France in
July 2016
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Rochas Launch Sharif Group launched the new collection of Rochas watches and jewellery at Capital Club under the patronage of HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador. Heba, Waleed, Rico & Emilie
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Staff and guests at the unveiling
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Suhair & Wafa
Rico, Durand, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, Emilie, Mahmood, Abdullah & Waleed
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THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com
contents BAHRAIN THIS MONTH • FRANCE IN BAHRAIN • JULY 2016
Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Marketing & Electronic Media Director Deepa Siva Acting Editor Apple Sharma
6
Entente Cordial
8
Forging Closer Ties
Contributors Charlie Holding, Behnaz Sanjana, Puja Tiwari
HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, answers questions on his country’s role in Bahrain
Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel, Gopal Nambiar Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan
Rim Jalali on the first year of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain.
Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Kadambari S Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation
12
Vive la France
15
French Bites
17
Bon Appétit!
From fashion to motoring to food and industry French companies and brands are thriving in the Kingdom.
Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain Published monthly by
News, events and information from the island’s French community.
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We take a look at three fabulous French foodie destinations.
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Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month. Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3
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COMMERCIAL INDEX Alliance Française............................................................... 9 Celio.........................................................Inside Front Cover Gulf Air................................................................ Back Cover House of Travel................................................................. 13 Novotel Al Dana Resort.................................................... 11
Sharif Group (Rochas).............................. Inside Back Cover Technal Middle East........................................................... 1 Tricom Group..................................................................... 17 Yateem Airconditioning (Carrier)...................................... 15 Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (Renault)................................... 2, 3 July 2016 5
france in bahrain HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre
Fruitful Relations HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, answers questions on his country’s role in Bahrain. You have now been in Bahrain almost two years, what have been the major changes/ developments in French-Bahraini relations you have seen? The relationship between Bahrain and France has experienced positive development. We exchanged several high-level visits, including two trips by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to Paris, in 2014 and 2015. Several French ministers came to Bahrain including the Minister of Defence, Jean-Yves Le Drian, who was received by His Majesty and who visited the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle, which has docked twice in Bahrain over the last two years. The Secretary of State for Foreign Trade, Matthias Fekl, also came to Bahrain and presided over the signing of several important agreements. The high bilateral committee between France and Bahrain met for the second time in Paris in November 2015. This committee sets the direction of our cooperation in the fields of education and academic, economic and cultural affairs. The other major event has been the creation of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain. You recently met with the Information Minister, HE Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi, to discuss boosting bilateral media cooperation and activating agreements concluded following His Majesty King Hamad’s visit to France in September 2015, can you explain what form this increased cooperation might take? The cooperation between Bahrain and France 6 July 2016
in the field of media has already a long and successful history. I would mention first the transmission in Bahrain, for nearly 15 years, of the generalist French radio in Arabic, Monte Carlo Doualiya, produced in Paris by the consortium France Medias Monde [a governmental body in charge of French international broadcasting services]. Journalism was at the centre of our discussions. The two most recognised training centres / schools of journalism in France, namely CFPJ (Training and Proficiency Center for Journalists) and INA (National Audiovisual Institute) contracted last year with the Ministry of Information to provide a group of 56 journalists from Bahrain National Radio and Television with continuous training to update their skills in current digital and multimedia practices. Fundamentals in journalism were taught at the Royal University for Women (RUW), as the host and partner, whereas television production courses were held in France, at the INA in Paris. The certificate ceremony took place on June 5, at the RUW. The year-long training was extremely satisfactory; I was told the newly acquired knowledge has already been implemented. This first year was such a success that the parties involved have already decided to set up another training year due to start in October 2016. Regarding the other topics, one of them regards the purchase of French Television programmes and films by Bahrain television. Several years ago, hundreds of hours of programmes were bought. I believe that they all have been telecast, and it’s time to refresh the stock. The director of Bahrain TV has been
