Bernard Arnault’s sudden outburst left the CNN reporter visibly embarrassed.
His intention was to sway public opinion in favour of Blackwater, suggesting a possibility of being framed, though few might believe it. Raising doubts would still help divert attention from the company.
But he hadn’t expected Bernard Arnault to publicly contradict him in front of so many media outlets, with a hint of humiliation.
Forcing a smile, he said, “Mr. Arnault, I’m not Sherlock Holmes. I was merely proposing a hypothesis and seeking your opinion. If you disagree, that’s fine, but I hope there’s no misunderstanding.”
Arnault sneered, “Misunderstanding? Do you think I don’t know what you American reporters are scheming? You know the White Horse Island incident has a terrible impact, so you’re trying every trick to whitewash Blackwater, aren’t you?”
The reporter, flustered, said, “You’ve misunderstood me, sir. I’m not trying to defend Blackwater, just sharing my personal view.”
Arnault scoffed with contempt, “How amusing. You, a reporter, come here pretending to interview me, but really to push your agenda and sneak your bias to the world. Don’t you think that violates a journalist’s ethics?”
The surrounding media cameras zoomed in on the CNN reporter, making him nervous and ashamed.
He could only apologise, “I’m sorry, Mr. Arnault. Perhaps I misspoke. I withdraw my question.”
Arnault nodded, his tone righteous, “This matter will soon come to light, giving everyone a satisfactory explanation. I also solemnly warn certain individuals and groups: if anyone tries to tamper with the truth, I will do everything in my power to uncover it and expose them fully.”
Many reporters hadn’t expected this luxury tycoon to be so principled, and they broke into spontaneous applause.
His international image had always been poor; consumers loved his products but disliked him. Yet today, his shining humanity earned respect, especially after saving hundreds of tourists worldwide, including the famous Tawana Sweet, deepening their admiration.
Not only did the on-site reporters see him differently, but viewers at home also held him in high esteem.
Arnault then turned to the other reporters, “Any more questions?”
Hands shot up, but oddly, several American media reporters lowered theirs.
They had been instructed, like the CNN reporter, to steer questions toward excusing Blackwater or misdirecting public focus. Seeing Arnault’s unyielding stance, they dared not risk further embarrassment and stayed silent.
Arnault didn’t let these suddenly quiet American reporters off, chuckling self-deprecatingly, “Seems this French old man speaks too bluntly for our American journalist friends. I take a firm stance on Blackwater, and you lot can’t even be bothered to ask questions.”
Laughter erupted, leaving the American reporters red-faced and mortified.
Arnault then turned to an AFP reporter, smiling, “Let’s hear from AFP next.”
The AFP reporter smiled and asked, “Mr. Arnault, I heard you’re heading to the UN headquarters in America tomorrow and donating to the UN Counter-Terrorism Office. Is that true?”
“It is,” Arnault nodded, saying, “The White Horse Island incident left me both relieved and furious.”
“Relieved, because I had the chance and ability to resolve the crisis there.”
“Furious, because such crises could happen anywhere, anytime, and others may not have my luck.”
“So, I want to do my small part to help, setting an example for others with means to focus on counter-terrorism and contribute.”
Arnault’s passionate speech moved everyone, both on-site and watching screens.
