My name is Tadahiko Masaki, Professor of Surgery, Kyorin University in Tokyo. It is my great honor and prestige to be appointed as the president of 17th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Gastroenterological Surgery (JSGS) which will be held during JDDW in November, 2019, in Kobe city.

Two of my predecessors in Kyorin University, Prof. Nabeya and Prof. Atomi organized the 30th and 60th General Meeting of JSGS, respectively. We are very much happy to have the third chance, this time.

I’m also very much braced up when considering my heavy responsibility and important mission.

JDDW is a very special occasion where GI physicians and surgeons can meet together and discuss deeply once a year. In JDDW2019, JSGS will prepare lots of joint sessions with other four societies.

We also invite several distinguished overseas doctors to deeply discuss some interesting topics, such as prevention of postoperative recurrence of Crohn’s disease, bariatric surgery, and treatment of advanced rectal cancer.

In November, the climate is pleasant and comfortable in Kobe. You will also be lucky to enjoy colorful autumn leaves in Rokko Mountains.

We are looking forward to seeing you in Kobe.