sent a personal invitation to a market of French TV programmes, especially organised for foreign buyers. We also talked about the very important question of digital archiving for television and radio. The already mentioned INA is a world leader in the field of archiving strategies for radio and television. We have envisaged the possibility of inviting an INA expert to Bahrain, who could study tailored plans for the future. A delegation representing the Bahrain-French Town Planning Initiative recently met Shaikha Mai with the Bahrain-based Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARCWH) incumbent Director Dr Mounir Bouchenaki; what was the purpose of the meeting and will we see French influence in future urban planning on the island? This is a very important project. Further to the request expressed by His Majesty King Hamad to President Hollande in August 2014, a FrenchBahraini town-planning scheme has been rapidly initiated, with a view to bringing a team of about eight experts to Bahrain. Experts came to the Kingdom during the first months of this year and immediately started working. As part of their groundwork, they are meeting with all governmental authorities including the Ministry of Works, Municipalities and Urban Planning, Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, and, naturally, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. During the working session with Shaikha Mai and Dr Bouchenaki, the team mainly studied the heritage parameter as Bahrain is a place where a long and rich history has left a lot of beautiful remnants. I understand they undertook to perform their mission keeping three main duties in mind: to use their workforce to foster existing heritage preservation projects [such as the Pearling Trail in Muharraq]; to ensure that new zoning schemes do not jeopardise the protection of spaces identified as archaeological fields; and to assure good coordination between the French-Bahraini town-planning work and local environmental, cultural or historic programmes, to strengthen the attractiveness of Bahrain as a cultural destination for tourists. Regarding French influence in future urban planning on the islands, I would prefer to talk of sharing of experience and the transfer of technologies. France is made up of a large continental territory, as well as a number of islands. I’m sure that some of the French expertise in developing islands and seashore resorts, in an ecofriendly manner, might add www.bahrainthismonth.com
The Bahraini journalists receive their certificates at RUW
valuable content into urban strategies. Conservation of the natural environment goes along with the preservation of cultural heritage. French group Accor has announced that it will bring a new Ibis Hotel to Manama, are you aware of any other new French brands or companies due to arrive in Bahrain in the coming months ? The French Accor Hotel Group is expanding in Bahrain where four hotels are already open. The Sofitel Zallaq, the Novotel, the Ibis and Mercure in Seef. Two new hotels are coming. The first one, very soon, will be, as you mentioned, an Ibis Styles in the Diplomatic Area. Then a Pullman is to be constructed near the existing Novotel. What is the current balance of trade between France and Bahrain and do you feel this can be improved? If so, how? In 2015, French exports totaled €130 million and imports of Bahraini products totaled €82 million. The trade balance was therefore of €42 million in favour of France. We have a very significant French presence in Bahrain in areas such as water desalination, 70 per cent of which is carried out by the firm Engie. BNP-Paribas Bank has for over 20 years been established in Manama as a regional centre of prime importance. In January 2016, during a visit to Manama by the Secretary of State for Foreign Trade, Mathias Fekl, two important contracts were signed: the supply of 29 Airbus A320s and A321 neos (USD3.4 billion) to Gulf Air, and the investment by the Fives group in a new aluminum installation of GARMCO Group (USD47 million). Interesting prospects exist for French companies on the sixth production line of Alba, the construction and development of the new terminal of Bahrain International Airport and the modernisation of the BAPCO oil refinery. www.bahrainthismonth.com
As well as commercial co-operation, France also has a significant social and cultural impact in Bahrain. The embassy has been at the forefront in partnering to bring French artists and events to Bahrain and I understand there is a significant cultural programme lined up – can you tell us more about this? Actually, culture is a large field, which includes a number of concepts, facts and variables. I would consider them as pertaining to two notions: creativity and identity; and way of life / way of thinking. France considers creativity and innovation as a major issue in its social and international policy. Creativity and innovation are nurturing all domains of growth from economics to science and education, and cultural cooperation is, for me, a crossdepartmental work, as well as a constituent element of French diplomacy. Although we have developed new programmes in the field of fine arts, cinema and specialist talks and lectures, it is in the field of performing arts that we have had a remarkably active partnership, mainly with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. There is ongoing preparation of an amazing Franco-Bahraini production which will be created on the stage of The National Theatre on October 20. Conceived and conducted by renowned musician and maestro JeanChristophe Frisch, who founded the Baroque Nomade orchestra, the performance will be inspired by the story of Pietro della Valle, an Italian writer, poet and musician who travelled throughout Arabia and Asia at the beginning of the 18th century. Cultural cooperation is not only artistic partnership. It includes many domains in which France and Bahrain have common projects to develop: I would mention French language teaching, higher education programmes, law, and medicine. Concerning French language, I
observe that tri-linguism (Arabic/English/ French) is already playing an important part in the careers of cultivated students and young professionals of the Middle East. The French School, where a new building is under construction, is addressing this question thanks to a determined strategy. Is there anything else you would like to add? As you know France is very much involved with what is going on in the region. There are hot spots like Syria and Iraq but we must not forget the Middle East peace process. France continues to advocate for renewed international support for the peace process and the safeguarding of the two-state solution. In June it held a ministerial meeting in Paris to reaffirm the commitment of the international community in favour of the two-state solution. A joint statement was adopted by the 29 participating countries and international organisations. It marks the unity of the international community and willingness to help revive the peace process by providing incentives to both parties. We will now continue the work started with the various stakeholders to prepare an international conference to be held by the end of the year. Also, at the end of 2015, France hosted a historical gathering to save the planet from the consequences of greenhouse gases and climate change. This UN conference, thanks to the deep French involvement, was a success that culminated on April 22 at the United Nations in New York with 177 countries officially signing this historical agreement. France has since officially ratified the Paris agreement and locally we are in touch with Bahraini authorities whom we praise for the decisive steps they have already taken to implement the Paris agreement. July 2016 7
france in bahrain The founding committee in 2015
Rim Jalali
Forging Closer Ties Rim Jalali, executive director of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain, tells BTM about the organisation’s role.
