During the visit, AFD teams explored their future premises — a new shared workspace with the hub’s partner institutions, where activities such as scientific cooperation, applied research, and strategic dialogue on the challenges of financing sustainable development will take place.
One year after pledging to join the Clermont-based international development hub, AFD is now making that commitment a reality with the forthcoming opening of a local office. By joining the hub, firmly anchored in the Clermont area, AFD will provide its expertise to FERDI, CERDI, and the Global Development Network, in support of research into innovative and sustainable development financing.
The Clermont-Ferrand International Development Hub (Pôle clermontois de développement international – PCDI) is a platform for collaboration with the Global South in research, training, capacity building, policy dialogue, and global cooperation for sustainable development.
It brings together three institutions dedicated to international development: FERDI, CERDI, and GDN.
The visit also featured a conference-debate held at the University of Clermont Auvergne, with Rémy Rioux (Director General of AFD), Françoise Lombard (Director General of Proparco), and Jérémie Pellet (Executive Director of Expertise France). The three leaders engaged in discussions on major issues in international solidarity and sustainable development with students from the School of Economics – UCA and CERDI – UCA.
The speakers unanimously praised the students’ engagement, curiosity, and rigour, highlighting the richness and vitality of Clermont’s academic community.
