National Day (July 14, 2021)

On the occasion of France’s National Day, July 14, France wishes to share a message of solidarity and hope while the world is still battling with the pandemic and its aftermath.

This message is indeed consistent with the history of our National Day: It commemorates the “Fête de la Fédération” which took place in Paris, on July 14, 1790, as a celebration of unity and reconciliation, holding hopes for a peaceful and brighter future. In July 1880, a law was passed, for the 14th of July to become France’s National Day as a commemoration of this event of July 14, 1790 for the values of unity and appeasement it conveys.
This message is as important today as it was then.

Our countries, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean, are facing difficult health, economic, environmental and climate change challenges which all have a direct impact on Human Rights. Indeed, defending, protecting and promoting human rights around the world should be at the heart of our recovery strategies. Only a global and united response, based on mutual understanding and cooperation, will make it possible to address the current crises and offer opportunities for a better future to the younger generations.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, France has promoted and actively engaged in multilateral solutions to address the pandemic and bring a global and collective response to the crisis, with a focus on poorer countries. We are committed alongside our partners, to strengthen our cooperation for a sustainable and inclusive recovery, ensuring that women receive the opportunities and support they need and taking into account the most vulnerable in our societies.
France has long-standing and close ties with American countries, be it in North America, in Latin America or in the Caribbean. This shared history is centuries old, but it is also dynamic and forward-looking. Our cooperation, friendship and solidarity are based on a firm commitment to democracy and human rights reflected in the Inter-American fundamental texts and in the mandates of the OAS.

Once again this year, restrictions due to the pandemic do not allow us to celebrate our National Day as we would have liked, with all our friends from the OAS and DC. Hopefully, we’ll have another opportunity very soon.
In the meantime, however, we suggest that you spend a little time with us.
You’re invited to attend the flag-raising ceremony at the Garde Républicaine’s headquarters in Paris.

We’re also happy to share with you two gastronomic videos made specifically for this National Day 2021, which will give you the opportunity to celebrate at home with two traditional and delicious French recipes!

Sole meunière de l’Ile de Ré
Pêche des Baux-de-Provence façon Melba

Vive la France and long live the friendship between France and the Countries of the Americas!