Hiroshima City has offered Taiwan the chance to participate in the 80th anniversary ceremony of the atomic bombing. This move marks a shift from previous years when only countries with formal diplomatic ties to Japan received invitations. The city government initially excluded Taiwan but reconsidered after evaluating the event’s message of peace and coexistence.
Traditionally, Hiroshima sent formal invitations only to countries maintaining official relations with Japan. However, this year, the city broke with that tradition. Instead, it sent notifications to 195 countries and regions with diplomatic missions or United Nations representation in Japan. Taiwan was initially left off this list, but the city later recognized no valid reason to exclude it.
Moreover, the city government confirmed Taiwan’s intention to attend the ceremony on August 6. Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expressed optimism and welcomed the opportunity. MOFA spokesperson Hsiao Kuang-wei confirmed that Taiwan’s representative office in Osaka remains in close contact with Hiroshima officials. Once the notification arrives formally, they will select an appropriate attendee.
In addition, several pro-Taiwan city councilors in Hiroshima have voiced support for Taiwan’s inclusion. Taipei’s representative in Osaka, Hung Ying-chieh, highlighted that Taiwan has never received an official invitation in the past. Despite this, the recent approach of notifications opens a door for Taiwan to participate.
Furthermore, during a visit to Hiroshima, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen received a handwritten invitation from the city’s mayor. This gesture emphasizes Hiroshima’s growing willingness to engage Taiwan in this important remembrance event.
On the other hand, Nagasaki City will continue its past practice and will not invite or notify Taiwan for its Peace Memorial Ceremony on August 9. Nagasaki Mayor Suzuki Shiro stated this publicly, maintaining the status quo. MOFA expressed regret about Nagasaki’s decision but reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to regional peace.
Overall, Hiroshima’s decision to extend the option for Taiwan to attend this significant event reflects a broader message of inclusion. The “option to attend” serves as a key phrase symbolizing this new openness and respect for Taiwan’s participation. As the anniversary approaches, many view this development as a hopeful sign for regional cooperation and mutual respect.
In conclusion, Hiroshima City’s “option to attend” stands out as a landmark move, encouraging dialogue and peace beyond diplomatic boundaries.
