We have representatives here from all of those regions today. The world is changing and the face of development is changing. And, working in a policy-related government position, I know I speak for many others when I emphasize that we look to universities and the broader education sector for assistance as we deal with rapid change and confront a very different development environment. Whether it is a matter of education, training, research or information, institutions of higher learning have an essential role to play. I do not exaggerate when I say that education will be one of the main factors in determining which countries participate successfully in the global economy.
Higher education is essential in order to train leaders of the future.
Most of this training will necessarily take place in one's home country. But information technologies can provide the means to keep all of us linked and up to date on new technologies, new approaches, and new ways to resolve common issues and concerns. In closing, I would like to congratulate you in advance on what I am certain will be a successful conference. I am already familiar with some of the important linkages that have been established in the Asia and Near East region as a result of this initiative. I am sure that you will be hearing about these and many other examples over the next two days.