Prof. Rami Hamdallah, the University's President, received in his office today Mr. Frédéric Desagneaux, Consul General of France in Jerusalem, heading a high-level delegation of the French  Consulate.  The meeting was attended by Prof. Maher Natsheh, Vice President for Academic Affairs, the Presidents' Assistant for Strategic and International  Affairs, and  Ms. Yasmeen Shahroor from the International Relations Office

The French delegation consisted of Mr. Damien Cristofari, Political Consul, Mr. Benoit Tadie, Attache for Cultural Cooperation, Mr. Herve Conant, Head of Mission AFD (French Agency of Development), and Ms. Lucienne D'Alenson, Director CCF Nablus.

Prof. Hamdallah welcomed the French Consul General on his first visit to the University and Nablus City.  He congratulated him on his new position as the Consul General of France in Palestine, wishing him all success in developing the Palestinian-French relations of cooperation in various arenas.

Prof. Hamdallah also appreciated the important role of the French government in supporting Palestinian people especially in higher education, noting the distinctive cooperation between An-Najah and the French Consulate in Jerusalem.

Prof. Hamdallah also briefed the visiting delegation on the University's different faculties as well as academic programs and scientific centers.  He also noted that the University looks forward to expanding areas of cooperation especially in fields of scholarships at French universities as well as joint scientific research programs.  Prof. Hamdallah highlighted the role of French Language Department at An-Najah as learning and teaching language is an important tool in promoting dialogue and cooperation between nations and people.

Mr. Desagneaux expressed his delight for visting the University.  He said that he is appreciating the ongoing cooperation between An- Najah National University and the French Consulate in Jerusalem over the many years.  He also expressed his hope that this cooperation will continue and propser between both sides.

The French Consul said that he is aware of the importance of higher education to Palestinian people.  He said that that the French government will continue to support this sector and other sectors to create a better life to Palestinian people.  At the end of the meeting, Prof. Hamdallah presented souvenirs to the French Consul and the delegation that accompanied him.