Dear business partners, colleagues, and friends,
the sudden arrival of Christmas proves once again that foresight is beyond human capabilities, at least when it comes to buying Christmas presents.
Only this year I have a better excuse: my wife and I, together with good friends, had the opportunity to visit Egypt earlier this month. It was a moving trip that brought back many childhood memories: Long before the Roman legions or Greek philosophers could capture my imagination, it was already populated by the pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and the Golden Pharaoh. "The dream of Egypt was eternity", Gautier says in one of his stories, and perhaps it’s this timelessness which has a special appeal for someone whose work is very much dedicated to creating transitions.
2023 has been a good year business-wise. It is a privilege to meet so many people who are doing everything they can to make their businesses thrive, and I am grateful to my clients for the opportunity to serve and support them.
Politically, my favorite moment has been the EU’s decision to open accession talks with Ukraine at a time when the Ukrainian people are facing their toughest test yet: to persevere in their fight for freedom against an implacable enemy. More than ever, we must stand with Ukraine.
But for now, let's slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the days ahead. All the best to you, your families, your friends and neighbours. And a happy, healthy and prosperous 2024!
Best regards,
Dietmar
LUCILIUS INTERIM
Dr Dietmar Scheja
Financial leadership
