HIBAPRESS – Agencies
The Board of Directors of the Arab World Institute in Paris confirmed today, Tuesday, the appointment of diplomat Anne-Claire Legendre as President of the institution, thus becoming the first woman to hold this position since its creation.
A statement issued by the Institute, following a meeting of its Board of Directors, stated: "At the proposal of the French State, Ms. Anne-Claire Legendre was appointed as a member of the Board of Directors and elected as President of the Arab World Institute. Thus, she becomes the first woman to preside over the Institute." French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, had confirmed shortly before that Ms. Legendre "has the experience, qualifications and strategic vision necessary to assume these high responsibilities," upon announcing his intention to propose her to the Board of Directors, which met in the morning to appoint the new President of the Institute. Ms. Legendre, a high-ranking diplomat, is 46 years old and currently holds the position of advisor to the Presidency of the Republic in charge of North Africa and the Middle East, after having held, in particular, the position of spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Institute explained that as the fortieth anniversary of its founding approaches, the new presidency will give priority to implementing an ambitious reform that includes "modernizing governance, establishing a clearer and more effective organization, restoring a sustainable financial path, and strengthening the rules of professional ethics." The statement concluded by emphasizing that "the Arab World Institute intends to continue its development and affirm its distinguished role in serving the dialogue between France, Europe and the societies of the contemporary Arab world." The Board of Directors of the Arab World Institute includes 14 members who are appointed for a period of three years, divided equally between France and Arab countries. From the French side, the Board includes appointed representatives, especially from the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, along with qualified personalities. From the Arab side, it includes mainly ambassadors accredited in Paris, including the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco.
