A summer breeze envelops the gardens of the French Embassy in Berlin. On this 14th of July, the tricolour flag flies proudly alongside its German counterpart, symbolising a friendship forged by time and history. The air is buzzing with a joyful hubbub, a mixture of French and German accents, as nearly a thousand guests gather to celebrate the national holiday. But tonight, there is a special scent in the Berlin air: the smell of sea spray, apples and crème fraîche. Tonight, France has the face of Normandy. At the centre of this excitement, Hervé Morin, President of the Normandy Region, wears a proud smile. Standing alongside his host, the French Ambassador to Germany, His Excellency François Delattre, he is not simply a distinguished guest, but the architect of a presence that is highly significant. For the ties between Normandy and Germany go beyond mere diplomatic courtesy. It is a true story of heart and reason.