Since FY 1992, Japan, the National Institute for Land and Infrastructure Management, has arranged the Conference on Public Works Research and Development in Asia, with the support of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), for the following purpose; 1) to exchange information of mutual understanding, 2) to discuss about technological issues, and 3) to establish human network.

The 12th Conference on Public Works Research and Development in Asia was held at the National Institute for Land and Infrastructure Management in Tsukuba and at the Okinawa Convention Center in Okinawa on October 19 to November 1, 2003. The participants included researchers and officials from government agencies responsible for implementing public works research and development policies in the following countries; Cambodia, China, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Japan.

The 12th Conference set "Traffic and Road - Measures for Urban Traffic Problems in Asian Big Cities" as the subject of common interest. Under the subject, the participants had discussions to enhance mutual understanding and to know advanced technologies, as well as site visits related to new technologies and practices. In addition, the participants joined "the 12th Symposium on Public Works Research and Development in Asia" and made their presentations about current situation on urban traffic problems and related measures/programs in their countries.

The discussions, site visits and symposium in the 12th conference resulted in the following agreements;

−　The participants recognized the role and need for further improvement in "Traffic and Road" as well as the importance to conduct research to facilitate them.

−　The participants recognized that each country should learn from insights and experiences of countries in Asia, to enhance and support the infrastructure development.

−　The participants recognized the needs to cooperate with each other and continue the conference in the future.