D'Arcimoles, who also serves as the Commissioner for International Fairs for France's Aerospace Industries Association, told Sputnik that while Russia and France currently face problems in their diplomatic relations, "the peculiarity of our work is that the industrial cycle is long, while the political cycle is short."
Citing the "rich history of relations" between the Russian and French aerospace industries, D'Arcimoles noted that he is "absolutely confident that the stupidity of our politicians will quickly be forgotten, and that our cooperation will continue."
Commenting the French government's recent decision to cancel the Mistral deal with Russia following a long, drawn out drama over the helicopter carriers, D'Arcimoles noted this situation was abnormal and unacceptable, "but today, the French aviation industry takes into account the potential short-term risk. As far as long-term risk goes, our presence [at MAKS], in spite of all the difficulties, demonstrates that soon all of this will become a memory, and we will continue our cooperation."
Flexible Prospects for Cooperation and Hopes for a Bright Future Ahead
Ultimately, D'Arcimoles articulated that "the Russians and the French are very close to one another as peoples, through our history and culture. We are quick to understand one another. As a people we are direct –and some find this shocking; both our peoples are emotional. But our foundation is strong, and on the basis of all our relationships is the desire to work together."
D'Arcimoles also said that France sees no problem in continuing to cooperate in the field of aerospace engineering and product manufacturing in Russia.
"Perhaps, the Russian industry will be more demanding. Russia will possibly ask us to work on its soil. We will work on Russian territory. No problem! There are enough small, high-tech companies that are willing to host production, should difficulties arise," he stated.