Hiroshima Bombing Anniversary: Japan Reaffirms Non-Nuclear Stance

At the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi firmly reiterated the nation's unwavering adherence to its three non-nuclear principles: not possessing, manufacturing, or allowing the introduction of nuclear weapons. Speaking at the Peace Memorial Park, Takaichi emphasized that Japan, as the sole nation to have experienced nuclear devastation, will continue to champion nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation efforts within the United Nations framework.

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The tragedies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki must never be repeated. Japan will continue to promote nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation within the UN framework and adhere to the three non-nuclear principles of not possessing, manufacturing, or introducing nuclear weapons.

The solemn ceremony saw the participation of around 50,000 individuals, including survivors, their families, and representatives from approximately 120 countries and international organizations. A moment of silence was observed at 8:15 a.m., the exact time the U.S. dropped the atomic bomb in 1945, to commemorate the victims.

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Facing an increasingly complex international security situation, Japan will continue to uphold its peace philosophy and strive to reduce nuclear threats.

Prime Minister Takaichi acknowledged the increasingly complex international security landscape but stressed Japan's commitment to its peace-oriented philosophy and its ongoing efforts to mitigate nuclear threats. Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui, in his Peace Declaration, urged nations to reduce their reliance on nuclear deterrence, advocating for dialogue over confrontation to prevent future nuclear tragedies. Notably, the number of participating countries reached a record high this year, with representatives from the United States, Iran, and the European Union in attendance, though China and Russia did not send delegates. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also issued a statement calling for nations to fulfill their nuclear disarmament commitments and resolve conflicts through diplomacy and cooperation.

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Countries should reduce their reliance on nuclear deterrence, replace confrontation with dialogue, and avoid the recurrence of nuclear tragedies.