Director-General's message to "Concert for Peace"

It gives me great pleasure to convey to you my best wishes for this unique “Concert for Peace”.

Tonight, we pay tribute to the many thousands who perished when the tsunami and earthquake hit the Indian Ocean on 26 December of last year. We have come together to honour their memory, and our hearts go out to their families and friends.

Our thoughts are with those who were injured and with those who lost their homes and employment. Despite the immense loss of life and livelihoods, people have not lost heart or hope. We commend their courage and fortitude as they rebuild their lives.

This evening’s event is, in every respect, a collective effort, and I thank all those who have contributed to and supported its organization. This concert illustrates the determination of all the stricken countries to join forces to overcome the calamity and to work together to limit the impact of any future disasters. It is also a demonstration of the international community’s continued support to these efforts.

The immediate and generous contributions to both the emergency relief efforts and the longer-term reconstruction challenge highlight the bonds that bind us together as a human family. Even those not directly touched by the events felt affected. This translated into a strong sense of shared responsibility for assisting all the victims and alleviating their suffering, in every way possible.

As you are aware, here in Geneva, United Nations staff also contributed actively and generously through donations of items and funds. Each and every item given at our collection points exemplifies this spirit of compassion. Taken together, these donations represent an important contribution to the collective relief and rehabilitation efforts, and I thank our staff.
As the harrowing images of the disaster fade from the headlines, we need to ensure that the international community remains focused on the recovery task ahead. This concert is thus not only an opportunity to express our sympathy and solidarity, but it is also an occasion to show our long-term commitment to all those who were affected.

It is indeed appropriate that this “Concert for Peace” takes place within the framework of our Cultural Activities Programme. The Programme is a practical platform for highlighting our common humanity through creative expression. All events make a valuable contribution towards greater understanding and tolerance among peoples. Thus, each and every event serves the cause of peace – just like this evening’s performances.

Tonight, we remember. And we look ahead. And we do it together.

Thank you.