H.E. Mr. Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan

I express my heartfelt congratulations to Hiroshima Prefecture on the occasion of the　publication of Hiroshima Report 2022. This report, which is entitled “towards a world　without nuclear weapons,” plays an important role in deepening understanding of the　efforts and actions on nuclear disarmament by countries all over the world. I would like　to express my respect to everyone who have contributed to the publication of this report,　including Hiroshima Prefecture.

In recent years, the schism among States with divergent views is ever widening, not only between nuclear-weapon States and non-nuclear-weapon States, but also among non-nuclear-weapon States over their positions on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW). Furthermore, there is a real danger that the global number of nuclear weapons is now on the increase, as we witness a build-up of nuclear forces in an opaque manner around our country. The nuclear and missile programs of North Korea threaten the peace and security not only of Japan but also that of the international community. This is the severe reality we are facing today. I am strongly alarmed by this situation.

We must face this reality squarely, and change it. Towards this end, we must make efforts so that the countries actually possessing nuclear weapons will take action and engage in nuclear disarmament. For this reason, I believe our relationship with the US, the only ally for Japan is foremost important.

In January this year, I held a video teleconference with US President Biden in which we confirmed our intention to work together towards a world without nuclear weapons. Through this meeting, I was able to take my first step towards gaining confidence. The Government of Japan will continue to take realistic measures on nuclear disarmament, cooperating with relevant countries including the US.

In advancing such efforts, I attach importance to the NPT as the cornerstone of the international disarmament and non-proliferation regime. Both nuclear and non-nuclear weapon States, as well as members and non-members of the TPNW participate in the NPT. I will spare no effort towards the earliest convening of the postponed NPT Review Conference and achieving a meaningful outcome at the Conference.

It is also important to reinvigorate deliberations concerning the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT) once again. The Government of Japan will advance effective nuclear disarmament measures such as the early entry into force of the CTBT and the immediate commencement of negotiations on an FMCT and take sure steps towards a world without nuclear weapons.

The efforts of Hiroshima Prefecture, including this Hiroshima Report, and its strong aspiration for peace are the driving force in moving toward the realization of a world without nuclear weapons. As a Prime Minister of the only country to have ever suffered atomic bombings during war, I am resolutely determined to spare no effort with you towards achieving the greater goal of realizing a world without nuclear weapons.