Dear Colleagues,

The next ESPGHAN Meeting will take place on 27 and 28 of April 2012 in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. For the first time it will have a different format: In a year when the World Congress takes place we want to be able to meet to discuss the progress of the research conducted in cooperation within the Society, to encourage the participation of members to our activities, particularly the trainees, and attract new forces.

The meeting will provide a unique occasion for the exchange of scientific results and will facilitate interactions between members and invited guests. The meeting will be centered on the activities of the many ESPGHAN Working Groups, who will have time to review their results and plan new activities; in addition a new Working Group will be created. A special effort will be made to establish cooperation with basic scientists and to foster translational research. We wish to take this occasion to strengthen the cooperation with the North American Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) and facilitate the process leading to shared guidelines on common clinical problems such as constipation. Other activities will include poster presentations and poster tours with their highly interactive exchanges between participants. The Stockholm meeting will further promote the reputation of ESPGHAN as a highly informative and interactive platform in the traditional areas of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. Finally, we plan to establish links with Patients’ Associations.

Stockholm, one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, is built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. The beautiful buildings, the greenery, the fresh air and the proximity to the water are distinctive traits of this city. With its 750 year history and rich cultural life, Stockholm offers a wide selection of world-class museums and attractions. The city offers marvellous views over the water, and if 14 islands aren’t enough, Stockholm offers a wonderful archipelago with 30,000 islands, islet rocks and skerries.

Stockholm has excellent transport links including Arlanda, Bromma and Skavsta airports that cater for arrivals from most international destinations. The airport express train Arlanda Express is the fastest and most environmentally friendly way of travelling between Stockholm City and Arlanda Airport. No stops on the way - you're whisked to your destination in 20 minutes or less. Bromma airport is located just in the city.

Whether you are a long standing friend of ESPGHAN or this is your fist time attending we can promise a full and interesting scientific programme with a diverse range of topics and discussions.

We look forward to welcoming you to Stockholm.

Yours sincerely,