The New French Ambassador to the Philippines

CEBU, Philippines - After the presentation of his credentials in Malacañang last April 16, 2012, new French Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Gilles Garchon came to visit Cebu, spending time with members of Cebu's media last June 1, 2012, at La Maison Rose in Lahug, Cebu City.

The meet revealed that Ambassador Garchon is no stranger to Asia, having served as Political Counselor for the Embassy of France in Bangkok from 1999 to 2003.

Ambassador Garchon had also served as Cultural Counselor for the Embassy of France in Jakarta from 2003 to 2007, and was the First Secretary of the Embassy of France in New Delhi in 1989.

In 1993, Ambassador Garchon stood as the Consul of France in Hong Kong, and later as head of the Asia and Oceana Section of the Department of International Cooperation and Development.

Ambassador Garchon graduated from the National Institute for Oriental Languages and Civilizations, specializing in Burmese and Hindi. He also holds a doctorate degree in Indian Civilization Studies.

Born on March 11, 1955, Ambassador Garchon joined the French Diplomatic Service in 1985, then served in the Head Office of African and Madagascar Affairs by 1987.

Apart from being the French Ambassador to the Philippines, Ambassador Garchon is also the non-resident Ambassador to Palau, the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia.  (FREEMAN)