×

News

Representatives from other nations share thoughts at August 6 Peace Memorial Ceremony in Hiroshima

In contrast to Caroline Kennedy, the U.S. ambassador to Japan, some government representatives shared their thoughts in the A-bombed city on the 69th anniversary of the atomic bombing.

Tim Hitchens, the U.K. ambassador to Japan, referred to his nation’s nuclear arsenal and said that the rainy day left him with a feeling of profound sadness. It is an important opportunity to reflect on preventing nuclear proliferation and creating a world without nuclear arms, he said.

Sergey A. Eliseev, the first secretary for political affairs, from Russia, also a nuclear weapon state, said that he was impressed by the “Commitment to Peace,” read out by two elementary school students, and expressed hope that the next generation will deepen their understanding of peace.

Chhau Sothira, the charge d’affaires of Cambodia, linked Cambodia’s efforts following the civil war in that nation with the reconstruction of the A-bombed city and said that Hiroshima has realized an impressive rebirth. Hiroshima’s message has contributed to peace and stability in the world, he said.

Marcos Rodríguez, the ambassador from Cuba, stressed that we must continue to remember such atrocities and the victims.

Jacob D. Nkate, the ambassador from Botswana, voiced his desire to carry on the appeals made by the A-bombed city. Even small countries, like Botswana, have a voice in the international community, he said, and he plans to work together with other nations to speak out for the abolition of nuclear weapons.

Hans Carl von Werthern, the German ambassador to Japan, attended the ceremony for the first time. Mr. Werthern then visited the Chugoku Shimbun to meet with Yoshinori Okatani, president of the newspaper company. The two men exchanged views on such topics as nurturing confidence-building in East Asia inspired by the experiences of Europe.

(Originally published on August 7, 2014)

Archives