The 23rd Assembly of IUGG - International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics, just ended in Sapporo (Japan), has entrusted to the Italian committee the task of organizing the next Conference in 2007. This is the most important occasion in which scientists will discuss about the global environment and natural disasters, which brings together all the countries in the world and involves over 5000 scientists.Since 1954 Italy had been waiting to organize the General Assembly of IUGG – International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics – which is held every four years.

This event will finally be achieved in 2007, thanks to the decision taken by the 23° Assembly of IUGG, just ended in Sapporo (Japan), which has favoured our Country as opposed to Australia. "It 's a choice that honors Italy and CNR, which represents our country in this organization - says Lucio Ubertini, Director of Research for Hydrogeological Protection of the Italian National Research Council and Chairman of the IUGG - and that recognizes our leading role in this area. " The meeting is a high profile international event, since it brings together all the countries in the world, especially the major scientific associations that deal with natural phenomena such as floods, landslides, tsunamis, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. A very important achievement, to which both Lucio Ubertini and our diplomacy have contributed in a significant way by supporting effectively Italy’s candidacy.