Nice to host next G8 summit

After the president made the announcement on Saturday, Nice’s mayor Christian Estrosi expressed to local press his excitement: “The G8 is one of the most important events in the world. Over the period of the G8 next year, Nice will be the main focus of the international media, they will talk about us and spread a positive image of the city and the French Riviera.”

Nice has a proven track record in hosting many similar big events. In addition, their success at maintaining safety and security and their overall experience were some of the reasons for their successful nomination. No problems occurred during the Africa-France summit in May, but the G8 summits have a history of inciting violent, large anti-globalization protests.

Furthermore, Nice citizens will yet again have to deal with standstill traffic jams and route diversions, which will inevitably paralyse the city for days. Estrosi, however, thinks the infringement on everyday life will be worth it: ”To not take this chance would show a lack of ambition in regards to employment opportunities and economic development in our region,” he points out.

The annual G8 summit is attended by eight of the world's most powerful heads of government. Its aim is to bring a range of complex and sometimes inter-related issues to the table. The meeting brings leaders together not so they can dream up quick fixes but to talk and think about them together. It sets the international political agenda, outlines what needs to be done and how it can be achieved.

The dates for the summit and its exact location are yet to be announced.

LA