8 July 2016
The French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain (FCCIB) is an institution aimed at promoting business and investments between the two countries. The FCCIB is part of a network of 115 such chambers worldwide, which enables it to rely on the support of CCI-FI, the French International Chambers of Commerce and Industry organisation for its activities. FCCIB currently has 145 members, representing 63 corporates and five honorary members representing key institutional partners for the future. All major sectors are represented with companies active in construction, consulting, industry and tourism. Rim says: “The GCC has always been a region attractive to French business because of its fast growth and impressive projects, and Bahrain is no exception. French companies have won interesting contracts in the past few months and have been involved in prominent projects such as the new airport, town planning and industrial construction. The forthcoming large industrial projects at Alba and BAPCO are already attracting a lot of interest from specialised French companies and hopefully the FCCIB will be in a position to support them in their endeavours.” She adds that the FCCIB, which has been operating for close to a year, is targeting corporate members and aims to provide business connections, services and benefits to these members in order to grow their business. “The FCCIB’s board set several priorities for the first year,” says Rim. “Among them our integration in the CCI-FI network was at the top of the list in view of its strategic importance for our future development. We are pleased to advise that this strategic objective has been achieved.” An executive committee was set-up to oversee the chamber’s development and assist the executive manager and, in parallel, several operational task
forces were implemented to deal with operational issues. A comprehensive charter of ethics has also been implemented. Rim says the main objectives for the coming year are: to establish a number of sectorial committees; build on the momentum gained and organise regular business-focused events; build on adhesion to the CCI-FI to promote FCCIB and Bahrain in the network and beyond; continue building the corporate membership base; and boost the business flow She adds: “While the French presence has been increasing over the years, there is still ample room for expansion in different fields where France has a strong and recognised ‘savoir faire’, such as hospitality, town planning, water treatment and technology. At a different level, French knowledge in promoting start-ups should be better exploited and could represent an interesting angle of development in the future. The role of the FCCIB in this field will be to identify French companies, attract them to Bahrain, connect them to the right contacts at the right level, facilitate their discussions and formalities and accompany them to close potential transactions. Connect, facilitate and deliver is FCCIB’s motto!” In its first year the FCCIB hosted three speaker events as well as an annual members meeting to present a progress report. Rim concludes: “Our ambition is to organise many more and more diversified events with a growing number of participants. Many events are planned before the end of 2016 including an annual gala dinner, a conference, a luncheon with a keynote speaker, the launch of the FCCIB directory and a promotional event for Bahrain in France, organised in collaboration with French Chambers Of Commerce and The Economic Development Board. www.bahrainthismonth.com
france in bahrain ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE
Learn it! Love it! Live it!
Hélène: I have travelled a lot but this is my first time in the Middle East. I also have a Master’s degree and I have worked with newly-arrived immigrants in France to help them integrate. Last year I worked in Athens, Greece, at the Institut français. Why is it important to learn French? Zarella: Speaking French is a great asset if you plan to study in France or Canada and it will give you great job opportunities. Hélène: Learning a foreign language is extremely beneficial for the health of the brain, whatever your age. And French is the official language in 29 countries. Two good reasons to start or restart learning French! How long does it take to learn French, can you give us some tips? Zarella: The time it takes to learn a language depends on the motivation and the effort you put in. Reading in French and learning one word a day is a good start! Hélène: Regularity is the key; and acquiring good bases with a qualified teacher will help. Also, staying in a French-speaking country will dramatically improve your speaking and listening skills.
