the inital months of operation of major new systems such as ipas are always challenging for the staff and clients alike, but with a little patience it will quickly lead to more sustainable and secure applications and better services in the future. we will do our best to reduce backlogs and process all outstanding cases as soon as practicable after go-live. the fund is working hard to improve the services it provides to its nearly 200,000 participants, retirees and other beneficiaries living and/or working in over 190 countries. your understanding of the fund's endeavors during this challenging transition period would therefore be most appreciated.