The only thing I can think of is that they did have a Pokemon Centre in Paris, this year in June from 4th to 21st.
>In addition to the exhibition, the store will also provide an interactive space for fans along with a variety of events, such as a tutorial for attendees on how to draw the franchise mascot Pikachu. An exclusive selection of merchandise from the Japanese Pokémon Centers, including plush toys and t-shirts, will be sold at the store in parallel to these events. Visitors will be able to meet Pikachu itself, who will be greeting its fans and taking pictures with them during the weekends.
It was a museum as well as a shop, and I'm pretty sure Masuda went there for some time to meet with fans and sign autographs and take pictures.
Bulbanews article