Here is the official photo from the awards ceremony at the 2009 Ridep (Rencontre Internationale de Dessin du Presse) at Carquefou, France.   The Cartoonists pictured above are (left to right) Rico, South Africa; Paresh, India; Kal, USA; Xia Li Chuan, China; Nik Kowsar,Iran; Mofrey,France; Vladdo, Colombia; Cau Gomez, Brazil.

Sadly, Steve Bell, the great English cartoonist was unable to attend this year. Still other cartoonists from arund the globe were in attendance. The great French cartoonist Plantu of Le Monde made an appearance. Other noted cartoonists from Russia, Cuba, New Zealand, Israel and France also graced the event.