I would like to sincerely thank everyone I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with so far. Meeting people from across the world who are so eager to collaborate and devote their energy to working together has been both inspiring and rewarding. I very much look forward to continuing this journey in the same positive spirit.

I am also looking forward to meeting many more of our members through the numerous events ahead of us, culminating in what promises to be a true family gathering at the World Road Congress in Vancouver next year.

Together with the General Secretariat and our governing bodies, we remain fully committed to supporting the PIARC community in its mission of sharing knowledge and best practice across every aspect of the road sector. The renewed leadership of the General Secretariat also offers an opportunity to reflect on how we work, identify areas for improvement, and strengthen what is already a highly effective organisation.

At the same time, we are paying close attention to maintaining the right balance between opportunities for exchange, technical production, and administrative responsibilities, while also encouraging innovation. In this regard, I would like to highlight the excellent work led by Lori Porreca in launching the PIARC Road Academy and its first course on Work Zone Safety and Management.

Last but not least, I would like to congratulate the outgoing team, Patrick Malléjacq and Robin Sébille, who have steered the ship so successfully.