2002 Geneva Car Show

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The 72nd International Car Show was officially opened on Thursday 7 March by Mr Kaspar Villiger, President of Switzerland, Mrs Micheline Calmy-Rey, President of the Council of States, and Maitre Jean-Marie Revaz, President of the organising committee.

They performed the ceremony in front of some 400 dignitaries, among them the President of the National Council, a number of other members of the Council, representatives from all the cantonal and municipal authorities in Switzerland and from the diplomatic services – including both the old and the new Director General of the UN Offices in Geneva – plus all the big names in the car world and countless other VIPs.

In his speech, Mr Kaspar Villiger declared himself relieved that "the transport debate tends to be more relaxed these days, and less rooted in ideology". He observed wryly that "the number of bicycles per household is even higher than the number of cars" and "the motorists’ pleasure keeps the Minister of Finance happy too", going on to emphasise the restrictions placed on our freedom by our responsibility. "Road and rail are complementary. This simple fact is the basis of the transport policy pursued by the Federal Council".

Mr Villiger concluded by applauding the referendum decision by Geneva and the rest of Switzerland to join the United Nations.

Previously President Revaz had underlined the willingness of the car industry to reduce pollution, while reminding people that such efforts should be matched with a policy aimed at creating adequate infrastructures.

He gave credit to the exhibitors for returning year after year to share in the success of the Geneva Car Show.

For her part, Mme Calmy-Rey conveyed the good wishes and gratitude of the Genevan authorities to everyone involved in the Show.

The official tour allowed everyone to salute some of the great captains of world industry and to see for themselves that the 2002 Show ranks among the best.

A superb lunch rounded off the opening ceremony, while huge crowds already filled the Palexpo halls.

Friday 8 March: Show open until 22.00 hrs.