I send this message to you as a representative of the citizens of Nagasaki on the occasion of International Peace & Humanity Day 2024.
As a representative of the citizens of Nagasaki, I send this message to you on the occasion of International Peace & Humanity Day 2025.
I extend my deep respect and gratitude to San Diego-WISH, the organizers of this event, for your continued efforts to promote peace and harmony among all people, cultures and nations. I commend you for your efforts toward expanding mutual understanding and respect among all people of diverse cultures, beliefs and values in order to create a society of mutual respect and acceptance.
This year is the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The survivors of these bombings have long led the charge to abolish nuclear weapons. Today, however, we are approaching a time when these atomic bomb survivors will no longer be with us, and yet the risk of nuclear conflict remains.
Using the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Nihon Hidankyo (Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organization) as a tailwind, it’s vital that we continue to carry the baton of peace from the a-bomb survivors and relay it through the generations and beyond national borders.
For this reason, it is significant that people living in cities other than those hit by the atomic bombs, especially the younger generation outside of Japan, are taking the initiative in remembering the victims of the atomic bombings and communicating their desire for a world without nuclear weapons.
I pray that all of you will walk together in solidarity as like-minded and valued colleagues, firmly passing the baton to the next generation.
The city of Nagasaki will continue on this path towards our vision of eliminating nuclear weapons.
In closing, I extend my sincere wish for the good health and happiness of today’s event organizers and everyone in attendance.
Shiro Suzuki
Mayor of Nagasaki
August 6, 2025
