The Atlanta-based Consul General of France Pascal Le Deunff came to Auburn to give a speech titled, "France: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow."
Le Deunff discussed four missions he has while holding his title.
First, he hopes to take care of the French people living in his region, which includes Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Le Deunff said he estimates there are at least 12,000 French people in that area.
"I hope to strengthen economic ties between French and American companies," Le Deunff said.
He said he wants to attract French companies to invest in business in the area and help create more jobs for local residents.
Le Deunff also said he wants to build up University ties between students, teachers and researchers, locally and internationally.
Lastly, he simply wants to offer more French culture to the people of the South.
Le Deunff said the hardest part of attracting French people to the area is the economy.
"This part of the country is not as well known, so the money goes where the tourists are," Le Deunff said.
Le Deunff also spoke about the global challenges the United States, France and other allies are facing today.
He emphasized the importance of the countries working together on problems like terrorism, nuclear issues, regional conflicts, climate change and international economic issues.
"I really liked how he showed that we do have united fronts," said Katie Zoladz, freshman in mechanical engineering. "It was a breath of fresh air to hear about something other than similarities in French and American entertainment."
Although she attended the lecture for her Honors Freshman Exploration class, Zoladz was curious to hear what Le Deunff had to say.
"It was a lot more interesting than I anticipated," Zoladz said.
Le Deunff was invited to speak at Auburn by Samia Spencer, who teaches French language and culture classes. Spencer was appointed by the government of France to serve as an honorary consul of France in Alabama.
"I am delighted he was able to come because we have not had a consul general here in five years," Spencer said. "It is important to let students know what is going on between countries."
Le Deunff doesn't interact only with college students. Before speaking at the University, the consul general gave a similar speech to students at Auburn High School.
"High school students are usually more direct in their questions than the college students," said Le Deunff.
He said earlier at the high school, a student asked him why the French were so arrogant. He didn't take offense, though, saying part of why he loves meeting people is hearing their opinion on French culture.
"What I find interesting is to meet people and find out what their image of France and the French people is," he said. "I also like to get out of the office as much as I can."
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