Dear Friends and Colleagues, It gives me immense pleasure to invite you to the 35th Congress of the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) in Xiamen, China, held in conjunction with the 25th Congress of Chinese Ophthalmological Society (CCOS). APAO 2020 features world-renowned experts as well as exhibits that showcase the latest innovations in ophthalmology and visual sciences. The exciting scientific program will cover major developments in the various subspecialties, with the aim of well equipping our ophthalmic practitioners for the ever-changing future of eye care. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the participation and efforts of all the key leaders and pioneers. In addition, the APAO Congress is going to provide abundant cultural programs for delegates to forge and renew friendships. In Xiamen, one of the most beautiful cities in China, not only will you enjoy its breathtaking scenery but you will also appreciate the historic architecture, have a taste of the mouth-watering fresh seafood and explore hidden gems in the back alleys. We very much look forward to seeing you in Xiamen and bringing you an unforgettable and rewarding experience! With very best regards, Ningli Wang, MD, PhD President, Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology
Dear Friends and Colleagues, On behalf of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, I offer my sincere congratulations to the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology on the celebration of its Diamond Jubilee. For 60 years, APAO has fulfilled its mission to “promote the science and art of ophthalmology among all people and nations of the region.” The Academy was pleased to present the APAO with the Distinguished Service Award at our annual meeting this past year in San Francisco. Our organizations have a long history of working together on a number of initiatives, from annual meetings to leadership development. The Academy proudly recognized the APAO for its decades of success as the supranational organization in the Asia-Pacific region, home to more than half of the world’s population. The APAO plays a significant role in the worldwide fight against preventable blindness. According to a World Health Organization report, “Global Data on Visual Impairments 2010,” among the estimated 285 million visually impaired people in the world, over 180 million reside in the Asia-Pacific region. As a co-sponsor of APAO 2020, the Academy congratulates APAO on its Diamond Jubilee and six decades of success and distinguished service in the ophthalmic world. May this congress in Xiamen, China, be one of APAO’s best yet. Best regards, David W. Parke II, MD Chief Executive Officer American Academy of Ophthalmology