The French Society of Neurology is proud and greatly honoured to invite you to participate in the 8th Congress of the European Federation of Neurological Societies which will be held in Paris, Palais des Congrès, September 4 -7, 2004.

The "Société de Neurologie de Paris" was established on June 8, 1899, and its first meeting was held on July 6, 1899. It moved to the "Société Française de Neurologie" in 1949, and celebrated its 100th birthday in Paris on June 16, 1999, to which the EFNS was associated through its president's address. The number of certified neurologists in our country is now around 1500, and the Local Arrangements Committee was careful to include not only members of our Society but also a private practitioner and a young doctor who represents the neurologists in training.

France is an ideal venue for this congress, not only because of its reputation of hospitality towards Eastern and Western neurologists in Europe, but also due to its position between Northern and Southern countries. It is the only country to have a border with Northern Europe and another one with the Mediterranean countries. Our country also has a long-term connection with North African nations, whose representatives attend our meetings on a regular basis. A special symposium will attempt to bring together neurologists from Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Lebanon, Syria and Egypt in an exciting Mediterranean cooperation.
The Congress Programme has been carefully selected to cover recent advances and research in basic and clinical neurology, through 9 main topics including lectures presented by internationally known speakers, 12 teaching courses, and nearly 20 attractive focused workshops. We do hope that platform and poster sessions will allow every participating country to provide the most up-to-date information on the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases.

From a cultural as well as an aesthetic point of view, Paris will offer you an unforgettable experience. Nowhere else in the world will you find finer monuments, museums, fashion, food and wine, than in what is called the "City of Lights". Even for those already familiar with the city or those too busy, it is worth taking the time for a nice walk on the Champs-Elysées, which has been rightfully called "the most beautiful avenue in the world" and which is only 10 minutes away from the Palais des Congrès.

We look forward to seeing you in Paris, and are confident that participants will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of our country and that EFNS 2004 will be a stimulating meeting both scientifically and culturally

Jean-Marc Léger
Secretary, Local Arrangements Committee