BTM meets Zarella and Hélène who teach at the Alliance Française Bahrain, the island’s leading organisation to learn French. Please introduce yourselves? Zarella: I am 29 years old and I hold a double Master’s from the University of Strasbourg to teach French as a foreign language. During my training, I learned how to make language classes interactive for students to enjoy while learning.
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What are the benefits of joining Alliance Française? Zarella: If you like learning with new technology, you will benefit from lessons prepared on interactive white boards and tablets to make the class more interactive and fun. Hélène: As a student, you can receive a membership card for Le Culture Club that will entitle you to attend events for free or for a reduced price. And you can also access for free Culturethèque, the e-library of Francophone culture.
July 2016 9
france in bahrain NOVOTEL BAHRAIN AL DANA RESORT
A Reputation for Excellence This beautiful seafront property offers Arabic hospitality with a French flavour. Nestled on the warm blue waters of the Gulf and with its traditional Arabic-style architecture, Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort is the perfect family getaway to relax and unwind. The 166-unit property, which incorporates king and twin rooms as well as 37 suites, has gained a reputation for excellent family-friendly service, since it opened in 2003. Rooms boast amenities such as tea and coffee-making facilities, minibar and satellite TV, while the suites also have microwaves. Dining during your stay is taken care of at the two outstanding restaurants: Zytoun, where you will find international cuisine, cooked from the heart with an Arabic twist; and La Perle, a fantastic seafood eatery overlooking the water which has a fish market concept where you can choose your fresh catch and have it prepared to your liking. Both venues have regular deals such as the Arabic brunch each Friday, a daily business lunch special or the all-you-can-eat seafood buffet at La Perle and BBQ night each Thursday. As well as the pool bar, where guests can enjoy a selection of snacks throughout the day, there’s also the Bellevue Bar which boasts a relaxing atmosphere, great views over the sea and the city skyline, and daily happy hours with 50-per-cent discount on all beverages from 6pm to 7pm
and 9pm to 10pm. Business travellers haven’t been forgotten with meeting and conference rooms which can accommodate from 10 to 110 people, and guests across the board can join up for Novotel’s loyalty scheme which is accessible from the first stay and provides attractive benefits. Call 17 298-008.
Gala Dinner The Association Francophone de Bahrain (AFBH) held a gala dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre
Annabel
Hind, Shiraz, Claudine, Mylene, Hela, Rania & Philippe
Herve Abdy & Christiana
The AFBH donated money to the RIA centre. L-R: Hela, Rania, Chiraz, Claudine, Christine, Philippe & Mylene
10 July 2016
Mohammed & Dunia
Jean
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france in bahrain
Vive la France From the language of love to the City of Lights, there’s something special about France that draws us in. French style is envied the world over and the country is the world’s original gastronomic capital. We look at some of the reasons Bahrainis and expats alike love the land of the Tricolour. A question of commerce Economic relations between France and Bahrain have historically been strong with long-standing ties in areas such as banking seeing the island used as a financial base by various French companies. From the French side, the aircraft sector is an important exporter to the Kingdom and, from Bahrain, both refined oil and aluminium are well represented. France’s Technal is a strong player in the Kingdom’s aluminium and building materials segment, and has been serving the regional market for 37 years. In more recent years French business interests in the island have grown, evidenced last year by the establishment of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bahrain – which took over from the well-established Bahraini French Business Club. Energy and transport links are increasing year-on-year and the French Bahraini Town Planning Initiative, established following His Majesty King Hamad’s visit to France in 2014, sees French experts working alongside their Bahraini counterparts to help develop the cities of the future. Parlez Français For many Western expats and Bahrainis, French is the first language we learn aside from our mother tongue. It is a romantic language, which rolls beautifully off the tongue. But, more than that, it is a language of trade spoken in 29 countries worldwide, making it a useful tool for business development, particularly for anyone who sees their long-term future in Canada. For us, in the Kingdom, learning French has never 12 July 2016
Citroën DS
On The Road With one of the world’s most famous race tracks located in the principality of Monaco, it’s no surprise that the French are a nation renowned for their love of cars. French-designed vehicles have won the European Car of the Year and World Car of the Year awards numerous times. The Citroën DS took third place in Car of the Century award and has been named the most beautiful car of all time by Classic & Sports Car magazine. And here in Bahrain, we love the cars they produce with Renault, Citroën and Peugeot being among the island’s favourite rides. been easier with Alliance Française offering a range of courses for both children and adults as well as cultural activities, a state-of-the-art library and an outreach programme. Language centre Berlitz also offers a range of French immersion classes and Lets Speak French Bahrain has classes taught by a native French speaker.
