the café, patisserie their coffee shops have, with trendy products, friendly service, and sandwich shop. Multiple combinations of the three exist, and optional smoke-free atmosphere, to the new younger gener- varying from French-owned Pomme de Pain and Columbus ation. Their statistics show that about 60 percent of their cus- Café to American coffee giant Starbucks. A uniquely American tomers are women under 30. creation, coffee chains with chic countertop service, flashy paper This is not to say, however, that cafés still don't hold a cherished cups, pastries, and a variety of coffee products are catching on. niche within French society. According to Jean Biron, vice president Starbucks already has a foothold in Britain, Austria, Germany, of the trade union representing cafés, 20 million people, one-third Where it all begins Greece, Spain and Switzerland, and has plans to inaugurate a of the country's population, go to cafés every day. The café remains - a coffee plantation Parisian branch at the Place de l'Opéra in early 2004. a place to sit, discuss, enjoy a casual apéritif or a leisurely cup of cof- in Tanzania France is not spared by the process of globalization and the fee while watching life and its peculiarities go by. l l 4 (Courtesy: Scott Stensland) Economic News TRICHET NAMED TECHNOLOGIE HEAD OF ECB European leaders unanimously support- ed on October 16 the appointment of the governor of the Bank of France, French Economy Near Recovery Jean-Claude Trichet, as the European Central Bank's next president. Trichet HE LATEST BANK OF FRANCE estimations for the French economy after it shrank 0.3 percent in the sec- began his eight-year tenure on show an economic recovery should already be under ond quarter, and after the National Institute of Statistics and November 1, replacing the Netherlands's Wim Duisenberg. His arrival is not way by the end of 2003, welcome Economic Studies suggested growth expected to bring any major changes to news compared with earlier gov- rates would reach only 0.2 and 0.4 per- the ECB's monetary policy: he is expect- Ternment forecasts that predicted eco- cent in the third and fourth quarters, ed to pursue an anti-inflationary policy nomic growth would not return until respectively. and to maintain higher interest rates early 2004. Mer declared that France is "in the than in the U.S. Minister of Finance Francis Mer process of getting back to reasonable announced the optimistic figures on economic growth" and he insisted that UNIVERSE MAY BE SHAPED October 14, during a debate at the French the "growth is the result of an economic LIKE A SOCCER BALL National Assembly on France's 2004 bud- policy, and this policy will be judged French researchers from the University of get. Mer reacted to the opposition's criti- over the long run." Though France's Paris and the Observatory of Paris, together with American scientists, say cism of what it regards as a counterpro- budget deficit has broken the 3 percent the universe could be finite, spherical ductive economic policy by referring to limit set by the euro area, Mer said, and and patched together like a soccer ball. the Bank of France's recently released Minister of Finance Francis Mer France's European partners have agreed, They base their argument on astronomi- forecasts, which predict GDP growth of (Courtesy: Ministry of Finance) that deficit reduction shouldn't occur at cal data collected by NASA's Wilkinson 0.3 percent in the third quarter of 2003 the expense of economic growth. Microwave Anisotropy Probe. What and 0.5 percent in the fourth. Those statistics come as a relief Nevertheless, he pledged to reduce the deficit by 2005. l l Jean-Pierre Luminet, of the Paris Observatory, and his colleagues are proposing is actually something called a dodecahedral space, first described by Rising Luxury Market Helps French Firms French mathematician Jules-Henri Poincaré in the 19th century.

