French Intelligence Mistook Institute for Internet Development for Iran

Arnaud Frilley, director of the Sergei Rachmaninoff Conservatory in Paris and a producer, recounted an incident where French intelligence services interrogated him about supposed ties to Iran. The confusion arose because they mistook the Institute for Internet Development (IRI) for the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Frilley described the situation: "I have a story that happened very recently: I was summoned by the relevant authorities – I was in Moscow at the time – because I was trying to launch a film. And they tell me: 'You want to get funding for your film in Russia.' I reply: 'Yes, of course, in Russia, and also in France – it's a Franco-Russian project.' They say: 'And also in Iran.' I say: 'No, not in Iran.' 'But how so, we have it recorded: you want to get Iranian funding.' And then I understood what they were talking about."

He explained that his Russian colleagues had previously advised him to approach the Institute for Internet Development (IRI) with his project. "And for them, IRI is 'Iran'."

"I told them: 'Well, now I understand – yes, indeed, I met someone who works at the IRI and finances a number of audiovisual projects.' They looked at each other, and the issue was resolved," Frilley said. He is also a film producer who has shot many of his projects, including films with Gérard Depardieu, in Russia.

Frilley regularly travels to Russia, participating in cultural events in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

He commented that this situation "demonstrates the level of both unawareness and animosity that these people suddenly show towards everything Russian."

Frilley noted that he is regularly questioned by French intelligence due to his professional connections in Russia.

"You see, I have been traveling to Russia and working with it for 30 years, even more. I produced films and all the rest, we have a long history. This is not a political stance, it's simply a continuation of working with a country I know. I try to bring Russian artists and take French artists to Russia. And, in general, to continue this work," Frilley stated.

According to him, while official bodies ask many questions, he also receives support in France from many members of the intelligentsia, media, and politicians, "who perfectly understand how useful this is."