For younger learners, the Lycée Français offers a top-grade French education with lessons conducted by French ministry accredited teachers preparing students for French-recognised examinations. French Hospitality Gallic gastronomy is as famous as French www.bahrainthismonth.com
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Style Statements French designers are known the world over for their innovative trend-setting collections which light up Paris Fashion Week twice a year and have the fashion world on the edge of its seat. Bringing those styles to the streets, fashion houses such as Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton and Dior are always popular with those who have cash to flash. And there are a number of French brands whose business is making style available on a more affordable level such as Cielo, which has everything for the welldressed man about town; Camaieu, the destination of choice for chic ladies; and Tape à l’œil, where you can ensure even the smallest members of the family are not left behind in the style stakes. Others like Promod and Parfois also keep the blue, white and red flag flying and the French influence on the region’s own favourite designers is clear to see. In the jewellery and watches market, French influence would be hard to ignore. Many of the large fashion houses have specific lines to offer and Sharif Group has just brought traditional French house Rochas to its Al La Mode stores. While in the homes sector, brands such as Roche Bobois mean we can all bring a little ‘je ne sais quois’ to our own living space.
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fashion and the island is well-served with venues to tempt our palates from the home-style traditional cooking of Paul (where you can also find fabulous French breads) to the patisserie confections of Café Lilou and the unashamed luxury of The Domain Hotel and Spa’s Le Sauvage and Camelot, which not only offers great French cuisine but also accompanies this with regular grape tastings. Aside from restaurants, French hospitality can also be experienced in a number of hotels across the Kingdom. Novotel’s Al Dana Hotel & Resort offers a great getaway in the heart of the city while Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is the perfect retreat, and the likes of the Mercure and Ibis in Seef cater to both business and leisure travellers. Across the island, the French influence can be spotted everywhere from banking to business and from shopping to social life proving that Bahrain has a love affair with France which shows no sign of growing cold. www.bahrainthismonth.com
July 2016 13
france in bahrain ‘Ambial’ bringing the outside in
TECHNAL MIDDLE EAST
Heart of Glass Enhance the look of your home, office or development with a stunning architectural glass wall from one of France’s leading companies.
14 July 2016
Bahrain-based Technal Middle East (TME) is part of the French international architectural aluminium systems supplier, TECHNAL®. The latest addition to its extensive range of building products is the new TECHNAL® “Ambial” folding door which offers wide openings allowing users to enjoy a panoramic view of the outside, filling the living area with natural light and softening the lines between indoor and outside space. With its large dimensions, numerous applications, elegant design and superior performance, Ambial is the ideal solution for challenging, high-quality projects such as villas, architect-designed homes, house extensions and hotel or restaurant terraces. Ambial can integrate up to 10 leaves, each with a maximum height of 3.0m and a width of 1.2m creating a potential 12m of stunning glass wall. Each leaf runs on exclusive TECHNAL® rollers which can carry a load of up to 150kg and are concealed by stylish black caps for a compact look. Inward and outward opening options are available either from the middle or the side and the double brush threshold, which comes as standard, can be embedded to allow easy disabled access. Finishings have been designed down to the smallest details to offer an elegant door both in closed and open positions. Profiles are flush and their visible parts are thin and well-balanced: 63mm for a 2.5m-high leaf and 73mm for a leaf of three metres . Hardware is concealed by black covers for greater uniformity and a quality effect when the door is open and handles are smartly developed and distinguished by fine design. The handle and half-cylinder key can be painted in the company’s wide range of stylish colours and an integrated key is available as an option while the doors come with three-point locking for increased security and confidence.
