Nagasaki marks 81st atomic bomb anniversary as mayor says nuclear deterrence only increases risk

Nagasaki observed the 81st anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing on Sunday with a memorial ceremony held at the city's Peace Park. During the event, Mayor Shiro Suzuki characterized nuclear weapons as an "absolute evil" and warned that reliance on nuclear deterrence strategies serves only to increase global risk. He further urged the Japanese government to remain committed to the nation’s three postwar non-nuclear principles.

The commemoration occurs amidst a broader political discussion within Japan regarding its long-standing non-nuclear stance. Government officials have recently initiated a debate concerning these principles, reflecting heightened regional tensions and evolving security considerations in the Pacific.