July 15, 1987
Dear Dr. Nirenberg:
I am writing to invite you to a conference of Nobel Laureates to be held in Paris, January 18-22, 1988.
The purpose of the conference is to address the principal moral and political problems that challenge humankind as we approach the next century and to explore creative solutions to them.  A formidable agenda, I know.
The conference grows out of the belief that each of us feels a profound responsibility to confront those issues that affect all humanity.  That children are starving, that wars continue to be fought, that oppressive regimes flourish, that the potential for nuclear destruction exists -- for us, none of these problems is an abstraction. We know that science and human genius can be used on behalf of humankind. That is why President Francois Mitterand and I jointly invite you to be our guest at a conference which would enable each of us -- regardless of our particular discipline or area of expertise -- to discuss, formulate and communicate our ideas about these critical issues.
We intend to open in plenary session on Monday, January 18, 1988, and through seminars, formal and informal discussions, to search for new ways to approach these important issues.  Our hope is that our deliberations will bear fruit and inspire a dialogue with those in positions of power. Your participation will add breath and depth to our discussion. President Mitterand and I both hope you will be able to attend.
I am enclosing a copy of the conference proposal and would welcome your suggestions and comments.  Details about travel and hotel arrangements will be sent at a later date. In the meantime, please return the enclosed response card indicating your acceptance in principle of our invitation. I know your time is precious and you have many commitments. And yet, I am hopeful that we shall meet in Paris next January. We have many important matters to discuss.
Yours sincerely,
Elie Wiesel