Minister of Education

Cheng Jei-cheng, Ph.D.

November 19, 2008

Dear Sir/Madam:

The upcoming 3rd International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO 2009) will be held during September 14-22, 2009 in Taiwan. On behalf of the Government of Taiwan, I would like to invite your country’s participation to this significant event.

It is our great privilege to be the hosting country of the IESO 2009 in an attempt to promote the study of Earth Science and to raise the awareness of the increasing environmental issues of the Earth, such as global warming and the recent drastic climate changes.  I am hoping that through country’s participation of this event, it may help stir up young students’ interests in learning more about our Earth and the environment.

Taiwan, also known formerly as Formosa, is a beautiful island rich in its natural resources.  It is situated in a unique geological location under the influence of constant interaction with Kuroshio Current, typhoons and earthquakes.  Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the 921 Chichi Earthquake in Taiwan, the hosting of the IESO 2009 becomes of great symbolic meaning to us.  Therefore, I would truly like to take this great opportunity to invite your country to take part in this commendable event, while at the same time, to explore the unique beauty and culture of Taiwan.

We look forward to your participation and heartily welcome you to Taiwan.

Cheng Jei-cheng
Minister of Education