On behalf of the citizens of Osaka, I would like to congratulate the organizers on the occasion of the 14th Osaka European Film Festival.

Since 1994, the festival has been growing steadily, enabling the citizens and film fans to enjoy Japan premieres of outstanding European films and special guest appearances. The festival is contributing much to promote European culture and international goodwill in Osaka every autumn. I would like to thank Mr. Patrice Boiteau and all those who helped make this wonderful event possible most sincerely.

This yearﾕs festival, with world famous Polish director Mr. Andrzej Wajda as Honorary Chairman, will features eleven masterpieces for the first time in Japan. The public will also be able to enjoy seldom shown Swedish documentary films, works of the Russian director, Mr. Alexandr Sokurov, and various other programs.

Childrenﾕs films program will include short animation by Belgian kids, and a special lecture on filmmaking and education. Aiming to advance film in education and develop new talent for the future, these events will surely draw much attention.

The City of Osaka is strongly promoting its initiatives to make Osaka a "Creative City," where new culture and industry will be created with people, goods and information from all over the world. I firmly believe that this festival will be a wonderful opportunity for deepening friendship among the film industry and further promotion of international friendship and film culture here in Osaka.

Lastly, I would like to send my best wishes for great success of the 14th Osaka European Film Festival, and for further prosperity of all those involved.