TURNAROUND HAS BEGUN for the $63 billion Goodman- have also shown significant sales increases in the NEW AIRPORT FOR NANTES global market in luxury goods. Christian Oddone, an last two months. An analyst at Bloomingdale's estimates that The French government has tentatively Aanalyst at Actinvest Group in London, points out that designer clothing sales have risen more than 15 percent in the given the green light to the construction sales of luxury items are closely linked to last six months. Gucci owner, the French of a new airport in the western city of travel and tourism, and with the effects of conglomerate Pinault-Printemps-Redoute, Nantes. According to Nantes's chamber the devastating September 11 attacks on has seen encouraging signs for the third of commerce, 3.2 million passengers are tourism receding, demand is on the rise. quarter, with sales growth of 20 percent in projected to pass through the city by 2010 - the year that the new airport The French luxury group Louis the U.S., 14 percent in Japan, 16 percent in would open. Nantes and its region have Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH) said it Hong Kong and China, and 10 percent in become popular among the British and expected the recovery in international Europe. other Europeans looking to buy holiday tourism to provide it with a "tangible" The rebound is happening most spec- homes. Mayor Jean-Marc Ayrault said operating profit this year. Using Jennifer tacularly in the U.S., where a combination that the airport would be "an Lopez and Tiger Woods to promote its of improved customer sentiment and a A chic woman shows off important step toward the grand products, its shares have climbed 48 per- her Louis Vuitton bag series of tax breaks have encouraged plan to develop all of western cent this year. Brands like Gucci, Dior, and (Courtesy: www.melting.lu) wealthy Americans to purchase luxury France." Boucheron - and the luxury emporiums goods once again. Say goodbye to sweat FRANCE SUGGESTS that sell them such as Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf suits and sneakers - luxury is back! l l SPACE PARTNERSHIP WITH CHINA On October 15, French Minister Navigo Revolutionizes Commuting of Research Claudie Haigneré hailed China's successful launch HE ELECTRONIC TRANSPORT PASS NAVIGO, strip also gives the card its durability: it is designed to last for up of an astronaut into space launched in 1999 in Paris and 23 other cities, celebrated to four years. aboard the Shenzhou-5 space- craft. Haigneré, a former astro- its millionth customer in mid-October. The number is The millionth customer was celebrated by local elected offi- T naut herself, explained that sure to soar as Navigo will soon be replacing the ubiquitous cials and by the transportation committee of the Ile-de-France "the launch is an important ele- cartes oranges and other tickets that utilize a magnetic strip. region in the Bibliothèque François-Mitterrand station, at the ment in recognizing the capaci- Navigo has revolutionized the commuter experience with terminus of the newest line of the Paris metro (line 14). A 19- ty of China to put itself at the its ease of use and durability. It cuts entry time in half because, year old student from Val-d'Oise was the lucky customer who level of major international part- unlike other cards, it does not use a magnetic strip that needs happened upon the ticket: he won a trip to Lisbon, Portugal. ners." She thereby reiterated to be swiped through a machine. Instead, the card uses a Currently, Navigo represents one validation in every five for her desire to see the creation of microchip that is simply waved across a sensor at the entrance the Paris region metro. It has also expanded into the SNCF rail- a partnership between China gates to the metro. When the card runs out of money, all one way market, where it represents over 360,000 daily ticket vali- and the world's other space has to do is add more credit to it, and it becomes ready for use dations. On October 27, Navigo expanded its service to include powers, which include the United States, Russia and once again. The fact that Navigo does not rely on a magnetic buses, and plans to be on all Parisian buses by late 2004. l l Europe. 5 Social News SOCIETÉ

HAPPY AS A FRENCH MANAGER! According to a recent study by Hewitt Associates and the Association for the First Summit of “United Cities and Local Employment of Executives (APEC) con- ducted in France, Germany, Spain, Italy Governments” Will be Hosted in Paris and Great Britain, France ranks very highly in several categories. In terms of ARIS HAS BEEN CHOSEN to host the first ment, which has launched an ambitious decentralization pro- net salary (after deducting taxes) and in summit of the new world organization "United gram to promote local liberties. Following a major reform on terms of living costs, France came in Cities and Local Governments," from May 2 to May March 17, the French constitution now expressly states that the second, behind the U.K. And when it 5, 2004. "United Cities and Local Governments," Republic shall have a decentralized organization. "United comes to raising a family, the study Pwhich will get going officially early next year, will be the main Cities and Local Governments" will help make this a reality. finds that France is the most attractive European country for managers. link between local governments and the United Nations. The To be headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, the organization organization, along with the World Federation of United