As I am writing this message, Japan is still coping with the disastrous earthquake and its aftermath. Naturally, all of us at the Asia Pacific Bridge Federation are deeply saddened by this tragic event. Our hearts pour out to those who suffer physically and mentally for the loss of loved ones. Nevertheless, despite the severity of this incident, we are confident that Japan will overcome this hardship, as she did so many times before, and rise to strength again soon.

It is heartening that JCBL is enthusiastically making preparations to welcome all bridge players. Although Japan has hosted many Far East Bridge Federation Championships and the Pacific Asia Bridge Federation Championships in the past, this would be the first APBF Congress hosted by Japan, and the first time in the charming city of Fukuoka. Although not quite as metropolitan as Tokyo or Osaka, Fukuoka is rich in natural and cultural attractions, with less crowd, and more relaxing atmosphere. As part of the island of Kyushu which is known for its passion for environment conservation, Fukuoka is marked for its eco-tourism where visitors enjoy the natural beauty and delightful marine gourmet. Also, its proximity to many Asian cities that result in a shorter travel time is definitely an added convenience. I really have to thank and congratulate the Organizing Committee for this excellent choice of venue.

As we are moving toward our APBF Congress in August, 2012, the Japan Contract Bridge League, our host, will undoubtedly be very busy organizing this important event of our zone. I would like to take this opportunity to offer my support in making this Congress a very successful one. I would also like to urge all bridge players from our APBF family, especially our friends from the Central Asian countries, to come to this competitive, and yet friendly event that we all look forward to.

On behalf of the Japan Contract Bridge League, I am honored to invite you to the 7th Asia Pacific Bridge Federation – APBF – Congress that will be held at the Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk between August 25 and September 2, 2012.

Up to now, the JCBL has hosted APBF Championships – formerly named FEBF Championships and PABF Championships – four times. However, this is the first time we will hold a Congress that is open to any number of teams from each member country. This Congress will allow players both to compete and also to make new friends and renew old acquaintances.

It gives me great pleasure that we will be able to hold this important Congress in the historical and cultural city of Fukuoka, a well-known gateway city to/from Asian countries since ancient days, with the heartfelt support of the citizens and bridge players of Fukuoka.

The JCBL would like to cordially welcome bridge players, delegates and their families from all the APBF countries and from across Japan. We sincerely hope that all National Bridge Organizations will send as many players as possible to this event.

The 2012 APBF Congress in Fukuoka will be a most joyful and exciting event for all bridge lovers. In conjunction with the 2012 APBF Championships, and various side games open to all players, the JCBL is also preparing more casual programs for newcomers who wish to enter the exciting world of bridge.

Dear friends, the JCBL is looking forward to seeing you in Fukuoka, in the summer of 2012!