S.T.5 The Cosmic Tree

Tadamitsu Saito Concert

The Center of Imagination for the Future

Held at Nippon Budokan on September 11, 1994, this turned out to be a successful historic concert where the world shared hearts in longing for peace and a new vital energy was growing in the life of every human being.

Over 300 messages were sent from world celebrities of 70 nations of the world including heads of states.

This concert was organized by the S.T.5 Tadamitsu Saito Concert Executive Committee.

Following is the message from H.E. Elizabeth DOWDESWELL,
Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director,
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Human beings and trees are part of the same heritage of life. The relationship between the two - so distinctive and yet so intricate - embodies the delicate balance of the entire creation itself, complementary, nurturing and mutually beneficial.

Gautama Buddha defines the forest as "a peculiar organism of unlimited kindness and benevolence that makes no demands for its sustenance and extends generously the products of its life activity; it affords protection to all beings, offering shade even to the axeman who destroys it."

As we go about reassessing the legacy of our so called technological progress - our polluted rivers, degraded mountains, unhealthy atmosphere, the metaphor of the Cosmic Tree seems singularly apt. The Cosmic Tree becomes a symbol of inter-connectedness, of the essential unity of all things. It becomes symbolic if the need to re-establish good relationships with Nature and to take seriously our responsibility for its well being. By wounding Nature we end up wounding ourselves and future generations.

We need to give a practical shape to this notion of solidarity with all things. And this action will be meaningful only if it is shouldered at the global, regional and national levels. I would go so far as to include each family, each household in our endeavour to enhance the quality of our environment.

Today when peace, development and environment have been recognized as intimately linked, as part of a single entity, the organization of the concert "S.T.5: The Cosmic Tree" assumes added significance. I have also noted with great pleasure the fact that the organizers of this concert share with one another the goal of creating a new global environment where our children can live in peace.

On this occasion, I would like to wish every success to the organizers and the participants. I would also like to reiterate to them the assurances of United Nations Environment Programme's fullest support in their noble endeavour.