First, I would like to congratulate you for holding the 9th International Congress on Mathematical Education cosponsored by the Science Council of Japan and the Japan Society of Mathematical Education. And I would like to extend my warm welcome to all of you from many parts of the world who have come to Japan to take part in this congress.
Education is the most important factor for the world's peace and prosperity in the future.
We stand at the entry point to the 21st century, as the progress in science and technology, such as IT revolution and advances in life science, shapes the very nature of society. Mathematics and science education not only serve to develop future scientists, but they also make important contributions to our daily life, economic activity, and for the nation's decision making. However, some concerns have been expressed about the tendency of Japanese children to move away from mathematics and science, and I know that this problem and possible response measures are being examined at the Science Council of Japan as well. This international congress provides a wonderful opportunity for the world's mathematicians and people engaged in mathematical education to have a direct exchange. It also provides an arena for presentation and exchange on the results of research on Japan's distinctive mathematical education, and instruction methods and practices.