itself will have a decentralized structure, working in seven areas A+ FOR THE Cities (WFUC) and the International Union of Cities and of the world: Africa, the Asia-Pacific area, Europe, Russia and EDUCATION BUDGET Local Powers (IUCLP), will advocate international coopera- the New Independent States (NIS), the Middle East and According to the annual report "The tion between local governments and their associations, the Western Asia, Latin America and North America. More than State of Schools, 2003" published by participation of women in local decisions and the reinforce- 3,000 participants representing 80 countries are expected to the Department of Education, France ment of local governments and local democracies. attend the Paris summit, where they will elect their first presi- devoted 103.6 billion euros to educa- tion in 2002, which represents 6.9 per- These objectives coincide with those of the French govern- dent as well as a vice president and other representatives. l l cent of the country's GDP. The Department of Education's budget, which remains the largest item in gov- Goblins and Ghouls Overrun France ernment spending, has increased steadily over the years. Indeed, it has WIDELY CELEBRATED AMERICAN holiday, treating takes place, French children customarily go from been up 25 percent for ten years and Halloween has finally entered, albeit with some hes- store to store rather than from house to house. Their cos- will benefit from a 2.8 percent increase itation, into French mainstream culture. tumes also tend to be traditionally "scary," with ghosts, gob- this year. A In the early nineties, lins and witches taking precedence over princesses and super- A VIDEO CONTEST FOR Halloween was considered heroes. But, just like in the STUDENTS : ACTION! a purely American cele- U.S., stores prominently The TV channel Public Sénat and the bration, and was not well display spooky masks and Department of Education, wishing to understood in France. inflatable pumpkin cos- promote youth involvement in society, Instead, the French tumes, and bakeries sell fes- announced on October 15 the launch- observe La Toussaint (All tive orange and black ing of a film contest aimed at high Saints' Day) on November embroidered pastries. As school students. Participants will be 1, to commemorate those for pumpkins, known as asked to produce a 3- to 6-minute 8,000 pumpkins were dis- video report on the theme of solidarity saints who do not have citrouilles, they have always played in Paris’s Trocadéro (among students, between different their own holy day. played an important culi- esplanade in 1997. generations, toward the disabled…). In Although still universally nary role in France. (Courtesy: Reuters) May 2004, three national prizes will be celebrated, All Saints' Day Despite resistance to awarded to the best reports, Halloween à la française now has a newer, naughti- commercialism, the popularity of Halloween in France con- which will be broadcast on (Courtesy: www.pipeline.com) er cousin from across the tinues to swell. After all, the origins of Halloween are dis- Public Sénat. ocean, Halloween. tinctly European, stemming from the Pagan Celtic celebra- Of course, the French have adapted some elements of tion of Samhain in the British Isles, which marked the eve of BOOKIES BET ON LES BLEUS Halloween, adhering to traditional American customs but the New Year, when dead souls were said to roam through France will win the 2004 giving them a French twist. For instance, though trick-or- their previous homes. l l Euro Soccer Championship, according to English and Italian bookmakers, who Birth of the Harvard of "Haute Cuisine" both also predict that Italy will be its opponent in the RANCE, THE BIRTHPLACE of culinary excellence, wish to improve themselves, Americans from the agribusiness finals. The tournament will is seeking to reestablish itself as the rightful proprietor of industry, great chefs from Denmark or Japan…" They will take place in Portugal from "la haute gastronomie." Renaud Dutreil, secretary of benefit from the teachings of historians, sociologists, chefs, June 12 to July 4, and book- F makers are picking les Bleus state for small and medium-sized enterprises, announced on biologists, and many other professionals from the "trades of to win the championship October 13 the establishment of a university dedicated solely taste," and their courses will cover France's culinary heritage giving 4-to-1 odds. If they to gastronomy. L'Institut des Hautes Etudes du Goût et de la but also regional cooking and viticulture. are correct, it will be the Gastronomie is slated to open next fall in Reims, Marne, an The Institute's goal is to reaffirm France and French culi- third time that France has area best known for its champagne. Mr. Dutrueil asserts that nary heritage as the epicenter of culinary excellence. Indeed, won the European trophy, "France has to impose itself more visibly as the country of ref- the traditions that once endeared French cuisine to numerous the last time being in 2000 erence for taste." hearts throughout the world have been replaced by a quest for in the Netherlands against This unique university, which will boast a national library constant innovation, so that chic adventurous restaurants in Italy and the first time being on taste, will welcome about 100 students from all over the Belgium, London, Los Angeles and New York are now more in 1984 in France against world, including, hopes Dutreil, "French restaurateurs who fashionable than their more conventional French rivals. l l Spain.

