Advancements in Buddhist Studies through Collaboration : หน้า 14/141

cooperation throughout the last ten and five years respectively. Appreciation to the Social Research Institute, Chiang Mai University for the photographic duplication of some Lan Na Palm-leaf manuscript is hereby acknowledged. Most of all, we are thankful to the International Association of Buddhist Studies (IABS), of which we are members, for their openness in sharing opportunities with us, and for the chance to participate and contribute in several valuable conferences hosted by the national institutes of members. With the benefit of these associations, DIRI has benefited largely in terms of up to date knowledge on history, archaeology and anthropology. For example, we became aware of the new discoveries and research essays in the Early Buddhist Manuscript Project by the University of Washington and the University of Oslo. Later that led us to contribute in the project by establishing a special agreement with the University of Washington and the University of Oslo. The conference also gave us the opportunity to make the personal acquaintance of international and vanguard scholars, who have published remarkable works. We were becoming familiar with, as well as sharing knowledge and ideas with, several very interesting academic organizations and institutes. We count this as the beginning of a policy of sharing and cooperation with the academic/ research community. I look forward to receive your kind valuable advice and co-operation for further improvement and mutual academic advancement. Phrakrupaldnayokwarawat (Sudhammo Bhikku) Director of Dhammachai International Research Institute (DIRI) x