It is my great pleasure to introduce the 2^nd FINA World Aquatics Convention, to be held from October 29-November 1, 2012 in the exciting city of Moscow (RUS).

I consider that the development of FINA’s 202 National Federations is the main tool on creating a solid basis for the progress for our sports. Our Members must feel part of a strong organisation, FINA, with the aim of organising great FINA events as Aquatic Festivals, where the world will enjoy the great stars in our five disciplines.

With this main purpose in mind, the FINA World Aquatics Convention is a unique occasion to evaluate and discuss the development of our Aquatic sports in the five continents, and to suggest, by a common exchange of points of view, further ways of progress. Despite being recent, the Convention has generated a lot of interest within the FINA Family and is already a milestone in our calendar

We also need to continue and improve our collaboration with our partners, to establish strategies and business opportunities for the future, so that we can find the best possible way to enhance the image of FINA, of its National Federations and of our Sport in general.

The success of the first edition in 2010 in Punta del Este (URU), the positive feedback from the participants and the enthusiasm already generated by the 2012 rendezvous are a guarantee that the creation of this Convention was both useful and important.

On FINA’s behalf, I would like to thank each of the delegates, lecturers, exhibitors, official partners, supporters and suppliers, Organisers and Bidders of FINA events, and all the members of the IOC and FINA Family in general for their active support and help for making the Convention an achievement.

I also express my deepest gratitude to all Russia and Republic of Tatarstan governmental authorities, City of Moscow and Russian Swimming Federation for their commitment and support on the organisation of this Convention.

I therefore invite you all to attend the 2^nd FINA World Aquatics Convention. Your presence will make FINA stronger and the Aquatic Sports more important worldwide!

Dr. Julio C. Maglione

FINA President