rieure des Mines. Before being appointed as Delegue Ministeriel 

 pour l'Armement, Mr. Jean Blancard has held very important posi- 

 tions either in Government agencies or Government controlled indus- 

 tries. He has for instance been Directeur des Carburants and, as 

 such, has for several years supervised the French Government con- 

 trolled oil companies. He has also been deputy of the Minister of 

 Defence for the Air Force. Recently he was president of the SNECMA, 

 the major French jet engines manufacturer. 



The great interest taken by Mr. Jean Blancard in the three 

 themes of our Symposium accounts for his accepting readily to 

 preside over the Opening Ceremony. 



Thank you for your attention. 



