Twinning between Loano and Francheville
in the name of dialogue among nations

Peace Times 11

Speaking of peace and solidarity among different traditions of one European Nation, turned out to be more relevant than expected when the town of Loano (Italy) first twinned with Francheville-Lyon (France) last September and decided to use peace as its theme. The necessity to speak of peace was sadly confirmed in view of the present war torn situation in the Balkans when the official signing of the sermon took place in Loano during a grand and festive ceremony on April 24.

In his opening speech, Francesco Cenere, Mayor of Loano begged the question «is it really necessary in order to reach world peace to have increasingly powerful governments, a war in Europe is a true tragedy as we are working towards a united Europe and that we should still have military forces to neutralise and anihilate tyrany». René Lambert, Mayor of Francheville expressed his hope for a Peace Conference in the Balkans. Among those invited were personalities representing science, spirituality and peace to help one ponder and give higher value to the sacredness of life. «Ask not what the world can do for you, but rather what you can do for the world» said Dr G. Spinetti, quoting J.F. Kennedy, symbolising other “new frontiers” the world of psychiatry, science and spirituality in general are faced with today. Lama Gangchen, distinguished guest of Honour, received the Honorary Citizenship and Key to the City of Loano, and in his speech echoed Monsignor Andrea Cordero Lanza di Montezemolo, who emphasised the need for dialogue, «the best investment for this world» and a culture of peace. Rita Levi Montalcini, gave a message of hope from the war torn children’s letters, whom she says are «living proof that hatred can be removed from man», adding that «the only way to have peace is to give a totally new education to all with a sense of brotherhood». In Loano a candle of hope was thus lit, the first piece of a mosaic from two cities wishing to build Peace, as the hall reverberated the sound of the two countries National anthems; the ceremony concluded to the spiritual sounds of the LGWPF United Peace Voices choir.

Isthar D.-Adler