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Tokyo,
Japan — The World Bank today announced the launch of the
Tokyo Development Learning
Center (TDLC), a joint initiative with the Japanese Government
that sends a powerful signal of Japan’s commitment to help
strengthen the Asia-Pacific community.
The
TDLC, which will serve as a knowledge and training center
for the region, is the latest addition to the Global Development
Learning Network (GDLN), an initiative launched by the World
Bank in 2000. Now comprising more than 60 centers around the
world, the GDLN makes use of state-of-the-art Information
and Communications Technology (ICT) to enable knowledge sharing
and collaboration free from geographical constraints.
The GDLN utilizes a combination of satellite, fiber and ISDN
telecommunications, depending on local availability and cost,
to link the network around the world. Making use of videoconferencing
facilities and high-speed internet connections, public, private,
and non-governmental organizations are encouraged to collaborate
in seminars, training events, and meetings with their counterparts
around the world.
In Tokyo to attend the launch, World Bank President, James
D. Wolfensohn commented, “Japan is the second largest
contributor to the World Bank, and its generous assistance
to poorer countries in Asia-Pacific and around the world is
well known and widely respected. But experience shows that
money alone won’t make the difference. The keyis knowing how
to unlock the power of knowledge and expertise.” “The
TDLC is a fantastic resource, drawing on the experience of
Japan and other countries across the region, it will serve
as a center for collaboration, especially in promoting intra-regional
knowledge sharing. More than just a new facility, we are I
hope, opening a new chapter in Japan’s engagement with the
region and the world.” he said.
The Center will promote human resource development and institution
building in developing countries, especially in Asia-Pacific.
It will enable Japan to act not only as a financier for regional
development, but also as a supplier of development practice,
knowledge and solutions that build capacity on the ground.
Mr. Sadakazu Tanigaki, Japanese Minister of Finance said,
“The TDLC is a valuable instrument in aiding human resource
development and administrative capacity building in the Asia-Pacific
region. Japan has great expectations for the Center”.
“I would like to call upon our friends in the region
to inject their ideas into TDLC programs, so that together
we can ensure the TDLC serves the region as effectively as
possible. We would be delighted if Japan’s experience and
knowledge of development could be used to enrich intellectual
exchange amongst our partners in the region. I would like
to emphasize that, through the TDLC, Japan is committed to
supporting the activities of the GDLN
in the Asia and Pacific region,” he said.
For more information about the TDLC, visit: http://www.jointokyo.org/en/index.jsp |
