　　　　　　　　　Inaugural Address

In April 2007, the long-awaited Asian Society of International Law was formally inaugurated at its founding
conference in Singapore. We believe that the foundation of this Society has great significance for the
development of research, education, and practice of international law in Asia as opportunities for
exchange between international law scholars and practitioners involved in international law in the Asian
region were hitherto extremely limited.

In response to this movement, we have held discussions on actively supporting Japan’s international law
scholars and practitioners in their Society activities, as well as on means of providing information and
assistance to Society members within Japan. As a result of these discussions, with the advice and
cooperation of you all, we have progressed to the founding of the Japan Chapter of the Asian Society of
International Law, formally inaugurated by its Steering Committee on the 10th of August.

From here on, we aspire towards a broad membership for both the Asian Society of International Law and
the Japan Chapter, to further expand and strengthen networks of international law research and practice
in the Asian region. It is our hope and desire that we continue to be honored with the support of you all.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　August 2007

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Directors
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　EJIRI Takashi (Nishimura & Asahi)
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　FUJITA Hisakazu (Kansai University)
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　HARA Hisashi (Nagashima Ohno & Tsunematsu)
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　ONUMA Yasuaki (Tokyo University)
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　OWADA Hisashi (International Court of Justice)