© Oleg Boshkov

Dear Sirs,

First of all, I would like to say how delighted and honoured I am, as the Deputy Mayor of the City of Charleroi, to be here with you today.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale now sets another major step in its already rich history, inaugurating its new head office in modernised and comfortable premises.

This is welcome news!

Among other goals, in its Statutes, the FCI aims at promoting and supporting cynology and the well-being of dogs worldwide.

An ambitious goal, if there ever were one, since the indissoluble link that has existed for millennia between man and dog worldwide cannot possibly be emphasised enough.

Be they chance companions, faithful guards, prized workfellows or invaluable supporters in everyday life, dogs are integral to our lives.

For that matter, with each passing day, science provides further evidence of what we all intuitively sense: man's health and happiness are closely linked to those of dogs.

The latter are particularly well suited for living with men, whom they understand so well.

To be sure, this quality turns them into wonderful companions, but it also makes them totally dependent on their owners as far as health and well-being issues are concerned.

Thus, any carelessness of an owner towards their animal does not fail to be at the expense of their relationship.

This is why we all must get involved on a daily basis to enhance the living conditions of dogs worldwide.

All around the world, dogs experience the same problems, among which an absence of vaccination against infectious diseases, an inadequate diet, insufficient physical activity, boredom, a lack of social ties, or behavioural problems.

Yet, under the European Union's Treaty of Lisbon, animals are now referred to as sentient beings, meaning the recognition that they capable of feeling pleasure and pain.

All of us thus have a moral duty to fight all forms of animal abuse.

In this respect, allow me this opportunity to publicly express our most heartfelt thanks to the "Prince Laurent's Foundation" for their support and commitment in favour of the well-being of animals.

For its part, the FCI is concerned about the well-being of all dogs worldwide. This is to be congratulated, too!

The Federation considers their health, character and behaviour as key factors for achieving this well-being. It supports all canine activities and sports that are found to be beneficial for dogs.

It is our duty to share these visions and values with the same spirit, in accordance with its principles of fairness and humanitarian purposes, which expressly prohibit discrimination.

These unique values and visions also pertain to some sense of happiness, since they build so many bridges towards more humanity and brotherhood among people.

This very day, March 20th, was proclaimed "International Day of Happiness" by the United Nations General Assembly – I am close to seeing in this a sign of destiny.

As a matter of fact, through its various actions, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale also recognises, not only that well-being and happiness are universal aspirations, but also that they should rank higher in the politicians’ priorities.

© Oleg Boshkov

In Thuin, as well as in Charleroi, officials tackle the task on a daily basis, in their daunting pursuit of the welfare they owe not only their citizens, but also the latter’s animals. This is why both our Cities have had their own Animal Welfare Councillor for a few years now.

Today, Thuin certainly is the World Capital of Dogs, but the City's every happiness should not lead us to forget that Charleroi, the Capital of Comic Strips, is also home to Bill and Rantanplan!

This pleasantly pictures the deep-rooted link that unites our two Cities, beyond the friendship that exists between their respective Mayors. This is something I wanted to highlight.

I want to thank all organisers once again for associating Charleroi to this stupendous event!

We wish the FCI all the best!

Thank you,