What role did France play in the development of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)?

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) was established in 1950 as an intergovernmental organization with a mandate to facilitate international cooperation in meteorology, climatology, and related geophysical sciences. France played a significant role in the creation of the WMO and has been an active member ever since.

France was one of the 30 countries that attended the International Meteorological Organization (IMO) conference in Washington, D.C. in 1947, which was a precursor to the WMO. French scientist Marcel Nicolet was instrumental in drafting the WMO's constitution and served as the organization's first Secretary-General from 1951 to 1955.

France has also made important contributions to the WMO's programs and activities over the years. For example, the French Meteorological Service is one of the largest and most advanced in the world, and has shared its expertise with other WMO member countries through training programs and technical assistance. In addition, France has hosted several important WMO meetings and conferences over the years, including the 12th World Meteorological Congress in 1995.