Christians and Buddhists can "do more to cooperate in projects" that promote a "responsible action for our common planet Earth". "In this way, Christians and Buddhist, together, can be the carriers of hope in a clean, safe and harmonious world". The proposal was put forward by card. Jean-Louis Tauran, president of the Papal Council for Inter-Religious Dialogue, in the message he sent to Buddhists today on the occasion of the Feast of Vesakh. It recalls the highlights of Buddha’s life, and this year it will be celebrated between May 12th and 18th. In his message, the cardinal recalls that 2008 has been declared by the UN the World Year of Planet Earth. "The protection of the environment, the promotion of sustainable development, and special attention to climate change writes Tauran are very worrying for everyone". Many "are investing financial resources" in biodiversity and environmental protection. "Religious leaders too are making their contribution to the public debate". "It is only through a deep reflection on the relation with the Divine Maker, the Creation and the creatures that the efforts made for responding to environmental concerns will not be thwarted by the greediness of individuals or held up by the interests of some groups".
