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【JWF News Vol. 247】8 January 2025
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◇ Contents ◇
・Season’s Greetings
・Report from the Japan Water Forum
　- Japan Water Forum’s Statement of Determination
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・Season’s Greetings
By Dr. Kotaro Takemura, Secretary General of the Japan Water Forum
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　As we enter the New Year 2025, I would like to send my warmest greetings and best wishes to all of you. I hope that you are in good health.

　When I look back on the last year, the Japan Water Forum has been productive in its 20th anniversary year, thanks to the support of our members and partners.
　I was particularly impressed by the preparation for and the implementation of the activities at the 10th World Water Forum.

Team Water Japan
　The 10th World Water Forum was held in Bali, Indonesia from May 18 to 24, 2024. Fruitful discussions were led by our Board Director Mr. Ishiwatari and Chief Manager Ms. Asayama, and the Japan Pavilion was managed by young members who experienced the World Water Forum for the first time.
　I chose to stay in Japan to support them rather than travel to Bali. I witnessed their hard work during the preparations in the office and observed their active participation in the event online. In my heart, I deeply marveled at the remarkable changes in Japanese water professionals and institutions over the past 20 years.
　One such feature that stood out was the Japan Pavilion, where all stakeholders from central and local governments, private companies, civil society, and youth groups came together. There were no sectoral or generational barriers. It was particularly remarkable to see them consistently delivering statements and presentations on solutions, both in person and through the videos on the special stage. This truly embodied a ‘Team Water Japan’ that transcended sectors, organizations, and generations. Their activities were carried out in a diligent manner while maintaining a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Japan Pavilion under public and private partnership
　The Japan Water Forum planned and managed a Japan Pavilion at the 7th World Water Forum in Korea in 2015. It served as a platform where governments, private companies, and civil society groups showcased their knowledge and experiences. High school students also participated in discussions, making the Japan Pavilion a unique space for collaboration and exchange.
　I recall a Taiwanese government official, an old friend of mine, approaching me at the time and asking, “Dr. Takemura, how is Japan able to bring together the public and private sectors and civil society together like this?” At that time, I was busy managing the pavilion and gave him a brief and curt reply. However, his question lingered in my mind for a long time. Watching the Japan Pavilion in 2024 from a distance, the answer finally became clear: it is because of the Japan Water Forum.
　It was the Japan Water Forum that facilitated international and intergenerational activities led by civil society organizations and youth groups, as well as technical cooperation between the public and private sectors. Over the past 20 years since its inception, the Japan Water Forum has played a pivotal role in forming Team Water Japan.
　Our staff members consistently discuss how to accomplish their mission with limited resources, and determine the next steps to take. While these discussions will continue, this year has given us the confidence that we have successfully achieved one of the missions outlined above.

　The activities of the Japan Water Forum are made possible through the support of our members and other partners. I would like to once again express my deepest gratitude for your contributions and ask for your continued support and guidance.

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– Japan Water Forum’s Statement of Determination

At the occasion of the 20th anniversary event of the establishment of the Japan Water Forum, held in Tokyo on December 3rd, 2024, the secretariat made a special statement of determination on the way forward. The full statement is now available online. We would truly appreciate your participation and support in our endeavor.

▼Statement of Determination▼
https://www.waterforum.jp/en/news/22739/

(Reported by Shigenori Asai, Director and Yumiko Asayama, Chief Manager )

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JWF News Vol. 247 / 8 January 2025
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