Key facts
- Hiroshima marked the 81st anniversary of its atomic bombing.
- Mayor Kazumi Matsui urged world leaders to abolish nuclear weapons.
- Matsui warned against the justification of nuclear deterrence.
- Escalating global conflicts were mentioned as a context for the warning.
On the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Mayor Kazumi Matsui issued a strong call for the abolition of nuclear weapons. Speaking at the Peace Memorial Park, Matsui urged world leaders to abandon nuclear arsenals and cautioned against the growing acceptance of nuclear deterrence as a valid security strategy. The escalating global conflicts were cited as a backdrop to his plea, highlighting the increased risks of nuclear weapon use. The ceremony, held in Hiroshima, served as a solemn occasion to remember the victims of the atomic bombing and to renew the commitment to peace. Matsui's address emphasized the devastating humanitarian consequences of nuclear warfare and the urgent need for international cooperation to prevent future catastrophes. The event underscored the city's enduring message of peace and its role as a global advocate for nuclear disarmament.