Gérard Creuzet, President of the IPVF, honored by the Chinese government

Gérard Creuzet, a prominent French physicist and industrialist, President of the Institut Photovoltaïque d'Ile-de-France (IPVF), has just received a prestigious distinction from the Chinese government. This recognition highlights his exceptional commitment to Sino-French cooperation and his significant contributions in the field of higher education and research.

A ceremony of international scope

On September 30, 2024, at a solemn ceremony held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Gérard Creuzet was awarded the "Chinese Government Friendship Award" alongside 73 laureates from 26 nations. This award, the highest distinction granted by China to foreign experts, reflects the importance of Mr. Creuzet's contributions to the country's development and modernization.

Born in 1953, Gérard Creuzet has accumulated prestigious responsibilities and distinctions:

– Academician of the French Academy of Technologies

– Director of the Ile-de-France Photovoltaic Institute (IPVF)

– Co-chairman of the Sino-European Cooperation Committee at Beihang University

His involvement in Sino-French cooperation spans over a decade, particularly within the Sino-French Engineering School of Beihang University. Mr. Creuzet has played a crucial role in the establishment of several joint institutions, including:

– The Creuzet Laboratory in Beihang

– The Sino-French Laboratory of the City of the Future

– The Sino-French Joint Carbon Neutrality Laboratory

A lasting impact on Franco-Chinese relations

Mr. Creuzet's efforts have significantly strengthened ties between France and China in the areas of higher education and research. His work has notably contributed to the development of:

– The Sino-French Engineering School

– The Sino-French Aviation Institute

– Hangzhou International Campus

Recognition at the highest level

The awarding of this distinction to Mr. Creuzet comes in a context of growing recognition of French expertise in China. He is the fifth foreign expert from Beihang University, and the third Frenchman in 15 years, to receive this honor.

The ceremony was widely covered by Chinese media, highlighting the importance the Chinese government attaches to international cooperation in scientific and technological fields.

The distinction of Gérard Creuzet by the Chinese government is an eloquent testimony to the excellence of French research and its international influence. It also strengthens the already strong ties between France and China in the fields of higher education and scientific research, paving the way for future fruitful collaborations between the two countries.