"Enhance human quality and be logistics business partners around the world" TOKYO - Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) today inaugurated Junichiro Ikeda as its new president. Following is the text of his inaugural message.  I am Junichiro Ikeda, and today, it is my honor to assume the presidency of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. The world economy continues to expand, and demand for ocean transport is growing steadily. On the other hand, the world political and economic situations and the environment surrounding the ocean shipping industry are changing drastically. I have gained a new appreciation of the need to be “excellent and resilient,” as stated in our long-term vision. This is the second fiscal year of the midterm management plan STEER FOR 2020, and we have firmly grasped the helm, steering for our goals. The main theme of the plan is “Solid growth through innovative changes”. “Innovation of the Business Portfolio” and “Innovation of the business model” among the three key innovations, are already making remarkable changes. So we are committed to adapting to the changing times by stepping up our efforts on a third pillar of our plan – “Innovation of Business Domain” and meeting new logistics needs of customers all over the world and doing our best to meet the needs of society. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines puts the highest priority on safe operation and reliable transport, and strives to deliver competitive services as the multi-modal ocean transport group that leads the world’s shipping industry. We are committed to maintaining that stance and continuing to earn the trust of our customers. I think the human qualities of each executive and employee will help set our company apart in an industry where it is difficult for competitors to differentiate themselves.  About 20,000 of our people, on land and at sea around the world, will draw upon their skills, personalities, and experience to meet every challenge, no matter how difficult, and maintain the highest levels of ethics and fair business practice, in compliance with laws, regulations, and social norms. Our aim is to make MOL the first company people think of as a logistics business partner and build a reliable, trusted presence around the world. Thank you for your continued understanding and support.