New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno announced Tuesday that she will be traveling to Paris, France, ahead of the New Orleans Saints game.
Moreno confirmed that she will represent New Orleans during the historic game.
She is scheduled to leave Wednesday, Oct. 21 and described the trip as a working visit, with many meetings scheduled.
“This is a historic opportunity for both Paris and New Orleans, two of the most extraordinary cities in the world,” said Mayor Moreno. “I’m incredibly proud to be there representing the people of New Orleans as our Saints take the field in Paris. The game puts an international spotlight on our city, and I want to make the most of that opportunity. I have a packed schedule of meetings focused on bringing new ideas, partnerships and economic opportunities back home. Whether it’s learning how Paris is tackling stormwater challenges, opening doors for new business investment or building on our incredible cultural assets, my focus is on what can benefit the people of New Orleans. I look forward to sharing what I learn, the connections I make and how those opportunities can translate into real results for our city.”
According to Moreno, she is paying for her trip personally and no city funds will be used due to the financial crisis.
Moreno said her entire leadership team will remain in New Orleans to ensure city operations resume as scheduled.
She said she will also provide a report with the outcomes of the meetings scheduled in Paris.
Councilman Jason Hughes issued the following statement regarding Moreno’s trip:
“Mayor Moreno is the chief ambassador for our amazing City. It is important for her to be present in Paris, as our City will be on the global stage. The Mayor will not simply be supporting our New Orleans Saints, she will also be forging strategic partnerships, marketing our city to business and industry, strengthening trade opportunities, and promoting our city as a global destination. While this is an official business trip, I commend our Mayor for not using taxpayer dollars during these challenging times.”
More on Moreno’s trip:
The Mayor’s agenda includes several key priorities:
- Infrastructure and flood resilience: Meet with Paris officials and learn firsthand about infrastructure projects and innovative approaches to stormwater management, drainage and maintaining aging infrastructure, with a focus on lessons that could be applied in New Orleans.
- Economic development and investment: Meet with business and industry leaders, including representatives from the technology and international maritime and shipping sectors, to explore potential investments, job creation and new economic opportunities for New Orleans.
- International partnerships: Meet with Paris city officials to strengthen ties between the two cities and explore opportunities for continued collaboration.
- United Nations engagement: Meet with leadership of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to discuss cultural connections, international partnerships and opportunities involving New Orleans.
- Cultural diplomacy: Participate in the New Orleans Jazz Museum Festival in Paris and other cultural events that celebrate New Orleans music, heritage and its global influence.
- Saints and New Orleans celebration: Join Saints fans who have traveled to Paris to cheer on their team, celebrate their shared love for New Orleans and proudly represent the city together on an international stage.
READ MORE:New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno will travel to Paris, France, to attend Saints game
