sexta-feira, junho 12, 2015

2015 WAML Congress Program Chair - Welcome Message

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

Welcome to the 2015 Annual Congress of the World Association for Medical Law. The WAML Annual Congress provides an international forum for discussion of a broad range of issues covering Ageing and Health Law, Informational Technology and Health Law, Migrations and Health Law, Islamic Bioethics and related topics.  220 abstracts were received and reviewed by the selection committee.

Meeting Highlights:
This year’s Annual Congress is being held from Sunday, August 2nd through Thursday August 6th, 2015 at the Hotel Vila Galé.  The Hotel Vila Galé is located in the historical centre of Coimbra, with a stunning view over the Mondego River.  Hotel Vila Galé opened in 2010 and dance was the theme chosen for the decoration of this hotel in Coimbra, which has two restaurants, a bar, a convention and events area, a library and a Satsanga Spa with indoor pool, gym, sauna, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi and rooms massages. One of the strengths of this hotel in Coimbra, is the wide area outdoor pool with a bar.  The hotel offers free Wi-Fi access in all areas.  The proximity to the historic centre of Coimbra, allows easy access to major cultural interest areas such as the long staircase Quebra-costas, the Ancient Cathedral, the Church of Santa Cruz, the prestigious University of Coimbra and its majestic library of the eighteenth century, the Botanical Garden, the New Cathedral of the sixteenth century and the National Museum of Machado de Castro. In the downtown area, you will find lively streets, full of typical restaurants, bars and shops.

The advance program and other information is available at http://wafml.memberlodge.org/page-1841460.

Social Events:
The meeting kicks off with a welcoming reception Sunday evening August 2nd at the outdoor pool area.  Tuesday evening August 4th enjoy a reception located at City Hall sponsored by the Coimbra Mayor. 

The WAML General Assembly Meeting will be held Wednesday, August 5th from 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM and the WAML Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony will be held Thursday, August 6th from 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM.

Special Acknowledgements:
I would like to gratefully acknowledge all who provided so much input and effort into the planning and implementation of the meeting.   I sincerely thank our invited speakers for their contributions to the program.

I look forward to your participation and we are looking forward to a successful Annual Congress.  Welcome to both our established and new colleagues! I hope that our new colleagues will consider joining our association as members to take advantage of the year-round interactions that our members enjoy.

Thank you for your participation and enjoy the Congress!

André Dias Pereira
2015 WAML Congress Program Chair