ICE 2012 - international congress of endoscopy ICE 2012

On behalf of the Council for International Congresses of Entomology, I extend a cordial invitation to participate in the "24th International Congress of Entomology", being hosted by the Entomological Society of South Korea, at Daegu in 2012. The Entomology Congress will be a great opportunity to learn about the advances made in the science of entomology in the recent past, and will help in establishing collaborations between entomologists from different continents. The Entomology Congress will also be an unique opportunity to showcase the advances made in entomological science in Korea, and provide an opportunity to see industrial applications of entomology, particularly large scale production of bumble bees as pollinators at the Yecheon butterfly and insect exhibition, and the Yecheong Insect Bio Expo.

The deliberations during the congress will provide opportunities to listen to, and interact with the pioneers from different disciplines, and a platform for interactions between the young and the not-so-young entomologists. This will inspire the young and budding entomologists, and create an awareness of the challenges that we need to address for sustainable food production and a safe environment to live. There will also be ample opportunities for scientists in the public and private sectors to interact, which will help translate innovations into action for the welfare of human beings.

The congress will provide ample opportunities to discuss important issues such as the use of genetically engineered plants, natural enemies, and microbial pesticides for pest management and their effects on the environment. Another important topic will be global warming and its effects on geographic distribution of insect pests, natural enemies, expression of plant resistance to insects, and efficacy of various pest management practices. Critical issues related to invasive species, bio-security, pesticide residues in food and food products, and development of resistance to insecticides and genetically engineered plants for sustainable crop protection and food security will also be addressed.

The enthusiasm and excitement of the Organizing Committee and the local administration will certainly guarantee that the 24th International Congress of Entomology will be a grand success. The venue in the historical city of Degou, provides an appropriate setting and up-to-date technical facilities for the congress. I am sure the Organizing Committee will plan and execute the congress in a highly professional and dedicated manner. I am confident that the congress will be a grand success, and I look forward to seeing everyone in South Korea in 2012.