As reported earlier, Japanese recording artist MISIA has been invited to the ceremony to perform a live concert on March 25th (for Washington D.C.�s "National Cherry Blossom Festival") to send Japan�s appreciation for the support the nation has received for the recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake. Following the announcemet, MISIA has revealed her thoughts about being selected for the event.

This year is a remarkable celebration year, marking the 100th anniversary of Japan�s gift of cherry blossom trees to the United States. In commemoration of this anniversary, Government of Japan will showcase Japanese-style design and culture events under �Cool Japan�, and this initiative will also serve as the creative engine for the nation�s recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, to rebuild and revitalize the whole nation.

The Japanese government is also promoting this campaign in various countries around the world under the �JAPAN NEXT (to the Next New Japan)� message, which embodies the nation�s determination to overcome its current challenges and rise above adversity. MISIA, named as Cool Japan Messenger by the Government of Japan, will express Japan�s appreciation for the support received from abroad following the devastation from the Great East Japan Earthquake through her live performance and speech.

MISIA commented,

Cherry Blossom, we Japanese love and get power from it. In Japan, there is a long tradition of nature worship, and a belief that cherry blossom can have our souls and spirits. I�m deeply touched that these cherry blossom trees in Washington DC became the symbol of friendly Japan-U.S. relations. And I�m highly honored that I have the chance to sing at this memorial ceremony.

This year is the 100 th anniversary year of Japan�s gift of cherry blossom, and it also has a special meaning for us. Commemorating one year since Great East Japan Earthquake, we strongly hope for Japan�s reconstruction and revitalization.

I�d like to sing with our love of cherry blossom, hope for reconstruction, love of Japan, and our heartfelt appreciation for your support from all over the world.