A stunning wall of glass
For maximum safety a matching small key can be added, which will protect the door from damage even in the open position and none of the fixings are visible when the door is in the closed position. Hesham Kameshki, marketing and business development manager at TME, says: “Ambial system is a result of the latest creative innovations of TECHNAL® that was introduced to the international markets at one of Europe’s largest building and construction trade fares in Paris at Batimat Expo that was held in November 2015. It received great recognition and was well perceived by all concerned in the industry. TME launched Ambial in all GCC markets during Q1’ 2016, which was strongly welcomed generating a large influx of inquiries for this wonderful product from all types of users with some major orders placed.” TME as the regional services provider for TECHNAL® has been serving the Gulf market for more than 37 years and offers a wide range of technicallyadvanced proprietary and bespoke products developed to meet specifiers’ requirements. These include innovative solutions for all types of architectural aluminium facades, skylights, sunshades, windows, doors, office partitions, balustrades and blast- and bullet-proof applications. Call 17 225-777. www.bahrainthismonth.com
frenchbites
Save the Date The dates for next year’s French Week have been announced. “So French”, an initiative of the French Embassy in Bahrain, will take place from January 18-23, 2017, bringing together all things French, from education, culture and the arts to industry. The event will also showcase such sectors such as food, gastronomy, technology, tourism, energy and the environment. “So French” will include a broad range of activities, building on France’s historical trade links with Bahrain and its contribution to the
Learning the Language development of the future. Mark your diaries and prepare to discover that there is much more to France than you might think.
Feeding the Hungry Students of Bahrain’s Lycee Francais MLF showed their big hearts by collecting food for the underprivileged. The initiative was organised by Sandra Said and Frederique Pellerin, and, over the course of one week, the students donated a lot of food to fill eight fridges, operated by the Feed the Need organisation, in the Saar, Hidd and Salmanya areas. Sandra says: “This charity was organised during the Holy Month of Ramadan to help the children to be involved in such charity events. It is an opportunity as well for parents to empty their kitchen drawers before the summer break. The aim was to encourage each child to bring a non-perishable food item, there was no donation too small, everything was welcome.”
Education Minister HE Dr Majid bin Ali Al Nuaimi received a number of female graduates who by the end of the 2016 academic year had completed six consecutive years since joining the French language teaching project implemented in public schools. The minister congratulated them for their outstanding achievement, stressing the importance of learning the French language in broadening the scope of their knowledge. He added that the success of the project at the secondary level has paved the way for its implementation in intermediate schools. Three new intermediate schools will join the programme next year, bringing the total number of schools to 21.
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The most advanced Carrier Chillers with Green Refrigerant Cooling many buildings in the Kingdom of Bahrain AIR COOLED LIQUID CHILLERS — Made in France 30XA Wide operating envelope from -22°C up to 55°C and robust core technology suitable for various applications and installation in different climates NOVATION MICROCHANNEL
fixed -speed
Latest generation of Carrier Microchannel Heat Exchangers (MCHE) with new aluminium alloy Up to 50% refrigerant charge reduction vs. traditional Cu/Al coils* Better thermals performance, better efficiency and lower air pressure drop vs. Cu/AI coils Enviro-Shield and Super Enviro-Shield coatings, as options, for mild and severe corrosive enviroments
FIXED-SPEED FLYING BRID FAN
US Navy Recognised
SHELL AND TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER High efficiency flooded technology
In a rare ceremony at the French Ambassador’s residence on June 26, Vice Admiral Kevin M Donegan was awarded the French military Médaille de la Défense Nationale for his outstanding contribution to French naval operations in the Indian Ocean. Vice Admiral Donegan commands US Naval Forces Central, headquartered in Juffair, and the award was presented by Admiral Antoine Beaussant of the French naval forces quartered in Abu Dhabi. www.bahrainthismonth.com
SCREW COMPRESSOR Carrier 06T screw model High efficiency motor Variable slide valve for capacity control
TM
TOUCH PILOT CONTROL 5” User-friendly touch screen All main parameters displayed on one screen Direct access to the unit’s technical drawings and main service documents Easy remote monitoring via Internet Easy and secure access to unit parameters
Tel. 17271122, 17253177 email: showroom@yateemac.net July 2016 15
france in bahrain
Y.K. ALMOAYYED & SONS
Ramadan Offers Extended Due to overwhelming popularity, this leading dealership has extended its Ramadan campaign, giving customers even better value for money.
