Steinmeier: “The world must never forget”
To mark the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, German President Steinmeier remembers the victims and warns against new threats.
“The world must never forget what happened in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.” To mark the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier recalls the human suffering and historical responsibility. “The international community must do everything possible to prevent the horrors of a renewed nuclear attack,” he appealed.
On 6 and 9 August 1945, two US atomic bombs destroyed the Japanese cities almost completely. Tens of thousands of people, almost all civilians, died instantly and many more died as a result of the long-term effects of radiation exposure. To this day, the attacks remain the only instances where nuclear weapons were used - at the same time, they marked the start of the nuclear arms race. In view of recent nuclear threats, the president has appealed for resolute action to prevent a renewed nuclear attack.
All over Germany, various events will be taking place on 6 and 9 August to remember the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and to send out a signal for peace and disarmament.