In recent years, safety, reliability and risk analysis and management have become emergent and key issues due to the frequent occurrence of natural and man-made disasters such as strong earthquakes, huge hurricanes, tsunamis, terrorist attacks, airplane and nuclear power plant accidents, etc. In the past three decades, ICOSSAR (International Conference on Structural Safety and Reliability) has provided a valuable opportunity to share the knowledge, experience and information on structural safety and reliability among scientists and engineers. Following the past two ICOSSARs in Japan, Kobe in 1985 and Kyoto in 1997, the ICOSSAR2009 will be held in Osaka. As I mentioned in Rome, there are three big cities in Kansai area, namely, Kobe, Kyoto and Osaka. Osaka is the second biggest city in Japan and the center of commerce and industry. All people who are interested in the safety and reliability issues are cordially invited to ICOSSAR2009, which will be held in the main campus (Senriyama Campus) of Kansai University, September 13 -17, 2009. The Japanese group will warmly welcome all of you and wish you a pleasant stay and enjoy the special culture and atmosphere in Osaka. May, 2007

Hitoshi Furuta (Conference Chairman)