16 July 2016
Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, dealer for Renault vehicles in the Kingdom, has extended the marque’s Ramadan offers until July 31 to give customers ample time to enjoy the numerous benefits. One of the French brand’s most popular offerings is the Captur, which starts at BD5,995. This urban crossover vehicle boasts a distinctive design, plenty of space and a number of safety features. It combines all the advantages of an MPV, an SUV and a family hatchback. This crossover’s engine also comes with a pleasant surprise. Although the engine is fairly small at 1.2-litres, it is turbo-charged and delivers an impressive 120bhp. It is paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Another standout feature is the Renault R-Link, an innovative integrated tablet that is connected to the car and the internet at the same time. The price of the Captur is just one of the appealing facets of Renault’s on-going promotion, which also offers customers a number of fantastic prizes and raffle draws to win free petrol worth BD500 and free services for five years/100,000km. Raed Muti, general manager, Renault Bahrain,
says: “Some of the pricing highlights of the campaign include, the Renault Duster at just BD4,995 and the Renault Symbol starting at just BD3,995. Meanwhile, customers who buy a car during the campaign are entered into a raffle draw to win back the cash value of their vehicle. “This is a fantastic opportunity for our customers to experience the joy of winning and share that feeling of happiness with their family and friends.” Renault has also launched its extra value-added package that allows customers to choose from assured cash back prizes or free insurance, registration, rustproofing and service. As an added bonus, customers who take a test drive before making their decision are eligible for weekly exclusive gifts such as smartphones and LED TVs. All they have to do is register their details and book a test drive on www.renaultramadan. com or contact the showroom. Meanwhile, customers who purchase a car during the campaign also have a three-month deferred payment option. Call 17 705-705 to book a test drive.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
! t i t é p p A n Bo
Besides its alluring capital city, France is home to quite a few gastronomic gems strewn generously across its marvellous lands.
When you think of France, Paris follows. The City of Lights is known the world over for its River Seine, its various architectural feats, its rich cultural heritage and, of course, fine cuisine. But France has numerous gastronomic gems hidden amongst its naturally breathtaking topography, of which we bring you the crème de la crème.
Alsace
Burgundy Home of exquisite grapes and local culinary delicacies such as the famed Beef Bourguignon and Coq Au Vin, Burgundy, in the heart of France, is touted to be the cradle of French gastronomy. This region is also famous for its distinctive cheeses, of which one of the finest is the Epoisses. Intimate river cruises on boutique barges are an unbeatable way to explore Burgundy, coupled of course, with multi-course meals en route. There are a number of fine eateries across the region of which the eponymous Relais Bernard Loiseau, a three Michelin-starred restaurant established by one of France’s great celebrity chefs, is a constant favourite. www.bahrainthismonth.com
When you dine in Alsace, you can expect a rare blend of traditional and inventive cuisine. The Alsace region may be one of the country’s smallest but it boasts mouth-watering specialities. This north-eastern French area, which shares a border with Germany, perpetuates the traditional gastronomy of France that is today renowned worldwide. Discover the Alsatian grape growing region along the famous Wine Route that runs from the Northern Vosges to Southern Alsace, covering 170 km and taking you through magnificent vineyards and picturesque villages. Don’t hesitate to go into the cellars; the wine-growers will be delighted to let you taste their prized beverages including: Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, the famous Gewurztraminer and other grape varieties.
Provence For hardcore foodies, who dream of holidays spent in culinary pursuits amidst stirring landscapes, a trip to this historical region that flirts with the southern coast of France is befitting. Michellin-starred veteran chef René Bérard runs some of the finest tables in all of Provence, in the picturesque, medieval hamlet of Cadiere d’Azur. Chef Bérard shares his culinary prowess in his residential cooking courses at his own 16th-century rustic farmhouse. Here, food enthusiasts are treated to a new menu each day and are privy to discourses on everything from Sisteron lamb to fresh seafood from the ports on the Mediterranean coast. Market visits, hands-on cooking, outings to vineyards and main Provençal destinations and, of course, a whole lot of no-holds-barred feasting is on the cards here.
Your International Business Partner TRICOM provides a portfolio of services across a wide range of market sectors. Our philosophy has been to build upon those areas of expertise that have made the company successful, forming strategic relationships with other specialists and professionals to create ‹bestin-class› teams/services for our clients.
