We are happy to host "The 7th Challenged Japan Forum 2001 International Symposium in Mie" which is a joint forum among the government, industrial, academic and private sectors to expedite debates and reforms on IT based training and educational programs, promotion of employment and equal rights policies for the people with disabilities.

Here in Mie Prefecture we are taking this opportunity to activate our "Shima Cyberbase Project" to promote positive activities in supporting the people with disabilities for their independence.

We have been quite active to clear away barriers in our community as we rank the "Barrier Free Society" among the top policies of our prefecture.

It is our intention to further promote communications among the people in our community to prevent any possible barriers so that we may carry out a real barrier free society which is our common goal.

I understand that the next year's forum is scheduled to be held in Iwate Prefecture. With good prospects I am hoping that this forum will be held in many regions to spread our activities throughout the country.