6th Okinawa International Movie Festival

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations at the grand open- ing of the 6th Okinawa International Movie Festival, and to offer my deep thanks to all involved in working to make this possible.At this year’s 6th holding of the Okinawa International Movie Festival, in addition to the awarding of grand prizes for the “Laugh Category” and “Peace Category” as in the past, the “JIMOT CM COMPETITION” which was so well received last year will be held, where the municipali- ties in Okinawa prefecture appeal to the charms of their local region through the theme of “food culture”, making this an event which has close ties to the local community. Also, with the new catch phrase of “All Things Great in All the Islands! ”, a variety of events will be held in Okinawa prefecture, and I look forward to seeing a lot of smiles in vari- ous places throughout the prefecture.In terms of our city, together with the “Ginowan Support Group” formed last year, we are looking forward to uniting our citizens and creating an even more exciting movie festival than ever before.The concept behind the Okinawa International Movie Festival, “Laugh & Peace”, perfectly reflects the brightness and generos- ity and the feelings of hope and peace embodied by us as citizens of Ginowan and Okinawa. We are confident that through movies, new relationships can be born, and that this message can spread throughout the world. As the main venue, Ginowan has a beach location that truly represents Okinawa, and is an extremely beautiful place. It is my hope that many people will come and enjoy this atmosphere at the movie festival.I very much look forward to meeting everyone that will partici- pate, and seeing all of your wonderful smiles.