We are confident of delivering in 2006 another year of dynamic growth with record sales and earnings.

Our increased level of investment in marketing and sales, with the priority on key growth drivers, resulted in a sales growth of 21 percent in Pharmaceuticals in the U.S.,

Based on the robust results, we are are confident of achieving our full-year objectives for new record sales and earnings.

Market growth in 2006 will slow down somewhat. I expect that we will be able to continue to gain market share.

I am pleased with the overall strong performance of our business in the third quarter, particularly the dynamic growth of Pharmaceuticals.

Looking ahead, we anticipate a somewhat softer third quarter and, again, a more dynamic fourth quarter resulting in mid-single-digit sales growth... and solid operating growth for the full year,