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IV. PAPERS AND PRESENTATION MATERIALS

Session 1: Opening and Keynote Addresses

WELCOME ADDRESS

by Mr. Takashi Nakamoto
Ambassador Extraordinary Plenipotentiary to Osaka, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan

Distinguished Participants, Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of the Government of Japan, it is my privilege to welcome all of you to the “International Symposium on Efficient Water Use in Urban Areas – Innovative Ways of Finding Water for Cities” organised by UNEP-IETC. It is a real pleasure for me to participate in the opening ceremony of this symposium and address such a distinguished audience on this important occasion here in the city of Kobe, to which I particularly express my gratitude for its co-operation. I would like to thank all the participants for your interest and efforts in helping us make this symposium possible, especially those of you who have travelled great distances and taken valuable time from your very busy schedules to attend.

I understand that this is an unprecedented event in that it involves the participation of experts, managers and decision-makers from both national and local governments, aid agencies, water supply authorities, urban planning departments, research institutes and NGOs, all working together on the crucial issues of bringing water to urban dwellers and the sustainable use of freshwater.

Adequate supplies of clean, safe water remain one of humanity’s most fundamental needs. The United Nations General Assembly identified freshwater as a global priority at its nineteenth special session in June 1997. Furthermore, the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development, at its sixth session in April 1998, focused on building a consensus on the actions necessary to implement a strategic approach for the sustainable use of freshwater.

It is my sincere hope that your deliberations will lead to a clear perspective on the objectives of the symposium, and that the participants will gain greater insight regarding the importance of efficient water use. Recognising the global dimension of environmental issues, today I would like to request from all of you in attendance your opinions, advice and encouragement in helping us build a network based on the broad exchange of people and information, with the aim of creating and protecting a healthy and sustainable environment.

Let me conclude by wishing you every success in your deliberations and an enjoyable stay in Kobe.

Thank you.

Table of Contents

• Brochure
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• International Year of Forests
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• World Environment Day
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• UNEP Campaign
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