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n the official photo of the ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ Agreement—signed at the Elysée Palace in Paris on 21 November 2006—he occupies the place of honour at French President Jacques Chirac's right.

José Manuel Barroso, whose second term as European Commission president ends in October, recollected that day during a recent visit to ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ on 11 July 2014. "Eight years ago, along with President Chirac, I worked hard for ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ to be located here. The European Commission is proud to have believed in this project."

Part of a tour of strategic projects in Europe aimed at fighting climate change and facilitating worldwide "energy transition," President Barroso's visit took place as concrete pouring was getting underway on the part of the Tokamak Complex basemat that will support the ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ machine—an important moment for ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ construction.

Accompanied by French Secretary of State for Higher Education and Research, Geneviève Fioraso, President Barroso strongly reaffirmed Europe's commitment to ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ, because, as he stressed, "the future of Europe is in science and innovation. As the gateway to industrial and commercial fusion, ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ presents a unique opportunity for our industry."

In a humorous aside to ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ Director-General Osamu Motojima, he concluded his visit by saying: "I'm responsible for coordinating the action of 28 countries—you, 35. I know it's not easy every day!"