HORROR IN NICE
“Les hommes de tous les pays sont frères, celui qui opprime une seule nation se déclare l’ennemi de toutes.”*
The travel industry reacted with shock and horror following a terrorist attack in Nice, France last night (July 14).
A terrorist driving a large truck plowed through the crowds of people as they celebrated France’s national holiday, Bastille Day, killing at least 84 people (including children) and injuring more than 100.
French president, Francois Hollande address the nation following the attacks, telling the country that France would “always be stronger than the fanatics that want to attack it.”
The French president also indicated that the state of emergency that was to have ended on July 23, will be extended until at least Oct. 23.
Following the attacks, the world’s travel industry responded with World Travel & Tourism Council president and CEO, David Scowsill commenting: “It is with great sadness that the world hears of another attack in France. We express our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of the victims of this callous attack.”
Scowsill observed that, “France is the natural home of international tourism — the most visited destination in the world. With this attack on its day of national celebration of the principles of liberty, equality, and brotherhood — the same principles championed by Travel & Tourism – our sector stands in unity with the people of Nice and France.”
*“Men of all countries are brothers, one who oppresses one nation declares himself the enemy of all.” (Robespierre)
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) said that it was “deeply shocked by the hideous attack” perpetrated in Nice.
The UNWTO’s secretary-general, Taleb Rifai said, “On behalf of the international tourism community, UNWTO conveys its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and expresses its full solidarity with the people and the Government of France.”
Rifai continued, “Nice is, and will continue to be, one of the leading tourism destinations in France and in the world. In the face of these forces of darkness, we must more than ever remain united to fight this “global threat.”
