FDI 2013 Korea cancelled, event moved to Turkey

After very careful evaluation of the difficult economic situation in Korea and information received from the Korean Dental Association (KDA) and from the dental industry, the FDI Council came to the conclusion that present conditions cannot guarantee a successful joint Annual World Dental Congress in Seoul in 2013.

NB: This announcement does not affect the 2012 FDI World Dental Congress in Hong Kong from August 29 to September 1, 2012 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)

There is a very high risk of up to three dental events taking place there during the same year. This is not in the interest of FDI and our corporate partners at a time when we are working hard to regain credibility and be seen as a trustworthy partner.

The FDI Council therefore decided to accept KDA's proposal to withdraw from the contract signed in 2010, in the best interests of both parties and their respective members, and cancel the AWDC in Seoul in 2013. FDI acknowledges the extraordinary work and efforts undertaken by KDA leadership to find a solution and would welcome KDA hosting a future congress in Korea as soon as possible.

FDI has a tremendous respect and trust in KDA as a longstanding member of FDI with experience in organising the FDI Congress. FDI and KDA, as open and honest partners, should use the current unfortunate economic environment and uncertainties as an opportunity for additional time to host a great event in the future. FDI would welcome the option of organising the congress in Seoul in 2014 or 2015 and would be delighted to start already working together towards a solution where all partners would organise one joint international event in Korea.

Following the decision to cancel the event in Seoul, FDI has been looking at other options to host the 2013 AWDC and World Parliament. We take great pleasure in informing you that the Turkish Dental Association has accepted to host the congress in Istanbul. The dates are identical: 29 August 29 to 1 September 2013.

We therefore look forward to you joining us in Istanbul, Turkey, from 29 August to 1 September 2013 for the 101st FDI Annual World Dental Congress.

Orlando Monteiro da Silva
FDI President

Jean-Luc Eisele
Executive Director