Special Event: In Conversation with France’s Ambassador to Australia Pierre-André Imbert

The Australia France Business Association had the privilege of hosting His Excellency Pierre-Andre Imbert, France’s Ambassador to Australia, for an exclusive Q&A event in Paris.

This special gathering offered AFBA members unique insights into the Ambassador’s mission with The Embassy of France in Australia and France’s vision to further deepen its dynamic partnership with Australia.

Ambassador Imbert highlighted the importance of the Australia-France Roadmap, with one of its objectives to strengthen economic and commercial ties, and shared his belief in the vast potential for greater research and development cooperation and the business opportunities that this could foster.

Moderated by AFBA President Frank Ribuot, the warm and candid discussion also reflected AFBA’s ongoing commitment to building bridges between Australian and French businesses, helping foster meaningful dialogue, partnerships, and long-term collaboration.

The French Ambassador noted his personal commitment to engaging with Australians from all regions and sectors, and saying yes to as many invitations as possible. It’s through these local connections that he has come to truly understand the value of Australia’s diversity.

The evening also featured a timely economic update from NAB Europe Senior Market Strategist Gavin Friend, providing expert insights on global trade trends and tariffs.

AFBA extends its sincere thanks to Ambassador Imbert for his time during a busy official visit, and to Nicola Jolley, NAB Europe CEO and AFBA Secretary, for graciously hosting the event at NAB’s Paris office.

Cross-Chamber Networking Reception – 22 May

Frank Ribuot, President of the Australia France Business Association

Natacha Rafalski, President of the American Chamber of Commerce in France

Gacia Kazandjian, President of the France Canada Chamber of Commerce

Françoise Rausch OBE, President of the Franco-British Chamber

and

Richard Dujardin, President of NetworkIrlande

are delighted to invite you to the 2025 Cross-Chamber Networking Reception on Thursday 22 May from 6.30pm-8.30pm. 

Address: The Franco-British Chamber
22 rue de Londres
75009 Paris

Dress code: Lounge Suits

This event will be a wonderful opportunity to network with members from other Anglophone chambers of commerce in France.

Tickets are available for €30, appetizers and beverages provided.

Cancellations within 48 hours of the event are non-refundable. If you are unable to participate, you may nominate another representative from your company.

REGISTER HERE 

 

The Australian federal election and what it means for business

The Australia France Business Association (AFBA) partnered with CT Group to host an exclusive political briefing for its members in Paris last night.

The discussion provided AFBA members with a comprehensive view of the key issues shaping voter sentiment, the potential impact on businesses, and actionable steps to prepare for upcoming outcomes.

The presentation additionally touched on a more global view, looking at the driving political factors and sentiment in western Europe.

The session featured expert insights from James Baxendale OBE, Managing Director, Jean-Christophe Thiery President of CT Group France, Maria Hadzhieva, Research and Campaigns Manager
Mark Gorter, Head of Research (live from Sydney), with opening remarks from AFBA President Frank Ribuot.

Following the presentation, guests enjoyed a networking cocktail, where they had the opportunity to engage directly with CT Group experts and deepen the conversation.

A big thank you to CT Group for their invaluable contributions to this successful event.

 

AFBA Annual General Meeting – 10 February

AFBA Spring Drinks – 18 March 2025

CT Group Australian Election Briefing – 3 April

The Australia France Business Association and CT Group are delighted to invite AFBA members to a private political briefing followed by a networking cocktail.

Thursday 3 April
6.30pm arrival for 7.00pm start

PLEY HOTEL (Le Studio): 214 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris 

Presentation to be followed by drinks and appetisers from 8.00-9.00pm.

Thank you to our event sponsor CT Group.

Registration is required for this event. 

*Places are limited so RSVP is advised as soon as possible. This event is exclusive for AFBA members.

Register here: https://australia-france-business-association-2.s2.yapla.com/en/event-78621

AFBA Spring Drinks – 18 March

Join us for the Australia France Business Association’s annual Spring Drinks for an evening of networking amongst the AFBA community.

Meet our newest members and catch up with familiar faces over an apero at one of our favourite English pubs in Paris, The Bowler (13 Rue d’Artois, 75008 Paris).

This event is free for AFBA members (two drinks plus appetisers included). Non-members ticket = 20 euros.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Register here: https://australia-france-business-association-2.s2.yapla.com/en/event-76862

AFBA AGM – 10 February 2025

The Annual AFBA Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Monday 10 February in Paris.

More details to be shared soon including information on how to register.

 

 

AusCham – End of year apéros (Zurich & Geneva) – 3 & 10 December

Join the AusCham community in Zurich and Geneva for an informal evening of networking to celebrate the end of 2024 – invite your business colleagues for an opportunity to expand your contacts in a fun and relaxed environment!

AusCham are providing an exclusive area in the venue, a welcome drink as well as a light apéro for this event. All guests are then welcome to purchase their own drinks at the bar.

ZURICH

Date and Time: Tuesday, 3rd December 2024 from 6:30pm – 9:30pm

Venue: il baretto Bar at Boutique Hotel Josef
Josefstrasse 13
8005 Zürich

Cost: Complimentary for AusCham members;
CHF 30 for non members or join AusCham

REGISTER ZURICH

 

GENEVA

Date and Time: Tuesday, 10th December 2024 from 6:00pm – 9:30pm

Venue: Helia Bar
Pl. du Bourg-de-Four 14
1204 Geneva

Cost: Complimentary for AusCham members;
CHF 30 for non members or join AusCham

REGISTER GENEVA

Australia-UK Chamber – Young Professionals Reception – 4 December

Join us for our final young professionals event of 2024, marking 12 months since the Australia-UK Chamber of Commerce launched its Young Professionals Network.

The theme ‘Ngurra’ promises a night filled with inspiring moments and a celebration of Australian culture and community in the UK.

All guests will receive a customised Tapt digital business card valued at £49.95, which will include their name, company and title. Please register early to avoid missing out.

Tickets:

Members £40 + VAT

Non-Members £60 + VAT

RSVP HERE