The storming of the Bastille represents a symbol of the French Revolution, and the motto "liberty, equality, fraternity" is a guiding principle for all French people.
On the occasion of the anniversary of the revolution, we spoke with Ambassador Pierre Cochard about nuclear energy, cultural cooperation between Serbia and France, and the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.
What does Bastille Day signify for the French people, and how is it celebrated?
"Our national holiday commemorates the day the French people took the Bastille, a symbol of tyranny and absolutism under the regime of the time. Many great French thinkers, such as Voltaire, were imprisoned there. So, the Bastille is a symbol of freedom. On this day, we celebrate liberty, equality, and fraternity.
"It is a day that unites the French people wherever they are, even when disagreements arise. It’s a celebration in which everyone takes part, with music and dancing in every city and village. This year’s celebration will also highlight the upcoming Olympic Games, as sport symbolises fraternity as well."
The recent elections in France saw voters penalise the right wing, with the left emerging as a prominent force. How do you interpret these results, and what lessons could President Macron’s coalition draw from them?
"I’d like to clarify what happened. In our electoral system, voters express their preferences in the first round, as they did on 30 June. On 7 July, during the second round, they voted to reject certain options. That’s why we have this outcome. The system is very clear.
"I must also say it was a moment of real democracy for our country, with very high voter turnout. I was surprised to read in some Serbian newspapers that France was on the verge of civil war—there is nothing of the sort. The elections were peaceful, disciplined, and well-organised."
How might the election results affect France's foreign policy, its relationship with the EU, and its approach to the Western Balkans, including Serbia?
"First, there is broad consensus in France on the main direction of our foreign policy. This means staying true to our alliances, continuing to work towards a stronger Europe, supporting Ukraine, and upholding multilateralism. These elements remain unchanged.
"The president is responsible for foreign policy and defence. He was elected two years ago on a clear foreign policy platform that places Europe at the heart of our priorities. That direction will undoubtedly continue."
France and Serbia’s official diplomatic relations were established after the Berlin Congress in 1879. How would you assess the current political relations between the two countries?
"Our ties go back even further, to the Middle Ages, when our kingdoms first connected. During Serbia’s struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire, France offered its support.
"Diplomatic relations began in 1839, and full embassy-level relations were established in 1880. Since then, mutual respect and trust have been the hallmarks of our relationship. This was evident during President Macron’s visit to Serbia in 2019 and President Vučić’s visit to Paris this past April. These visits foster open and honest dialogue."
How does France view Serbia’s role in ensuring stability in the Western Balkans?
"We have strongly supported the accession of the Western Balkans to the EU, with Serbia among these nations. President Macron has been very clear on this. In December, the EU reiterated its commitment to accelerating this process and introduced the Growth Plan to help Serbia meet the conditions for joining the single market and facilitate EU membership.
"We want Europe to be united and strong in these challenging geopolitical times. This includes helping Serbia join the EU as soon as possible. Serbia plays a key role in regional development and reconciliation, as well as in the collective journey toward the EU.
"In my view, Serbia has significant resources to advance its growth, including its youth and development in sectors like new technologies. Its central position in the region comes with responsibility, and we hope it continues its constructive approach, particularly in normalising relations between Belgrade and Priština. This has been evident in recent months, but there’s always room for improvement."
Beyond strong political ties, economic cooperation between France and Serbia has intensified in recent years. How can these relations be further developed, and in which sectors?
"Economic cooperation has been growing steadily and rapidly, tripling over the past decade. This is a very positive trend. French companies are increasingly interested in investing in and maintaining a presence in Serbia—not just short-term, but long-term as well.
"Our companies are already involved in the airport and, as you know, will also contribute to the Belgrade metro project. They are active in areas such as environmental protection and energy.
"Looking to the future, we can focus on emerging sectors like artificial intelligence."
How do you view strengthening energy cooperation with Serbia, particularly regarding EU energy strategies and nuclear energy?
"Energy is a top priority for both Serbia and France. Our focus is on helping Serbia meet EU standards in environmental protection. We are also involved in renewable energy projects.
"In France, 70% of our electricity comes from nuclear energy. It’s a means to ensure sovereignty while respecting the environment. We are interested in developing nuclear energy across Europe to promote energy independence.
"Of course, nuclear energy takes time, requiring expertise and safety studies. But we are fully prepared to collaborate with Serbia in this field if it chooses to pursue it."
What is the current level of cultural and educational cooperation between France and Serbia, and what initiatives are planned to enhance it?
"We are very proud to have been the guest of honour at the most recent Belgrade Book Fair. It was a fantastic event, and we plan to remain involved in major cultural events in Serbia.
"This autumn, we will participate in BITEF with the renowned theatre troupe Comédie-Française. We will also be present at NOMUS with a tribute to French composer Gabriel Fauré, at the Belgrade Jazz Festival, and the Belgrade Dance Festival. We’ve always prided ourselves on being active in Serbia’s cultural scene."