The French Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (CFMS) will host the 18th International Conference for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering in Paris, France, September 2-5, 2013. The proposed theme of the Conference is “Challenges and Innovations in Geotechnics”. France has a long history in the art of building, in civil engineering and in architecture: many dikes and canals, dams, harbours and airports, roads and motorways, railways, underground works, fortifications, retaining structures, special foundations and earth structures have been built since the 18th century. These constructions, that often appeared to be spectacular, could be achieved thanks to engineering progress and innovation. French engineers and researchers have made fundamental contributions in the field of soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering. Recent large construction works performed by French companies demonstrate the continuing creativity of geotechnical engineers and researchers in optimising materials and construction processes and in developing innovative techniques: the Millau viaduct, high speed railway (TGV) lines, new underground lines in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, new harbour in Le Havre, etc. All major French companies are also very active worldwide. Since the 1970s, the awareness of the need to preserve natural resources, to fight against climate change, to reduce CO2 emissions, to integrate social concerns and ecological safety in economic development models has become widespread. Theses challenges, as well as the constant need of new constructions and infrastructures, should guide the strategies and innovations. What should be the contribution of geotechnical engineers in order to encourage economic and social progress without jeopardising the equilibrium of the planet? This fundamental question could be the centre of our discussions. The Conference will be held in the Paris International Conference Centre located at Porte Maillot, very near the Arc de Triomphe, the Avenue des Champs Elysées and the historical centre of Paris. CFMS will do its best to organize this conference and to offer to the delegates and accompanying persons an exciting and pleasant stay in Paris. The Conference will be held under the auspices and support of the French Ministry for Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transports and Housing and the Ministry for Higher Education and Research.