The mission of Tohoku University is to search for truth and create and disseminate human knowledge, thereby contributing to the realization of a society where humanity can live in peace and dignity. More specifically, as an inclusive university, bringing together a collaborative and mutually stimulating mix of academic fields, our aims are to honor the wisdom of the world throughout history, identify current and future agendas for scholarship, share our knowledge and discoveries with the community and the world, and actively cultivate individuals with the desire and capability to contribute to humanity.

Throughout the last century, this university upheld three principles: "Research First," "Open-Door," and "Practice-Oriented Research and Education," demonstrating that the members of this institution have been keenly aware that internationalization in research and education is an indispensable condition for achieving our mission and aims.

In August 2000, Tohoku University stated its intention of becoming a world-class research and educational institution through international exchanges. Subsequently, when Tohoku University became a legally independent institution in April 2004, it was decided that the highest priority would henceforth be granted to the "realization of internationally competitive research and education." Furthermore, in November of 2004, Tohoku University declared that it is striving for global excellence under the slogan "Tohoku University, Creating Global Excellence (Tohoku University provides opportunities for world-class research and education)."

As evident from these statements, the promotion of international exchange has become increasingly pivotal to accomplishing the university's mission and aims. Clearly required in the planning and carrying out of international exchanges are the strategies by which we can promote the above mission and goals.

In keeping with this mission to foster both breadth and depth of strategic international exchange and collaboration, Tohoku University is committed to the following basic goals:

1) Promote research of the highest world standards through active participation in an international academic network.

2) Invite highly motivated, capable and talented individuals from all over the globe and cultivate international leaders who can contribute to the advancement of world development.

3) Communicate our accomplishments in education and research internationally and contribute them to the international community.

4) Strengthen the foundations of research and education and increase the university's international recognition to support realization of the above three goals.