20 years have passed since the establishment of the International Centre for the Study of East Asian Development (ICSEAD) in 1989, and ICSEAD has steadily made progress as a professional research organization dealing with economic and social issues in East Asia. The important contributions of the two former Chairmen of Board of Trustees are gratefully acknowledged.

   At the time of ICSEAD's establishment, it was said that the 21st century will be "the Era of Asia". The words have proved to be true as Asia has achieved great economic growth and enhanced its presence remarkably in these 20 years.

   The global economy pays great attention to Asia especially in these days of financial crisis. At the same time, Japan’s industrialists, public administrators, and many others have come to emphasize the importance for Japan to develop a strategy based upon its relationships with Asia. Under such conditions, ICSEAD will continue to make its best efforts to analyze related issues from a multilateral viewpoint and to propose new strategies and fundamental principles which can facilitate the develop relationships between Kyushu and Asia into the future.

   I sincerely hope for your continuous support and cooperation with ICSEAD.