Second BWI World Congress delegates have marched through the downtown streets of Lille for about one kilometer and a half in celebration of “Global Solidarity for a Sustainable Future”, to the enthusiastic rhythm of the carnival. Trade union flags from all over the world were flown under a cloudy sky. Gerardo Martinez, Building and Wood Workers’ International president for Latin America and the Caribbean, and Vice President at World level, headed one of the columns holding up an allusive signal.

 At Lille City Hall, the delegates were welcomed by Bernard Charles, Deputy Mayor of Lille on behalf of Martine Aubry, Mayor of Lille. In his welcome speech, Charles conveyed a message of friendship and support to the Building and Wood Trade Unions whose actions and struggles are similar to those of struggles in Lille.  “I am very proud of the working movement history of our city, the same place where our industrial plants are now disappearing one by one”.

During his speech, Charles also highlighted: “We happily receive the true interchange with the trade unions from our city, whose precedent will have an effect at national level”.  Before closing his speech he said: “The City of Lille is the city of genuine hospitality”.

Afterwards, BWI president said: "We feel that unionists are welcomed in Lille Municipality and wish our best for your city in full industrialized growth”.
Next, the Mayor of Lille offered welcome gifts for the BWI leadership.