This year marks the 75th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which took place on 6th and 9th August 1945, respectively. The two atomic bombs killed around 200,000 people and affected millions of others, most of whom were civilians. They remain the only cases of use of nuclear weapons in armed conflict.
It is thus of utmost importance to reflect on this grim reminder of pain and destruction that has forever marked world history and to take time to remember those who perished as well as the hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors). We must also strengthen our resolve in ensuring that such a tragedy does not repeat itself and thus continue our call for disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.
In its foreign policy, Malta has a long-standing position of seeking a safer world for all, free from nuclear weapons. To this end, Malta pursues the universalisation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Safeguards agreements and protocols, and the early entrance into force of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).
Malta stands in solidarity with the people of Japan in commemorating this event.
