A moment of emotion, diplomacy, and a shared vision for the future
As part of his state visit to Southeast Asia, the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, made a symbolic and inspiring stop at the International French School (Singapore) (IFS) — the only school featured in the official itinerary. On the occasion of his visit to Singapore on 30 May 2025 for the Shangri-La Dialogue, a leading forum on security in Asia, President Macron chose to meet the French community in Singapore during the “Meet the French Community in Singapore” event, held on the IFS campus.
An unforgettable encounter for the educational community
Welcomed by Mr Ludovic Mathé, Chair of the IFS Board of Directors, and Mr David Binan, Principal of the school, President Macron was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Brigitte Macron, as well as the Minister of Culture, Ms Rachida Dati, the Minister for the Economy and Finance, Mr Eric Lombard, and the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr Jean-Noël Barrot.
One of the most memorable moments of the morning was the moving rendition of La Marseillaise by the IFS secondary choir, conducted by Ms Julie Demange. Stirring and full of pride, the performance deeply moved both the officials and the many families in attendance, highlighting the enduring cultural and civic bond that unites the French community abroad.
A speech focused on the future and cooperation
In his address, President Macron spoke about current major geopolitical issues, opportunities for strengthened cooperation between France and Southeast Asia, and the environmental, educational and technological challenges ahead. Clear-sighted yet accessible, his speech reaffirmed the strategic importance of Singapore and the French presence in the region.
In a warm and convivial atmosphere, members of the French community had the opportunity to engage directly with the President, creating moments of genuine proximity and human connection.
An eco-designed kindergarten to welcome the future
The visit was also an opportunity for the President to preview the school’s new kindergarten – a pioneering building in terms of sustainable development. As Singapore’s first net zero energy school building, it is equipped with solar panels, intelligent cooling systems, and innovative water management solutions.
Scheduled to open in September 2025, the new kindergarten will accommodate up to 1,000 additional pupils, bringing the school’s total capacity to 4,000. It marks a major milestone in IFS’s commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable and future-oriented education.
A powerful symbol of French education abroad
The warm welcome extended to the Head of State and his spouse by IFS underscores the school’s vital role as an ambassador of French educational excellence around the world. This visit will be remembered as a moment of great inspiration, shared pride and meaningful intercultural dialogue.
