Japan observed a minute of silence on Tuesday to mark the 68th anniversary of the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima. Tens of thousands of people including diplomats from 70 countries and territories gathered at a peace memorial park in Hiroshima.

More than 50,000 people attend the Hiroshima bombing memorial ceremony (Photo: Kyodo)

Addressing the event, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged to do his utmost toward creating a world without nuclear weapons and to provide more support for nuclear bomb victims who still struggle with diseases. Abe said Japan will continue to follow its three principles of not possessing nuclear weapons, not producing them and not permitting their entry into the country.

PM Shinzo Abe calls for Japan to realize a world free from nuclear weapons (Photo: Kyodo)

In his speech, Hiroshima’s Mayor, Kazumi Matsui called for the Japanese government to strengthen partnership with nations demanding the abolition of nuclear weapons and developing and implementing a responsible energy policy with the top priority being on human safety.

Meanwhile UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon sent a letter to ceremony attendees, affirming his determination to follow the goal of building a world free from nuclear weapons, considering it as the most meaningful path towards a better future for all.