Michel Aubry Consul General of France in St. Petersburg. Date of Birth: 11.09.1952 Country: France

1. Biography of Michel Aubry
2. Differences in Child Rearing Traditions in France and Russia
3. Principles of Child Rearing
4. Family Rules
5. Demographic Issues and Government Support
6. Family Life and Russian Holidays
7. Favorite Places in St. Petersburg
8. Business Opportunities in St. Petersburg
9. Popular Russian Products in France

Biography of Michel Aubry

Michel Aubry is the Consul General of France in St. Petersburg. He is known for his frequent participation and support of events dedicated to children with disabilities, as he is personally familiar with the issue of childhood disability. Eight years ago, before becoming a consul, Aubry and his wife adopted a Russian child with Down syndrome, despite already having four healthy children of their own.

Differences in Child Rearing Traditions in France and Russia

When asked about the differences in child rearing traditions between France and Russia, Aubry acknowledges that he cannot provide a firsthand account of living in a Russian family. However, he notes that one significant difference is that most Russian families have only one child, which leaves a distinct impact. He also observes that parents in Russia tend to be extremely cautious and overprotective with young children, while in France, young children may be more independent. Additionally, Aubry comments on the phenomenon in Russia where the concept of family often excludes the father, which he finds astonishing.

Principles of Child Rearing

When asked about his personal principles of child rearing, Aubry emphasizes the importance of helping children become independent and providing them with the right guidance. He believes that freedom does not mean the absence of rules, as a family must have its own set of rules, but they should not be overly strict, as it can hinder a child's development.

Family Rules

Aubry shares that one of the family rules they have established is obedience. He believes that the family is a small society, and when it comes to meals, all the children who are present at home must gather at the table instead of having each individual eat whenever they want. This rule promotes unity and togetherness in the family. He also stresses the importance of teaching children honesty and discouraging lying.

Demographic Issues and Government Support

When asked about the demographic problems in Russia and the support provided by the French government in this regard, Aubry explains that France has implemented a long-term policy to encourage population growth. This includes providing well-established preschool institutions to allow women to continue working while their children receive care, as well as housing assistance for young and large families. As a result, France has one of the highest birth rates in the European Union. Aubry and his wife have five children, which is not uncommon in France, and they are fortunate not to face financial difficulties that often deter couples from having more children.

Family Life and Russian Holidays

Aubry's wife is a homemaker, as it was challenging for her to find work while living abroad most of the time. Although their four older children are now in France and only visit during holidays, they still have a younger child with Down syndrome who requires significant attention. They recently celebrated Maslenitsa, a popular Russian holiday. When it comes to holidays, Aubry mentions that they celebrate Orthodox Easter and Christmas as a family. However, they generally mark French holidays, such as Bastille Day on July 14th, more prominently.

Favorite Places in St. Petersburg

Aubry considers himself fortunate to have his consulate located on the Moika Embankment, which he finds one of the most beautiful areas in the city. He particularly admires the rows of exquisite houses along the Neva, Fontanka, and Moika rivers, along with their accompanying palaces and mansions. Moreover, he can easily walk from the consulate to the Capella, Philharmonia, and the Hermitage, which he finds remarkable. However, he admits that he is not familiar with the more contemporary or underground cultural venues in the city and hopes to explore them in the future.

Business Opportunities in St. Petersburg

Aubry acknowledges that there are not many French investments in St. Petersburg currently. However, he highlights the hotel industry as an interesting sector for French entrepreneurs. He mentions that a French company has already opened two hotels in the city and plans to open more. This is crucial for attracting more tourists, especially with the need for affordable accommodations. Another area of interest is the transportation sector, with significant projects underway, including tunnels and above-ground metro systems, where French construction companies are participating in tender competitions.

Popular Russian Products in France

Aubry humorously mentions that caviar, matryoshka dolls, and hats are commonly associated with Russia by the French, especially those who have limited knowledge of the country. However, he admits to being unaware of the wide range of Russian products sold in French stores. Despite that, he jests that Russian vodka is a popular Russian product easily found in any major French supermarket.