Speeches/Op-Ed 2008
First direct flight Paris-Cleveland
May 23, 2008
Mr. Kennedy, Mayor Jackson, Monsieur Brun, Mesdames, Messieurs,
Je suis très heureux d’être parmi vous aujourd’hui pour célébrer cet événement historique: le départ du premier vol direct Paris-Cleveland. Permettez-moi maintenant de continuer en anglais à l’attention de mes compatriotes.
This is one more link to celebrate in the long standing connection between France and the United States, and one that is particularly welcome in connecting Cleveland and the heartland of America with Paris.
Paris has always been a prime destination for American travelers, but with the current dollar/euro exchange rate, the United States has never been a better destination for the French.
The U.S. now ranks number one among long-haul destinations for French travelers. Almost one million French travelers visited the United States last year, an increase of 26.5% – this is the highest increase among the six largest European countries! And French visitors are independent travelers who stay for an average of two weeks, which represents significant dollars spent in the U.S.
Mayor Jackson – I am pleased that Cleveland now has the opportunity to attract its fair share of these visitors to enjoy its business opportunities, its scenic attractions – and perhaps most importantly for the French – it’s cultural offerings and rich ethnic mix. Events such as “The Great American Rib Cook-off and Music Festival,” and the “Cleveland Harborfest and Tall Ships” are two great examples of such offerings- not to mention the talented Cleveland Orchestra.
And Mr. Kennedy – our best wishes to you and Continental for the success of this latest direct flight to the U.S. Thank you.