Figure internationale of whale defensePaul Watson had been detained in Greenland for five months, before Denmark rejected an extradition request from Japan.
He arrived Friday afternoon in France, where his family lives and where his arrest had sparked an outpouring of solidarity. This Saturday, December 21, at Place de la République in Paris, he said he was in a hurry to “spend Christmas with (his) children” and to see his grandchildren for the first time in six months.
“We are going to end whaling around the world, one way or another”he declared, in the rain, during a press briefing on the sidelines of an event organized to celebrate his release. And to continue: “We will continue our missions. We will oppose Iceland's whaling and, if Japan tries to return to the Antarctic whaling sanctuary, we will be there.”
“A hero”
In the rain, Valérie found herself in the front row, her eyes glued to Paul Watson. “In my opinion, he's a heroa gentleman who will help preserve the living”, she reacted to the microphone of RTL.
Like her, 4,000 people – including 3,000 French – wrote a letter to the activist during his detention. “I think we have nothing to do with his release,” responded Marie, who traveled two hours to get to Paris.
Paul Watson was touched by all the support in France. “I think it really counted in my release. There was also the support of President Macron, the government, the mayors,” he confided. And continued: “As soon as we have resolved the problem with Interpol, I will be able to return to a boat. I think it is very important that everyone takes their responsibility to protect ocean life and biodiversity.“
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