I wish to thank you for your cooperation which has made possible the opening of this symposium as it is now.
In particular, I express a sincere welcome to those of you from overseas who have participated in this event in spite of a tight schedule.
I am most thankful and honored by the courteous congratulatory addresses from the esteemed guests.
I am confident that ISME which our society holds every 5 years, has now grown to be a technical event that attracts worldwide attention in the marine engineering field.
Starting with special lecture by Professor Roskilly of Newcastle University, as representative of IMarE in United Kingdom, which is affiliated with our society, we have this time on program three keynote speeches, four panel discussions and presentation of over one hundred and fifty technical papers. Taking advantage of this opportunity, we will hold the exilibitions in various companies and organization, and plan two courses of technical tours.
Firstly, in opening this event. I ask for your generous support so that this symposium will have a ground swell of enthusiasm, thanks to your positive participation.
I believe that the theme of this symposium "Expectation for the Emergence and Development of New Techologies in Marine Engineering" is most suitable for this time as the new century is drawing very near to us.
You will feel that new century will certainly bring forth the development of new field and the progress of new technologies in the marine engineering world. I hope that this feeling will grow into a strong belief through this symposium.
Lastly, I wish to express my sincere thanks to the Ministry of Transport and the related organizations which have supported this symposium, and particularly, to the Nippon Foundation which is always extending to us warm assistance including a financial support.
Thanks for your kind attention.
