Nine years have already passed since the foundation of the Council on East Asian Community in May of 2004. I am humbled when I look back as President on our achievements.
　As China increases its influence, the future of East Asia has become harder to predict. Under such circumstances, it has been my pleasure to participate in discussions at the Council on East Asian Community, It indeed where all the relevant Japanese discussants took part as "Members" representing think tanks, corporations, and academic circles, or "Councilors" representing government.

2013 July
ITO Kenichi
Chairman