The launch of France 24 marks a new era of international news reporting in the country. Susmita Mukherjee reports
The setting for the launch of an independent French news channel in India was more like that of a luxury property. The pale blue lights highlighted the contrast of the old world charm of Olive Bar and Kitchen. A flight of brick steps led the guests to the venue, a smart sitting area with a casual stage at the head of venue.
Seated on the stage were Marc Saikali, director of France 24, Françoise Champey-Huston, deputy director English channel, François Picard, presenter of The Debate, Julien Pain, Editor-in-Chief of The Observers and Angelise Borges, Presenter of Tech 24. Starting the event, Marc Saikali emphasised on the need for an international perspective of events around the world. He also mentioned the diverse backgrounds of the journalists who have been recruited to provide an in-depth study of current Indian affairs. “We are currently the top news channel in Africa and among the top three in the Arab states,” he added.
Speaking about the bias that the Indian audience has towards existing international news channels in India, Françoise Champey-Huston said, “I think you’ll have to give us a try. It is a misconception that international news channels should be watched only for catastrophes and economic crisis. France 24 lays a great emphasis on arts as well. In France, cinema, dance, music and literature are given a lot of importance and we hope to do the same in India as well.”
France 24 will be available on channel 619 on Dish TV and channel 43 on DD Direct Plus.