The Franco-British Council and the Government of Jersey are delighted to announce a new five-year partnership for the period 2025-2030 as part of working together to enhance Franco-British cooperation.
The Government of Jersey will participate in all activities of the Franco-British Council including Energy, Climate Change and Sustainability, Defence, Science and Society, and with a particular focus on the Franco-British Young Leaders Programme.
This partnership would include two annual places on the Franco-British Young Leaders Programme for young professionals with connections to Jersey. The selection process will follow the same criteria and be overseen by the secretariat of the Franco-British Council.
Young people with connections to Jersey will also be eligible for the Franco-British Local Leaders Programme.
In addition Jersey will host visits and events in partnership with the Franco-British Council to promote Jersey’s deep-rooted Franco-British ties.
The Council was founded in 1972 on the joint initiative of President Georges Pompidou and Prime Minister Edward Health, in a context of a developing Europe and of an increasingly globalised community. Since then, it has dedicated itself to the promotion of a better mutual understanding and the development of joint action through bringing together leading representatives of the worlds of culture, politics, defence, science, education and business.
Lord Peter Ricketts, Chair of the Franco-British Council in the United Kingdom, said, “Given Jersey’s close ties of history and geography to both the UK and France, it makes every sense that we put the partnership the Franco-British Council has already begun to build with the Government of Jersey onto a longer-term footing. We are excited to work with the Jersey team on a wide range of subjects.”
Hervé Mariton, Chair of the Franco-British Council in France, said, “As close neighbours with deep-rooted cultural and historical connections, France values its relationship with Jersey. This partnership is a welcome opportunity to reinforce cooperation and mutual understanding, and we look forward to building on our shared interests.”
Deputy Ian Gorst, Minister for External Relations for the Government of Jersey, said, “Developing Jersey’s international reputation is a key focus of this Government and I’m encouraged by the opportunities this agreement will bring.”
“The partnership strengthens our shared commitment to cross-border collaboration and is a result of direct engagement with the Franco-British Council here in Jersey in 2024.”
“Through the Young Leaders Programme in particular we have a scheme that empowers Islanders to develop their personal and professional skillsets, while deepening Franco-British relationships for the benefit of future generations.”