Hiroshima observes 63rd anniversary of atomic bombing

Japan Press Weekly

Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

Hiroshima observes 63^rd anniversary of atomic bombing

Hiroshima marked the 63rd anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6. About 45,000 people, including Hibakusha (A-bomb survivors), victims’ relatives, and diplomats from 55 countries, attended the memorial ceremony at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

The “Peace Declaration” read by Hiroshima Mayor Akiba Tadatoshi said, “All we need is the strong will and capacity to act to guard the future for our children.”

He urged the Japanese government to defend the Constitution and take the initiative in the effort to abolish nuclear weapons.

Referring to relief measures for Hibakusha, which include A-bomb diseases certification, Akiba said that the government should take appropriate steps in accordance with the current situation of Hibakusha including those living abroad at present.

Ceremony participants observed a minute of silence at 8:15 a.m., the time the atomic bomb detonated over Hiroshima killing an estimated 140,000 people instantly.

The names of 5,302 Hibakusha who died during the past year were added to those stored inside the park's cenotaph honoring the A-bomb victims. The total number of deceased now stands at 258,310.

High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Sergio de Queiroz Duarte read a message from U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki Moon.

Two children read a message expressing their will in the Children’s Peace Declaration by stating, “We will learn from the reality of atomic bombing and war. We will transmit the spirit of Hiroshima to the next generation. And we pledge to convey a message of peace to people throughout the world.”

In his speech at the ceremony, Prime Minister Fukuda Yasuo said, “Here in Hiroshima, I reiterate the pledge that our country will firmly maintain the three non-nuclear principles (of not producing, possessing or allowing nuclear weapons to be brought into Japan) and take the lead in the international community to realize the abolition of nuclear weapons and lasting peace.”

However, at a news conference following the ceremony, Fukuda said, “Japan has no choice but to rely on U.S. nuclear deterrence considering the actual situation. It seems to me that nuclear deterrence is necessary in real terms.” Thus, he emphasized the importance of the Japan-U.S. military alliance.

- Akahata, August 7, 2008