Letter from the Queen's Commissionner

Dear Ms Dogniez,

The Province of Limburg has learned that the MPI Professional Education Conference may possibly be held in Maastricht in 2009.

The year 2009 is not as far away as one might think, and a decision on its venues has to be made in the very near future. Undoubtedly, there will be other cities in Europe vying to hold such a prestigious event and to greet the distinguished delegates. Nonetheless, in order to host a conference of this size and importance efficiently and with style, a city must have convention facilities of the highest possible standard and the services must be based on long and sound experience.

I do not think I am exaggerating if I say that Maastricht and the region complies with these conditions in every respect. The city is located in the vicinity of several airports. The city’s largest convention centre - The MECC - has the staff and the facilities to meet all demands of successful international conferences, as it has shown in the past when meetings of the European Council, African Heads of State and NATO were organized. Hotel accommodation in all price categories is excellent and all situated in the city itself.

During the last decades, Maastricht has built up an excellent tradition in which all parties involved (hotels, convention centre, tourist board and authorities) cooperate exemplary. The geographical position and its rich history – many different European cultures left their remains here – situate Maastricht in the heart of a region where three countries, languages and cultures litterally grade.

It is not surprising that in this city, where Europe for citizens and institutions has become a day-to-day reality, a large number of European institutions for education and research have settled. Due to the multilingualism of the inhabitants many international companies have established here their international operating call centres.

I really think Maastricht offers an ideal location for the 2009 MPI Professional Education Conference and it goes without saying that you may count on the full support of our officials if you need any further assistance or information.

Yours faithfully,

L.J.P.M. Frissen
The Queen’s Commissionner for the Province of Limburg, the Netherlands