French Ambassador pays a visit to Abu Dhabi University

Abu Dhabi University welcomed to campus His Excellency, Ludovic Pouille, French Ambassador to the UAE, with the aim of strengthening ties with the French community at ADU and expanding the understanding of the French political culture.  

The visit kicked off with a welcome note by Professor Hany Dowidar, Dean of College of Law who expressed his honor and thanks to have His Excellency visit Abu Dhabi University for the first time.

HE Pouille was then invited to share a few words with the guests in attendance which included Professor Waqar Ahmad, Chancellor of ADU, Professor Philip Hamill, Associate Provost, Salem Mubarak Al Dhaheri, Executive Director of Community Relations as well as Deans of colleges, faculty, staff and students.

In his keynote speech entitled ‘French soft power and cultural diplomacy’, HE Pouille addressed topics of global concern such as counter-terrorism and climate change. He stressed on the ways in which the country has continued to take on a solution-driven political approach to tackle arising global issues. HE Pouille said, “France’s foreign policy is ambitious and global. It has constantly tried to be a provider of solutions and stability on a global scale.”

He particularly shed light on The Paris Agreement, which was signed in 2015 to implement a strengthened global response to the threat of climate change, sustainable development and to eradicate worldwide poverty. 

Part of the visit included a tour around campus to learn more about University’s facilities, research and community engagement initiatives.