France celebrates Bastille Day in Karachi

KARACHI, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th Jul, 2026) The French National Day celebrations were held at the Consulate General of France in Karachi which was attended by Sindh Governor Syed Nehal Hashmi and the Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah as special guests, while distinguished guests and officials joined in commemorating the 237th anniversary of the storming of the Bastille.

Addressing the ceremony, the Consul General of France Alexis Chahtahtinsky highlighted France’s historic role as one of the first countries to recognize Pakistan’s independence in 1947. He emphasized a shared commitment to global peace, noting recent diplomatic synergy between French and Pakistani leadership in stabilizing international conflicts.

The evening served as a showcase for the vibrant economic collaboration between France and Pakistan. The Consul General also mentioned some key industrial initiatives undertaken by the French entities in Karachi, including CMA-CGM, Louis Dreyfuss Company, Schneirder Electric and L Oreal.

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In a reflective moment, the Consul General announced that, following four years of his tenure, the French government has decided to close the Consulate General in Karachi for budgetary reasons.

However, he reassured the community that the French presence is not departing, but rather evolving.

He said the Pakistan France business Alliance (PFBA) to continue fostering trade and investment. The Alliance Française de Karachi, which will remain a cornerstone for cultural and educational engagement.

The French government officially announced the closure of its diplomatic mission in Karachi on July 15, 2026 for budgetary reasons. While the physical consulate operations are shutting down, France will maintain its presence and deepening ties with the city through a newly appointed Honorary Consul General, the Pakistan France Business Alliance (PFBA), and the Alliance Française cultural center.