I am pleased to invite you to participate in the International Seminar on “Creative Economy and Local Government” to be held on November 16-18, 2009 in Tomohon, Indonesia.  Today, the international community is confronted by many challenges such as the current financial crisis, global warming, climate change, poverty, disease, and the widening gap between the rich and the poor.  Such challenges must be resolved not only from a global standpoint but also regional and local perspective as well as commitment.

This Seminar aims to create dialogue among city leaders and partners under Citynet National Chapter to find the most effective ways in strengthening the community power and urban perspectives particularly in adaptation to climate change.  The event is being organized by the Citynet Indonesia and hosted by the Tomohon Municipality.

The Seminar will also be conducted in conjunction with the 1st Session of the National Chapter Annual Meeting in which program evaluation and future agenda may be discussed and determined.  In addition to that, a green action called “Plant Trees for Tomorrow” involving at least 10,000 people will also be organized during the event, among others such as Flower Display.  The whole event is open to all local chief executives, policy-makers, civil servants, and other stakeholders representing local government units, national agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international development agencies.

I have high hopes that the Citynet Tomohon Seminar 2009 will yield meaningful discussions among the participants while strengthening the role of Citynet National Chapter as a whole.  And as the Mayor of the Seminar’ host city, I would like to do my best to prepare a warm, hospitable welcome for you all.  We look forward to welcoming you at the Seminar, Annual Meeting, and other worth-experienced events in Tomohon.

Sincerely,

Jefferson S. M. Rumajar, SE.
Mayor