It was a festival that we were proud of. It was something which raised up Malian culture. People from all over Africa would want to participate in that festival. It was a festival which put people in touch with each other, creating a certain atmosphere, which was good for that country. It also reflected an image of old Mali, the Mali where everyone greeted each other, were unified, slept well, woke up in peace.
--Vieux Farka Toure, May 7, 2012, speaking about the recent crisis in Mali.