Dear Colleagues and Friends,

It is with the greatest pleasure and a profound sense of honour that I extend to you a warm and heartfelt invitation to join us in Kyoto, Japan, for the 16th Scientific Congress of the Asia-Oceania Association of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies. This congress represents a truly historic milestone: for the first time in the Society's distinguished history, our flagship scientific meeting will be held on Japanese soil — a moment that is long overdue and one we intend to celebrate.

Japan has long been a world leader in the science and clinical practice of otorhinolaryngology, and the country's extraordinary contributions to our specialty — in fields ranging from endoscopic ear surgery and laryngology to head and neck oncology and cochlear implantation — are recognised and respected around the globe. It is therefore entirely fitting that Japan should now host the Asia-Oceania region's most important gathering of otorhinolaryngologists, audiologists, and head and neck specialists.

Under the distinguished leadership of our Congress Chair- Professor Shigeru Hirano, and Vice Chair- Professor Seiji Kakehata and Honorary Chairs- Professors Yoshiaki Nakai and Tatsuya Yamasoba, we have assembled a congress that we believe will set a new standard for scientific excellence in our specialty across the Asia-Oceania region.

This congress is being held in partnership with the Japan Society of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, and the collaboration between our two organisations ensures a programme of exceptional depth, rigour, and clinical relevance. We are proud to present four days of world-class science in one of the world's most culturally magnificent cities.

We could not have chosen a more magnificent setting for this historic congress. Kyoto, the ancient imperial capital of Japan, is a city of breathtaking beauty, extraordinary cultural heritage, and seamless juxtaposition of tradition and modernity. In late March, Kyoto is at its most spectacular. The city's legendary cherry blossoms typically reach full bloom in late March and early April, transforming the city's temples, rivers, and parks into a sea of delicate pink and white.

I wish to welcome not only otorhinolaryngologists, but all specialists in head and neck surgery, audiology, speech pathology, and allied health who share our commitment to advancing the care of patients across our region. The Kyoto 2027 Congress promises to be an unforgettable meeting — scientifically inspiring, culturally enriching, and personally memorable. I look forward to seeing you all in March 2027.

Associate Professor Bernard Lyons

President Asia Oceania Association of Oto Rhino Laryngological Societies