We express our deep sympathies for all those affected by the Great Tohoku Kanto Earthquake.
We understand and greatly admire the decision of Yoshimoto Kogyo at this difficult time and under great pressure, to move ahead with the 3rd Okinawa International Movie Festival on schedule, and to donate all prize money to those affected by this disaster.
As is contained within the mission of the Okinawa International Movie Festival, those in the disaster area need our encouragement and support, and it is our hope that we will be able to provide them with “Laugh & Peace”, and with the hope and courage to carry on with their lives. I believe that everyone will understand and support the decision of President Osaki and the Executive Committee.
We are humbled and grateful to have been invited to this important event, and to be given a booth by President Osaki. Unfortunately however, due to the fact that the Chinese government has currently established a travel ban to Japan, and with changes to the entertainment program that we were planning to show at the Festival booth, we at the SMG group must regretfully inform you that we will be unable to attend the Festival. We are truly sorry for any inconvenience or problems that this will cause for the Executive Committee, and we hope that President Osaki and the Committee will be able to understand and forgive our position.
Finally, we sincerely wish every success for this 3rd Okinawa International Movie Festival. At the same time, we look forward to the day when the victims of the earthquake can rebuild and return to their home towns.
