Dear Colleagues:

On behalf of the organizing committee, it is my honor to welcome you to the XIIth International Vascular Biology Meeting, the first world congress of the IVBM to be held in Japan. Here, we will seek to assemble and consolidate the many fields of vascular biology and medicine that have developed over the last half of the 20th century, and to help pave the way for even greater progress in the new century. The XIIth IVBM will be held in joint with the 10th JVBM (Japanese vascular biology meeting).

Researchers from the fields of basic sciences, clinical medicine and pharmacology will gather to present their achievements in a program consisting of 6 symposia and 18 workshops in addition to poster presentations.

In addition to providing a venue for the presentation of the most update information in vascular biology, we will feature young researchers to promote future research in this field. Travel awards will be granted to young speakers. Young Investigator Awards will be given to selected poster presentations.

As we begin the new century, vascular disease has become the primary focus of socio-medical attention worldwide due to modernization of the lifestyle. Keeping this in mind, we shall move toward an era in which international cooperation must be our collective goal as the key to success in resolving these health issues. The XIIth IVBM will play an important role in our endeavors as a key aspect of the meeting is to provide an opportunity for all participants to learn and discuss together, and renew old and establish new friendships with hopes of future international cooperation.

I look forward to meeting you in Karuizawa.

Sincerely yours,

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Yoshio Yazaki,M.D.,Ph.D.

　　 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 President,XIIth IVBM