Aviation & GSE
Power & Energy
Commerce & Trade Services
International brokerage
Business Consultancyy
Industrial Maintenance
P.O Box 590 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel +973 17 226697 Fax +973 17 226789 Email : info@tricomholdings.com www.tricomholdings.com
July 2016 17
france in bahrain SHARIF GROUP
Parisian Elegance at Its Best Giving a nod to Parisian sophistication, Rochas’ style is a class above all, with grace, youthfulness and joy woven into its longstanding history. Rochas’ impeccably chic style conjures up a vision of a slender, elegant and bold Parisian woman, exuding a free-spirited charm and chic fluidity. This femininity permeates into every Rochas creation from fashion to fragrance, accessories and jewellery. Be it the rustle of lace or a floral fragrance trail, the maison’s creative world is a perfect balance between seduction and liveliness, discretion and fantasy. The Story of Rochas Marcel Rochas founded his own couture maison in 1925, at the young age of 23. With the
post-war period bubbling with creativity, the couturier quickly made a name for himself among the great luxury maisons of Paris. Distinguished by the originality of his silhouettes, Rochas’ style became synonymous with elegance, modernity and youth. He invented beach pyjamas, the mermaid dress and the ‘guêpière’ (corset), earning himself a reputation as a trailblazer. Women loved Marcel Rochas’ designs for their freedom of movement and flattering sculptural shapes, and he became the darling of celebrities who helped promote his signature looks, including Marlene Dietrich, Tamara de Lempicka, Joan Crawford and Mae West. He was among the earliest couturiers to create his own fragrances and dedicated the most sensual of them, Femme, to his wife Hélène, with its legendary bottle decorated in
black Chantilly lace. After her husband’s death in 1955, Hélène Rochas led his fragrance empire on to greater success with the introduction of Madame Rochas, L’Eau de Rochas and cosmetics lines. The year 1990 marked a great couture comeback for the maison. The first collections were designed by Peter O’Brien, followed by Olivier Thyskens in 2002, Marco Zanini in 2008 and the maison’s fashion creative director Alessandro Dell’Acqua since 2013. Last year saw the 90th anniversary of Rochas, celebrating nine decades of design inspired by its founder’s creative style – the sculptor of contemporary women who are constantly reinventing the inspiration of elegance. Call 17 179-854 or visit www.sharifgroup.com/alamode.
Jewellery Rochas jewels are style accessories that draw their inspiration from the couturier’s delicate vision, combined with his love of roses and floral embroidery. Like a woven floral lace, Rochas creates fine open work bracelets of feminine gardens. Lightness and joie de vivre shine through in the designs, like a couture bouquet of elegance marking the skin with refined radiance.
Watches Drawing inspiration from the heritage of the maison’s style, Rochas watches fill time with the spirit of elegance. The collection of men’s watches, with an understated and imaginative style, is dictated by Marcel Rochas’ love of beauty and impeccable bearing. The couture collection of graceful women’s watches is imbued with a light touch of femininity and delicate freshness. Rochas jewellery and watch collections are available in Bahrain at A La Mode outlets.
18 July 2016
www.bahrainthismonth.com
CELIO
Leisure Style This well-known and popular French brand offers a range of casual wear for gentlemen who want to relax in style. Celio is a brand based on strong values associated with accessibility and generosity for fashion devoted exclusively to men. It claims to know men inside out, not only guiding them, but also stimulating and inspiring them in the pleasures of being well dressed. The brand is known for its readily identifiable graphics, strong customer culture and constant innovations. This summer’s collections feature surferstyle graphic prints on fun tees, acid-bright shirts and Bermuda-style shorts. Add in cool caps and sunnies and you have everything the well-dressed man needs for a day at the beach or a funky pool party.
Safari print T-shirt
t T-shirt
aiian prin
Blue Haw
Call City Centre Bahrain 17 179-684, Seef Mall 17 582-785.
Striped shorts optical white
Fouger print Bermuda shorts
Dilmesh ba
ck pack
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Denim back pack
Sierra neck scarf
Incas pumps
July 2016 19
bystander
Surangi & David
Mandy & Ciara
Budoor & jawaher
Aseel & Elham
Jazz Night Alliance Franรงaise held a Jazz Night from Paris concert at the Upstairs Downstairs restaurant, Adliya. Dominique, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, Chrystelle, Laurent de Wilde, Bruno Rousselet & Philippe Soirat
George
Francois, Gwenael, Frederique, Stephane & Geoffroy
Kate & Kayleigh
Violette, Leila & Murielle
Helen & Mary
Hervey & Annabelle
Cris & Leah
111SKIN Launch Dessange Paris launched the 111SKIN luxury skincare collection at a social event in Mezzaluna, Adliya. Dr Yannis Alexandrides & Badia
Alexandra
20 July 2016
Dr Mariam & Suzanne
Nan, Soknan, Elizabeth & Ketut
Ghada & Rula
Joie, Helen & Lelani
Dr Yannis Alexandrides & Dawn
Badia & Nadia
www.bahrainthismonth.com