France/Espalion. The commune joins forces with the army

Mayor Éric Picard received representatives of the French Ministry of the Armed Forces to formalize the signing of a manifesto in support of the armed forces. This partnership agreement, the first of its kind for a commune in Aveyron, marks the town's strong commitment to the French army.

A first in Aveyron

"I'm delighted with this partnership agreement between Espalion town council and the Ministry of the Armed Forces; it's a first in Aveyron...", declared Éric Picard as he welcomed Lieutenant-Colonel Olivier Destefanis, deputy departmental military delegate for Aveyron, and Lieutenant-Colonel Gilles Mallet, head of the Armées-Nation unit.

The mayor underlined the town's attachment to the French army and the values it represents. He also spoke of the importance of this support in the current context of uncertainties linked to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

Éric Picard explained that this agreement would lead to concrete actions aimed at spreading the spirit of defense among the local population. For his part, Olivier Destefanis thanked the town hall for its recognition, insisting that territorial defense is not just a matter for the military. "There can be no effective defense without the involvement of all citizens and the indispensable support of the entire nation", he added.

A partnership to strengthen national cohesion

This partnership between Espalion town council and the French Ministry of Defence aims to strengthen national cohesion and raise awareness of the importance of defence.

Future actions will give concrete expression to this commitment (see box) and forge lasting links between the population and the armed forces.

Source: www.centrepresseaveyron.fr/