Xavier Darcos (EN)

Born in Limoges, France, Mr. Darcos has a university teaching diploma and is holder of a doctorate in Latin studies from the University of Bordeaux and a state doctorate in letters and humanities.

Mr. Darcos became a teacher in 1968. He began teaching at Périgueux and then he became a teacher of khâgne at Montaigne high school in Bordeaux from 1982 to 1987 and at Louis-le-Grand high school in Paris from 1987 to 1992.

In 1989, Mr. Darcos was named deputy mayor of Périgueux. He was named Inspector-General in 1992; from 1993 he served as director of the cabinet of the Minister of national education; as counselor for education and culture of the Prime Minister from 1995 to 1997; and as Dean of the General Inspectorate of national education from 1995 to 1998. From 1996 to 1999, he was also professor of comparative literature at the University of Paris-IV.

Mr. Darcos was elected mayor of Périgueux in 1997 and re-elected in 2001 and 2005. He was also elected Senator of the Dordogne in 1998.

From 2002 to 2004, he held the post of Vice Minister for Teaching, and from 2004 to 2005, Vice Minister for Francophone Cooperation and Development.

He has been a member of the Regional Council of Aquitaine since 2004.

He is a Chevalier of the Legion of Honour; Officer of the National Order of Merit; and Commander of academic palms. He has received the Gold medal of the City of Paris and the Gold Marianne of the Mayors of France.

Ambassador Darcos took up his post on 3 October 2005.