'Venice has always been a remarkable reference point for international photography in the past by means of very important museum exhibitions on the most outstanding exponents of this art. Some among the most significant and renown photo critics and historian taught in our Universities (I remember Italo Zannier and , with affection, Paolo Costantini). I am , therefore, very happy that this tradition remains alive thanks to the Venice International Photo Contest's commitment. Venice, on the whole, is greateful to them for the event they annually organize with devotion, passion and ability.'