News

The ERAMET Group is closely involved in New Caledonia through its subsidiary Société Le Nickel-SLN. It has committed itself to the Lapérouse 2008 operation as the main sponsor for Yves Bourgeois' film that will follow in the tracks of the famous expedition.

On September 8, Mr. Patrick Buffet took part in the press conference organised at the Press Club de France to launch Operation Lapérouse 2008, which was attended by Admiral Jean-Louis Battet.

The 2008 exhibition is the latest in a long series. The French State’s commitment alongside the New Caledonian association Salomon is especially important, with the high patronage of the President and support and cooperation from the ministries of Defense, Higher Education & Research and  Culture & Communication.

With 24 months’ preparation, the 8th expedition on the tracks of Monsieur de Lapérouse on Vanikoro island brings together greater human, scientific and technological resources than ever (2 ships, 52 crew members and 70 participants including almost 30 scientists and researchers). 

Between 16 September and 15 October 2008, two French Navy boats will set off from Noumea (New Caledonia) for a final voyage to “the mysterious island…Vanikoro,” recreating the journey made by Count de Lapérouse.

A documentary by Yves Bourgeois will help us relive this amazing journey.

From September 20, VIDEOS OF THE DAY filmed over the course of the Lapérouse expedition 2008 will be available on the website!