The oceans, which cover 70% of the earth's surface, are becoming more and more important for the future of mankind's development. I believe that as human beings benefit from the great bounty of the oceans, international society should come together and work towards their comprehensive management and sustainable use. In order to pass on healthy oceans to the next generation, it is my firm desire that Japan should take the initiative in the field of ocean management.
Selected Papers No.17(p.18)

70% of the world's seven billion people depend on rice, wheat, and corn, the three great food grains, which originated in China, along the South and West coasts of the Caspian Sea, and Mexico, respectively. After several thousand years, these crops are now being grown on five continents and are indispensable for maintaining human life. After being brought across the ocean these crops spread in a variety of ways, following unique evolutionary paths determined by local contingencies.