Speeches: Shigefumi MATSUZAWA

29th IRU World Congress Yokohama 22-24 April 2004

Shigefumi MATSUZAWA Governor Of Kanagawa Prefecture

His Imperial Highness Prince Akishino, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Welcome to Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. I am Shigefumi Matsuzawa, the governor of Kanagawa Prefecture. It is a great pleasure to be part of this grand opening ceremony of the 29th IRU World Congress, with his Imperial Highness, Prince Akishino, in attendance. On behalf of the people of Kanagawa, let me extend my warmest welcome to IRU President Paul Laeremans and each and every one of you who came all the way to Kanagawa from different parts of the world. Since the establishment of the IRU in 1948, it has made significant contributions to developing and promoting road transport in general, including the world's freight and passenger transport, for more than half a century. The Japan Trucking Association, which has extended generous support in organizing this congress, has likewise made a huge contribution to the growth of the Japanese economy in the road transport sector, which underpins the nation's livelihood and economy. Let me take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of those involved in the JTA and the IRU for the efforts they have exerted to date.

Japan's road transport has supported the lives of the people as well as the economy up until now. In recent years, with the society and economy rapidly becoming information-technology-oriented and globalized, the role road transport plays is expected to increase all the more as a means of transportation that meets the needs for mobility or quick response. In addition, in order to flexibly meet diversifying needs for a barrier-free society, it has been playing an important role of transporting packages door to door, which is a familiar sight to us. Under such circumstances, all of you who are involved in the road transport industry, which not only has to meet social needs, but also has a significant impact on the society, should shoulder the responsibility of making use of limited resources effectively and addressing environmental concerns, such as reducing NOx or SPM (suspended particulate matter), as well as taking measures for deregulation or safety, and seeking to improve efficiency. For Japan's socioeconomic, the role played by road transport has grown more than ever.

Based upon its policy of selection and concentration, the prefectural government has been actively working on better constructing roads, bridges and streets and improving infrastructure that directly supports the industrial activities and the lives of the people of Kanagawa despite the tough financial situation.

On top of these, both the public and the private sectors have joined hands in introducing environmental measures, including those associated with diesel-powered vehicles, as well. In order for these measures to produce results, vital are the understanding and support of those who are present here today. I firmly believe that it is such an invaluable and significant opportunity for Japan to play host to this congress, which shall serve as a venue for all of you to get together and discuss the main issues concerning road transport based upon advanced, technical knowledge, expertise and experiences gained at the forefront of the industry. Let me ask that you make this congress a productive one through active discussions and exchanges of information. In addition, I'd like to ask that you make efforts toward the further growth of road transport in the future.

Yokohama prides itself on an almost 150-year-long history since the port of Yokohama was opened, while having always served as the gateway to and from the world and the window to send out advanced culture and information. I would be most pleased if you could find time to enjoy the features of this international port city, such as exotic streets and ever-developing urban spaces like the Minato Mirai district, to your heart's content.

If you decide to go out a little bit farther, our prefecture offers a number of sightseeing spots, including Kamakura, which is an ancient city in the Medieval Period, a castle town Odawara, or spa resorts, such as those in Hakone and Yugawara. Moreover, it would also be a good idea to enjoy rich nature in the Shonan seaside area or the Tanzawa Mountains.

At present, Kanagawa Prefecture is enjoying the most comfortable time of year, being full of warm spring sunshine. I'd like to encourage all of you to enjoy the attractions it has to offer by taking advantage of this occasion. Let me end by wising the IRU continued growth and all of you continued success. Thank you very much.

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