Eurovision’s global capabilities were highlighted by 12 live link-ups with EBU staff intervening from the various EBU offices throughout the world as well as from distant places such as Baghdad, Rio de Janeiro, Alma Ata or Los Angeles.

Participants were also able to learn about the possibilities offered by the gradual integration of satellite and cable networks and plans to expand the online services and the “One-Stop-Shopping” service which gives them the ability to book a complete production and transmission package, anywhere in the world.

The whole event unfolded without a hitch and with remarkable precision thanks to the thorough work which went into its preparation and to ITN presenter Nick Owen who managed to keep a tight but discreet hand on the proceedings whose live satellite link-ups required strict time-keeping. All this in spite of the many 'untimely' interventions of Swiss comedian and Eurovision hopeful Marie-Thérèse Porchet.

Participants – who also attend such events to swap experience, information and . . . their business cards – had the privilege of a night visit to the Louvre museum.