6 les coups d’oeil Cultural Highlights CULTURE GONCOURT PRIZE CELE- BRATES ITS CENTENNIAL This year marks the centennial of the Goncourt, France's most prestigious lit- Work Begins on Replica of Chauvet Cave erary prize, which was created by Edmond de Goncourt in 1903 to help France’s Chauvet Cave is believed to contain the world’s most ancient prehistoric art. authors and to "promote literature." The momentous occasion was marked HE CHAUVET CAVE, ed the real cave. This means that this year by a surprise early announce- ment by the Goncourt jury, which named after the spelunker the drawings will be drawn to scale, awarded the prize, two weeks before its who discovered it in 1994, with the light, temperature and scheduled date, to Jacques-Pierre has been closed to the pub- level of humidity identical to those Amette for his book La Maîtresse de Tlic since then in an effort to preserve in the original cave. Brecht. Amette, who is in his 60s, is a its prehistoric drawings, which are Before the discovery of the literary critic and an established writer. the world's most ancient, and to Chauvet cave, prehistoric man was His novel deals with the last years of the facilitate the work of the scientists not believed to have reached such a German playwright Bertolt Brecht in East studying them. In order to allow level of artistic proficiency so early Berlin in 1948. everyone to experience this excep- in his development. Now, the over BOOK FESTIVAL IN BRIVE tional find, however, the Ardèche 480 drawings represent the oldest "La Foire du Livre de Brive," a book fes- region, in cooperation with many of their kind in the world. With at tival that takes place once a year and other sponsors, has begun work on Man’s oldest art? least 14 animal species represented during which more than 400 authors a reproduction of the cave only 800 (Courtesy: Ministry of Culture) among the drawings, there is no come to share their work with publish- meters from the original find. sign of man, except for the shape of ers and visitors, will take place in Brive, For practical reasons, the replica of the grotto will only hands, which are thought to represent the artists' signatures. France, from November 7-9. Presiding cover 3,000 of the original 10,000 square meters, but in many The exceptional preservation of these drawings is probably due will be the renowned French author respects it will be a perfect copy of the original. Utmost care to the pile of stones that has blocked the entrance for what is Yves Berger, who was recently named will be put into the visitor center in order to allow guests to get believed to be more than 18,000 years. vice president of the Superior Council of the French Language. This 22nd edition the same impression they would have gotten if they had visit- The replica is scheduled to open in 2005. l l of the festival has as its theme "The French Language's Role in the World." This year French Minister of Foreign Air France Expo Marks 70 Years in the Air Affairs Dominique de Villepin will be awarded the prize of the French lan- O CELEBRATE ITS 70TH ANNIVERSARY, Air The company's flight attendants are dressed by the best French guage for his achievements, helping to France is running an exhibit at the Musée de la Publicité fashion designers, such as Dior, and thus export French haute make this year's festival a unique event. in Paris until January 25, 2004. The company, whose couture and charm to the world. T AFAA TALENT SEARCH adventure started on October 7, 1933, is the result of a merger The aircraft industry was revolutionized by the arrival of The French Association of Artistic Action among five others: Air Union, Aéropostale, Les Lignes Farman, the first jet engine planes in 1959 and 1960, which cut the trav- (AFAA) launched a program called La Cidna and Air Orient. el time on the North Atlantic lines in half. Ten years later, the "Génération Musiques" ("Music "On Air 1933-2003, an Air France Story," which opened on Boeing 747, with a capacity of 400 passengers, opened the era Generation") to assist new music artists, October 16, demonstrates how the company has always linked of charter flights. Consequently, tourism became an industry with a focus on rising talents in Northern its image to French savoir-faire, lifestyle and elegance. and air travel lost a bit of its luxurious image. What once were Africa and the Middle East. Receiving Numerous photos and objects, documents, posters and trailers considered mythical destinations, such as Tahiti, Tokyo or financial assistance from the Ministry of from the archives of Air France relate, throughout the decades, Lima, are now accessible to a larger public. Foreign Affairs, the mission of the history of the great French company's publicity and adver- With Air France and KLM having now joined forces to cre- the AFAA is to promote interna- tising campaigns. These images were the work of the most ate the world's largest airline, the future looks bright for the tional development through the arts. Olivier Poivre d'Arvor, the popular and famous graphic designers and artists of their time. venerable French carrier. l l director of the AFAA, is confi- dent that the program will be a Piaf, the Kid From Paris resounding success. CELINE DION RELEASES HE PARIS TOWN HALL is present- recalls the Parisian cabarets where she started NEW FRENCH ALBUM ing an exhibition to commemorate the making herself known to the public. Beginning Celine Dion, who, according to Sony, has sold more albums 40th anniversary of the passing away of with Gerny's, then moving on to more stylish T than any other female singer, is Edith Piaf. The exhibition, titled "Piaf, la clubs like the Night-Club or the A.B.C., the tem- back with a new