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Dear UAAA members and other Asian mountaineers,
2007 is very meaningful because it is 15th years since Union of Asian Alpine Associations was founded. Therefore, I congratulate the 15th Anniversary of UAAA and at the same time I do congratulate to all the Asian mountaineers on this occasion.
I am very happy to know that UAAA is publishing a book Mountaineering in Asia: UAAA Past and Present to commemorate UAAA’s 15th Anniversary.
As you know, Asian continent is the largest and highest continent in the world. In Asia, there are the highest mountains of the world such as the Himalaya, the Karakoram. Moreover, only Asia has the high mountains which are over 8,000 meters high. In this sense, it is very natural that there are many great mountaineers in Asian countries. Along with distinguished mountaineers, Asia also boasts a lot of people who love the mountains and live with them. Asia is the continent very rich in various animals, plants and resources concerned with the mountains.
Although Asian countries are not developed as highly as western countries because of geographical, cultural, and social limitations, however, Asian economy is rapidly developing day by day and the prospect for mountaineering in Asian countries is highly promising. The Alpinism in western countries have a very long history where as it is newly developed tradition in Asia. In this regard, the role of UAAA is very important since UAAA itself consists of the leaders and major mountaineering groups of each Asian country. I think all UAAA members should put a lot of effort to make great strides at this 15th Anniversary and prepare well in various areas. I also think it is very important to unite, make every endeavor, and take responsibilities at this precious moment.
UAAA has a lot of work to do. First of all, we should take on each matter which has been agreed on at the General Assembly or Council Meeting, and complete them with joint effort from each and every member. To encourage the participation of all UAAA members, we should persuade Asian members who have not shown interests in UAAA. Let’s do our best!
Thank you very much. |
