The atmosphere was warm, friendly, and familiar. We kissed, caught up with each other, “happy new year, best wishes” were exchanged. A first, “an exceptional ceremony,” according to Eric Ciotti. Monday evening, Christian Estrosi, Francis Lamy, and he offered their wishes for the year 2009. A gathering of journalists and all the high society of Nice met at the Palace of the Sardinian Kings, in Old Nice. More than 1,500 guests were welcomed one by one by the three hosts. By betting on unity to start this new year, everyone announced the major projects that awaited them, the first of which, to be resolved together: the financial crisis. “A challenge,” for Eric Ciotti. “Gathering our strengths, mobilizing our energies and our resources is a priority goal,” he declares. Christian Estrosi emphasized the importance and “the requirement to support the President of the Republic’s recovery plan” (26 billion euros).
In a context that requires certain economical behavior, Francis Lamy speaks of a positive initial economic assessment, post the holiday season, and assures that optimism is necessary for growth to resume. For this to happen, fraternity will be essential. A harmony to be found for a “united Europe, assurance of a better future,” according to the prefect, “at a time when chaos reigns in the Gaza Strip” with the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has intensified since December 27.
“You don’t win without taking risks”
But 2009 is not only the year of crisis and conflict. It is also that of renewal. By reaffirming his commitment, the deputy mayor of Nice wants to give the city a global dimension. In his speech, he calls for courage. Courage and determination that led to the creation of the Urban Community of Nice Côte d’Azur (formerly CANCA). “It is the largest in France. It was a risky bet a few months ago but a winning bet today,” Christian Estrosi assures. “You don’t win without taking risks,” he repeats, referring to the capital of the French Riviera’s bid to host the 2018 Winter Olympics. Hoping to meet the expectations of the people of Nice, he also confesses his affection for his city and the Alpes-Maritimes, hoping they become “a land to make the world dream.” A sentiment shared by the Prefect who highlights all the qualities of the department.
Sacred Union
The three pillars of A-M expressed their support for the poorest, without forgetting the others, or those present on this January return day: economic, state, political, judicial actors, … as well as Nice associations. The sacred union was appropriate for these three men who hope to see better days. That evening, as the famous musketeers would say: “one for all, all for one.” Will solidarity and unity allow all projects to be realized?