album entirely Môme de Paris" ("Piaf, the Kid From Paris"), is ple of the Parisian music hall, where she estab- in French, which hit the stores an homage by the city to one of its most lished herself as the leading singer of her time, in mid-October. The French- famous artists. The exhibition will run until the exhibition ends with Le Versailles in New Canadian produced the album January 31, 2004. Edith Piaf in concert York, where Edith Piaf experienced her "Une Fille et Quatre Types" ("A Edith Piaf spent most of her childhood (Embassy archives) American triumphs, and 67 Lannes Boulevard Girl and Four Guys") with wandering the streets of Paris, and even if her in Paris, where she spent the last years of her life. French music star Jean-Jacques career led her to tour all over the world, her Parisian popular The exhibition features songs, rare or new pho- Goldman. The two artists origins and her infatuation with her birthplace remained a tographs, and a large variety of documents from the worked together in 1995 on Dion's album "Deux" ("Two") strong and constant highlight in her life. Thirties (posters, programs, newspapers, discs). It also pre- and on other hits. On this The exhibition aims at re-creating the Paris of the early sents personal items (letters, portraits, notes…) that album, a new four-man group Thirties in which Edith Piaf first emerged as a street singer. It belonged to Edith Piaf. l l including Goldman accompa- nies Dion. 7 in brief France in America CHEZ NOUS

Seven French directors - Catherine Breillat, Agnès Varda, Patrice Chéreau, Cédric Klapisch, Patrice The Good Life in 18th-Century France Leconte, Régis Wargnier and Claude Miller - will attend screen- Masterpieces of French genre painting are on display at the National Gallery in Washington, D.C. ings of their films and give lec- tures in New York (until November 15) and in Los Angeles UNIQUE EXHIBIT OF FRENCH PAINTINGS enti- etiquette were essential to membership in this elite. In order to (until November 21). For more tled "The Age of Watteau, Chardin, and Fragonard: portray the noble image of the aristocracy, men typically wore information, please visit the cine- Masterpieces of French Genre Painting" is currently on waistcoats with fine embroidered buttons and women showed off ma section of: display at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. elegant dresses. A common activity of the upper class was to www.frenchculture.org TAhe exhibition, which began on October 12, will run until January promenade through gardens and parks, a major theme of the 11, 2004. It includes some of the great paintings of the era. Family living was News from FRANCE works of art of the 18th century, but also very important to the nobles, but these pieces do not portray the typical most of all, the amount of money at EDITOR-IN-CHIEF subjects of that time period. French their disposal allowing them to live Nathalie Loiseau Genre artists did not depict their era's the most extravagant of lives. EDITOR major historical events, the most noted Keeping all of this in mind, the Emmanuel Gagniarre being the end of Louis XIV's reign in exhibit begins with several paintings 1715 and the French Revolution in by Watteau depicting jovial men and MANAGING EDITOR 1789. Instead, they chose to focus more women dressed in their finest clothes Amaury Laporte on the social and cultural aspects of dancing and flirting outdoors. Works SENIOR WRITER French life, painting elegant scenes such as "Venetian Pleasures" display Aude Rabault from the daily activities of the wealthy what Conisbee calls "the guilt-free class. Exhibit curator Philip Conisbee enjoyment of wealth." As one strolls WRITERS Michael Anuszkiewicz, Jonathan Bacon, carefully chose 110 works by 27 French into the following rooms, paintings of Nicolas Blarel, Carmel Evangelista, artists from 60 art collections, includ- scenes of elegant family life depicted Katherine Fuller, Hallie Hassakis, Philippe Lampis, Franciscka Lucien, Loralie ing 43 paintings that have never before by Nicholas Lancret and other artists Noutong, Marie-Laure Poiré been seen in the United States. line the gallery's walls. Following these In order to understand this genre touching images of idealized women To change your address, subscribe (for free) or unsubscribe, please contact: of painting, one must first have a pic- and men are paintings of sensual FRENCH EMBASSY PRESS & ture of the aristocratic lifestyle of lovers without a care in the world. INFORMATION SERVICE France's Golden Age in the 18th cen- Works by Chardin show solitary char- 4101 Reservoir Road, NW Washington, DC 20007-2182 tury. Image was everything to this rich Blindman's Buff by Jean-Honoré Fragonard acters absorbed in acts of no impor- Tel: (202) 944-6060 social class because it was a represen- (c. 1750-1755) tance, an example of the urbane leisure Fax: (202) 944-6072 of the upper class. Other paintings in Email: tation of wealth and power. Homes (Courtesy: National Gallery of Art) [email protected] were lavishly decorated with fine fur- the exhibit are more energetic, por-

http://www.ambafrance-us.org niture, large mirrors, and silk wall hangings. Members of the aris- traying gentlemen taking pleasure in the hunt for wild game. http://www.france.diplomatie.fr tocracy would attend expensive events at the theater and the opera Overall, the paintings are in fabulous condition, and critics claim and make appearances at fancy restaurants and casinos to demon- that anyone who has the opportunity to see these masterpieces will strate their economic status and refined tastes. Proper dress and marvel at the craftsmanship of these French artists. l l

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