Francophonie - International Francophonie Day (20 March 2023)

On the occasion of International Francophonie Day, France reaffirms its commitment to promoting the French language and highlighting all francophone cultures throughout the world. The same goes for the values of openness, solidarity and respect for diversity, which will be celebrated at the 19th Francophonie Summit, which France will be hosting in 2024, in close coordination with the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF).

The President of France has made the global status and role of the French language one of the priorities of his two five-year terms.

As Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna reminded us yesterday, Francophonie is a priority for French diplomacy. The French language and francophone cultures serve as a way to communicate and work across the planet and allow us to view the world through a rich and varied lens.

Today, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, Minister of State for Development, Francophonie and International Partnerships, attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, visited the Alliance Française of Paris to meet with young students and university students, some of whom are Ukrainian, to discuss the opportunities afforded them by learning the French language.

The French Language and Francophonie Week, which was organized with support from the OIF and the OIF Secretary General, Louise Mushikiwabo, is being held from March 18-26. This year, the week is dedicated to francophone arts on all five continents, with many events planned throughout the world by the French cultural and cooperation network and partners.