International humanitarian group, Hiroshima Governor exchange views: “No More Hiroshimas”
May 15, 2025
by Kana Kobayashi, Staff Writer
Hiroshima Governor Hidehiko Yuzaki was invited to a meeting of former world leaders who are members of The Elders, an international humanitarian group founded by the late former South African President Nelson Mandela. During the meeting, he exchanged views on the abolition of nuclear weapons.
Held in Naka Ward, Hiroshima, on May 12, the meeting was attended by eight people of The Elders, including Ban Ki-moon, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations. Juan Manuel Santos, former President of Colombia and Chair of the Elders, said in his speech that the meeting was highly significant, as it marked 80 years since the atomic bombing in Hiroshima, at a time when the threat of nuclear war is growing. Governor Yuzaki welcomed the meeting, saying, “It’s very important for the world leaders to directly learn about the horrors of nuclear weapons.”
After that, the meeting continued behind closed doors for about 30 minutes, and Governor Yuzaki explained the Hiroshima Prefecture’s peace initiatives. At a press conference following the meeting, Santos emphasized the importance of continuing to send the message of “No More Hiroshimas.” Mary Robinson, the first female President of Ireland, highlighted the importance of women leaders being involved in efforts to abolish nuclear weapons.
Founded in 2007, The Elders hold meetings twice a year. This time, Hiroshima was chosen as their first meeting site in Japan, with eight of the 12 members attending.
(Originally published on May 15, 2025)
Hiroshima Governor Hidehiko Yuzaki was invited to a meeting of former world leaders who are members of The Elders, an international humanitarian group founded by the late former South African President Nelson Mandela. During the meeting, he exchanged views on the abolition of nuclear weapons.
Held in Naka Ward, Hiroshima, on May 12, the meeting was attended by eight people of The Elders, including Ban Ki-moon, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations. Juan Manuel Santos, former President of Colombia and Chair of the Elders, said in his speech that the meeting was highly significant, as it marked 80 years since the atomic bombing in Hiroshima, at a time when the threat of nuclear war is growing. Governor Yuzaki welcomed the meeting, saying, “It’s very important for the world leaders to directly learn about the horrors of nuclear weapons.”
After that, the meeting continued behind closed doors for about 30 minutes, and Governor Yuzaki explained the Hiroshima Prefecture’s peace initiatives. At a press conference following the meeting, Santos emphasized the importance of continuing to send the message of “No More Hiroshimas.” Mary Robinson, the first female President of Ireland, highlighted the importance of women leaders being involved in efforts to abolish nuclear weapons.
Founded in 2007, The Elders hold meetings twice a year. This time, Hiroshima was chosen as their first meeting site in Japan, with eight of the 12 members attending.
(Originally published on May 15, 2025)
