A conference on Past and Future Relationships between France and Germany' began in Baku on 16 November 2006, Trend reports.
Initiated by the French and Germany embassies in Azerbaijan and the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan, the Forum brought together specialists from France and Germany, as well as Azerbaijan.
In his remarks, a researcher of the French National Center of Scientific Researches, Ms. Korin De France, touched upon the history of relationships between France and Germany and particularly, the post-war period of the relationships between the two nations. She noted that despite mutual hatred which had accumulated during the Soviet period, the French and German people finally achieved rapprochement. However, this change did occur immediately. From the 1950s twin cities were created between France and Germany and in 1960 their number reached 130. She also remarked on the cultural exchange as an important factor between the nations that suffered the war. The French scientist added that the end of 1950s saw the appearance of new youth organizations. After 10 years, over 2 million young people of France and Germany became united.
Later the event centered on the rest periods of relationships between France and Germany, including the Elysee Agreement signed in 1953. Other speakers to the event were experts from Azerbaijan, Eldar Namazov, a political specialist and Asim Mollazade who is a Member of Parliament.