On 14 July 2014, in parallel with the Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) Roundtable Conference 2014, hosted in Hong Kong on 14-15 July 2014, a partnership arrangement between Hong Kong Global Geopark (HKGP) and AsoGeopark was signed, providing an exciting new platform for knowledge exchange, geo-education and geo-tourism development in the APGN. Also included in the arrangement was an 18-months review mechanism to ensure the effectiveness of the partnership arrangement.

Officiating at today's partnership signing ceremony were Mr. Alan Wong, from Hong Kong Global Geopark of China; Mr. Yoshioki Sato, from AsoGeopark; Prof. Tian Min-zhong and Dr. Linda Wang, from the China Geoparks Network; Miss Hiroko Torigoe, from Itoigawa Global Geopark; Ms. Melanie Border, from English Riviera Global Geopark of the United Kingdom; Dr. Young Ng, from KanawinkaGeopark of Australia; Ms. Martina O’Neill from Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark of Northern Ireland; Dr. MarekazuOhno, from Unzen Volcanic Global Geopark of Japan; Mr. Qiu Xiao-ping, from Ningde Global Geopark and Ms. Zhou Cui-wei, from Zigong Global Geopark of China.

Dr. K.M. Yeung, Head of Hong Kong Global Geopark, expressed his gratitude for the attendance of the representatives of HKGP’s sister geoparks and cooperation partners. "The signing of this partnership arrangement between HKGP and AsoGeopark offers a valuable opportunity for insight and exchange, and cements the existing collaboration between the two Geoparks, which are committed to enhancing the sustainable development of geoparks in the Asia Pacific region," Dr. Yeung said.

AsoGeopark’s central feature is its world-famous and one of the largest active volcanos in Japan. Situated in AsoKuju National Park, AsoGeopark is characterised by its magnificent and varied volcano topography and geological features. The volcanic group there includes one of the largest calderas in the world, with a circumference of around 120 km. Designated as a National Park some 80 years ago,AsoGeopark offers a wide range of visitor facilities and a high quality geo-tourism experience. Its strong local awareness and community engagement in geo-conservation and education are also well-recognized in the Japanese Geoparks Network.